How to Clean and Care for Women's Espadrilles: A Step-by-Step Guide
Espadrilles are comfortable, stylish, and versatile shoes with more than 600 years of history. Originating from Spain, these stunning shoes epitomize summer glamour. Favorites of movie stars like Audrey Hepburn and royalty like Kate Middleton, espadrilles are perfect for women who embrace their natural style and femininity. These shoes seamlessly transition from the beach to the boardroom.
The only challenge with shoes as gorgeous as these, is how to clean your espadrilles and what do you do to keep them clean? Because they’re so versatile, you’ll probably never want to take them off. But strolling from the beach or exploring the city streets can be a dirty business. Over time, these Mediterranean classics can accumulate dirt stains and odors. So, in case you’re wondering how to keep your beautiful new handmade espadrilles looking fresh and smelling good, you’ll need to know how to clean and care for them properly. We thought we’d make life just a little bit easier for you by sharing some useful tips on how to clean jute espadrilles. So, here’s Viscata’s “step-by-step” guide to how to clean your espadrilles and to keep them looking as beautiful as the day you first slipped into them.
Cleaning Your Espadrilles: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preparing for Cleaning
Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s crucial that you understand the materials in your espadrilles. Different types of espadrilles require different types of care. Viscata’s espadrilles are made from a variety of premium materials such as:
- 100% GOTS certified natural cotton canvas for canvas espadrilles
- Soft suede and luxurious leather for specific styles
- Authentic, natural jute soles for all espadrilles
Gather your cleaning materials: a soft-bristled brush, mild soap or detergent, water, a clean cloth, and a small bowl.
2. Spot cleaning for light stains
If your espadrilles are only lightly stained, then simple spot cleaning should do the trick. Mix a small amount of mild detergent or soap into the bowl of water. Dip the soft brush into the solution and gently scrub the stained areas with a circular motion. Try to avoid soaking the entire shoes, since excessive moisture can damage the jute sole. Once the stains have faded, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any excess soap residue.
3. Hand washing for heavier stains
For those more stubborn stains (or if your espadrilles are really dirty), hand washing is a good option. Begin by removing the laces (if your shoe has them). Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge your espadrille uppers in the soapy water mix and gently agitate them to help loosen any dirt or grime. Remember not to submerge the jute in the water.
Use the soft-bristled brush to clean the entire upper fabric, paying special attention to any stained areas. Be careful not to rub too vigorously, since this might damage the material. Once cleaned, rinse the espadrilles with clean water to remove all the soap. Then, ensure you rinse the shoes thoroughly to avoid any soap residue, as that can attract more dirt when the shoes dry.
4. Drying your espadrilles
Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources and air dry in a well-ventilated area. This process might take a couple of days, but try to be patient. Never be tempted to use a dryer or a heater to speed up the drying process as it can ruin the shoes.
5. Dealing with stubborn stains
In some cases, certain stains may persist even after hand washing. For tougher stains, please consider using a specialized cleaning solution and protector suitable for delicate fabrics like canvas. Always spot-test the stain remover on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric.
6. Caring for the jute sole
While the fabric upper of espadrilles requires careful cleaning, the jute sole also deserves some of your attention. Jute is a natural material that can be sensitive to water and humidity, so it’s essential to protect it. Avoid wearing your Viscata espadrilles on damp or wet surfaces. And never immerse the jute sole in water. It can weaken and break down over time.
To prevent jute damage, clean the fabric upper only (as described previously). In case the jute sole accumulates any dirt, gently brush it with a dry cloth or a soft-bristled brush. Applying a protective spray specifically designed for jute can help to shield it from moisture and staining.
7. Regular maintenance
To keep your espadrilles in the best condition, regular maintenance is vital. Before wearing your shoes, make sure your feet are clean, dry and free from lotions or oils that could stain the fabric. Avoid wearing them in muddy or rainy conditions and if it looks like the heavens are about to open, these are probably not the right shoes to step out in. To help them to retain their shape, try stuffing them with newspaper or inserting a shoe tree. IIt’s also worth inspecting them every so often for any signs of wear and tear or damage
When you’re not using them, store your espadrilles somewhere cool and dry (and avoid direct sunlight where possible).
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, your espadrilles shoes will remain a stylish companion for many seasons. Spot clean stains promptly, hand wash when needed, and care for the delicate jute sole. Regular maintenance ensures your espadrilles stay in excellent condition, ready for new adventures. Happy cleaning!
