Do Birkenstocks get smelly? How do I stop my Birkenstocks from smelling?

Birkenstock Holding plc, the renowned German shoe manufacturer headquartered in Neustadt, Germany, has made an indelible mark on the world of footwear with its iconic sandals and shoes. These beloved items are celebrated for their contoured cork footbeds, meticulously crafted with layers of suede and jute, which conform to the unique shape of their wearers’ feet. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1774 in Langen-Bergheim, Hammersbach, Germany, Birkenstock has become a symbol of unparalleled comfort and style.

While Birkenstock sandals offer exceptional comfort and quality, it’s not uncommon for them to develop a distinctive and, at times, less desirable smell. This article explores the reasons behind the famous “Birkenstock smell” and provides practical solutions to keep your favorite sandals smelling fresh.

Understanding the Smelly Birkenstock Dilemma

The phenomenon of smelly Birkenstocks can be attributed to a combination of factors, primarily involving bare feet and sweat, especially during the hot summer months when temperatures rise. The open and breathable design of Birkenstock sandals, which many of us cherish, can sometimes make it challenging to conceal or eliminate the odor.

How to Stop Birkenstocks from Smelling

If you’ve encountered the dreaded Birkenstock smell and run out of Birkenstock’s Cleaner & Refresher, there’s a simple home cleaning remedy you can employ to combat the issue: baking soda. Baking soda, a versatile household item, is excellent for neutralizing odors. Here’s how you can use it to keep your Birkenstocks smelling fresh:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need some baking soda, water, and a toothbrush.
2. Create a Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste. You want it thick enough to be spreadable but not too runny.
3. Apply the Paste to the Footbed: Use your toothbrush to apply the baking soda paste to the footbed of your Birkenstocks. Pay particular attention to areas that have absorbed more sweat and developed an odor.
4. Scrub Gently: With the paste in place, gently scrub the footbed with the toothbrush. Baking soda’s natural abrasiveness will help lift away dirt and neutralize odors.
5. Let It Sit: Allow the paste to sit on the footbed for a little while, ideally at least 15-30 minutes.
6. Rinse and Dry: After the paste has had time to work its magic, rinse the footbed thoroughly with water. Make sure it’s entirely free from any baking soda residue. Afterward, allow your Birkenstocks to air dry completely before wearing them again.

Additional Tips:

• In between cleanings, you can sprinkle a bit of baking soda into your Birkenstocks overnight to help absorb moisture and odors.
• Consider wearing moisture-wicking socks with your Birkenstocks, especially during the hot and sweaty summer months, to reduce the accumulation of sweat and odors.

Birkenstock sandals are beloved for their unrivaled comfort and enduring style. However, they can occasionally develop an unwelcome odor, which is often the result of bare feet and the natural accumulation of sweat. With the simple yet effective remedy of baking soda, you can keep your Birkenstocks smelling fresh and maintain their comfort for years to come.

By understanding the causes of the famous “Birkenstock smell” and taking proactive steps to mitigate it, you can continue to enjoy the comfort and style that these iconic sandals offer. So, embrace these practical tips, and say goodbye to smelly Birkenstocks, ensuring that your favorite footwear remains a source of comfort and pride.