FAQs: How to Clean Footbed Sandals

Footbed sandals—like Birkenstocks, FitVille, Tevas, or any style with a contoured insole—can be incredibly comfortable. But after a summer of barefoot wear, sweat, and outdoor adventures, that footbed can start to look (and smell) a little… rough.

Don’t worry—here’s everything you need to know to clean your footbed sandals and keep them fresh season after season.

FAQs: Cleaning Footbed Sandals

1. Why do footbed sandals get dirty so fast?

Footbeds absorb oils, sweat, dirt, and bacteria from your feet—especially if you wear them without socks. Over time, that can lead to:

• Dark stains

• Odor

• A gritty or sticky texture

Cleaning them regularly keeps your sandals hygienic, comfortable, and looking good.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Footbed Sandals

🧼 What You’ll Need:

• Soft brush (old toothbrush works great)

• Mild soap (dish soap or castile soap)

• Baking soda (optional for deeper cleaning)

• White vinegar (optional for odor)

• Clean cloths or sponge

• Water

2. What’s the best way to clean suede or cork footbeds (like Birkenstocks)?

Step 1: Brush away loose dirt

Use a dry brush or cloth to remove surface dust and debris from the footbed.

Step 2: Make a gentle cleaning paste

Mix:

• 1 tablespoon baking soda

• A few drops of water

• (Optional) 1 teaspoon white vinegar for odor removal

Apply the paste to the footbed and gently scrub in circles using a toothbrush.

Step 3: Wipe clean

Use a damp cloth to remove the paste and any lifted dirt. Avoid soaking the footbed—moisture can damage cork and suede.

Step 4: Air dry

Let your sandals air dry fully in a shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight or heat, which can crack the cork or warp the footbed.

3. Can I use soap and water on foam or synthetic footbeds?

Yes! If your sandals have a synthetic, EVA, or foam footbed (like FitVille Cloud Wanderer or Tevas), you can use mild soap and water.

Quick Clean:

• Dip a sponge or cloth in soapy water

• Wipe down the footbed

• Rinse with a damp cloth

• Let air dry

You can also use antibacterial wipes for quick touch-ups.

4. How often should I clean my footbed sandals?

It depends on how often you wear them, but a good rule is:

• Light wipe-down: every 1–2 weeks

• Deep clean: once a month or as needed

If your sandals are starting to smell, it’s time for a scrub.

5. How do I get rid of odors from the footbed?

Try this overnight refresh:

Odor-Removal Hack:

• Sprinkle baking soda over the dry footbeds

• Let sit overnight

• Brush off or vacuum the next morning

Or spritz with a 50/50 mix of water and white vinegar, then let air dry.

6. What should I NOT do when cleaning sandals?

• Don’t soak cork or suede footbeds

• Don’t machine wash unless the sandals are labeled as machine-safe

• Don’t use harsh chemicals (like bleach or strong disinfectants)

• Don’t leave them in the sun for drying—it can crack or warp materials

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your footbed sandals doesn’t take much effort—but it makes a big difference in how they look, smell, and feel. With just a toothbrush, a little soap, and 10 minutes, you can bring those sandals back to life.