Cork shoes are very fashionable and allow the foot to breathe well in summer: the only reason you can hesitate to buy them is that cork can get dirty very easily. However, with a little care, you can easily restore even those filthy shoes without damaging them. The following guide will show you how to clean cork sandals and clogs.
Create a cleaning solution: put five drops of neutral detergent in half a liter of warm water (the detergent must be non-toxic to prevent any chemicals from damaging the shoes), add half a glass of white vinegar, and mix everything.
Clean the cork shoes with a rag, moisten the latter in the cleaning solution, and then remove as much dirt from the cork as possible. This will not only make the shoes more beautiful but also extend their life.
Scrub the cork surface with a brush in a gentle circular motion. The brush should be damp but not wet, and you need to rinse it every so often so that no dirt stains remain on your shoes. Use a toothbrush in those areas that cannot reach with the larger brush.
Remove all soap and foam residues from the cork; if you still see dirt or discoloration, repeat the step. Do not rub the surface of the cork more than twice, or you risk damaging it. If the shoe looks clean, avoid rubbing the cork further. Next, examine the shoes: If the cork now looks clean, run a final wipe with clean, warm water to remove all the cleaning solution and let them dry for a day or two.
To remove heavy stains or to repair damaged areas, you can lightly sand the surface of the cork. Before doing this, you need to make sure your shoes are completely dry. You risk ruining them. Don’t apply too much pressure. Even very light sanding will be able to remove almost all stains and dirt.
This process is only necessary if there is damage to the cork or stubborn stains that do not go away with the cleaning solution. Alternatively, you can use extra-virgin olive oil or a solution consisting of baking soda and lemon.
