Cleaning espadrilles is relatively easy, but it's important to do it carefully to avoid damaging the natural materials they are made of, such as jute and cotton. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean espadrilles
How to clean espadrilles
Step by step guide to clean your espadrilles
Step 1: Make your own cleaning solution
You can create a simple cleaning solution for your espadrilles using mild ingredients that won't damage the materials. Here's a recipe for a DIY cleaning solution:
Fill a bowl with lukewarm water. Add a small amount of mild soap to the water. Stir to create a soapy solution.
Dip a soft-bristle brush or a toothbrush into the soapy water.
Gently scrub the uppers of your espadrilles, paying extra attention to stained or soiled areas. Be gentle to avoid damaging the materials.
Use a separate, clean damp cloth to wipe away the soap residue from the uppers.
For the jute sole, use the soapy water and a soft brush to clean it gently.
Be cautious not to soak the jute, as it can weaken when exposed to water.
Step 2: Dry your espadrilles
First of all, it must be kept in mind that natural jute fibres can be easily damaged by water; therefore, it is important to avoid, as much as possible, contact of your espadrilles with water. It is not recommended to use them on rainy days and it is important to keep them in a dry place without humidity so that they remain in perfect condition.
Under no circumstances should the espadrille be put into the washing machine, or submerged in water or placed under the tap, since the jute in contact with the water swells and will be damaged, falling apart.
In case of rain, if the jute sole gets wet or acquires dampness, the best is to let it dry in the open air, without exposing it directly to the sun and always keeping the espadrille in a horizontal position.
Step 3: Clean the rope soles
To clean the jute soles, it is better to remove the dust using a soft bristle brush.
In case there are stains on the jute, they can be removed with an eraser.
Another option is to sprinkle talcum powder over the jute and let it work for a few minutes to absorb the stain. Then use a brush to remove the spot completely
In the event the rubber on the sole separates from the jute, we recommend repairing it with silicone or glue.
Step 4: Clean the upper part
To clean the upper of our canvas espadrilles, we use a microfiber cloth (one that does not detach threads). We moisten with water and rub gently. It is also possible to use a soft bristle brush.
If necessary, we can add a little bit of neutral soap to the moistened cloth and rub gently.
Next, to remove the soap residue, we will use another microfiber cloth with water. To dry the espadrilles, we recommend leaving them outdoors, without exposing them directly to the sun, and always in a horizontal position.
To clean food or grease stains, we recommend sprinkling talcum powder in the area of the stain and let it act for a few minutes to absorb the grease. Then rub with a soft brush to remove the remains of talcum and dirt. There is a large variety of fabrics that can be used on espadrilles and each one has its own specific recommendations for cleaning and maintenance; but in general, you can use a microfiber cloth or a soft bristle brush for cleaning the tissues, always rubbing gently.
Step 5: Wipe your espadrilles
f you need to clean your espadrilles quickly and don't have access to water and soap, you can wipe them down to remove surface dirt and stains. Here's how to do it:
Dampen the Cloth: Moisten a clean cloth with lukewarm water. Make sure the cloth is not dripping wet but damp.
Wipe the Espadrilles: Gently wipe the entire surface of the espadrilles, including the soles, insoles, and uppers. Be careful not to soak the espadrilles; you only want to remove surface dirt and stains.
This quick wipe-down method is suitable for light cleaning and can help refresh your espadrilles when they are not heavily soiled.
Step 6: Air dry your espadrilles
To dry the espadrilles, we recommend leaving them outdoors, without exposing them directly to the sun, and always in a horizontal position.
After cleaning, stuff the espadrilles with paper towels or a dry cloth to help them maintain their shape while drying. Do not use heat sources like radiators or direct sunlight to speed up the drying process, as it can damage the jute and cause the espadrilles to lose their shape.
Step 7: Storage
Proper storage of your espadrilles is important to keep them in good condition and maintain their shape. Here are some tips on how to store your espadrilles:
Clean and Dry: Before storing your espadrilles, ensure they are clean and completely dry. Follow the cleaning and drying instructions mentioned earlier if needed.
Stuff with Paper: To help maintain their shape, stuff your espadrilles with crumpled paper towels, tissue paper, or a shoe tree. This prevents them from creasing or losing their form during storage.
Use Shoe Bags: Consider using shoe bags or breathable shoe storage containers to protect your espadrilles from dust and moisture. These bags allow air circulation while keeping your shoes clean.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store your espadrilles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade the colors and materials, especially in the case of natural fibers like jute.
Rotate Your Footwear: If you have multiple pairs of espadrilles or other shoes, consider rotating them regularly. This prevents excessive wear and tear on any single pair and allows the insoles to air out between wears.
Regular Checkups: Periodically check on your stored espadrilles, especially if they are stored for a long time. This allows you to ensure they remain in good condition and address any issues, such as mold or mildew.
Proper storage is key to extending the life of your espadrilles and keeping them in great condition. By following these tips, you'll be better equipped to maintain the quality of your footwear for years to come.
It's important to remember that espadrilles are not meant for heavy wear in wet or muddy conditions, as moisture can damage the jute and other materials. Regular cleaning and proper storage can help extend the life of your espadrilles and keep them looking their best.
