Stinky Birkenstocks - can I put them in the dishwasher or washing machine??

[GinBunny]

They're so smelly! I tried coating them with a bicarb of soda paste and left them overnight, they're still smelly but now with an added whiff of swimming pool. I can't wear them anymore and I really do not have a great sense of smell.
Last resort before they go in the bin, does anyone have any tips or ideas? Is it worth a cycle in the dishwasher or washing machine?

[CallarMorvern]

I scrubbed mine in the sink with Fairy anti bac washing up liquid and warm water. They survived.

[SunnySomer]

I think the cork would dissolve in the washing machine. But am afraid have no great suggestions. I binned the pair that I had that got smelly.

[PerspicaciaTick]

Mine have been through the washing machine several times. It possibly does slightly shorter their life expectancy, but when they smelly enough to be verging on unwearable it is worth a try.

[marriednotdead]

I wear a style similar to Birkies, same cork stuff etc. They get stinky very quickly, especially as I'm on my feet all day.
Every couple of weeks I scrub them thoroughly with soap powder and a nail brush (which makes the cork feel a bit slimy!) Rinse and blot with a towel and then spray a little diluted tea tree oil on them.
Feel a little odd and crispy once they're dry but once you've had them back on for a couple of minutes they're fine

[JamieLannistersFuckButler]

I live in Birkenstocks all year when it's dry, and have done for years.
I own several pairs and rotate so they dry out and stink less.

I agree with PerspicaciaTick about washing them in the machine. Put them in a lingerie bag or pillowcase. They will be a bit "crispy" as Married says, and I'd say it does shorten their life a bit but I've done it; if they are too stinky to wear then it will probably give you a few more weeks or months.

You are supposed to coat the cork with PVA (same as PVA glue!) from time-to-time anyway, but I've never known anyone who does. BUT if you do, it will restore the shine to the cork especially after washing.

[DelicatePreciousThing1]

Not the dishwasher! Bleurgh

[Beautifullymixed]

I've just washed my birkenstocks after walking on the just stained decking, which wasn't fully dried.
Shiny, new looking shoes emerged, smelling oh so sweet.
No problems at all.

[ivykaty44]

I left mine in the garage over the winter and they didn't and do smell this year

[Daisy62]

The pva stuff that Birkenstock sells is good for restoring the finish on the cork... It does work. Gives it that slight sheen they have when new.