How to clean cork sandals, mules and half shoes
To clean NoStrain cork sandals, mules and half shoes, brush off loose dirt, wipe the synthetic upper with a slightly damp cloth, use a little soap solution only on upper stains, and clean the suede footbed with a soft dry brush. Keep liquid and detergent off the suede, and never soak the pair.

What your cork sandals, mules and half shoes are made of
- Upper: synthetic
- Footbed: suede leather
- Midsole: cork
- Outsole: EVA
Water and liquid detergent can stain suede and change its texture, so the footbed is only dry-brushed. The synthetic upper is the part that can take a damp cloth and a small amount of soap. You can see the full range in our cork sandals collection.
Step-by-step cleaning
- Remove loose dust and dirt with a soft, dry cloth or brush.
- Wipe the synthetic upper gently with a slightly damp cloth. For stains, use a soft-bristled brush with a small soap solution.
- Clean the suede leather footbed gently with a soft, dry brush. Do not use liquid detergent or excess water on the suede.
- Wipe the synthetic upper with a clean, slightly damp cloth to remove soap residue.
- Let the pair air-dry naturally at room temperature.
What to avoid
- Liquid detergent or excess water on the suede footbed
- Soaking in water or machine washing
- Bleach, harsh chemicals and aggressive scrubbing
Own other NoStrain styles too? Read our leather sandal care guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can cork sandals get wet?
Do not soak them. Cork sandals have a suede leather footbed over a cork midsole, and water can stain the suede and damage its texture. Wipe only the synthetic upper with a damp cloth.
How do I clean a dirty suede footbed on cork sandals?
Brush it gently with a soft, dry brush. Avoid liquid detergent and excess water on the suede, as they can leave stains or damage the texture.
How do I clean white cork sandals?
Brush off loose dust, wipe the synthetic upper with a slightly damp cloth and treat upper stains with a soft brush and a small soap solution. Dry-brush the suede footbed and air-dry at room temperature.