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BIRKENSTOCK Maintenance: Cleaning, Care, and Tips to Make Them Last

Why Proper Care Matters

Your BIRKENSTOCKS aren’t just sandals- they're a long-term investment in comfort, foot health, and timeless design. Whether you wear them daily or seasonally, taking care of your pair ensures they’ll support your steps for years to come.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through best practices for cleaning and caring for your BIRKENSTOCKS, introduce the right products to use, and show you how to maintain every part- from cork to leather and EVA. It’s easier than you think- and your feet (and wallet) will thank you.

Understanding the Materials: Why They Matter

BIRKENSTOCKS are crafted from natural, durable, and sustainable materials, each with its own care needs:

Cork latex footbed
Cork latex footbed

Cork-latex Footbed

The foundation of comfort. It contours to your foot over time but needs protection from drying or cracking.

Arizona oiled leather habana
Arizona oiled leather habana

Leather & Suede Uppers

Require regular conditioning or brushing to maintain their appearance and flexibility.

Arizona eva
Arizona eva

EVA Models

Lightweight, waterproof, and ultra-easy to clean.

Boston shearling
Boston shearling

Shearling-lined Options

Made for cooler weather and require gentle care to preserve softness.

Daily Habits for Longevity

Store Smart

Keep your BIRKENSTOCKS in a cool, dry place- away from direct sunlight or heat sources that can dry out the cork or leather.

Maintain Shape

Insert shoe stuffers or gently rolled socks to help your pair retain their shape, especially when packing or storing for long periods.

Rotate Use

If you wear BIRKENSTOCKS daily, try rotating between two pairs to allow the footbed to air out and maintain structure.

Cleaning the Footbed: Step-by-Step

Even the most loved footbeds can collect grime or odour over time. Here’s how to refresh them safely:

What You'll Need:

- BIRKENSTOCK Footbed & Shoe Cleaner

- BIRKENSTOCK Footbed & Shoe Dry Cleaner

- Polishing Cloth

- Soft Brush or Sponge

Step 1

Brush away loose dirt and debris using a soft brush.

Step 2

Spray the Footbed Cleaner generously on the cork and suede surface.

Step 3

Let it sit for a few minutes to lift dirt and sweat buildup.

Step 4

Wipe clean with the Polishing Cloth.

Step 5

For stubborn stains or dry cleaning, use the Dry Cleaner bar to gently lift dirt without moisture.

Let your sandals dry naturally indoors- never use heat or direct sun.

Strap & Upper Care by Material

Arizona leather
Arizona leather

Leather

Use the BIRKENSTOCK Leather Conditioner to soften and protect full-grain and smooth leather.

Apply with a soft cloth and buff gently to maintain a polished look.

Utti suede leather
Utti suede leather

Suede/Nubuck

Use a suede brush or Polishing Brush to revive texture.

Avoid wet cleaning; instead, apply protective suede spray.

Birki flow eva
Birki flow eva

EVA

Rinse under water and wipe down with mild soap and a cloth. These are the easiest to clean and perfect for summer adventures.

Don’t: Machine wash any BIRKENSTOCKS. It will damage both the footbed and adhesives.

Birkenstock cork footbed cutaway

Repair & Refurbishment Options


Your BIRKENSTOCKS are built to last- and often, all they need is a refresh.

Cork Maintenance

- Use the BIRKENSTOCK Cork Sealer & Protector every few months to prevent cracks and moisture damage.
- Apply a thin layer to exposed cork edges and allow it to fully dry.

When to Repair

- If your tread is worn or the cork starts to separate, consider resoling.

Cobblers recommended by Birkenstock can replace soles or footbeds, often giving your pair a whole new life.

Repair & Refurbishment Options


Your BIRKENSTOCKS are built to last- and often, all they need is a refresh.

Cork Maintenance

- Use the BIRKENSTOCK Cork Sealer & Protector every few months to prevent cracks and moisture damage.
- Apply a thin layer to exposed cork edges and allow it to fully dry.

When to Repair

- If your tread is worn or the cork starts to separate, consider resoling.

Cobblers recommended by Birkenstock can replace soles or footbeds, often giving your pair a whole new life.

Arizona suede

WEATHERPROOFING & TRAVEL CARE


- Apply leather-safe waterproof sprays to protect against rain or accidental splashes.

- Avoid wearing suede styles in wet conditions unless pre-treated.

- For travel, use shoe bags and protect footbeds with paper inserts.

Pro Tip: EVA BIRKENSTOCKS are fully waterproof and ideal for beaches, pools, and camping.

WEATHERPROOFING & TRAVEL CARE


- Apply leather-safe waterproof sprays to protect against rain or accidental splashes.

- Avoid wearing suede styles in wet conditions unless pre-treated.

- For travel, use shoe bags and protect footbeds with paper inserts.

Pro Tip: EVA BIRKENSTOCKS are fully waterproof and ideal for beaches, pools, and camping.

Cork and latex footbed

Sustainability Starts With Longevity


By taking care of your BIRKENSTOCKS, you’re doing more than protecting your investment- you’re helping the planet.

- Fewer replacements = less waste

- BIRKENSTOCK offers repairability over replacement

- Natural cork and latex are renewable resources, especially when cared for

The most sustainable sandal is the one you wear and maintain for years.

Sustainability Starts With Longevity


By taking care of your BIRKENSTOCKS, you’re doing more than protecting your investment- you’re helping the planet.

- Fewer replacements = less waste

- BIRKENSTOCK offers repairability over replacement

- Natural cork and latex are renewable resources, especially when cared for

The most sustainable sandal is the one you wear and maintain for years.

Care That Keeps Giving

BIRKENSTOCKS are built to support your feet through seasons, years, and adventures. With the right tools and a little know-how, your pair can stay as comfortable and stylish as the day you bought them. Visit our Shoe Care Range so you can get started on taking care of your BIRKENSTOCKS. New to BIRKENSTOCK and unsure about which style and fit you need? Explore our BIRKENSTOCK Style Guide so you can find the perfect pair for your summer adventures.

FAQ

  • For EVA models, yes. For suede or leather footbeds, use dedicated cleaners like BIRKENSTOCKS Footbed Cleaner.

  • Apply the BIRKENSTOCK Cork Sealer every few months to prevent cracks and extend the lifespan.

  • Clean monthly with light wear, or more frequently if worn daily. Condition leather as needed.