How to Clean Birkenstock Leather Clogs

Avoid exposing your Birkenstock clogs to water splatters while washing dishes.

Birkenstock clogs are one of the original ergonomic shoes that accommodates the foot in a natural and comfortable stance. Popular in Germany since in 1897, Birkenstocks weren't available to the American consumer in mass until 1966. Like all leather shoes, your Birkenstock clogs are bound to sustain wear and tear throughout their lifetime. Birkenstock leather clogs offer durability and can last a long time with proper care and treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Gentle leather cleaner
• 1/2 tsp. gentle soap
• 2 soft dry sponge
• 1 cup warm water
• Scuff-spot treatment
• Cork sealant

Instructions

1. Wipe away any excess dirt, grit or mud from the leather surface with a damp soft sponge. Rinse the sponge out afterward until the water runs clean.

2. Scrub the foot bead with a mixture of warm, slightly soapy water. Especially if you wear your clogs outside, or your feet are prone to sweating, the foot bed will need a good scrubbing. Gently massage the soapy solution into the foot bed with your sponge in circular motions. Rinse the foot bed with a damp, cool sponge to remove away any remaining dirt sentiment afterward.

3. Apply a gentle leather cleaner on the exterior part of the clogs with a lightly damp sponge and spreading the cleaner evenly across the leather surface. The Birkenstock company sells several leather cleaning products designed specifically for their shoes.

4. Apply a scuff-spot treatment of the same color as your clogs to any areas where the leather appears scratched or damaged. While the gentle leather cleaner in step 3 provides overall conditioning, the scuff-spot treatment helps restore your clogs closer to their original condition.

5. Spread a layer of cork sealant around the base of your clog's soles. The cork edge should appear thick and shiny. If the cork is exposed without any protective sealant you know it's time to apply another coat. Apply a thin layer around the entire perimeter and wait until the sealant dries before applying an additional layer for extra protection.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean your Birkenstock clogs someplace where you don't have to worry about spilling water or dripping leather cleaner into the foot bed. In other words, don't try to clean them while trying to get ready for work and making breakfast.

• Follow the directions on the back of your leather cleaner and scuff-spot repair solution. Every product is different and failing to follow the instructions could result in discoloration of the leather.

References

• Birkenstock: Cleaning and Care