The rainy season is a harsh time for sandals. With a little daily care, their lifespan can be significantly extended.
Three problems sandals face during the rainy season:
1. Material degradation due to moisture
2. Mold growth due to humidity
3. Odor from stuffiness
All three of these can be prevented by how you handle your sandals after they get wet.
What to do immediately after getting them wet in the rain:
1. Take off your sandals as soon as you get home.
2. Wipe off surface moisture with a soft towel (don't forget the area where the straps meet the footbed).
3. Place them in a well-ventilated, shaded area (direct sunlight can damage the material).
4. If the straps are wet, reshape them and hang them to dry.
Rapid drying with a hairdryer can cause materials to shrink. Natural drying is key.
Mold and Odor Prevention:
Daily Care:
After wearing them, lightly wipe the footbed with a dry cloth. Sweat and sebum can cause mold and odor.
Weekly Care:
Gently wipe the straps and footbed with lukewarm water diluted with a mild detergent. To ensure no detergent remains, wipe with a tightly wrung damp cloth, then air dry in the shade.
When odor is a concern:
Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda, leave it overnight, then wipe it off with a tightly wrung cloth. Baking soda absorbs sebum and odor. Do not use chlorine-based bleach as it can damage the material.
How to wash different strap materials:
Cotton/Natural Fiber Straps:
Gently hand wash in lukewarm water diluted with a mild detergent. Absorb moisture with a towel, reshape, and air dry in the shade.
Rubber Soles/Footbeds:
Rinse lightly with water or wipe with a soft cloth. If using detergent, dilute a mild one.
Do not use a washing machine or dryer for any part.
Storage when not in use for more than a month:
Sometimes you won't wear them until the rainy season is over. For long-term storage, follow these steps:
1. Wash the entire sandal with a mild detergent and dry completely.
2. Lightly stuff with newspaper to maintain shape.
3. Place in a breathable non-woven bag (avoid plastic bags).
4. Store in a well-ventilated area (a shoe cabinet at the entrance is better than the back of a closet).
Including a desiccant like silica gel will provide extra assurance.
When they show wear:
If you notice fraying straps, shallow sole scratches, or peeling footbeds that are difficult to repair yourself, please use our repair service.
Including shipping, strap replacement starts from 1,800 yen, and sole buffing from 2,500 yen. Please see the repair service page for details.
Finally:
The rainy season lasts 4 to 6 weeks. If you make daily care a habit during this period, the lifespan of your sandals will extend to 2 or 3 years.
For a pair that will carry you lightly through the rainy season.
