2023-08-16 06:02:19
In leather, suede or fabric, these sandals become more comfortable as they mold perfectly to your feet. But, inevitably, by dint of wearing them, they get dirty and lose their shine from the first day. You can remedy this by using a few common products that you probably already have on hand.
It all depends on the type of Birkenstocks you own, as each shoe requires special maintenance. Leather sandals require shoe polish and a suitable conditioner. Suede models must be brushed regularly with delicacy. Specific attention should also be paid to cork soles and fabric sandals. Whatever the type of material, there are effective solutions for a perfectly adequate cleaning.
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Here are the methods to follow depending on the type of coating:
Regular cleaning, at least once a week, is the best way to keep suede clean.
How to do ?
Use a soft microfiber cloth to remove surface dust and dirt. Continue with a quick brushing with a suede brush. Are there food stains or mud on the suede? Sponge up as much of the liquid as you can, but don’t scrub, as wet stains may sink deeper into the suede, and you’ll have a harder time removing them. Let the stained area dry completely before cleaning it. Once the stain is dry, you can use a pencil eraser to rub the stain well before brushing the suede.
Do you notice oily drops on the suede? Cover the stain as soon as possible with cornstarch or baby powder to absorb the oil. Leave on the stain for at least four hours before brushing the suede. If necessary, repeat the operation several times to absorb all the oil.
Good to know : If something sticky gets on the sandal, avoid using a commercial glue remover directly. This type of product can alter the color of the suede. So only use as a last resort. To clean the shoe, slip an ice cube into a plastic bag and place it directly on the stain. Use a blunt knife or the edge of an old bank card to scrape off the hardened glue. Repeat the operation if necessary. Once the solid residue has been removed, use an eraser to remove any remaining dirt.
How to Clean Leather Birkenstocks ?
Use a soft, slightly damp cloth to clean surface dust and dirt (if possible following each use).
How to do ?
To restore suede shoes, use a shoe polish that matches your shoe color. This will erase most scratches. But be careful, because the varnish may stain them. To preserve the suppleness of the leather, use a leather conditioner following the manufacturer’s instructions. This will be useful especially when your shoes are soaked by the rain.
Good to know : The shine of patent leather can be restored by wiping the shoes with a damp cloth. If you notice that the leather is really dull, use a little glass cleaner on a soft cloth to restore its shine.
Before cleaning fabric shoes, use a soft cloth or a soft brush to remove dust and surface dirt.
How to do ?
In a small bowl, mix 400 ml of warm water and half a teaspoon of laundry detergent. Dip a small cloth in the solution and gently rub the stained areas. Take care not to wet the fabric too much and follow the direction of its weft
To remove stubborn stains, use a stain remover by gently rubbing the area with an old, clean toothbrush. Then rinse by dipping a cloth in water. Wring it out well and wipe down the entire fabric portion of the shoe to remove any remaining soap residue. Blot the fabric with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. Finally, air dry the shoes out of direct heat from the sun.
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How to clean Birkenstock cork soles – Source: spm
- In a small bowl, you will mix 200 ml of lukewarm water and two tablespoons of white vinegar and half a teaspoon of your laundry detergent.
- Use an old toothbrush or a small soft brush dipped in the solution
- Working in a small area at a time, gently rub the cork sole.
- Once it is clean, clean the entire cork part with a cloth soaked in water.
- This will remove any soap residue.
- Allow shoes to air dry away from direct sunlight and heat to dry.
N.B : The cork soles of Birkenstocks are coated with a sealant to keep them flexible. If the cork seems too dry, apply a new layer of filler.
Here are your “Birks” all clean and ready to use!
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