Are Vivaia Shoes Washable? Your Top FAQs Answered

Vivaia shoes have become immensely popular for their eye-catching yet sustainable designs. These vegan leather shoes are meticulously crafted from natural materials like cork, rubber, and recycled plastics. However, many new Vivaia owners have one pressing question – Are Vivaia Shoes Washable? In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll dive deep into all your top frequently asked questions about properly washing and caring for Vivaia footwear.

Are Vivaia Shoes Washable?

Yes, VIVAIA shoes are washable. They are designed to be machine washable, which not only aids in their ease of care but also contributes to their sustainability by extending their lifespan. But it is actually not recommended to wash them in the washing machine. When washing VIVAIA shoes, it is recommended to remove the insole, place the shoes in a washing pouch, use a gentle detergent with cold water on a delicate cycle, and then let them air dry.

However, it’s advised not to wash them too often as frequent washing can wear out the material and shorten the shoes’ lifespan.

Why washing Vivaia shoes in a washing machine is not recommended?

While it may be tempting to toss your Vivias right in the washing machine for easy cleaning, it’s actually not recommended. The intense agitation and powerful high-pressure water jets inside a washing machine drum can gradually damage the structural integrity of Vivaia shoes over time.

The layered cork footbed is particularly vulnerable, as it can become warped, cracked, or begin peeling away from the sole when subjected to machine washing. The vegan leather upper may also become misshapen or show signs of premature creasing and abrasion. To safely prolong the life of your Vivaia shoes, hand washing is really the best method.

What’s the optimal technique for hand washing Vivaia shoes?

Hand washing provides a gentle, effective cleaning without harming the shoe materials. Start by filling a wash basin, bucket, sink, or bathtub with cool water. Avoid hot water, which can shrink or harden the vegan leather. Add approximately 1 teaspoon of mild laundry detergent or soap to the water, then swish to dissolve. Using a soft-bristled scrub brush, gently clean the soles, sides, and any visibly soiled areas of the shoe upper, loosening embedded dirt and debris. Take care not to fully submerge or soak the shoes. Once washing is complete, rinse thoroughly with fresh, cool water to eliminate all traces of soap residue. Stuff the shoes with paper towels or rags to wick away excess moisture, then allow to completely air dry, away from direct heat or sunlight.

How can I remove stubborn scuff marks from my Vivaia shoes?

Scuffs and scratches are inevitable with regular wear. For light scuffing only affecting the surface, a magic eraser can gently buff the blemishes away. The melamine foam slightly abrades the top layer of material without damaging what lies underneath. Rub lightly in circular motions. For more ingrained marks, carefully rub a paste made from baking soda and water on the scuff with an old toothbrush. Allow it to sit briefly, then rinse – the baking soda works as a fine abrasive to lift away the mark without harming the vegan leather.

Will washing damage the structural integrity of my Vivaia sandals’ cork footbed?

The cork footbed is highly susceptible to water damage if not cared for properly. When hand washing, use only a slightly damp soft cloth to spot clean visible stains on the footbed. Never fully soak or submerge the cork, as this can cause it to expand, warp, and pry away from the sole below. Always allow the cork several hours to fully air dry after exposure to moisture. Apply a thin layer of cork sealant every few months to nourish the cork and maintain its natural moisture-wicking properties. With careful washing technique, the cork will continue molding perfectly to the contours of your feet.

Should I avoid using certain cleaners on Vivaia shoes?

Yes, harsh chemicals in some common cleaning products can degrade and discolor vegan leather materials. Avoid cleaners containing acetone, bleach, ammonia, alcohol, or other strong solvents. The safest bet is to use only gentle laundry detergent or specialized vegan leather cleaners. You’ll also want to avoid aggressively scrubbing, which can damage the unique textures of Vivaia shoe leather over time. Always treat the shoes gently, and test any new cleaners in an inconspicuous spot first.

Can Vivaia insoles be washed safely in the machine?

Fortunately, the removable insoles can withstand washing machine cycles for thorough cleaning and odor elimination. Use a mesh bag for delicate fabrics, and wash on a gentle, cool setting. Allow insoles to fully air dry before reinserting into shoes – moisture trapped inside can breed bacteria and fungi. For quick spot cleaning, rub soiled areas with mild soap and an old toothbrush, then rinse and dry completely. Proper insole hygiene keeps feet fresh.

What proactive steps can I take to keep my Vivaia shoes looking their best?

Preventative care when not wearing your Vivaias will keep them looking like new. Use cedar shoe trees to maintain their structure. Apply vegan leather protectant cream every few months. Allow shoes a full 24 hours to air dry between wears to prevent inner moisture buildup. Keep shoes stored in breathable cotton shoe bags away from direct sunlight. Rotate your Vivaias evenly between wears so the stress isn’t focused on just one pair. With attentive care and maintenance, your Vivaia shoes will stay stylish and structurally sound for many enjoyable years of wear.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Vivaia shoes are washable, but it is recommended to hand wash them instead of machine washing. Hand washing with cool water, mild detergent, and a soft brush allows you to gently clean the shoes without damaging the cork footbed or vegan leather upper. Take care not to soak the shoes, and always let them fully air dry after washing. With proper hand-washing techniques and routine care, Vivaia shoes will retain their structure and look stylish for many years of wear. If you’re in the market for fashionable yet sustainable shoes, Vivaia’s washable cork-and-vegan leather designs are an excellent option. Give them a try today!

Remember, taking care of your Vivaia shoes not only enhances their lifespan but also contributes to a more sustainable planet. Happy washing!