Quick answer
Clean your Hō‘ala Slide sandals by spot-cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap, then air-drying away from heat. Avoid soaking the shearling or suede.
Why gentle cleaning matters for your Hō‘ala Slides
The Hō‘ala Slide combines leather, suede, and sheepskin shearling, each requiring a different approach. Harsh cleaners or full immersion can ruin the soft texture and warmth of the shearling, while scrubbing suede can leave permanent marks. The non-marking rubber cupsole is durable, but the upper needs care to maintain its cozy feel.
How to clean your Hō‘ala Slide sandals in 5 steps
- Brush off loose dirt: Use a soft brush or dry cloth to gently remove dust and debris from the leather, suede, and shearling. Focus on the footbed and seams where dirt collects. Skipping this step can grind dirt into the suede or shearling during wet cleaning.
- Spot-clean the leather parts: Dampen a soft cloth with cool water and a drop of mild soap (like dish soap). Gently wipe the leather upper and cupsole. Do not rub the suede or shearling areas. Never soak the sandals—excess water can damage the shearling lining and distort the leather.
- Blot the shearling footbed: If the shearling footbed has a stain, dab it with a barely damp cloth. Use a dry towel to blot away moisture immediately. Do not scrub or use soap directly on the shearling. Shearling is delicate—rubbing can mat the fibers and reduce its warmth and softness.
- Air-dry away from heat: Place the sandals in a well-ventilated area at room temperature. Avoid direct sunlight, radiators, or hair dryers. Let them dry completely for 24 hours before wearing. Heat can shrink the shearling and crack the leather. Patience is key.
- Condition the leather (optional): Once dry, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to the smooth leather areas only. Use a clean cloth and buff gently. Avoid the suede and shearling. Conditioner keeps the leather supple, but it will stain suede and shearling if applied there.
What you’re working with
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Hō‘ala Slide: Crafted with a rich combination of leather, suede, and sheepskin shearling. Each material needs a specific cleaning method—leather can handle mild soap, but shearling and suede require gentle spot-cleaning only.
Hō‘ala Slide
