Have you ever accidentally gotten your beloved Birkenstocks soaked in rain, mud, or a spill? I’m sure the feeling of dread sets in as you imagine the precious cork footbeds warped and distorted beyond repair. But hold on just a minute before rushing off to the store to replace them – with a few simple techniques, it’s often possible to salvage soggy Birks and restore them to walking glory.
In this post on how to fix birkenstocks that got wet, I’ll break down the steps needed to successfully dry out and rehabilitate Birkenstocks that have fallen victim to unwanted moisture, so you can continue enjoying your cozy cork foot friends with peace of mind.
Necessary Materials
- Paper Towels or a Clean, Absorbent Cloth
- A Soft-bristled Brush (a Toothbrush Works Well)
- A Blow Dryer (Optional)
- Birkenstock Cork Sealer (Optional, but Helpful. You Can Find This at Most Shoe Repair Shops or Online.)
10 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Fix Birkenstocks That Got Wet
Step 1: Clean Off Any Debris or Mud
Remove as much dirt/mud/water etc. from the Birks as you can, wiping away with a clean cloth or paper towel. If it’s really muddy, let the mud dry before attempting to brush it off – this will make it easier to remove without making more of a mess. You may also use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub off any dirt or debris that has dried onto the shoe.
Step 2: Stuff the Birks with Paper Towels
Take some paper towels or a clean, absorbent cloth and stuff it into the footbed of the Birk to help soak up any remaining water. This will also help maintain the shape of the footbed as it dries. You can also try using newspaper or a towel if you don’t have paper towels handy. It’s important to do this step before the footbed starts to warp. But if it already has, you can try to gently reshape it with your hands while still wet.
Step 3: Dry the Footbeds
Now, it’s time to give the footbeds a thorough drying. If you have a blow dryer, set it to low or medium heat and hold it a few inches away from the footbed. Move the dryer around so that you don’t concentrate the heat in one spot, as this may cause damage to the cork material. If you don’t have a blow dryer, just let the footbeds air dry. This may take several hours, so be patient. This is also a good time to air out the sandals themselves by leaving them outside or in a well-ventilated area.
Step 4: Re-shape the Footbeds
Once the footbeds are mostly dry, use your fingers or a soft-bristled brush to gently reshape and smooth out any warped areas. It may not look perfect at this stage, but that’s okay – we’ll fix that later. It’s important to do this step while the footbeds are still damp and pliable. This will prevent any permanent warping from setting in. You can also use a blow dryer again to help speed up the drying process while shaping the footbeds.
Step 5: Water-proof the Straps
If your Birkenstocks have suede or leather straps, it’s important to waterproof them to prevent any future damage. You can use a suede protector for suede straps, and leather conditioner or oil for leather straps. Follow the instructions on the product carefully and make sure the straps are completely dry before wearing your Birks again. Although this step won’t fix wet straps, it’s an important preventative measure for the future. You can also use a waterproof spray for the entire shoe if desired.
Step 6: Fix Any Remaining Warping
If there are still areas of warping on the footbeds, you can try using a warm iron (set to low heat) and a damp cloth to gently press out the wrinkles. Make sure the cloth is not too wet or it may damage the cork. Again, be gentle and take your time with this step. Otherwise, you can also try using a blow dryer on low heat to further reshape the footbeds. Just be careful not to overheat the cork. It’s always better to take your time and be gentle than to risk damaging the shoe.
Step 7: Use Cork Sealer (Optional)
If you have Birkenstock Cork Sealer, now is the time to use it. Follow the instructions on the bottle carefully and apply a thin, even layer to both footbeds. This will help protect your Birks from future water damage and keep them looking new for longer. It’s best to reapply the sealer every few months or as needed.
Whether you have cork sealer or not, it’s important to still follow the other steps in this guide to properly dry and reshape your Birks. If you don’t have cork sealer, just make sure to be extra careful with your Birks and avoid getting them wet too often.
Step 8: Let Your Birkenstocks Dry Completely
Before wearing your Birks again, make sure they are completely dry. You may even want to let them sit overnight just to be safe. This will prevent any moisture from getting trapped inside and causing mold or mildew. It’s also a good idea to let them air out for a few hours after wearing them, especially in hot and humid weather. It’s all about prevention! However, Birkenstocks are designed to be worn with bare feet and can withstand a bit of moisture without causing any damage.
Step 9: Store Them Properly
To prevent any future water damage, it’s important to store your Birks in a dry place. Avoid storing them in damp areas like a basement or garage. If you live in a particularly humid climate, you may also want to consider using a dehumidifier in your closet or storage area. You can also stuff your Birks with paper towels or a shoe tree to help maintain their shape and absorb any excess moisture. You don’t want to store them too tightly, as this may cause the straps to distort.
Step 10: Be Proactive
The best way to fix wet Birkenstocks is to prevent them from getting wet in the first place. If there’s rain in the forecast or you know you’ll be walking through puddles, wear a pair of water-resistant sandals or shoes instead. You can also treat your Birks with a water-repellent spray to help protect them from moisture.
Prevention is always better than trying to fix the problem after it’s already happened. Always remember to be proactive and take good care of your Birkenstocks to ensure they last for years to come.
Following these steps on how to fix birkenstocks that got wet can help save your wet Birkenstocks and keep them in good condition for years to come. Remember, prevention is key, so be mindful of where you wear your Birks and take the necessary precautions. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to take them to a professional shoe repair shop for some extra TLC.
Tips
- Always Use a Gentle Touch When Handling Your Birkenstocks, as the Cork Material Can Be Fragile.
- Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals or Cleaners on Your Birks, as They May Cause Damage to the Materials.
- Regularly Clean and Care for Your Birkenstocks to Prevent Any Future Damage. This Includes Wiping Them Down With a Damp Cloth After Wearing Them and Storing Them Properly.
- If Your Birkenstocks Get Wet Frequently, Consider Investing in a Pair With Water-resistant Materials Such as EVA or Birko-Flor. These Materials Are Durable and Easy to Clean.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Professional Help If You’re Not Comfortable Fixing Your Birkenstocks Yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Fix My Wet Birkenstocks Without Using a Blow Dryer?
A: Yes, you can let them air dry naturally, but it may take longer. Just make sure to stuff the footbeds with paper towels or cloth to help absorb the moisture and maintain their shape. it’s best to avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as this may cause damage to the cork material.
Q: Can I Use Regular Sealer on My Birkenstocks?
A: It’s best to use a specific product like Birkenstock Cork Sealer for optimal results. Other sealers may not be compatible with the cork material and could potentially damage your Birks. Make sure to follow the product instructions carefully for the best outcome.
Q: How Often Should I Reapply Cork Sealer?
A: It’s recommended to reapply the cork sealer every few months or as needed. This will help maintain the water-repellent properties and protect your Birks from future damage.
Q: Can I Wear My Wet Birkenstocks After They’ve Been Fixed?
A: It’s best to let them dry completely before wearing them again to prevent any potential mold or mildew growth. This may take several hours, so it’s best to plan ahead and avoid wearing your wet Birks for the day.
Conclusion
Overall, there are plenty of strategies when trying to fix a pair of wet Birkenstocks. Whether it’s finding a quick fix with hairspray, using newspaper and towels for absorbency or getting more creative in the kitchen – each step should be taken with care and precaution.
Taking the extra effort to make sure the dry process is safe and not too aggressive on your sandals will thank you later on and possibly prevent your Birkenstocks from further damage as water tends to weaken the material over time. It can be tricky to choose the right approach, but always remember that preventing future wetness is key!
If after taking all these steps you find that your sandals still aren’t up to par, sometimes it may be best to simply purchase a new pair altogether. So if your favorite pair of Birkenstocks gets damp or soggy – don’t fret! With these steps on how to fix birkenstocks that got wet in mind, just remember to stay calm before going out on an adventure with those dry feet!