How to Clean Birkenstocks (Step-by-Step Guide to Make Them Look New)

Birkenstocks are known worldwide for their comfort, durability, and supportive cork footbeds. Over time, however, regular wear can lead to dirt buildup, stains, and odors on the footbed and straps.

Learning how to properly clean your Birkenstocks will help keep them comfortable and extend their lifespan for years.

In this complete guide from Simply Birkenstock, we’ll show you exactly how to clean Birkenstocks safely without damaging the cork or leather. Whether you own the classic Birkenstock Arizona sandals or the popular Birkenstock Boston clogs, these cleaning methods will help keep them looking fresh.

Quick Answer: How to Clean Birkenstocks

If you need a quick cleaning method, follow these steps:

• Brush off loose dirt from the footbed and straps
• Apply a small amount of cleaner or baking soda paste
• Gently scrub using a soft brush
• Wipe with a damp cloth
• Allow the sandals to air dry naturally

For deeper cleaning and protection, many Birkenstock owners use the Birkenstock Deluxe Shoe Care Kit, which is designed specifically for maintaining cork footbeds and suede materials.

Table of Contents

• Why Birkenstocks Need Special Cleaning
• Materials You’ll Need
• Using the Birkenstock Deluxe Shoe Care Kit
• Step-by-Step: Cleaning Birkenstock Footbeds
• How to Clean Suede Birkenstocks
• How to Clean Oiled Leather Birkenstocks
• How to Remove Odor from Birkenstocks
• How Often to Clean Birkenstocks
• Tips to Make Birkenstocks Last Longer
• FAQ

Why Birkenstocks Need Special Cleaning

Unlike typical sandals, Birkenstock footwear features a natural cork and latex footbed that molds to your feet over time. This design is what makes Birkenstocks so comfortable, but it also means they require gentle cleaning.

Improper cleaning methods—like soaking them in water—can damage the cork and shorten the lifespan of the sandals.

Regular cleaning helps:

• Prevent odor buildup
• Maintain the suede footbed
• Protect cork from cracking
• Keep leather straps in good condition

With proper care, many customers at Simply Birkenstock wear their Birkenstocks for 5–10 years or longer.

Materials You’ll Need

Before cleaning your Birkenstocks, gather a few simple materials:

• Soft brush or toothbrush
• Clean cloth
• Baking soda
• Water
• Mild soap
• Suede brush

Another convenient option is to use the Birkenstock Deluxe Shoe Care Kit, which includes tools specifically designed to clean and maintain Birkenstock footwear.

Using the Birkenstock Deluxe Shoe Care Kit

For the easiest and safest cleaning method, many people use the Birkenstock Deluxe Shoe Care Kit.

This kit is designed by Birkenstock to care for the exact materials used in their sandals and clogs.

What the Kit Includes

• Cork sealer for protecting cork edges
• Cleaner and refresher spray
• Suede brush
• Cleaning cloth

Using the official care kit helps clean the sandals while protecting the cork and suede materials.

Why It’s Useful

• Deep cleaning for suede footbeds
• Protection against cork cracking
• Restoration of suede texture
• Longer lifespan for your sandals

Many owners of popular styles like the Birkenstock Boston and Birkenstock Arizona use this kit regularly to maintain their footwear.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Birkenstock Footbeds

The footbed is where most dirt and odor accumulate.

Step 1: Brush Off Loose Dirt

Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt and dust from the footbed.

Step 2: Apply Cleaner

Apply a small amount of cleaning solution or the cleaner included in the Birkenstock Deluxe Shoe Care Kit. Gently scrub the footbed using a soft brush.

Step 3: Wipe with a Damp Cloth

Use a slightly damp cloth to remove dirt and cleaning residue. Avoid soaking the footbed.

Step 4: Let Them Air Dry

Allow your Birkenstocks to dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid direct sunlight or heat.

How to Clean Suede Birkenstocks

Many Birkenstock styles feature soft suede uppers or footbeds.

For example, the Birkenstock Boston clog often comes in suede.

To clean suede:

• Brush gently using a suede brush
• Remove stains with a suede eraser
• Brush again to restore the texture

Avoid excessive water when cleaning suede materials.

How to Clean Oiled Leather Birkenstocks

Styles like the Birkenstock Arizona often use durable oiled leather.

To clean oiled leather:

• Wipe straps with a slightly damp cloth
• Apply leather conditioner
• Allow leather to dry naturally

Conditioning helps keep the leather soft and prevents cracking.

How to Remove Odor from Birkenstocks

Because the suede footbed absorbs sweat, odor can sometimes develop.

To remove odor:

• Sprinkle baking soda on the footbed
• Let it sit overnight
• Brush it off the next day

You can also use the refresher spray included in the Birkenstock Deluxe Shoe Care Kit to keep your sandals smelling fresh.

How Often Should You Clean Birkenstocks?

Cleaning frequency depends on how often you wear them.

Recommended schedule:

• Light use: every 2–3 months
• Daily wear: every 3–4 weeks

Regular maintenance prevents stains and odors from building up.

Tips to Make Birkenstocks Last Longer

• Avoid soaking them in water
• Store them in a dry environment
• Apply cork sealer when the cork looks dry
• Rotate between multiple pairs

Using products from the Birkenstock Deluxe Shoe Care Kit helps maintain cork and suede materials properly.

Many longtime customers at Simply Birkenstock keep their Birkenstocks in excellent condition for years with simple care routines.

More Questions About Cleaning Birkenstocks

Can you use water to clean Birkenstocks?

Yes, but only small amounts. Too much water can damage the cork footbed.

Can Birkenstocks be washed in a washing machine?

No. Washing machines can damage the cork, adhesives, and leather materials.

Why do Birkenstock footbeds turn dark?

The dark color comes from natural oils and sweat from your feet and is part of the normal break-in process.

How long do Birkenstocks last?

With proper care, many pairs of Birkenstock sandals last 5–10 years.

Related Birkenstock Guides

• Birkenstock Size Guide: How to Find the Perfect Fit
• How to Break in Birkenstocks Faster
• Best Birkenstocks for Plantar Fasciitis
• Complete Guide to the Birkenstock Boston

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your Birkenstocks regularly is one of the best ways to maintain their comfort, appearance, and durability. With a few simple cleaning steps and occasional maintenance, your sandals can last for many years.

For the easiest maintenance routine, many Birkenstock owners rely on the Birkenstock Deluxe Shoe Care Kit, which is designed specifically for caring for Birkenstock cork and suede materials.

If you’re looking for authentic Birkenstock footwear and care products, Simply Birkenstock offers one of the largest selections of Birkenstock styles available in the United States.