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Cleaning and Caring for Cork

How to Keep Cork Beautiful and Well-Maintained for Years

Whether it's a cork bag, wallet, coaster, cork roll, cork sheet or cork flooring – cork is a low-maintenance natural material that retains its beauty for many years when properly cleaned and cared for. In this guide, you'll learn how to clean and maintain different cork products correctly, protect their natural appearance and avoid common care mistakes.

When Should Cork Be Cleaned or Maintained?

Cork is one of the easiest natural materials to care for. Thanks to the natural suberin contained in cork, its surface is naturally water-resistant and highly resistant to everyday wear and tear. In most cases, it is enough to remove dust regularly or wipe the surface with a slightly damp cloth.

Depending on how the product is used, additional care may occasionally be beneficial. Frequently used cork bags, furniture and cork flooring can benefit from refreshing the surface from time to time. It's important to remember that not every cork surface requires the same care. Cork rolls, cork sheets, cork fabric and cork flooring all have different surface characteristics and should therefore be treated accordingly.

With proper cleaning and maintenance, cork not only stays beautiful for many years but also retains its natural elasticity, pleasant texture and unique appearance.

✓ At a Glance

🪵 Suitable for: Cork bags, wallets, cork fabric, cork rolls, cork sheets, cork flooring and home accessories

🧽 Cleaning: Remove dust, wipe with a slightly damp cloth and use mild cleaning products

🛡️ Care: Depending on the application, leave untreated or refresh with beeswax balm

Difficulty: Easy – regular cleaning and proper care will keep cork looking beautiful and performing well for many years.

💡 Good to Know

Cork requires significantly less maintenance than many other natural materials. Harsh cleaners, abrasive products and large amounts of water are usually unnecessary and may even put unnecessary stress on the surface. In most cases, a soft cloth, a little water and, for heavier soiling, a mild soap solution are all you need to keep cork clean and looking its best.

🛠 korkie Workshop Tip

Clean cork regularly, before dirt has a chance to build up. Gentle, routine cleaning preserves the cork's natural surface far better than intensive cleaning after heavy soiling has occurred.


🧽 How to Clean Cork Properly – Depending on the Application

Cork is an exceptionally low-maintenance natural material. However, the best cleaning method depends on whether you're caring for cork accessories, cork rolls, cork sheets, coasters or cork flooring. With the right care, cork retains its natural beauty and durability for many years.

👜 Cork Bags, Wallets, Belts & Accessories

Cork fabric is naturally water-resistant and surprisingly durable. For regular cleaning, lukewarm water is usually all that's needed.

Recommended Cleaning

✔ Lukewarm water

✔ Natural soap (curd soap)

✔ Soft brush or soft cloth

✔ Wipe afterwards with clean water

✔ Allow to air dry

Do Not Use

❌ Solvents

❌ Harsh cleaning products

❌ Abrasive cream cleaners

❌ Washing machine

🧱 Cork Rolls & Cork Sheets

Cork rolls and cork sheets require very little maintenance. In most cases, dust can simply be removed while dry.

Recommended Cleaning

✔ Dust cloth

✔ Vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment

✔ Slightly damp cloth when needed

✔ For waxed surfaces, clean only with a lightly damp cloth

Do Not Use

❌ Soak with excessive water

❌ Steam cleaners

❌ Abrasive scouring pads

🍽️ Cork Coasters & Kitchen Accessories

Cork coasters are designed for everyday use in the kitchen and dining room. To keep them looking their best, they should be cleaned regularly and cared for when necessary.

Recommended Cleaning

✔ Wipe with a damp cloth

✔ For heavier soiling, use a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid

✔ Dry thoroughly afterwards

Care

✔ Before first use, we recommend applying a thin coat of beeswax balm.

This makes the surface more water-resistant, reduces dirt build-up and makes future cleaning much easier.

For Heavy Stains

✔ Lightly sand the surface using fine sandpaper (120 grit or finer).

✔ Remove the sanding dust and, if required, apply another thin coat of beeswax balm.

Not Suitable

❌ Dishwasher

❌ Prolonged soaking

❌ Continuous moisture exposure

🏠 Cork Flooring

Cork flooring should always be maintained according to its surface finish. Lacquered and waxed floors require different cleaning methods and the appropriate care products.

Recommended Cleaning

✔ Vacuum cleaner or soft broom

✔ Wipe with a slightly damp mop

✔ Use a suitable cork floor cleaner

✔ Follow the care instructions for the floor's surface finish

Care

For lacquered and waxed cork floors, we offer specially formulated cleaners and care products. They clean gently, protect the surface and help extend the life of your floor.

Not Suitable

❌ Large amounts of water

❌ Steam cleaners

❌ Abrasive cleaners

❌ Highly alkaline cleaning products

💡 Good to Know

Thanks to the natural suberin found in cork, its surface is naturally water-resistant. For most applications, mild cleaning products are all that's needed. Harsh cleaners and excessive amounts of water are generally unnecessary and should be avoided.

🛠 korkie Workshop Tip

New cork coasters benefit from a thin coat of beeswax balm before their first use. This makes the surface more resistant to moisture and stains, helping liquids and dirt penetrate the cork less quickly. As a result, the coasters are easier to clean and their service life is significantly extended.

👜 How to Clean Cork Bags & Cork Accessories

Cork fabric is an exceptionally durable and low-maintenance natural material. Thanks to the natural suberin contained in cork, its surface is naturally water-resistant and resistant to many everyday stains. For regular cleaning, gentle care is usually all that's needed.

Whether it's a handbag, wallet, belt, key case or cork jewellery, cork accessories can be cleaned easily without affecting their natural appearance or soft, flexible feel.

Regular Cleaning

For everyday dirt and dust, we recommend:

✔ Lukewarm water

✔ Natural soap (curd soap)

✔ A soft brush or soft cloth

✔ Wipe afterwards with clean water

✔ Allow to air dry

A soft brush is especially effective for textured or printed cork fabrics, as it gently removes dirt from fine grooves and surface textures.

For Heavier Soiling

Even stubborn dirt can usually be removed without difficulty.

How to Clean It

1️⃣ Dampen the cork with water.

2️⃣ Apply a small amount of natural soap (curd soap) to a soft brush.

3️⃣ Gently brush the surface.

4️⃣ Wipe with clean water.

5️⃣ Allow the item to dry completely.

In most cases, the cork will look almost like new again.

Not Suitable

❌ Solvents

❌ Acetone or alcohol

❌ Abrasive cream cleaners

❌ Harsh multi-purpose cleaners

❌ Washing machine or tumble dryer

These products can permanently damage the print, colours or surface of the cork fabric.

✓ At a Glance

Suitable for

👜 Handbags

👛 Wallets

👝 Key cases

👔 Belts

💍 Cork jewellery

🎒 Backpacks

Cleaning

✔ Water

✔ Natural soap (curd soap)

✔ Soft brush

✔ Soft cloth

✔ Air dry

💡 Good to Know

Cork does not need to be oiled or impregnated. Its natural protective properties remain intact even with regular cleaning. For most types of dirt, water, natural soap (curd soap) and a soft brush are all you need.

🎥 Tip: We also demonstrate how to clean cork bags and cork accessories step by step in our YouTube video.

➡️ Watch the cleaning video now


🛠 korkie Workshop Tip

Many cork bags accompany their owners for years of everyday use. With regular cleaning using water, natural soap (curd soap) and a soft brush, even heavier dirt can usually be removed completely. The sooner dirt is removed, the easier the cleaning process becomes, helping your cork retain its natural beauty for many years.

Tip
New
Cork Crossbody Bag Women – Natural Cork Bag
Elegant cork crossbody bag for women made from natural cork. Sustainable bag with zipper pockets, interior compartments and adjustable strap.

€119.00*
Cork Backpack Women – Natural Cork City Backpack
Natural cork backpack for women with drawstring closure, interior pockets and adjustable straps. Sustainable, lightweight and stylish.

€139.50*
New
Cork wallet with coin pocket and 10 card slots.
Cork wallet with coin pocket, 10 card slots, bill compartments and shopping cart chip holder. Compact, sustainable wallet made from natural cork.

€59.50*

🧱 Cleaning and Caring for Cork Rolls & Cork Sheets

Cork rolls and cork sheets are particularly easy to maintain. In most cases, it is enough to remove dust regularly or wipe the surface with a slightly damp cloth when needed. The appropriate care depends on whether the cork is untreated, treated with beeswax balm, or lacquered.

Untreated Surfaces

Untreated cork rolls and cork sheets require very little maintenance.

Recommended Cleaning

✔ Remove dust with a soft cloth

✔ Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment

✔ Wipe with a slightly damp soft cloth

✔ Allow the surface to dry completely

Surfaces Treated with Beeswax Balm

Cork surfaces treated with beeswax balm are better protected against moisture and dirt, making them much easier to clean.

Recommended Cleaning

✔ Remove dust with a dry cloth

✔ Wipe with a slightly damp cloth

✔ If desired, polish with a dry, soft cloth

Care

If the protective finish begins to wear off, simply apply a thin coat of beeswax balm. This helps maintain the cork's water-resistant surface while preserving its natural appearance.

Lacquered Surfaces

Lacquered cork surfaces are particularly durable and easy to maintain.

Recommended Cleaning

✔ Wipe with a slightly damp cloth

✔ Use mild cleaning products

✔ Follow the lacquer manufacturer's care instructions

Not Suitable

❌ Steam cleaners

❌ Abrasive scouring pads

❌ Abrasive cleaning products

❌ Solvents

❌ Excessive amounts of water

✓ At a Glance

Untreated

✔ Clean dry or with a slightly damp cloth

Treated with Beeswax Balm

✔ Clean with a lightly damp cloth

✔ Refresh with beeswax balm when needed

Lacquered

✔ Wipe with a slightly damp cloth

✔ Use suitable cleaning products

💡 Good to Know

Regular cleaning prevents dust and dirt from becoming permanently embedded in the surface. Cork surfaces treated with beeswax balm, in particular, can be kept looking beautiful for many years with occasional reapplication of the balm.

➡️ Learn more about beeswax balm, cork lacquer and the best surface protection in our guide "Protecting and Finishing Cork".


🛠 korkie Workshop Tip

For cork rolls and cork sheets, regular, gentle cleaning is usually all that's required. Reapplying beeswax balm is only recommended when the surface begins to look noticeably dry or is frequently exposed to moisture.

1 m Cork Roll – Cork by the Metre for Pinboards & DIY
1 m wide cork roll made from premium agglomerated cork. Ideal for pinboards, wall coverings, DIY, crafts and interior projects. Available in thicknesses from 2 to 10 mm.

€12.00 / m *
1.5 m Cork Roll – Cork by the Metre for XXL Pinboards
1.5 m wide cork roll made from premium agglomerated cork. Perfect for XXL pinboards, wall coverings, wall protection and interior projects. Durable, sustainable and easy to cut.

€33.00 / m *
Cork Sheets 910 × 610 mm – Agglomerated Cork in Many Thicknesses
Large 910 × 610 mm cork sheets made from high-quality agglomerated cork. Ideal for pinboards, insulation, wall cladding, DIY, model making and interior projects. Available in multiple thicknesses.

From €12.50*

🍽️ Cleaning Cork Coasters, Placemats & Home Accessories

Cork coasters, placemats and other home accessories are used every day and frequently come into contact with moisture, food and hot cookware. With proper cleaning and care, they remain hygienic, functional and attractive for many years.

Regular Cleaning

For everyday use, simple cleaning is usually all that's required.

Recommended Cleaning

✔ Wipe with a damp cloth

✔ For heavier soiling, use a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid

✔ Dry thoroughly afterwards

Cleaning cork coasters is very similar to caring for a high-quality wooden chopping board. Harsh cleaning products are generally unnecessary.

Additional Surface Protection

Before using your cork coasters for the first time, we recommend applying a thin coat of beeswax balm.

This makes the surface more water-resistant, prevents dirt from adhering as easily and slows down the absorption of liquids into the cork. At the same time, it preserves the cork's natural appearance and makes future cleaning much easier.

For Heavy Soiling

If stains can no longer be removed completely, the surface can easily be refreshed.

How to Refresh the Surface

1️⃣ Allow the cork to dry completely.

2️⃣ Lightly sand the surface using fine sandpaper (120 grit or finer).

3️⃣ Carefully remove all sanding dust.

4️⃣ If required, apply another thin coat of beeswax balm.

This simple treatment often restores cork coasters and other home accessories to an almost like-new appearance.

Not Suitable

❌ Dishwasher

❌ Prolonged soaking

❌ Continuous exposure to moisture

❌ Abrasive cleaning products

❌ Steel wool or hard scouring pads

✓ At a Glance

Suitable for

🍽️ Glass coasters

☕ Mug coasters

🍲 Trivets

🥣 Placemats

🏡 Decorative home accessories

Cleaning

✔ Damp cloth

✔ Mild dishwashing liquid

✔ Dry thoroughly

✔ Light sanding if necessary

✔ Refresh with beeswax balm

💡 Good to Know

Over time, cork coasters naturally develop a patina. Minor signs of use do not affect their performance and add to the unique character of this natural material. If you prefer to refresh their appearance, simply lightly sand the surface and apply a thin coat of beeswax balm. This will help restore the cork's fresh look while maintaining its natural beauty.

🛠 korkie Workshop Tip

Cork coasters are designed for years of everyday use. With regular cleaning and the occasional application of beeswax balm, they not only retain their natural beauty but are also better protected against moisture, stains and everyday wear.

Round Cork Coasters – Untreated Pressed Cork, Set of 6
Round cork glass coasters made from untreated pressed cork in a set of 6. Eco-friendly, durable, and ideal for protecting table surfaces

€3.00*
Round Cork Trivets Made of Pressed Cork | Heat Resistant
Round cork trivets made of finely pressed cork. Heat resistant, insulating, and ideal for protecting surfaces from hot pots and pans.

From €3.00*
New
Cork Tray 29.5×29.5 cm – Stable & Non-Slip
Sturdy cork tray made from pressed cork. Non-slip, durable and easy to care for. 29.5×29.5 cm, selectable variants, natural and sustainable.

From €25.50*

🏠 How to Clean and Care for Cork Flooring

Cork flooring is valued for its warm appearance, comfortable feel and exceptional durability. With proper cleaning and maintenance, the surface will remain attractive and resilient for many years. The recommended care depends on whether your floor has a lacquered or waxed finish.

Regular Cleaning

Regular, gentle cleaning plays an important role in preserving the beauty and longevity of your cork floor.

Recommended Cleaning

✔ Vacuum regularly or sweep with a soft broom

✔ Mop with a slightly damp mop

✔ Wipe up spilled liquids as soon as possible

✔ Remove dirt and sand regularly

Sand and small stones can act like sandpaper and unnecessarily wear down the surface.

Lacquered Cork Floors

Lacquered cork floors have a durable protective finish and are particularly easy to maintain.

Cleaning

✔ Use a suitable cork floor cleaner

✔ Clean only with a slightly damp mop

✔ Avoid harsh household cleaning products

Care

Depending on the level of use, we recommend regularly refreshing the surface with a care product for lacquered cork floors. This helps preserve the protective finish and keeps the floor looking beautiful for longer.

Waxed Cork Floors

Waxed cork floors require a little more maintenance but reward you with a particularly natural appearance and a warm, comfortable feel.

Cleaning

✔ Use a gentle cleaner designed for waxed cork floors

✔ Clean only with a lightly damp mop

Care

Depending on the level of use, the wax layer should be refreshed regularly. This keeps the surface water-resistant and provides long-lasting protection.

Not Suitable

❌ Excessive amounts of water

❌ Steam cleaners

❌ Abrasive cleaning products

❌ Highly alkaline cleaners

❌ Abrasive microfiber pads or sponges

✓ At a Glance

Lacquered Cork Floors

✔ Clean with a slightly damp mop

✔ Use a cork floor cleaner

✔ Refresh with a suitable care product

Waxed Cork Floors

✔ Use a gentle cleaner

✔ Refresh the wax finish regularly

✔ Clean only with a lightly damp mop

💡 Good to Know

Always use the appropriate cleaner and care product for your cork floor's finish, whether it is lacquered or waxed. Products specifically formulated for each surface help preserve the floor's protective finish, natural appearance and long-term durability.

🛠 korkie Workshop Tip

Place felt pads under chairs, tables and other furniture to protect your cork floor from scratches and everyday wear. Entrance mats are also highly recommended, as they help keep sand, small stones and dirt off the floor, reducing unnecessary abrasion and extending the life of your cork flooring.

Cork Flooring Madeira – Warm & Sustainable
Cork flooring Madeira made of natural cork. Warm, elastic and sound-insulating – perfect for sustainable living.

€30.00 / 0.99 m² *
Cork Flooring Hawai – Warm & Sustainable
Cork flooring Hawai made of natural cork. Warm, elastic and sound-absorbing – ideal for sustainable living.

€30.00 / 0.99 m² *
Cork Flooring Nazare White – Bright & Modern
Cork flooring Nazare White. Bright, modern and sustainable – warm and sound-insulating natural flooring.

€30.00 / 0.99 m² *

🧽 How to Remove Stains from Cork

Cork is naturally dirt-resistant and easy to maintain. However, everyday use can lead to stains from food, drinks or other substances. The sooner stains are removed, the easier it is to clean the surface.

Cleaning methods vary depending on the type of cork product. While cork bags and cork accessories usually have a relatively closed surface that is easy to clean, untreated cork coasters and other open-pore cork surfaces absorb liquids and grease more readily.

☕ Coffee & Tea Stains

Fresh stains can usually be removed without difficulty.

Recommended Cleaning

✔ Wipe with a damp cloth

✔ If necessary, clean again using water and a mild cleaning product

✔ Allow the surface to dry completely

🍷 Red Wine, Fruit Juice & Other Strongly Coloured Drinks

Untreated cork coasters can absorb red wine, red fruit juices and other strongly coloured beverages. The longer the liquid remains on the surface, the deeper the pigments can penetrate the cork.

Recommended Cleaning

✔ Blot up the liquid immediately

✔ Wipe with a damp cloth

✔ If necessary, use a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid

✔ Allow the surface to dry completely

If staining remains visible, lightly sand the surface using fine sandpaper (120 grit or finer) and apply a thin coat of beeswax balm afterwards.

🧴 Grease & Oil Stains

The best cleaning method depends on the type of cork product.

Cork Bags & Cork Accessories

The surface of cork fabric is largely sealed, so grease and oil can usually be removed easily using water, natural soap (curd soap) and a soft cloth or soft brush.

Untreated Cork Coasters

Untreated cork can absorb grease and oil. For this reason, stains should be removed as quickly as possible.

✔ Absorb excess grease with kitchen paper

✔ Clean with a damp cloth and a little mild dishwashing liquid

✔ Allow to dry thoroughly

✔ If necessary, lightly sand the surface and reapply beeswax balm

✏️ Ballpoint Pen, Pencil & Light Marks

Light marks can often be removed using a damp cloth.

On untreated cork coasters or cork sheets, more stubborn marks can usually be removed by carefully sanding the surface with fine sandpaper (120 grit or finer).

🌿 Stubborn Stains

If stains cannot be completely removed by cleaning, untreated cork coasters, cork rolls and cork sheets can usually be refreshed by light sanding.

How to Refresh the Surface

1️⃣ Allow the surface to dry completely.

2️⃣ Lightly sand using fine sandpaper (120 grit or finer).

3️⃣ Carefully remove all sanding dust.

4️⃣ If desired, apply a thin coat of beeswax balm.

This often restores the surface to an almost like-new appearance.

Not Suitable

❌ Chlorine-based cleaners

❌ Solvents

❌ Acetone

❌ Abrasive cleaning products

❌ Steel wool

❌ Pressure washers

✓ At a Glance

StainRecommended Cleaning Method
☕ Coffee & teaDamp cloth, mild cleaner if required
🍷 Red wine & strongly coloured fruit juicesBlot immediately, wipe with a damp cloth, use mild dishwashing liquid if necessary
🧴 Grease & oil (cork bags)Water, natural soap (curd soap) and a soft brush
🧴 Grease & oil (coasters)                                  Mild dishwashing liquid, lightly sand if required
✏️ Ballpoint penDamp cloth, lightly sand if necessary
🌿 Stubborn stainsFine sandpaper (120 grit or finer), followed by beeswax balm

💡 Good to Know

The sooner stains are removed, the easier they are to clean. In particular, red wine, red fruit juices, grease and oil can permanently penetrate the surface of untreated cork if left for too long. Applying a thin coat of beeswax balm, especially to cork coasters, makes the surface much easier to maintain while providing additional protection against moisture, stains and everyday dirt.

🛠 korkie Workshop Tip

Many untreated cork products can be refreshed even after years of use. Minor signs of wear or surface discoloration can often be removed by lightly sanding the surface with fine sandpaper (120 grit or finer).

Afterwards, apply a thin coat of beeswax balm to restore a well-maintained, water-resistant surface while helping to extend the life of the cork.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning and Caring for Cork

Cork is an exceptionally low-maintenance natural material. However, most damage is not caused by the cork itself, but by unsuitable cleaning products or improper care. The following tips will help you avoid the most common mistakes.

❌ Using Too Much Water

Although cork is naturally water-resistant, it should not be exposed to excessive moisture for extended periods.

✅ Better

✔ Clean surfaces only with a slightly damp cloth.

✔ Wipe up spilled liquids as soon as possible.

✔ Allow the surface to dry completely after cleaning.

❌ Using Harsh Cleaning Products

Solvents, chlorine-based cleaners and highly alkaline cleaning products can permanently damage the cork surface.

✅ Better

For most applications, all you need is:

✔ Water

✔ Natural soap (curd soap) (for cork bags and cork accessories)

✔ Mild dishwashing liquid (for cork coasters)

✔ A suitable cork floor cleaner

❌ Washing Cork Bags in a Washing Machine

Although cork is very durable, cork bags, wallets and other cork accessories should never be machine washed.

✅ Better

Clean them by hand using water, natural soap (curd soap) and a soft brush, then allow them to air dry.

❌ Leaving Cork Coasters Damp

After cleaning or everyday use, cork coasters should always be allowed to dry completely.

✅ Better

✔ Stand them upright while drying.

✔ Do not leave them permanently under damp pots or plant containers.

❌ Using the Wrong Care Products

Not every care product is suitable for every type of cork.

✅ Better

Cork rolls & cork sheets: Leave untreated or protect with beeswax balm

Cork coasters: Beeswax balm

Cork flooring: Use the appropriate cleaner and care products

Cork bags & accessories: Usually no additional care is required

❌ Leaving Dirt and Stains Too Long

Red wine, fruit juices, grease and oil can penetrate untreated cork if they remain on the surface for too long.

✅ Better

Remove stains as soon as possible. Prompt cleaning usually prevents permanent marks.

✓ At a Glance

AvoidBetter
❌ Excessive amounts of water✔ Clean with a slightly damp cloth
❌ Harsh cleaning products✔ Water, natural soap or mild dishwashing liquid
❌ Washing machine✔ Clean by hand
❌ Prolonged moisture                     ✔ Allow to dry thoroughly
❌ Incorrect care products✔ Choose the right care for each type of cork
❌ Leaving stains to dry✔ Clean immediately

💡 Good to Know

Most cork products require very little maintenance. Regularly removing dust and dirt, together with gentle cleaning, is usually all that's needed to keep cork beautiful, functional and long-lasting for many years.

🛠 korkie Workshop Tip

The best care starts with everyday maintenance. Remove dust, dirt and stains as early as possible, and use only as much cleaning product as necessary. With gentle, regular care, cork will reward you with a long service life and its naturally warm, attractive appearance.

👉 Our Care Recommendations

ProductRecommended Care
👜 Cork bags & accessoriesWater + natural soap (curd soap)
🍽️ Cork coastersMild dishwashing liquid + beeswax balm
🧱 Cork rollsClean with a slightly damp cloth
🟫 Cork sheets                                  Clean with a slightly damp cloth
🏠 Cork flooringCork floor cleaner + appropriate care products

LOBA Cleaner & Care Set – Floor Cleaning and Care
LOBA Cleaner & Care set with 1 l cleaner and 1 l care emulsion. For wood, cork, PVC, linoleum, and stone floors.

€49.50*
New
LOBA Parquet Cleaning & Care Set for Oiled Floors
Complete LOBA care set for oiled and waxed parquet. Cleans, protects, and refreshes wooden surfaces – eco-friendly and highly effective.

€24.50*
New
LOBA Care Set for Lacquered Parquet & Sealed Floors
Complete LOBA cleaning and care set for lacquered parquet and sealed wooden surfaces. Gentle cleaning, long-lasting protection, and streak-free shine.

€24.50*

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning and Caring for Cork

How do I clean a cork bag properly?

For regular cleaning, lukewarm water, natural soap (curd soap) and a soft brush or soft cloth are all you need. Afterwards, wipe with clean water and allow the item to air dry.

Can I wash a cork bag in the washing machine?

No. Cork bags, wallets and other cork accessories should always be cleaned by hand. A washing machine may permanently damage both the material and its construction.

How do I clean cork coasters?

Cork coasters can be cleaned with a damp cloth and, if necessary, a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid. Afterwards, allow them to dry thoroughly.

Occasionally applying beeswax balm provides additional protection, makes the surface easier to clean and helps preserve its natural appearance.

Why do cork coasters become stained by red wine or fruit juice?

Untreated cork has an open-pore structure, allowing strongly coloured liquids such as red wine or red fruit juices to penetrate the surface. Prompt cleaning—or treating the coaster with beeswax balm beforehand—can often prevent permanent staining.

Can grease or oil stains be removed?

Yes.

For cork bags and cork accessories, grease stains can usually be removed easily using water, natural soap (curd soap) and a soft brush.

For untreated cork coasters, grease should be absorbed immediately. If necessary, lightly sand the surface and apply a fresh coat of beeswax balm afterwards.

How do I clean cork rolls and cork sheets?

For most applications, simply remove dust regularly or wipe the surface with a slightly damp cloth. Avoid excessive moisture and aggressive cleaning products.

How do I care for cork flooring?

Cork floors should be vacuumed or swept regularly and then cleaned with a slightly damp mop. We recommend using cleaners and care products specifically designed for cork flooring, matched to the floor's surface finish.

Can I clean cork with dishwashing liquid?

Yes. Mild dishwashing liquid is ideal for cork coasters, placemats and other home accessories.

For cork bags and cork accessories, however, we recommend water and natural soap (curd soap), as it provides particularly gentle cleaning.

Can I clean cork with vinegar or harsh cleaning products?

We do not recommend it. Harsh cleaners, solvents or highly acidic products may unnecessarily damage the surface or permanently affect the cork.

Can I sand dirty cork?

Yes. Untreated cork coasters, cork rolls and cork sheets can be carefully sanded with fine sandpaper (120 grit or finer) if heavily soiled. Afterwards, we recommend applying a thin coat of beeswax balm to refresh and protect the surface.

Does cork require regular maintenance?

Not necessarily. Cork is one of the easiest natural materials to maintain. Regularly removing dust and dirt is usually sufficient. Additional care is mainly recommended for frequently used or heavily worn cork surfaces.

💡 Good to Know

Many cork products provide years of reliable everyday use. With regular, gentle cleaning and the right care, they will remain beautiful, functional and naturally attractive for a long time. In most cases, water, natural soap (curd soap) or a little mild dishwashing liquid are all you need to keep cork clean and well maintained.

🛠 korkie Workshop Tip

Always use the mildest cleaning product that is effective for the type of dirt you're removing. The gentler you clean cork, the longer it will retain its natural surface, pleasant feel and distinctive appearance.

You May Also Be Interested In

If you'd like to learn more about working with, protecting and caring for cork, we recommend the following guides:

➡️ Protecting and Finishing Cork

Learn when cork should be left untreated and when beeswax balm or cork lacquer is the best choice for protecting the surface.

➡️ How to Glue Cork Properly

A step-by-step guide to achieving a strong and durable bond when installing cork rolls and cork sheets, including tips on surface preparation and choosing the right adhesive.

➡️ How to Cut Cork Rolls

Practical advice for making clean, accurate cuts and choosing the right tools for different cork roll thicknesses.

➡️ How to Cut and Work with Cork Sheets

Discover the best tools, techniques and professional tips for cutting, drilling, sawing and sanding cork sheets with precision.

➡️ Which Type of Cork Is Right for Your Project?

Compare natural cork, cork rolls, cork sheets, composition cork, expanded cork and cork granules to find the ideal material for your project.

Coming Soon at korkie

➡️ Cork Rolls – Properties, Applications and Installation

A comprehensive guide to choosing, using and installing cork rolls – from wall coverings and notice boards to camper van conversions.

➡️ Cork Sheets – Properties, Applications and Installation

Everything you need to know about cork sheets, from selecting the right material to successful installation and practical applications.

🛠 korkie Workshop Tip

Many cleaning and maintenance issues can be avoided by using and protecting cork correctly from the very beginning. Our additional guides provide step-by-step instructions on how to work with cork professionally, protect it effectively and keep it looking beautiful for many years.

Still Have Questions? We're Happy to Help.

For over 30 years, we've been working with cork every day. Whether you're looking to clean a cork bag, care for cork rolls, refresh cork sheets or find the right cleaner for your cork flooring, we're here to help with our extensive experience and expert advice.

Benefit from personal support by phone or email—we'll be happy to assist you with your project.

Our Service for You

✔ Personal expert advice based on more than 30 years of experience

✔ Recommendations for the proper cleaning and care of all types of cork products

✔ Help choosing the right cleaning and care products

✔ Practical advice on stain removal and surface care

✔ Assistance in selecting products for cork flooring, cork sheets and cork rolls

✔ Practical know-how directly from our korkie workshop


👉 We look forward to helping you with your project. 

Get in touch with us!