Generally, if you want your sandals to maintain their aesthetic appearance and ensure there are no foul odours, you have to ascertain that you clean them regularly. However, when it comes to sandal care, you have to pay attention to the materials so you can sanitise your footwear properly. The wrong cleaning techniques will do more harm than good. Here are some tips to help you maintain your sandals to assure longevity and durability:
Leather Care
When it comes to leather care, you have to use natural cleaning tools. Leather is made of animal skin, so it is better to steer clear of harsh chemicals. You can utilize equal parts of water and white vinegar as an organic cleaning solution. Dip a sponge in your mixture and use this to wipe the leather. After doing a thorough cleanse, leave them to air dry. Once they are completely dry, gently apply the leather conditioner with a soft, clean cloth. Don’t forget to use even, circular strokes to coat your whole sandals thoroughly.
Canvas Maintenance
If your sandals are made of canvas, you can count on good old baking soda with water to clean them. Just make a mixture using both compounds in equal parts. You’ll end up with a paste that you can apply on the canvas. Use an old toothbrush to allow the paste to penetrate the material to draw out the dirt. Don’t forget to pay attention to the footbed for ultimate hygiene. After cleaning all the stains, you can rinse your sandals in cool water to dry.
Rubber Cleaning
When it comes to low maintenance, nothing can beat all rubber Birkenstock sandals. They are super low maintenance and virtually indestructible. These are highly durable and can withstand all kinds of terrain. When you feel like they are icky, you can put them in your washing machine’s normal cycle with your fave detergent and a splash of vinegar.
Suede Management
Suede sandals are a bit more delicate. If you want to ensure they last you for a long time, it would be advisable to spray a water-repellant as when you buy them. This protective coating will safeguard your suede sandals from dreaded water stains. When necessary, use a special suede cleaner. Another home solution for suede is using rubbing alcohol, cotton, or sandpaper. Dip the cotton in alcohol and use it to remove dirt. Finally, you can gently buff it with sandpaper to take out all that icky grime.
Final Wrap Up
If you want your favourite sandals to last, you have to be vigilant about maintenance and prevent any damage before it happens. Make sure you avoid puddles and use your sandals with care. Regularly sanitise the footbed to prevent any foul stench. Pay attention to regular cleaning, and do note if your sandals come with special care instructions from the manufacturer. By following these sandal care tips, you can ensure your sandals remain pristine and free from unpalatable odours.
