The Best Mould Removal Tips and Tricks for Shoes

Summary

Shoes are susceptible to mould due to moisture from daily use. Mould can damage shoes and cause health issues like respiratory problems and allergies.

To prevent mould growth: store shoes in dry areas, rotate wearing them and use silica gel packets. Mould appears as white, green, or black specks and can produce a foul smell. Natural removal methods include white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon-salt paste. Leather and suede need special care using rubbing alcohol or specific cleaners. After cleaning, ensure shoes are dry and stored in low humidity. Deeply infested shoes may require professional mould removal. Prevention tips include shoe racks, antifungal sprays, and avoiding wet environments.

Why Mould Appears on Shoes and Why Mould Removal is Essential

Shoes, due to their material and daily usage, are prone to moisture and sweat. When left unchecked, this can create an environment conducive to mould growth. Not only can mould damage the material of your shoes, but it also poses health risks such as respiratory problems and allergies highlighting the importance of effective mould removal.

Quick Measures to Avoid Mould Growth

Ensure Proper Storage: Store shoes in a cool, dry place. Avoid piling them up in dark, damp areas.

Rotation: Refrain from wearing the same pair of shoes every day. Give them time to air out.

Use Drying Packets: These help by absorbing any leftover moisture inside your shoes.

Recognizing Mould on Shoes

Before jumping into the mould removal process, it’s crucial to identify if it’s mould or simply dirt. Mould on shoes usually appears as white, green, or black specks. If neglected, these spots can spread, leading to a foul odour.

Natural Methods for Mould Removal

There are numerous natural methods for mould removal, however, it’s important to consider the material of your shoes before beginning. These natural methods include:

White Vinegar: Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar. Dab a cloth into the solution and wipe your shoes. Allow them to dry in a sunny place.

Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda inside and outside your shoes. Let it sit overnight and brush it off the next day.

Lemon and Salt: Create a paste using lemon juice and salt. Apply to the mouldy areas, let it sit for a few hours, and then brush it off.

Cleaning Leather and Suede Shoes

Leather and suede shoes require special mould removal care.

Rubbing Alcohol Solution: Combine equal parts of water and rubbing alcohol. Using a soft cloth, gently wipe the shoes.

Specialty Cleaners: Opt for mould removers specifically designed for leather or suede shoes.

Ensuring Mould Doesn’t Return

Post-cleaning, it’s essential to ensure the mould doesn’t make a comeback.

Dry Them Out: After every wear, especially during rainy seasons, make sure to dry your shoes properly. You can use newspapers or shoe dryers.

Maintain Low Humidity: Consider using dehumidifiers in rooms where shoes are stored.

Regular Checks: Make it a habit to periodically inspect your shoes for any early signs of mould.

When to Seek Professional Help

If the mould has deeply penetrated your shoes, especially valuable ones, it might be time to seek a professional shoe cleaner. They possess the tools and expertise to handle extreme mould infestations.

Preventative Measures for the Future

To ensure the longevity of your shoes and safeguard them against mould:

Invest in Shoe Racks: Elevate shoes from the ground and ensure they’re not in direct contact with walls.

Use Antifungal Sprays: These can be applied periodically, especially during damp seasons.

Avoid Wet Environments: If possible, avoid walking through water or wet grass to keep the shoes from soaking up moisture.

Shoes are an investment, both in terms of money and the comfort they offer. Taking the time to care for and protect them from threats like mould ensures that they remain in optimal condition for longer. By following the mould removal tips and tricks mentioned above, one can easily combat and prevent mould growth, ensuring a healthier environment for your feet and extending the life of your favourite pairs.

FAQs

Why do my shoes develop mould?

Shoes can develop mould due to various reasons, primarily because they often come in contact with moisture from sweat, rain, or wet environments. When stored in a dark and damp place without proper ventilation, this moisture creates an ideal environment for mould spores to thrive and grow.

Can mouldy shoes pose any health risks?

Yes, mouldy shoes can pose health risks. Mould releases spores that can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and skin irritations when they come in contact with or are inhaled by individuals, especially those with mould allergies or compromised immune systems.

Are natural remedies like vinegar and baking soda effective in removing mould from shoes?

Yes, natural remedies like vinegar and baking soda can be effective in treating mould. White vinegar, due to its acidic nature, can kill most mould species. Baking soda, on the other hand, can absorb moisture and odours, making it an excellent agent for preventing future mould growth.

How can I prevent mould from reoccurring on my shoes?

To prevent mould recurrence, ensure your shoes are completely dry before storing them. Store shoes in a well-ventilated area, use silica gel packets to absorb moisture and avoid piling shoes in dark, damp places. Periodically checking and airing out your shoes can also help prevent mould growth.

Is it safe to wear shoes after mould removal?

If you’ve thoroughly cleaned and dried the shoes after mould removal, it is generally safe to wear them. However, ensure all mould is removed and that there’s no lingering smell. If the mould has severely damaged the shoe material or the infestation is too deep, it might be best to discard them for safety reasons.

Why Choose AllAces?

AllAces Cleaning & Restoration has more than 35 years of industry experience, handling extensive mould infestations affecting property structures, contents, and flooring. Our IICRC-certified technicians are experts in efficient and effective mould removal for long-term results and the return of a pre-loss condition.

Trust the experts and contact AllAces at 1800 00 10 10 today!