Like most people, you probably love your Birkenstocks. After all, they are some of the best sandals for adventures and outdoor activities as well as for casual wear. Though they are built to last many years, they can still get damaged and you will eventually need Birkenstock repair service. The good news is that you can do something to delay going to the repair store. By following these maintenance and care tips, you can keep your Birks looking great and prolong their life.
- Apply sealant to the cork to keep it from drying out.
The makers of Birkenstock sandals apply a light coating of sealant to the corks to prevent them from drying out. This also gives them a nice, shiny appearance. If the corks of your sandals no longer look shiny, re-applying a thin coat of trusty sealant might do the trick. Do this periodically to prolong the life of your sandals.
- Protect the uppers using a water and stain repellant.
Water and dirt can leave visible marks on the uppers of your sandals. To avoid this, always apply water and stain repellant to the uppers (be it leather, nubuck, or suede) every after cleaning.
- Clean the uppers regularly.
If the uppers are suede, then use a suede brush to remove the dirt and keep them fresh looking. You might need to use mild soap suds or a commercial suede cleaner if the dirt has become soiled. For nubuck and leather uppers, use nubuck block and neutral leather creams, respectively, to polish and cover scuff marks.
- Avoid exposure to extreme heat.
The soles of Birkenstocks are flexible and shock absorbent—in other words, durable. However, they can be damaged when exposed to excessive heat for a long time. Avoid placing them near radiators and fireplaces. Do not leave them outside where they are directly exposed to the sun. Just let the sandals air dry slowly in case they get wet.
By following these maintenance tips, you wouldn't need Birkenstock repair any time soon. But in case you do, look only for an authorized repair shop. They have the best tools and the right Birkenstock repair materials to use to bring back the glory of your favorite sandals.
