Cork shoes offer a blend of comfort and sustainability. The natural elasticity of cork provides cushioning and support to the feet, ensuring all-day comfort. Moreover, being biodegradable, cork shoes leave a minimal environmental footprint, making them an eco-friendly footwear choice. They also exhibit natural thermal properties, keeping feet warm in the cold and cool in the heat.
It is important to keep your cork shoes clean to enjoy long term benefits and get the most out of your shoes. This guide explains how you can clean your cork shoes at home.
3 Effective Ways to Clean Cork Shoes
Baking Soda
Prepare the Shoes
Before starting, remove any loose dirt or debris from the cork shoes. This will ensure the baking soda can effectively clean the cork material without interference.
Make a Baking Soda Paste
Mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with just enough water to create a thick, spreadable paste. The consistency should be similar to toothpaste.
Test on a Small Area
Before applying the paste, test it on an inconspicuous area of your cork shoes. This ensures that it won’t damage or discolor the material.
Apply the Baking Soda Paste
Using a soft cloth or an old toothbrush, gently rub the baking soda paste onto the cork areas you want to clean. Use circular motions to lift and remove any stains or dirt.
Let it Sit
Allow the baking soda paste to sit on the cork shoes for 5-10 minutes. This will give it ample time to break down stubborn stains or dirt.
Wipe Away and Rinse
Using a damp cloth, gently wipe away the baking soda paste from the cork shoes. Then, with another clean, damp cloth, rinse the areas where the paste was applied to ensure all baking soda residue is removed.
Dry the Cork Shoes
Place the clean cork shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to dry. Ensure they dry thoroughly to maintain the integrity and appearance of the cork material.
Vinegar
Prepare the Shoes
First, brush off any loose dirt or debris from your cork shoes. This ensures a clean surface for the vinegar to effectively work on the stains and dirt.
Dilute the Vinegar
Mix equal parts of white distilled vinegar and water in a small bowl. The dilution ensures that the vinegar is gentle enough for the cork material.
Test on a Small Area
Before applying the solution widely, dab a little diluted vinegar onto an inconspicuous area of the cork shoes. This will help determine if it’s safe without causing discoloration or damage.
Apply the Vinegar Solution
Using a soft cloth, gently dab the diluted vinegar onto the areas of the cork shoes that need cleaning. Remember to dab and not rub, as rubbing might spread the stain or damage the cork.
Let it Sit
Allow the vinegar solution to remain on the cork shoes for 3-5 minutes. This helps in loosening any stubborn stains or dirt.
Wipe and Rinse
Gently wipe away the vinegar solution using a clean, damp cloth. After wiping, use another damp cloth to rinse any remaining vinegar residue from the cork shoes.
Dry the Cork Shoes
Place the clean cork shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to dry. It’s crucial for the cork to dry completely to maintain its natural texture and appearance.
Mild Soap
Prepare the Shoes
Begin by brushing away any loose dirt or debris from the cork shoes. Having a clean surface ensures that the soap can work directly on the more stubborn stains or dirt without any interference.
Prepare a Soapy Solution
Mix a few drops of mild soap in a bowl with lukewarm water. Stir until it forms a soapy solution. Using a mild soap ensures the gentle treatment of the cork’s delicate surface.
Test on a Small Area
Dip a cloth into the solution and dab it onto a discreet area of the cork shoes. This step is to ensure that the soap does not cause any discoloration or damage to the cork.
Apply the Soapy Solution
Immerse a soft cloth into the soapy solution and wring out excess water. Gently dab the damp cloth onto the areas of the cork shoes that require cleaning. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing vigorously, as this could harm the cork.
Wipe Clean
After applying the soapy solution, take a clean, damp cloth and gently wipe away the soap from the cork shoes, ensuring that no soap residue remains on them.
Rinse
If necessary, dampen another clean cloth with plain water and wipe down the cork shoes. This step ensures all soap residues are completely removed.
Dry the Cork Shoes
Position the clean cork shoes in a well-ventilated spot away from direct sunlight to allow them to dry thoroughly. Proper drying preserves the cork’s natural resilience and appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you eliminate odors from Cork Sandals?
To eliminate odors from cork sandals, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the cork surface and let it sit overnight. The next day, brush off the baking soda, which will have absorbed the unpleasant smells, leaving your sandals fresher.
Does cork sealant help protect cork shoes from dirt?
Yes, cork sealant provides a protective layer on cork shoes, shielding them from dirt, moisture, and potential stains. Regularly applying cork sealant can extend the life and maintain the appearance of your cork footwear.
Is vinegar safe for cork sandals?
In diluted form, vinegar can be used safely on cork sandals for cleaning purposes. However, always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure no discoloration or damage, and always rinse thoroughly after application.
Can I machine wash cork shoes?
It’s not recommended to machine wash cork shoes. The agitation from the machine and the prolonged exposure to water can damage the cork material, causing it to deteriorate or lose shape.
How often should I wash my cork shoes?
Cork shoes should be cleaned as needed, depending on wear and exposure to dirt. However, deep cleaning should be limited to when they are noticeably dirty or stained to avoid excessive wear on the material.
Are bleach-based cleaners safe for cork shoes?
No, bleach-based cleaners are not recommended for cork shoes. They can cause discoloration, weaken the cork material, and break down its natural structure, leading to deterioration or damage. However, Bleach-based cleaners are okay to clean white canvas shoes only if recommended by the manufacturer.
How to clean Birkenstocks shoes & soles?
Birkenstocks, known for their cork footbeds and comfort, require specific care to prolong their life. Brush off superficial dirt using a soft brush. For deeper cleaning, especially the suede or leather uppers, use a damp cloth with mild soap. Allow them to air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heat. To maintain the cork’s integrity, periodically apply a cork sealer, ensuring flexibility and durability.
How to clean Sandal soles?
Sandal soles, often collecting dirt from regular wear, need consistent cleaning for hygiene and appearance. Begin by brushing off loose dirt or debris. For stubborn stains or grime, scrub the soles with a mixture of warm water and mild soap using a brush. Rinse thoroughly and allow the sandals to air dry naturally, preferably in a shaded area to prevent material degradation from direct sunlight.