How to Clean and Care for Sandals: Keep Your Toddler's Summer Shoes Looking New

Quick Answer

To clean baby sandals, start by removing loose dirt, then hand-wash with mild soap and water, paying extra attention to leather straps and soles. Air-dry away from direct heat, and condition leather occasionally to keep it soft and supple.

Summer sandals take a beating—dirt, grass stains, sticky snacks, and sunscreen can all leave their mark. But with the right routine, you can keep your toddler's shoes looking fresh and extend their life. Here’s a simple, practical guide to cleaning and caring for sandals at home.

Whether you’re dealing with soft leather baby shoes or hard-soled sandals, the key is to clean gently and dry properly. Avoid harsh chemicals and machine washing, which can damage the materials and shape. Let’s walk through the steps.

Why Gentle Cleaning Matters for Baby Sandals

Baby feet are delicate, and so are the materials in quality sandals. Leather, in particular, can dry out, crack, or lose its softness if cleaned with the wrong products. Many baby sandals feature elasticized openings and soft soles designed for natural foot development—harsh cleaning can break down these features.

Stains from food, dirt, and outdoor play are common, but they don’t require aggressive scrubbing. A soft cloth, mild soap, and a little patience will handle most messes without compromising the shoe’s integrity. Regular care also prevents odors and keeps the shoes looking nice for hand-me-downs or future siblings.

• Always check the care label or product description for specific instructions—some leathers are more delicate than others.

What You’ll Need to Clean Sandals at Home

Before you start, gather a few basic supplies: a soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush, a clean microfiber cloth, mild soap (like baby shampoo or a gentle dish soap), a bowl of lukewarm water, and a dry towel. For leather care, you might also want a leather conditioner, but it’s optional.

Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners, as these can discolor or weaken the material. Also, skip the washing machine and dryer—they can warp the shape and damage adhesives. Stick to hand cleaning for best results.

• If you have multiple pairs, clean them all at once to save time—but dry each pair separately.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Start by removing loose dirt and debris. Use a soft brush or a dry cloth to gently brush off any sand, pebbles, or dried mud from the surface and between the straps. This prevents scratching during the wet cleaning step.

Next, mix a small amount of mild soap with lukewarm water. Dip a cloth or soft brush into the soapy water, wring it out well, and gently wipe the sandals in circular motions. Focus on stained areas, but avoid soaking the shoes—excess water can damage leather and cause the sole to separate.

After cleaning, wipe off any soap residue with a clean, damp cloth. Then, stuff the sandals with a soft cloth or paper towel to help them hold their shape, and let them air-dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

• For stubborn stains, let the soapy water sit on the spot for a few minutes before wiping, but don’t scrub aggressively.

Caring for Leather Sandals

Leather sandals need a little extra love to stay soft and flexible. After cleaning and drying, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a cloth and gently rub it into the leather. This helps replace natural oils and prevents cracking.

Avoid using oils or waxes not meant for baby shoes, as they can leave a residue or attract dirt. If you’re unsure, test on a small, hidden area first. Also, store leather sandals in a cool, dry place—avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause mildew.

• If your sandals have a soft sole, avoid over-conditioning, as it can make the sole slippery.

Dealing with Odors and Stains

Summer sweat can cause odors, especially in closed-toe sandals. To freshen them, sprinkle a little baking soda inside and let it sit overnight, then shake it out. For stubborn stains like grass or berry juice, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, and let it dry before brushing off.

For white leather sandals, a magic eraser can work wonders on scuff marks, but test it on a small area first. Always follow with a gentle wipe and conditioning to keep the leather healthy.

• Never use vinegar or lemon juice on leather—they can strip the finish.

Sandal Care Steps at a Glance

1. Remove Loose Dirt: Use a soft brush or dry cloth to gently brush off sand, pebbles, and dried mud from the surface and between straps. Checkpoint: Ensure no debris remains before wet cleaning to avoid scratching the leather.
2. Hand Wash with Mild Soap: Mix a small amount of mild soap with lukewarm water. Dip a cloth or soft brush, wring well, and wipe in circular motions. Avoid soaking the shoes. Checkpoint: For stubborn stains, let the soapy water sit briefly, but don't scrub aggressively.
3. Rinse and Dry Properly: Wipe off soap residue with a clean damp cloth. Stuff with a soft cloth or paper towel to hold shape, and air-dry away from direct sunlight or heat. Checkpoint: Never use a dryer or radiator—heat can warp the shape and damage the sole.
4. Condition Leather (If Applicable): After drying, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a cloth and gently rub into the leather to keep it soft and prevent cracking. Checkpoint: Test on a hidden area first and avoid over-conditioning soft soles.

Products That Make Sandal Care Easier

• Bright White II City Baby Shoe: Choose between soft sole for your infant OR rubber hard sole for your little on the go. Soft soles come in sizes Newborn - 7, hard soles come in sizes 3 - 7. Knowing your sole type helps you clean appropriately—soft soles need gentler handling, while hard soles can withstand a bit more scrubbing.
• Gingham Buttercup Mary Jane Baby Shoe: Made by hand from premium leather, these shoes feature a classic Mary Jane design with a T-strap cut-out, teardrop details, and an adorable scalloped collar. With an elasticized ankle for easy wear. Leather Mary Janes with elasticized ankles require careful cleaning to preserve the elastic and leather—gentle hand washing and air drying are essential.

With a few simple steps, you can keep your toddler's sandals looking and feeling great all summer. Regular cleaning and proper drying will extend their life, so your little one can enjoy every adventure in comfort and style.