Summer is finally upon us, and with it comes glorious warm weather perfect for wearing sandals. Whether you prefer a wedge heel, flat or toe post, Pavers have a vast collection of summer sandals perfect for the warmer months. Sandals, like all shoes, can use a little maintenance to keep them looking their best. So, we have put together a few helpful tips on how to clean your sandals and keep them summer-ready. Our sandals are crafted from premium materials using quality craftsmanship, so we recommend regular cleaning for your Pavers shoes to preserve their quality and shape.
How Often Should you Clean Sandals?
Well, isn’t that a question we’ve all pondered as the sun shines down? Keeping your sandals spruced up isn’t just about looking dapper - it’s a nod to comfort and longevity too. We recommend giving them a gentle clean every few weeks, or whenever they start to look a bit loved. It's like a spa day for your sandals! Use a soft brush to sweep away the dust and dirt, and for those with leather uppers, a damp cloth works wonders to wipe away any stubborn spots.
Keeping them fresh ensures they’re always ready to step out in style, offering your feet the comfort they deserve. Every pair has its own set of care instructions though, so take a peek at those to keep your sandals strutting their stuff all summer long!
How to Clean Sandals
Step 1: Identify the Material
Begin by determining the material of your sandals, as different fabrics require different care. Leather, suede, and fabric sandals each have their own cleaning needs.
For Leather Sandals:
Step 2: Dust Off
Use a soft cloth to wipe away any loose dirt or debris.
Step 3: Dampen the Cloth
Moisten another cloth with water and add a drop of mild soap.
Step 4: Wipe Down
Gently clean the surface, paying attention to dirt-prone areas.
Step 5: Dry
Allow the sandals to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent the leather from drying out or fading.
For Suede Sandals:
Step 2: Brush
Use a suede brush to gently remove dirt. Always brush in the direction of the fibers to avoid damaging the material.
Step 3: Special Treatment
For stubborn stains, consider a suede cleaner. Follow the product instructions carefully.
Step 4: Dry
Let them air dry, avoid direct heat to maintain their shape and texture.
For Fabric and Sports Sandals:
Step 2: Prepare a Mixture
Mix a small amount of mild detergent in warm water.
Step 3: Scrub
Use a soft brush to gently scrub the sandals. Focus on the soles and footbeds where dirt accumulates.
Step 4: Rinse
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Step 5: Air Dry
Allow the sandals to air dry. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or using a heat source to speed up the drying process, as this can affect the shape and fit.
Final Tip:
Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions on the label or packaging before cleaning. Following these guidelines ensures the longevity and comfort of your beloved sandals.
How to Prevent Sandals from Smelling
The issue of sandals acquiring an unpleasant odour over time is not uncommon, and can be addressed with a few preventative and maintenance steps. First and foremost, maintaining foot hygiene is paramount; clean and dry feet contribute significantly to preventing odours. After wear, allowing sandals to air out in a well-ventilated space aids in dissipating moisture and odour.
In addition, there are specialized foot sprays and powders available that are designed to tackle odour and promote freshness. If the material of your sandals permits, occasional gentle cleaning as per the manufacturer’s instructions can also be beneficial.
Lastly, exposure to sunlight can naturally assist in refreshing your sandals, but avoid prolonged periods to prevent wear and fading. By incorporating these steps into your routine, you can effectively mitigate and prevent unpleasant odours in your sandals.
Can I Wear the Same Sandals Every Day?
Although it can be tempting when you find a pair of reliable sandals that you love, we recommend against wearing the same pair of shoes every day. Wearing the same shoes every day does not give them sufficient time to try out, which will mean that they may lose their shape and fit quicker than they should. Instead, try leaving at least a full day between wears.
How to Break In Sandals
The process of breaking in new sandals can be made comfortable and efficient by following some practical steps. Begin by wearing your sandals indoors for short periods to allow your feet to adapt to the new fit and feel. This initial wear helps in identifying any areas of discomfort or friction.
If you notice specific areas of tightness, consider using a shoe stretcher or applying a conditioning product to soften the leather, always ensuring it is suitable for the material of your sandals. Cushioning products like moleskin can be applied to the inner straps or areas prone to rubbing, offering an additional layer of comfort.
Gradually increasing the duration of wear allows both the sandals and your feet to adjust harmoniously. Avoid wearing them for extended periods or on long walks until they are fully broken in. Patience and incremental wear ensure that your new sandals will provide optimal comfort and fit with time.
