Your shoes: they’re warm, they’re dark, and after a long day, they’re definitely moist. Unfortunately, that makes them the perfect breeding ground for fungus. And if you’re dealing with athlete’s foot or onychomycosis (that’s nail fungus), your shoes could be making the problem worse.
So, what can you do? One option is to use an antifungal spray in your shoes. But with so many products on the market, it can be hard to know what’s safe and effective.
This article will explore what you can spray in your shoes to kill fungus, including different types of sprays, how to apply them correctly, how to prevent fungal growth in the first place, and important safety precautions to keep in mind. We’ll help you find the best way to keep your feet healthy and fungus-free!
What can I spray in my shoes to kill fungus?
If you think fungus is growing in your shoes, you have a few options.
Over-the-counter antifungal sprays
Antifungal sprays you can purchase without a prescription usually contain ingredients like miconazole, clotrimazole, or tolnaftate, or you might consider something like Lamisil Spray 125ml. These medications stop fungus from growing.
These sprays come in aerosol and pump forms, and as powders. Some products may work better than others based on the formulation.
Disinfectant sprays
If you want to kill fungus and bacteria, you may want to try a disinfectant spray that contains ingredients like alcohol, quaternary ammonium compounds, or even bleach alternatives, or consider using a nail antiseptic spray.
You might prefer a disinfectant spray for regular shoe sanitation.
Natural antifungal sprays
Some people prefer to use natural ingredients, such as tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and thyme oil. These ingredients have antifungal properties, but they may not be as strong as the ingredients in pharmaceutical products.
If you choose to use a natural product, be sure to dilute it correctly and test it on a small area first, to make sure you’re not allergic.
How to properly apply antifungal spray
So, you’ve got your antifungal spray ready. Great! Now let’s talk about how to use it the right way so you can actually kill that shoe fungus.
Preparation
- Remove the insoles. This is important! You want to get the spray everywhere inside the shoe, and the insoles are blocking the way.
- Clean the shoes. Give the inside of your shoes a quick wipe-down to get rid of any loose dirt or debris. This will help the spray make better contact with the shoe’s surfaces.
Spraying technique
- Even coverage is key. Don’t just spritz a little bit in one spot. You need to thoroughly coat the entire inside of the shoe.
- Target those problem areas. Pay special attention to the toe box and the heel, since those are the areas that tend to get the most moisture and are therefore most likely to harbor fungus.
- Don’t overdo it. You want the inside of the shoe to be slightly damp, but not soaking wet.
Drying time
- Air dry only! Do not wear your shoes until they are completely dry.
- Find a good spot. Put your shoes in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat.
- Be patient. Depending on how humid it is where you live, it can take 24 to 48 hours for your shoes to dry completely.
How to prevent fungal growth in shoes
It’s no fun to deal with foot fungus. Here’s what to do to keep your feet healthy and your shoes free from unwanted growth.
Shoe habits
Your shoe habits play a big part in whether fungus takes hold.
Alternate shoes
If you wear the same pair of shoes every day, they don’t have a chance to dry out between wearings. Consider having multiple pairs of shoes you can rotate through on a daily basis.
Store them properly
Always store your shoes in a well-ventilated area. Never put damp, sweaty shoes away in closed containers, like boxes or plastic bags.
Foot habits
Good foot hygiene is key to preventing problems.
Wear moisture-wicking socks
Socks made from synthetic materials or wool pull sweat away from your skin. Avoid cotton socks, since cotton holds moisture against your skin.
Use antifungal foot powders
Antifungal foot powders absorb moisture and prevent fungus from growing on your feet. There are many over-the-counter products available at drug stores.
Wash your feet regularly
Be sure to wash your feet every day with soap and water, and consider using a product like Footlogix Nail Tincture Spray for added protection. Dry them thoroughly when you’re done, especially between your toes.
Sanitizing practices
A little extra cleaning can go a long way.
Disinfect shoes regularly
Spraying your shoes regularly with an antifungal or disinfectant spray can help prevent problems.
Let them see the sun
Sunlight can kill fungi and bacteria. However, too much exposure to sunlight can damage some shoe materials.
Safety precautions and potential risks
Before you go spraying everything in sight, let’s talk safety. Because while you want to get rid of the fungus, you don’t want to cause other problems in the process.
- Skin sensitivity: Test the spray on a small patch of skin before you go crazy with it. You don’t want to find out you’re allergic after you’ve already soaked your shoes.
- Respiratory irritation: These sprays can be pretty strong, so make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area. A mask might not be a bad idea either, just to be safe.
- Material compatibility: Some of these sprays can damage delicate materials, like leather or suede. So, before you go spraying your fancy shoes, test it out on a hidden spot first.
- Proper storage: This should be obvious, but keep these sprays away from kids and pets. You don’t want them getting into this stuff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a shoe spray that kills fungus?
Yes, several antifungal shoe sprays are available. Look for sprays containing ingredients like clotrimazole, miconazole, or tolnaftate, as these are effective against common foot fungi. Always follow the product’s instructions for best results.
What kills foot fungus in shoes?
Several options can kill foot fungus in shoes. Antifungal sprays are a good start. Additionally, UV shoe sanitizers can effectively eliminate fungus and bacteria. For a DIY approach, consider using a solution of bleach and water (handle with care!) or a strong disinfectant.
Do I have to throw my shoes away after having fungus?
Not necessarily! While severely infected shoes might be best discarded, many can be salvaged with proper treatment. Thoroughly disinfect them with antifungal sprays or UV sanitizers and practice good foot hygiene to prevent reinfection.
Does hydrogen peroxide kill shoe fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide has some antifungal properties and may help kill fungus in shoes, but it’s not as potent as dedicated antifungal sprays. It’s best used as part of a broader cleaning strategy alongside other methods.
Will rubbing alcohol kill fungus in shoes?
Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) can be effective in killing fungus in shoes due to its disinfectant properties. Use a concentration of at least 70% for best results. Spray liberally inside the shoes and allow them to air dry completely.
In Conclusion
Fungus grows fast in shoes, so it’s important to get rid of it as soon as possible. There are several kinds of sprays you can use to kill fungus. Make sure you read the directions and use them the right way.
It’s even better to keep fungus from growing in your shoes in the first place. Clean your shoes regularly, wear socks that wick away moisture, and let your shoes air out. Taking care of your feet and shoes is an important part of staying healthy.