Barefoot proper shoe care guide

Nov 13, 2025

Why Is Proper Shoe Care Important?

One of the key features of barefoot shoes is their thin, flexible sole, which allows natural movement, along with often unique upper materials. If not cleaned or dried properly:

The materials can become stiff
Seams and stitches may wear out faster
Glued sole parts can weaken
The structure (e.g. sole thickness, flexibility) may deteriorate

This is especially true for minimalist models without heavy padding, where material quality and assembly are critical. We've compiled brand- and material-specific cleaning tips to help you enjoy your barefoot shoes for years.

Brand-Specific Guides

1. Leguano

Typical Features: Very flexible sole (LIFOLIT®-lg), often synthetic uppers (e.g. polyester/PU). Some models are machine washable.

Cleaning Instructions:

According to the model's documentation: machine wash at 30 °C in a laundry bag, on a gentle cycle, using mild detergent. Do not use fabric softener or powdered detergent.
Before washing: use a brush to remove dirt, then wipe with a damp cloth.
Drying: do not dry near radiators or in direct sunlight.
Impregnation: after washing, consider applying a protective spray to the upper.

By Material:

Synthetic upper (polyester/PU): Machine washable (if the manufacturer allows it) – always use a laundry bag and gentle cycle.
Sole: Protect glued sections by drying gently – never near heat sources, as glue may weaken.
Insole (removable): Remove and clean or air out separately.

Summary: If you own Leguanos, cleaning is relatively “easier” – certain models are machine washable. Still, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Vivobarefoot

Typical Features: Uses a wide range of materials including synthetic mesh, leather, etc. They offer a specific guide: “How do I clean/care for my Vivos?” – support.vivobarefoot.com

Cleaning Instructions:

Synthetic versions: Brush off dried mud, then clean with a cloth or toothbrush dipped in lukewarm, mildly soapy water.
Leather or suede versions: Do not soak in water! Just wipe gently with a damp cloth, and apply quality leather balm or wax.
Deep cleaning (synthetics only): After removing the insole, soak for max. 30 minutes in warm soapy water, rinse with cold water, air dry – not in sunlight.

By Material:

Mesh/synthetic: Easy to clean, but machine washing is not recommended – it can damage seams.
Leather/suede: Requires special leather care – avoid excess water and heat.
Sole: For rubber soles, a simple wipe with a damp cloth; no harsh chemicals.

Summary: For Vivobarefoot models, hand cleaning and gentle drying are best – especially for leather or mixed-material uppers.

3. Ohne Project

Typical Features: 100% vegan models, sustainable materials (e.g. corn waste-based leather or microfiber uppers), and recycled soles.

Cleaning Instructions (from their “Product Care” page):

“After each use, store your shoes in a well-ventilated area. Clean your barefoot sneakers with a damp wipe. Do not put them in the washing machine or dryer.”

If shoes get wet (rain, sweat), let them dry fully before storing.

By Material:

Upper: Corn-based “leather,” microfiber – wipe gently. For suede-like finishes, use a suede eraser (not a brush, which may fluff the fabric).
Sole: Recycled rubber – wipe clean or rinse with low-pressure water. No machine washing.
Insole/inside: If removable, take out and air dry separately.

Summary: Ohne Project shoes should always be hand-cleaned – machine washing is prohibited. Vegan, recycled components can be more sensitive.

4. Muris

Typical Features: Vegan, plant-based uppers (e.g. grape waste materials), antibacterial insoles, etc.

Cleaning Instructions:

Remove heavy dirt with a brush, then wipe with a damp cloth. Do not machine wash.
Caution: synthetic-coated uppers can be delicate – avoid aggressive cleaning.

By Material:

Plant-based leather (e.g. grape waste): Clean gently with a damp cloth. Soaking is not recommended.
Textile/summer shoes: Dry brush only. Not waterproof – avoid excessive moisture.
Sole: Natural or vegan rubber – damp wipe OK, but avoid heat when drying.

Summary: Muris shoes require extra care – avoid soaking and heat due to the plant-based materials.

5. Shapen

Typical Features: Uses various materials, including leather. Extra care is needed for leather models.

Cleaning Instructions (for general leather shoes):

First, remove loose dirt with a soft brush or cloth.
Wipe with a damp cloth, but don’t soak.
Use leather cream or balm to keep leather supple.
Avoid heat sources and do not machine wash.
Synthetic/vegan leather: Same care applies, plus consider waterproof spray.

Summary: With Shapen shoes, leather (or vegan leather) care is crucial – machine washing and high heat are not allowed.

Material-Specific General Care Advice

Material	Cleaning	Important Notes
Synthetic mesh/polyester	Brush off dust/mud, wipe with lukewarm water + mild detergent, rinse, air dry. (e.g. Vivobarefoot)	No machine wash, no heat, no harsh chemicals.
Synthetic upper (polyester-PU)	Machine washable if approved (e.g. some Leguanos) at 30 °C in laundry bag on gentle cycle.	Use mild detergent, no softener, no tumble drying.
Leather/suede	Wipe with damp cloth, apply leather balm/spray, air dry.	Do not soak, no machine wash, avoid heat.
Textile/cotton/canvas	Dry brush dust, wipe with damp cloth, consider waterproofing. (e.g. Muris summer shoes)	Not waterproof – avoid excessive moisture.
Sole/rubber	Wipe with damp cloth, use mild soap if needed, air dry.	No harsh scrubbing, avoid direct heat.
Insole	If removable, clean separately with mild soap, air dry.	For sweaty feet, use disinfectant spray or baking soda.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wash barefoot shoes in the washing machine?

Leguano: Some models allow it at 30 °C, in a laundry bag, on a gentle cycle.
Vivobarefoot: Not recommended – may damage glue or seams.
Ohne Project: Machine washing not allowed.

General Rule: Only machine wash if the brand explicitly allows it. Always use a laundry bag + gentle cycle + low temperature (30 °C). Never use a dryer.

What should I use for waterproofing (impregnation)?

Even synthetic materials benefit from a waterproof spray – especially if exposed to dirt or water.
For leather: use leather cream or balm.
Important: Only apply waterproofing after the shoes are clean and fully dry.

How should I dry my shoes?

Air dry at room temperature, in the shade, in a well-ventilated area.
Don’t place near radiators or direct sunlight.
Never use a dryer – especially for leather or glued models.

What to do if the shoes smell bad inside?

Remove the insole (if possible).
Sprinkle baking soda inside, leave overnight – helps reduce odor.
Wash the insole separately with mild soapy water, dry thoroughly before reinserting.
Consider rotating your shoes – avoid wearing the same pair every day.

Final Thoughts

Barefoot shoes – whether Leguano, Vivobarefoot, Ohne Project, Muris, or Shapen – are made from a variety of materials. While there are general care principles, it's always best to check the care guide specific to your model.

By doing so, you can: