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?

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

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.

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.

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

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.

Not the dishwasher! Bleurgh

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.

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

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.