5 Ways: How to Disinfect Used Shoes Easily

Have you ever disinfected your used shoes? While we all put more thought into cleaning, what is hiding in the soles of our shoes should be the highest priority. As we walk around, all types of germs get sucked up by our shoes and eventually our shoes become more and more germy and keep spreading. Therefore it becomes imperative to know how to disinfect shoes. Follow along with us to learn how to disinfect used shoes quickly and easily.

How to disinfect used shoes

Using disposable wet wipes for shoes

The first thing you should do when you get home is wipe down your shoes. The disposable sanitizing wipes quickly wipe away dirt from the surface of your shoes. It won’t completely sanitize your shoes, but it will at least remove bacteria and contaminants from the surface.
Pull one out of the pack to remove dust and grime while also deodorizing your shoes. Disinfecting wipes are also great for polishing shoes and removing scuffs.
But you should note that not all shoes are suitable for wiping with disinfectant wipes, such as leather shoes, etc. Disinfectant wipes will damage the shoe polish on the surface of leather shoes.

Using alcohol

Using baking soda or vinegar

If your insoles still smell after washing your shoes, place them in a plastic bag with some baking soda overnight. To find more ways to get rid of your smelly shoes in details.
If your insoles still smell after soaking in baking soda overnight, soak them in a vinegar and water mixture for 2-3 hours. Then, wash the insoles again with soap and water to remove the vinegar smell.
Using shoe disinfectant spray
Disinfectant spray is a quick way to keep your shoes bacteria and odor free. You can buy a spray which promises to eliminate common bacteria while inhibiting the growth of mold. It’s actually made for your boots, sneakers and sandals.

Using UVC light to disinfect shoes

You’ve heard of harnessing the power of ultraviolet light to kill germs. UV shoe sanitizers are recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association for their ability to kill bacteria associated with shoe odor, athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, warts, and other microbes. You just insert one device in each shoe, plug in the device, turn it on and leave it for 45 minutes. After the disinfection process is finished, the UV light is automatically turned off. And it can kill up to 99.9% of germs.

What kills bacteria in shoes?

Apply disinfectant spray, hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, or bleach to eliminate infectious diseases from dirty or secondhand shoes. Make sure to leave the shoes wet with the product for at least five minutes or follow the directions on the label. Allow your shoes to dry completely before wearing them.

How long does bacteria live in shoes?

According to a recent study done by Dr. Charles Gerba, there is an average of over 421,000 units of bacteria on the soles of our shoes. In addition to this, there are over 2,887 units of bacteria on the inside of our shoes. Most bacteria can only survive on soft materials like shoes for a few hours, a few days at most. Although some types, like Clostridium difficile which is a strong bacterium that can cause very painful gastrointestinal symptoms, may survive much longer.

How to Disinfect Used Shoes FAQs

1. What bacteria is commonly found on shoes?

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium difficile and multidrug-resistant Gram-negative species among other pathogens were documented on shoe bottoms in the health care setting, in the community and among food workers.

2. Can you get diseases from used shoes?

 There is research shown that the average foot can shed up to one cup of fluid per day! This alone should be a consideration when purchasing used shoes. Fungal or bacterial infections, such as athlete’s foot, can easily contracte through small cuts, cracks in the skin or under the nail bed.

3. What is the best natural disinfectant?

The best natural disinfectants include alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, hot water, and some essential oils. Evidence suggests that in some cases, many of these natural disinfectants can be as effective at killing germs as chemical cleaners like bleach.

4. What is a shoe sanitizer?

SteriShoe is a UV shoe sanitizer that harnesses the power of ultraviolet light (specifically UVC light) to eliminate germs and bacteria from your shoes. SteriShoe is clinically proven to kill up to 99.9% of the bacteria in your shoes that cause shoe odor and foot complications.

5. What chemical is good for cleaning shoes?

Coco Glucoside is a powerful antibacterial cleaner that removes dirt and stubborn stains while being gentle on shoe fabrics and skin. But for different materials of shoes need to use different methods to clean:

For leather shoes, try white vinegar and baking soda.

For patent leather shoes, try Windex and petroleum jelly.

For suede and sheepskin shoes, try vinegar and topical alcohol.

For canvas shoes, try toothpaste.

For athletic shoes, try nail polish remover.

Conclusion

Now you know about the harmful bacteria on your shoes. It’s important that you know how to disinfect used shoes. Don’t spread it to yourself and others. Also, make sure to clean the floors regularly. Cleaning once or twice a week will reduce the chances of germs spreading in your home. It’s also important for your health.