You take off your Birkenstocks at someone's house, and then there's that moment: the smell enters before you do. Recognizable, but thankfully usually solvable. So you don't have to write off your Birkenstocks immediately or, in a desperate fit, throw them in the washing machine.
Do your Birkenstocks just smell a bit musty? Then start with Active Perfume 04. This spray neutralizes unpleasant odors instead of just masking them. Does the smell return quickly, or do you see dark, greasy marks on the footbed? Then there's probably a layer of sweat, skin oil, and dirt in the fibers. In that case, just spraying isn't enough, and you need to thoroughly clean the footbed.
The short version: for a slight odor, first use Active Perfume 04. Clean the footbed with Deep Clean Solution 03 if the smell keeps returning or if there's visible buildup. Afterward, let your Birkenstocks dry for at least 24 hours, then use the odor spray for maintenance.
Why do Birkenstocks smell so quickly?
Many classic Birkenstocks have a footbed with a cork-latex core and a suede top layer. That suede feels comfortable but also easily absorbs moisture, skin oil, and dirt.
Add to that the way you wear your Birkenstocks:
- You usually wear them barefoot, so sweat goes directly into the footbed.
- In summer, you sometimes wear them for several days in a row.
- Due to warm weather and short drying times, the footbed stays moist longer.
- Skin flakes, skin oil, and dirt slowly accumulate in the fibers.
The unpleasant odor arises when this combination accumulates in the footbed. Just airing them out often only helps temporarily. The moisture disappears, but the dirt in the fibers remains.
Are not only your Birkenstocks but also other shoes regularly affected? Then also read our explanation about smelly shoes and what really helps against it.
First try: neutralizing the odor
Do your Birkenstocks smell a bit musty, but the footbed isn't visibly dirty? Then you don't immediately need to pull out the full cleaning routine.
Here's how to tackle a slight odor:
- First, let the Birkenstocks dry completely.
- If necessary, brush loose dirt from the dry footbed.
- Spray Active Perfume 04 5 to 10 times over the footbed. For a closed shoe, point the spray head into the shoe; for an open Birkenstock, evenly cover the footbed.
- Make sure not to soak the footbed.
- Let the spray soak in for a few minutes and allow the footbed to air out well.
Active Perfume 04 neutralizes unpleasant odors and then leaves a fresh scent. For delicate or colored suede, first test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area.
Does the smell stay away? Great, a cleaning saved. Does the sweaty smell return after just one day of wearing? Then the problem is likely deeper in the footbed, and it's time to clean it.
When is an odor spray alone not enough?
An odor-neutralizing spray works well for a light or nascent odor. However, it won't remove a built-up layer of sweat, skin oil, and dirt.
Clean the footbed when:
- the odor returns quickly after spraying;
- you see dark or greasy foot impressions;
- the footbed feels sticky or hard;
- you wear the Birkenstocks almost daily;
- the footbed hasn't been cleaned for months or years.
Consider Active Perfume 04 as a quick fix and for maintenance. Use Deep Clean Solution 03 when the footbed is actually dirty and the source of the odor needs to be addressed.
What should you never do with Birkenstocks?
Many online cleaning tips are written for sneakers. If you apply them indiscriminately to Birkenstocks, you can damage the cork, glue, or lining.
Therefore, do not do this:
- Do not put them in the washing machine. Lots of water, agitation, and heat can damage the cork, glue layers, and sole.
- Do not submerge or hold under the tap. Work with a slightly damp brush or cloth and prevent the footbed from getting soaked.
- Do not dry in the sun, on the radiator, or with a hairdryer. Direct heat can dry out, deform, or crack the materials.
- Do not use bleach, vinegar, or harsh cleaners. These can damage the color and structure of the suede.
- Do not treat only one dark spot. Clean the footbed evenly to prevent visible color differences and rings.
- Do not scrub hard. This can damage the suede fibers and make the footbed rough.
Baking soda is often mentioned as a miracle cure. It can temporarily absorb odors but does not remove the built-up layer of sweat, skin oil, and dirt. Moreover, the fine powder can remain in the suede. Therefore, it is not a substitute for a real cleaning.
Cleaning smelly Birkenstocks in 5 steps
Does the smell keep returning, or is the footbed visibly dirty? Then it's time for a thorough cleaning. This routine tackles the source without unnecessarily wetting the shoe.
Expect about ten minutes of work and at least 24 hours of drying time.
Step 1: brush the footbed dry
First, let the Birkenstocks dry completely. Then, brush loose dirt, sand, and skin flakes from the footbed with a dry, soft brush.
Work calmly and as much as possible in one direction. This step is important, because otherwise, wet loose dirt will spread further over the footbed.
Step 2: test the cleaner
Suede can react differently depending on its color and finish. Therefore, first test Deep Clean Solution 03 on a small, inconspicuous spot.
Let the test spot dry and check if the color and structure remain intact. This is especially not a luxury for light, colored, or older footbeds.
Step 3: clean with as little moisture as possible
Lightly moisten a clean brush with lukewarm water. Apply a small amount of Deep Clean Solution 03 to the brush and carefully work the cleaner over the entire footbed.
Do not use more water than necessary and do not let the shoe get soaked. The Premium Brush has synthetic bristles that absorb little moisture themselves. This allows you to distribute the cleaner in a controlled manner.
Work evenly over the entire footbed and pay extra attention to the heel and the ball of the foot. That's usually where most of the buildup is.
Step 4: wipe off the foam and dirt
Immediately wipe off the loosened dirt and excess foam with a clean, slightly damp microfiber cloth.
Dab and wipe gently. Do not let the dirty foam re-absorb into the footbed. For stubborn dirt, it's better to clean lightly twice than to use a lot of water once.
The exposed cork edge can be carefully wiped with a slightly damp cloth. Make sure the cork does not become saturated.
Step 5: let the Birkenstocks dry for 24 hours
Place the Birkenstocks in a well-ventilated area and let them dry for at least 24 hours at room temperature.
Do not place them in direct sunlight or use a heater or hairdryer to speed up the process. Patience triumphs over brute force here.
When the footbed is completely dry, you can gently brush up the suede fibers. This will restore some of the soft texture.
What if the smell returns after cleaning?
In older Birkenstocks, dirt can build up in the footbed for years. One cleaning can make a big difference, but sometimes a second light treatment is needed.
Always let the footbed dry completely between two treatments. If the smell quickly returns afterward, then mainly ensure that new moisture does not remain in the footbed for days again.
This routine works best:
- Let your Birkenstocks air out completely after wearing.
- Preferably do not wear them every day consecutively.
- Switch between two pairs if you have that option.
- Spray Active Perfume 04 5 to 10 times over the footbed as soon as you start to notice a slight odor.
- Clean again when there is clear buildup or a persistent sweaty smell.
Active Perfume 04 is ideal for maintenance between thorough cleanings. However, it does not prevent a dirty footbed from eventually needing to be cleaned again. After all, spraying over a thick layer of dirt is primarily optimistic air freshening.
Removing dark foot impressions from the footbed
Almost every suede Birkenstock footbed eventually develops dark marks at the heel and the ball of the foot. These spots consist of a combination of sweat, skin oil, skin flakes, and dirt.
With the cleaning described above, you can reduce the dark layer and visibly refresh the footbed. However, do not expect a completely new result. For light-colored or heavily worn Birkenstocks, some of the discoloration may be permanent.
If a dark shadow remains visible after cleaning and drying, but the footbed smells fresh again? Then the remaining discoloration is mainly cosmetic.
How to prevent your Birkenstocks from smelling again
You primarily prevent sweat odor by giving the footbed enough time to dry and addressing slight odors before they become persistent.
This works best:
- Leave your Birkenstocks in an airy place after each day of wearing.
- Do not immediately store them in a closed cabinet, bag, or box.
- Regularly remove loose dirt with a dry brush.
- Use Active Perfume 04 as soon as you start to notice a slight odor.
- Do not wear your Birkenstocks every day consecutively if you can alternate.
- Clean the footbed as soon as a dark, greasy layer forms.
A protector does not prevent your feet from sweating. However, the product does help protect the upper against moisture and dirt, so your Birkenstocks as a whole stay beautiful longer.
Which protection product do you use for your Birkenstocks?
Always choose a protector that matches the material of the upper:
- Suede, nubuck, or textile: use Premium Protector 01.
- Smooth or synthetic leather: use Premium Protector 02.
- Patent leather and oiled leather: do not use either of these protectors. Follow the manufacturer's specific care instructions.
Spray the appropriate protector from 10 to 15 cm away until the surface is damp, and spread it with a clean soft brush. The two protectors have different waiting times, so pay attention to that:
- Protector 01: repeat the treatment after 10 minutes.
- Protector 02: let it soak in and repeat after 20 minutes. Then, after another 20 minutes, wipe off the excess product with an absorbent cloth so that it dries evenly without drops. Buff dull leather after drying with a dry soft cloth.
Then let the material dry for 24 hours at room temperature and always test the product first on an inconspicuous spot. Repeat the protection approximately every three months, because with shoes, the layer wears off with daily use.
Use the protector mainly for the upper. For keeping the footbed fresh, proper drying, timely cleaning, and Active Perfume 04 remain the most important steps.
For all material differences and the full procedure, read our guide on protecting Birkenstocks against dirt and stains.
Does this method also work for other slippers and sandals?
The same approach works for many other shoes you wear barefoot. However, always first look at the material.
Rubber or EVA slippers
Shower sandals and slides with a footbed made of rubber or EVA hardly absorb moisture. These can usually be wiped with lukewarm water and a cloth.
Pay particular attention to seams, edges, and straps, as dirt easily accumulates there. Active Perfume 04 can be used if a slight odor remains after cleaning.
Slippers with textile, wool or suede
Slippers and house shoes with an absorbent lining can be treated in much the same way as a suede Birkenstock footbed:
- First brush dry.
- For a slight odor, use Active Perfume 04.
- For persistent odor, clean carefully and evenly.
- Dab off dirt and foam.
- Allow to dry for at least 24 hours.
Always check the washing and care label before you start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Birkenstocks be put in the washing machine?
No. The combination of a lot of water, movement, and heat can damage the cork, glue connections, sole, and lining. Therefore, always clean Birkenstocks by hand and use as little moisture as possible.
Why do my Birkenstocks smell like sweat?
The footbed absorbs sweat, skin oils, skin flakes, and dirt while wearing. When this layer accumulates, an unpleasant odor arises. A suede footbed, in particular, can easily retain moisture.
How do I quickly get sweat smell out of my Birkenstocks?
First, let the Birkenstocks dry, then spray Active Perfume 04 5 to 10 times over the footbed. If the smell quickly returns, you'll need to clean the footbed to remove the built-up layer of dirt.
Does Active Perfume 04 just mask the smell?
No. Active Perfume 04 is designed to neutralize unpleasant odors and then adds a fresh scent. For a heavily soiled footbed, thorough cleaning remains necessary.
Does baking soda help against smelly Birkenstocks?
Baking soda can temporarily reduce an odor, but it doesn't actually clean the footbed. Moreover, the powder can remain in the suede fibers. Dry brushing, odor neutralization, and careful cleaning together form a more thorough approach.
Do dark foot impressions completely disappear from the footbed?
Not always. You can often significantly reduce the built-up layer, but for older or light-colored footbeds, some of the discoloration may be permanent. This does not automatically mean that the footbed is still dirty.
Can I protect my Birkenstocks from sweat?
A water and dirt-repellent protector does not prevent your feet from sweating. To combat sweat odor, it is mainly helpful to let the footbed dry well, neutralize nascent odors, and clean the material in time.
How often should I use Active Perfume 04?
Spray 5 to 10 times over the footbed as soon as you start to notice a slight odor. For Birkenstocks worn daily, this may be needed more often. Make sure not to soak the footbed and always allow it to air out well after use.
How often should I clean the footbed?
There is no fixed schedule for this. Clean the footbed when a persistent odor, dark residue, or greasy layer develops. With daily use, this will be necessary more often than if you alternate your Birkenstocks with other shoes.
In short
Do your Birkenstocks just smell a bit musty? Then spray Active Perfume 04 5 to 10 times over the footbed and let it air out well.
Does the smell return quickly, or do you see dark, greasy marks? Then brush the footbed dry, clean it carefully and evenly with Deep Clean Solution 03, and let the Birkenstocks dry for at least 24 hours.
Then use Active Perfume 04 for maintenance and give the footbed enough time to air out. Finally, protect the upper with the protector suitable for its material. This way, your Birkenstocks will not only stay fresher but also look good for longer.
