How to clean and care for you sandals

Knowing how to clean and care for your women’s sandals from the very first wears is essential to preserve both their quality and their look throughout the season. Whether in leather, suede or textile, each material requires specific attention to maintain its flexibility, structure and finish over time.

Even before stepping out in your pair, applying a waterproof or protective spray to your sandals is a key reflex. Suitable for all materials, it helps prevent stains and protects effectively against moisture. At JONAK, this step is considered essential to extend the life of your shoes, even on darker styles. Particularly recommended for suede sandals or coloured designs, a waterproofing spray helps preserve the original finish from the very first wears. For best results, apply before first use and reapply regularly, especially after exposure to rain.

Adopting the right care habits from the start not only helps maintain the look of your sandals, but also prevents premature wear. A simple yet essential routine to keep your women’s sandals looking their best, season after season.

Leather, suede or textile: each material comes with its own set of requirements and reacts differently to friction, moisture and everyday wear. While some finishes can handle light cleaning with water, others call for a more careful approach to preserve their original look. Taking these differences into account helps you adopt the right care routine, without damaging the material or altering its texture. The right maintenance makes all the difference, helping your sandals retain both their shape and comfort over time.

Known for its clean finish and refined look, smooth leather requires regular care to maintain its natural shine. Protecting your leather sandals from the start is key: apply a waterproofing spray to shield them from stains and moisture, then repeat throughout the season.

To clean smooth leather sandals, use a cleansing milk applied with a soft cloth. This gently removes impurities while respecting the material. Once clean, apply a suitable shoe polish using a brush. A cream polish will revive the colour, while a neutral balm will nourish the leather more subtly. Finish with a light buffing to restore its shine.

With regular care, smooth leather retains its suppleness and develops a beautiful patina over time. Simple, consistent steps are all it takes to preserve the elegance of your sandals.

Other finishes, such as grained, patent or glazed leather, require a more specific approach. Recognisable by their texture or high-shine surface, these leather sandals need adapted care to preserve their original finish.

Patent, glazed or aged leathers should not be waterproofed. To clean them, use a cleansing milk, then apply a lanolin-based spray with a soft cloth to revive their shine. Embossed, metallic or patinated leathers can be protected with a waterproof spray, but require a lighter touch. It is best to avoid overly rich creams on embossed leather, as residue may alter the texture and definition of the material. For sandals featuring stacked leather heels or platforms, extra care is needed. This artisanal construction, made from thin layers of leather, is more sensitive to impact and moisture. Adding protective sole guards can help preserve the structure and reduce wear over time.

Regular care, adapted to each finish, helps preserve the character of your leather sandals while maintaining a polished, refined look throughout the season.

With its soft, velvety texture, suede — often referred to as velvet leather — brings depth and dimension to sandals. However, it requires careful handling, particularly when exposed to moisture, dust or friction. After purchase, apply a waterproof spray to your suede sandals and reapply regularly to maintain effective protection, especially after rain or in humid conditions.

To clean suede sandals, always opt for dry care. Use a dedicated brush to gently remove dirt without damaging the material. A light brushing also helps restore the texture and revive its appearance. If needed, a specific care product can be used to refresh the colour. Avoid excessive use of water, as it may leave marks and alter the finish. Regular care helps keep your suede sandals looking clean and even throughout the season.

Loved for their comfort and lightness, textile sandals stand out for their flexibility. More prone to stains, they require regular care to maintain a fresh, clean look.

To clean fabric sandals, use a foam or a dedicated shampoo, applied gently to avoid damaging the material. Targeted cleaning removes dirt while preserving the structure. Avoid soaking the fabric, as this may cause water marks or distortion. After cleaning, let your sandals air dry naturally, away from direct heat sources. This helps maintain the shape and prevents the material from stiffening.

Simple care steps will keep your textile sandals clean, comfortable and ready to wear all season long.

If your sandals are exposed to moisture, always let them air dry naturally. Avoid direct heat sources such as radiators or hairdryers, as they can damage the materials and cause the leather to stiffen. Drying too quickly may also leave marks or alter the shape, especially on leather or suede sandals.

To help maintain their shape, lay your sandals flat and avoid handling them while still damp. You can also lightly stuff them to prevent deformation, particularly around the straps or sole. Once fully dry, gently clean your sandals to remove any remaining marks. Applying a suitable care product — such as a leather lotion or a suede treatment — will help restore softness and revive the material’s finish.

From clean, minimal lines to more statement designs, this season highlights sandals designed to suit every style. From understated flat sandals to more structured strappy styles, each pair defines a look that transitions effortlessly from everyday wear to summer occasions.