Birkenstock Care Guide

How to Care for Your Birkenstocks — Arizona, Mayari & Madrid

Keep your Birkenstock Arizona, Mayari and Madrid sandals looking fresh with our simple, step-by-step care guide. Learn how to clean the footbed, protect the cork, and maintain different upper materials for long-lasting comfort.

1. Protect Before You Wear

Before taking your Birkenstock Arizona, Mayari, or Madrid sandals out, use a water and stain repellent made for the specific upper material (suede, nubuck, or smooth leather). Always test on a small hidden area first.

2. Cleaning the Footbed

Brush away loose dirt with a soft brush or toothbrush.
Make a mild soap solution (water + gentle soap). Dampen a cloth and scrub gently.
Wipe with a damp cloth to remove soap residue and allow to air dry away from direct sunlight.

Important: Avoid soaking your Birkenstocks — excess water can damage the cork and the footbed.

3. Caring for the Cork

Reapply a cork sealer every few months to prevent drying and cracking. Store sandals in a cool, dry place when not in use.

4. Cleaning Different Uppers

Suede / Nubuck: Use a suede brush and eraser for marks.
Smooth Leather: Wipe with a damp cloth and condition with a leather cream.
Birko-Flor / Birkibuc: Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I clean the footbed of my Birkenstock Arizona?

Brush loose dirt, scrub gently with mild soap and water, wipe and air dry away from sun. Do not soak.

Can I use leather conditioner on Birkenstock Mayari?

Yes — for smooth leather Mayari, wipe clean and apply a leather cream sparingly to keep the leather supple.