PEPA/280 Flat Espadrilles: Care Tips That Keep Them Looking New

By Castañer | Published: 2026-11-03

Category: Tips & Care

Keep your PEPA/280 flat espadrilles looking new with a simple care routine for napa leather and hand-stitched jute. Follow these steps to clean, dry, and store them right.

Quick answer

Treat your PEPA/280 flat espadrilles like two different materials: gently wipe the napa leather with a soft, slightly damp cloth, and keep the hand-stitched jute sole completely dry. A quick brush after each wear and proper storage will prevent most damage.

Why napa leather and jute need separate care

The PEPA/280 combines soft napa leather uppers with a jute sole that is sewn by hand. Napa leather tolerates a little moisture for cleaning, but jute is a natural fiber that weakens and stains when it gets wet. That is why you should never submerge the shoes or scrub the sole with a wet cloth. Instead, treat each material on its own terms: clean the leather with minimal moisture and brush the jute dry.

When to clean versus when to spot-clean

You do not need a full cleaning routine every day. A quick brush and wipe after each wear is enough for regular maintenance. Reserve deeper cleaning for visible stains or a dull surface. If the jute sole becomes muddy, let the mud dry completely, then brush it off—do not try to rinse it away. For the leather, spot-clean only the affected area rather than wiping the entire shoe, which can dull the finish over time.

What to avoid: water, heat, and harsh products

Never put your espadrilles in a washing machine or dryer. Heat will shrink the jute and crack the leather. Avoid using bleach, vinegar, or oil-based cleaners on either material. Also, do not dry them on a radiator or in direct sunlight, as this can fade the leather and make the jute brittle. Stick to mild soap for the leather and a dry brush for the jute.

Step-by-step care for your PEPA/280 espadrilles

Brush off loose dirt: Use a soft-bristled brush or a dry cloth to remove dust and dirt from the leather and the jute sole. Brush gently in one direction. Common mistake: scrubbing hard, which can fray the jute fibers or scratch the leather. Check the sole for stuck debris before you start cleaning.
Wipe the leather with a damp cloth: Dampen a soft cloth with water and a tiny drop of mild soap if needed. Wring it out thoroughly so it is barely damp. Wipe the leather upper in small circles, then immediately dry with a clean, dry cloth. Common mistake: using a soaking wet cloth, which can leave watermarks on the napa leather. Test any soap on a small hidden area first.
Spot-clean stains on the leather: For scuffs or stains, use a leather cleaner designed for napa leather. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and gently rub the stain. Do not pour cleaner directly onto the shoe. Common mistake: rubbing too hard, which can remove the leather's finish. If the stain persists, seek professional leather cleaning rather than trying stronger products.
Clean the jute sole without water: If the jute sole is dirty, let any mud dry completely, then brush it off with a dry, soft brush. For light dust, a dry cloth is enough. Never use a wet cloth on the jute. Common mistake: trying to wash the sole, which can cause the jute to swell, weaken, or stain. Keep a dedicated dry brush for the soles to avoid transferring moisture.
Air-dry properly: After cleaning, stuff the shoes with plain paper (not newspaper, which can transfer ink) to hold their shape and absorb moisture. Let them air-dry at room temperature, away from direct heat or sunlight. Common mistake: placing them near a radiator or in direct sun, which can crack the leather and shrink the jute. Drying can take several hours; never rush it with heat.
Store them correctly: Once dry, store your espadrilles in a cool, dry place. Keep them in the dust bag if provided, or wrap them in a breathable cloth. Avoid storing them in plastic bags, which trap moisture. Common mistake: stacking heavy items on top, which can misshape the leather or flatten the jute sole. Stuff the toes with paper during storage to maintain shape.

Product facts

PEPA/280: Napa leather upper with a hand-stitched jute sole and buckle closure. The leather needs gentle cleaning while the jute sole must stay dry, so you will care for each part differently.
PEPA/280