You probably don’t think about your shoes very often. But what you might not realize is that your shoes can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus. If you’re struggling with foot fungus, it’s important to address the contamination in your shoes as well as on your feet.
Athlete’s foot, a common fungal infection, thrives in warm, damp conditions — the kind of environment often found inside your shoes. Dermatophytes, the fungi that cause athlete’s foot, can live on surfaces for extended periods, making it easy to re-infect yourself if you’re not careful.
This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to disinfect shoes from fungus. We’ll cover prevention strategies, effective cleaning techniques, and treatment options to help you keep your feet healthy and fungus-free.
What is athlete’s foot, and why should you care?
Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the feet. It’s caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that loves to grow in warm, damp places.
Athlete’s foot can show up in different ways:
- Interdigital: Between your toes
- Moccasin-type: On the soles and heels of your feet
- Vesicular: As blisters
The right conditions can cause athlete’s foot to spread quickly, and shoes can be the perfect breeding ground for it.
Closed shoes create a warm, moist environment that fungi adore. Dirty shoes can harbor fungal spores, which means that keeping your shoes clean is an important part of good hygiene. Regular shoe disinfection can greatly reduce your risk of infection.
How to prevent athlete’s foot fungus
Here are some steps you can take to prevent athlete’s foot and other fungal infections from setting up shop in your shoes:
- Keep your feet clean and dry: Wash your feet every day with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes.
- Choose breathable shoes: Shoes made of mesh or leather allow for better ventilation.
- Protect your feet in public: Wear flip-flops or water shoes in public areas like swimming pools and locker rooms.
- Air out your shoes regularly: This helps to prevent moisture buildup.
- Don’t share: Avoid sharing shoes, socks, and towels with others.
- Alternate shoes: Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day. Give them a chance to dry out completely between uses.
- Wear moisture-wicking socks: These socks help keep your feet dry and prevent fungal growth.
Taking these simple steps can help you keep your feet healthy and fungus-free.
Shoe Disinfection 101: Disinfect Shoes the Right Way
Fungus loves shoes. They’re dark, damp, and full of skin cells. To keep your feet healthy, it’s important to disinfect your shoes regularly.
Preparing for Disinfection
Before you start, gather your supplies.
Things You Need to Get Started:
- Cleaning cloths
- Spray bottles
- Scrub brushes
- Appropriate cleaning solutions
Safety Precautions:
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
Disinfection Methods
Here are some common ways to disinfect shoes:
Rubbing Alcohol
Fill a spray bottle with rubbing alcohol, remove the insoles from your shoes, and spray the inside and outside thoroughly. Scrub with a cloth and let them air dry. Rubbing alcohol is effective against both bacteria and fungi.
Disinfectant Sprays
Shake the can, spray from about 6 inches away, and cover all surfaces, including the inside of the shoe. Let them air dry. Be sure to choose a disinfectant spray that is specifically designed for shoes.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Mix equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide, then spray or wipe down the shoes. Let them air dry. If your shoes are washing machine safe, you can add a cup of hydrogen peroxide to the wash.
Hydrogen peroxide is a milder alternative to bleach.
UV Sanitizers
Insert the device into your shoes, turn it on, and let it run. These devices typically run for minutes or hours. A UV sanitizer is a chemical-free option for disinfecting shoes.
Bleach
Mix 1 part bleach with 5 parts water and a little detergent. Wipe the shoes down, rinse, and let them air dry. Use bleach with caution and only on white or light-colored shoes to avoid discoloration.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Mix equal parts vinegar and water and spray it on the shoes. Then, sprinkle baking soda inside and out. Let it sit for 15 minutes, scrub, rinse, and let them air dry. Baking soda and vinegar are a natural and effective way to disinfect and deodorize shoes.
Material Considerations
The material your shoes are made of will affect how you disinfect them.
Leather Shoes
Use leather-specific cleaners and conditioners to avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the leather.
Suede Shoes
Use a suede brush and cleaner. And try to avoid getting suede shoes wet.
Fabric Shoes
Fabric shoes can often be washed in a washing machine. But be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Use a mild detergent and let them air dry.
Effective cleaning techniques to disinfect shoes
Let’s walk through the best way to disinfect your shoes to get rid of any lingering fungus:
- Remove insoles and laces. This helps you clean every part of the shoe.
- Mix your cleaning solution. Use a mild detergent or one of the disinfectant methods we talked about earlier.
- Gently scrub your shoes. Get a soft brush or cloth and scrub both the inside and outside.
- Rinse thoroughly. Make sure you rinse all the soap or cleaning solution off with clean water.
- Dry your shoes. Let them air dry in a place that has good airflow. Don’t put them in direct sunlight or near heat, because that can damage the materials.
- Clean insoles and laces. Wash these separately with soap and water.
- Use antifungal spray (optional). For extra protection, spray the inside of your shoes with an antifungal spray.
How to treat athlete’s foot
If you’re trying to disinfect your shoes from fungus, chances are you’re also dealing with an active case of athlete’s foot. Here are a few tips to help you get rid of it:
- Try over-the-counter remedies: You can use creams, powders, or sprays that contain antifungal medication.
- Experiment with home remedies: Some people find relief using cornstarch, baking soda, or even bitter orange oil.
- Ask your doctor about prescription treatments: If the over-the-counter remedies aren’t working, you may need a prescription-strength medication.
- Wear the right shoes: Shoes made of breathable materials like mesh or leather can help keep your feet dry. Avoid wearing tight shoes or high heels, as these can trap moisture.
Maintaining shoe freshness: Preventing odor and germ build-up
Disinfecting shoes regularly is one step in keeping them fresh. But you can also take other steps to prevent odor and germ build-up in the first place:
- Establish a regular cleaning schedule: This doesn’t have to be daily, but aim to clean your shoes regularly, especially if you wear them often or sweat a lot.
- Store shoes properly: Always store your shoes in a dry, well-ventilated area. Don’t just toss them in a pile in your closet. This will help prevent moisture from building up, which can lead to fungus growth.
- Use odor-absorbing products: Shoe deodorizers or odor-absorbing insoles can work wonders in keeping your shoes fresh.
What if your shoes already stink? Don’t worry. There are techniques for removing lingering odors from shoes, which we’ll discuss next.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get fungal spores out of shoes?
Eliminating fungal spores from shoes requires a multi-pronged approach, and as discussed in this guide on freezing shoes, it can be an effective method. Start by thoroughly cleaning the insides with an antifungal spray or solution. Air drying in direct sunlight is also highly effective. For persistent cases, consider using a UV shoe sanitizer or even freezing the shoes for a few days to kill the spores.
What can I spray inside my shoes to disinfect?
Several disinfectants are effective for spraying inside shoes. Antifungal sprays specifically designed for shoes are ideal. Alternatively, you can use a diluted bleach solution (always test in an inconspicuous area first!), or a disinfectant spray containing ingredients like benzalkonium chloride or chlorhexidine.
What kills foot fungus bacteria?
It’s important to note that foot fungus is caused by fungi, not bacteria. Antifungal medications, both topical and oral, are effective at killing the fungi responsible for infections like athlete’s foot. Good hygiene, keeping feet dry, and wearing breathable socks also help prevent fungal growth.
Is Lysol antifungal?
Some Lysol products are effective against certain fungi, but it’s crucial to check the product label, and follow safe use and best practices. Look for Lysol disinfectants that specifically list antifungal properties and mention effectiveness against common foot fungi like Trichophyton. Always follow the product instructions for proper use.
How long can fungus live in shoes?
Fungal spores can survive for extended periods in shoes, potentially months or even years, especially in dark, damp environments. This is why thorough disinfection is crucial to prevent reinfection. Regular cleaning and proper shoe storage are vital for maintaining foot health and preventing fungal growth.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your shoes is an important part of preventing fungal infections. Regularly disinfecting your shoes, choosing the right kinds of footwear, and practicing good foot hygiene are all key to keeping your feet healthy and fungus-free.
You can protect yourself from fungal infections by taking care of your feet. Incorporate the strategies outlined in this article into your regular routine to take care of your shoes and keep your feet healthy and happy.