Birkenstocks and sandals: how to clean them and health benefits

A cork sole and two leather straps make up a Birkenstock sandal. The first documented mention of the German shoemaker Johann Adam Birkenstock dates back to 1774 – so the leather sandals are not exactly a new invention. However, they’ve been very popular for quite a few years. Practical in everyday life and when travelling, they are available in elegant designs, vegan variants, particularly lightweight options made from skin-friendly plastic and some even have a cosy lining for cold days. In addition, they have a timeless style, can be combined with many outfits and are durable. Leather sandals with two straps have become synonymous with the Birkenstock brand.

But sandals are also available from other brands, not just Birkenstock. Numerous other brands also make sandals that can be faithful companions when travelling and in everyday life.

Sandals – various models

The main differences between Birkenstocks and various other sandals are the materials used, the soles, the straps and the style. The classic Birkenstocks with two straps only stay on your feet so well. In contrast, Teva produces sandals that are even more comfortable to hike in. They have a firm soles with good grip and can be easily fastened to the foot thanks to the Velcro straps.

Sandals with toe protection, for example from Keen, are even more robust and are also suitable for hiking or river walks and crossings.

Models made of leather and cork should not get wet and need to be dried as quickly as possible. Sandals or Birkenstocks made from plastic are slightly easier to care for and are, above all, lighter. They can get wet, and you can easily rinse off any dirt.

Are Birkenstocks healthy for your feet?

Birkenstocks have an anatomically shaped footbed. This is what sets them apart from many other shoes and sandals. A good footbed promotes a healthy posture and strengthens the muscles in the foot. The leather also adapts slightly to the foot over time. The natural materials used in traditional Birkenstock sandals keep your feet comfortable and reduce unpleasant odours.

Many models are also available in different widths, and you can also use the buckles to adjust the fit of the Birkenstocks. All of this helps to ensure that the shoe fits as closely as possible to the foot.

Clean your sandals and Birkenstocks properly

You can easily wash off a bit of dirt off plastic sandals. For sandals made of cork and leather, you need to use a soft brush and warm water. Then let them dry at room temperature. Do not let them dry directly in the sun or on a radiator. This could damage the material.

After a while, Birkenstocks made of cork and leather often form a black imprint of sweat, dust and dirt in the footbed. Water alone doesn’t really remove the discoloration from the leather. Birkenstocks makes a special leather shampoo. It can also be cleaned using a mild soap. If the discolouration of the Birkenstock insole is a bit more stubborn,

• Loosen the straps of your Birkenstocks completely so that the soles are exposed.

• Sand off the discoloured areas using fine sandpaper (grit 180).

• Remove the ground dirt with an old toothbrush.

It is important that you don’t do this too often. While you are only trying to sand off the dirt with the sandpaper, it will also wear down the inner sole.

Never put your Birkenstocks in the washing machine. This will damage cork, leather and buckles. You should also be careful with household concoctions such as baking powder and vinegar, as this can damage the leather. Plastic sandals, for example from Teva, can be even cleaned in the washing machine at 30 degrees using a gentle detergent and the short cycle if they are heavily soiled.