Mold in shoes and what next?
Contrary to appearances, when with the advent of a new season you take your favorite shoes out of the closet and you see an unpleasant surprise - mold, you don't have to part with a given pair of shoes. There are home remedies that will help you get rid of the enemy easily.
We also advise on how to prevent the formation of mold in shoes. If you are interested in this topic, you've come to the right place. We'll be happy to show you how to say a firm "NO" to her and say goodbye to mold once and for all. To work!
Can mold on shoes be dangerous?
Many people wonder what can result from wearing moldy shoes. Such footwear not only looks disgusting and attracts the attention of other passers-by, but also carries a serious danger.
The habitat of bacteria and fungi can move to your feet when you use such shoes. What's more, mold can spread throughout the closet where you store your shoes and even the rest of your home. If you want to prevent this, you're in the right place.
Find the cause of the problem
Before we explain to you how to effectively get rid of mold from shoes, it is worth locating its origin. Thanks to this, you will understand why it arises, and therefore you will be able to act in accordance with the principle "prevention is better than cure".
In general, mold is favored by moisture and improper storage. When looking for the cause of the problem, it is worth focusing on the conditions in which you store your shoes.
Maybe you hide the shoes that you stepped in a huge puddle in the wardrobe a moment ago? Or do you keep your shoes in a damp basement? Hence the simple way to the formation of a white, grayish and even green coating, the smell of which resembles mustiness, i.e. mold.
How to prevent mold formation?
If the cause of the problem is moisture accumulated in the place where the shoes are stored, you can easily eliminate it by purchasing a moisture absorber. Baking soda placed in a bowl will work in a similar way. However, remember to replace it regularly to avoid disappointment. Do this as soon as you notice that the soda has started to clump.
Under no circumstances should you hide wet or damp shoes in the wardrobe. This applies to shoes that have landed in a puddle or snowdrift, as well as those that have sweated intensely. However, do not dry your shoes on a radiator, as this can cause deformation.
If the shoes are very wet, leave them in a well-ventilated place and use shoe trees inside them. You can replace them with newspapers rolled into a ball. We wrote about the proper storage of shoes in this article.
Do it yourself! Get rid of mold on shoes at home
Got mold in your favorite shoes? Fortunately, you don't have to part with them once and for all. If you want to get rid of mold on your shoes, just a few simple steps and you're done!
You will need:
- disposable gloves
- a small brush
- vinegar
- water
- a cloth
- old newspapers
- new insoles
Step 1. Prepare shoes for mold removal
When dealing with mold, leave your shoes outdoors and allow them to dry completely. When they are fully dry, remove the insoles. Don't forget to wear disposable gloves!
Step 2. Get rid of visible mold
To get rid of visible mold, use a small brush that you can easily maneuver inside the shoe. Rub with firm movements, but try to do it as gently as possible. In this way, you will avoid the penetration of mold into the shoes.
Step 3. Remove mold residue
If you want to be sure that you have completely removed the mold, prepare a 1:1 solution of water and vinegar. Use a cloth or a damp cloth to wipe the inside of the shoe. You will achieve the intended effect in a simple, ecological way.
Step 4. Let the shoes dry and replace the insoles
Do you want the problem of mold in your shoes to never come back? Don't forget the most important thing! Your footwear must be completely dry before you put it back on or put it away in the closet. For this purpose, you will need old newspapers rolled into balls. Place them inside the shoe and be patient. Remember to store wet shoes in a well-ventilated room. When the shoes are completely dry, you can replace the insoles with new ones.
Say goodbye to mold once and for all
Whether you're dealing with branded, extravagant designer stilettos that cost a fortune; much cheaper sneakers from the chain store, or well-worn slippers that have been accompanying you for years, mold can appear on them if you do not provide them with the right conditions.
We believe that our tips will help you identify the cause of the problem in the first place, and then prevent it. If you still struggle with this problem, the presented home remedy should bring the expected results. Good luck!