How to Disinfect Used Shoes
Buying used shoes can save you a bundle. Whether they are expensive brand name shoes such as Jimmy Choo or Manolo, or barely worn children’s shoes you find at a garage sale that will fit your child perfectly, used shoes can be a worthwhile purchase. If you are concerned about contracting fungus or disease from your newly procured used shoes, there are ways to disinfect them so you can show off your find without worry.
What You’ll Need
- Used shoes
- Bowling shoe disinfectant
- Rubbing alcohol that is less than 10% water
- Paper towels or a dry white cloth
- Anti-fungal shoe spray
- New shoe inserts
- Remove the old shoe inserts from your shoes and discard. Wash your hands well with soap and water.
- Spray the inside of your used shoes with bowling shoe disinfectant. Bowling shoe disinfectant is approved by the E.P.A. to prevent mold and mildew and will help protect you from athlete’s feet.
- Dampen a couple of paper towels or a dry white cloth with the rubbing alcohol. Wipe the entire surface of the outside of your shoes, including the soles, with the rubbing alcohol until the dirt appears to be gone.
- Place your shoes in the sun and let them dry completely. Sunshine and heat will help kill bacteria and germs. Totally dry shoes are less likely to contain any remaining live bacteria or fungus.
- Spray the anti-fungal shoe spray on the inside of your shoes, covering the entire inside surface.
- Place your shoes outside and allow the anti-fungal shoe spray to dry.
- Position the new shoe inserts into your shoes. Your shoes are now disinfected and safe to wear.