How to Clean Sandals (Leather, Rubber & Cork)
What You'll Need
- Small amount
- 1 tbsp
- 1
- 1
- Small amount
Step-by-Step Method
The footbed collects foot oils, sweat, and dirt that creates a dark stain. Make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply to the footbed and scrub with a toothbrush.
For rubber/synthetic straps: scrub with soapy water. For leather straps: wipe with a barely damp cloth and mild soap. Condition after drying.
Scrub the sole with soapy water and a brush to remove ground-in dirt.
Air dry at room temperature away from heat and sunlight. Stuff with paper if needed to maintain strap shape.
- Do not submerge cork-sole sandals in water (cork swells and crumbles)
- Do not use heat to dry sandals
- Do not machine wash (weakens adhesives and warps cork)
- For Birkenstocks specifically: use the Birkenstock cleaner and refresher spray, which is pH-balanced for their suede footbed.
- Apply cork sealer to cork soles twice per season to prevent drying and cracking.
- Let sandals dry completely between wears to prevent foot odor and footbed degradation.
Frequently Asked Questions
That dark stain is a combination of foot oils, sweat, and dirt absorbed into the footbed material. Baking soda paste scrubbed with a toothbrush is the most effective method. For suede footbeds (like Birkenstocks), use a suede cleaner. The stain may not come out completely, which is normal wear.
Sources & Methodology
Sandal care methods based on manufacturer guidelines. Cork footbed maintenance requires minimal moisture and periodic sealing to prevent desiccation.
Last reviewed: March 20, 2026