How to Clean Used Shoes?

Buying used shoes is a smart way to save money and find unique styles to match any outfit. Before buying, you must know that what are preloved used shoes? and it's important to clean them before wearing them.

Secondhand shoes whether they are leather boots, suede shoes or any other type might carry fungus or bacteria that can transfer to your feet. The good news is you can easily disinfect and clean these shoes to ensure they are free of bacteria, odor-free and ready to wear.

This guide will explain various methods to clean and disinfect used shoes.

Why You Need to Clean/Disinfect Used Shoes?

When you buy used shoes remember that someone else has worn them before. These shoes could have germs and bacteria you don't know about. Unlike new shoes you can't be sure if the previous owner had any fungal or bacterial infections.

Such infections can be tough to treat and very painful. It's better to be safe and clean your shoes before wearing them to avoid these problems. Cleaning and disinfecting your shoes will protect your feet and remove any bad odors. Plus regular cleaning helps your shoes last longer.

Don't let this discourage you from buying used shoes. Many people buy second-hand shoes for various reasons including saving the materials needed to make new ones.

FYI: The sneaker resale market alone is worth over $6 billion.

For eco-friendly shoes check out our list of the best sustainable shoe brands. If you prefer cruelty-free options look at our lists of the best running shoes, hiking shoes, casual shoes, formal shoes, loafer shoes, sneakers shoes, sports shoes and Fashion Shoes.

Clean Used Shoes

Cleaning used shoes is important because they might have bacteria or fungi that can cause infections. Here are a few methods to clean shoes from second-hand stores.

Cleaning Removable Insoles

The first part to clean is the insoles. You'll need a bowl, hot water, dish soap or liquid laundry detergent and a hard-bristled toothbrush.

• Remove the Insoles: Take out the insoles from your shoes.
• Soak in Soap & Water: Mix soap and hot water in a bowl and soak the insoles for about five minutes.
• Rinse & Squeeze: Rinse the insoles with cold water and squeeze out the excess soap.
• Scrub with a Brush: Use the toothbrush to scrub away any stains, especially in the toe areas.
• Dry Properly: Hang the insoles in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat, to dry completely before putting them back in your shoes.

If your insoles have heavy watermarks or prints it might be best to replace them to prevent mold.

Hand-Washing Delicate Shoes

For shoes made of delicate materials like suede and leather hand-washing is the best method to prevent tears and scratches. Avoid using disposable wet wipes instead use a reusable paper towel to remove any soapy residue.

Cleaning Suede Shoes

Suede shoes are fragile and should not be washed in a machine. Here's how to clean them:

1. Minimal Water & Cloth: Use a small amount of water and a cloth to wipe off stains.
2. Suede Cleaning Block or Brush: For minor marks, use a suede cleaning block or a special suede brush.
3. Deep Stains:

• Mix soap with warm water.
• Use a soft brush to scrub stains with gentle, downward strokes.
• Replace the soapy water with plain water and scrub the stain again.
• Allow the shoes to air dry avoiding direct heat.

Avoid soaking suede shoes with too much water, especially if they are dry. For salt stains, scrub them with a little white vinegar and a damp cloth. You can also use a conditioner and a soft-bristled brush to keep them in good condition.

Cleaning Leather Shoes

To clean leather shoes you only need a small amount of water. Follow these steps:

1. Remove Shoelaces & Insoles: Take out the shoelaces and insoles. Wash the shoelaces separately and clean the insoles as mentioned earlier.
2. Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix water with a few drops of liquid soap.
3. Clean the Shoes: Use a clean cloth or soft sponge to gently wipe the shoes, creating a light soap lather on the surface.
4. Remove Excess Moisture: Wipe away any excess moisture with a dry cloth.
5. Dry the Shoes: Let the shoes dry near a source of heat but not in direct heat.
6. Condition the Leather: Once the shoes are completely dry, apply a leather conditioner to keep them soft and prevent cracking.

This process will help keep your leather shoes clean and in good condition.

Machine Washing Used Shoes

If you have canvas, fabric shoes, white sneakers, running shoes or mesh shoes you can easily clean them in a washing machine. These types of shoes can come out looking like new. However, for plastic, suede or leather shoes hand washing is best.

Steps for Machine Washing Shoes:

1. Remove Shoelaces & Dirt: Take out the shoelaces and brush off any loose dirt.
2. Prepare for Washing: Place the shoes in the washing machine.
3. Wash on Delicate Cycle: Use a laundry detergent and set the machine to a delicate cycle with warm water.
4. Air Dry: After washing let the shoes dry outside. Avoid using a dryer.
5. Prevent Creasing: To keep the shoes from creasing, place shoe blocks or crumpled newspaper inside them while they dry.

This method will help keep your canvas and fabric shoes clean and fresh.

How to Sanitize or Disinfect Used Shoes?

Used shoes can harbor germs, fungus and bacteria leading to infections and bad odors. Disinfecting them helps remove these unwanted elements. Here are a few ways to sanitize shoes.

Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is a powerful cleaner and works well for delicate shoes.

1. Clean with a Cloth: Wet a cloth rag with rubbing alcohol and wipe both the inside and outside of the shoe.
2. Clean the Insoles: You can also apply some alcohol to the insoles.
3. Soak for Sneakers: For sneakers, soak them in rubbing alcohol for about an hour and then let them dry.
4. Add Tea Tree Oil: To tackle tough stains and boost disinfection add a few drops of tea tree oil to the alcohol.

This method effectively sanitizes your shoes making them safe and fresh to wear.

Disinfectant Spray

A disinfectant spray can kill fungus inside your shoes. Spray the inside to avoid staining the surface. Remember a disinfectant spray is different from a deodorizing spray which only removes bad smells.

• Bleach for White Shoes: Dilute bleach with water, put it in a spray bottle and use it as a shoe sanitizer. Avoid using bleach on colored shoes.

Antibacterial Spray

Antibacterial sprays like Clorox wipes or Lysol can disinfect your shoes and remove bad odors. Focus on the insoles where most germs accumulate. After cleaning let the shoes air dry or pat them dry with a clean towel to speed up the process.

Wearing Socks

Wearing clean, moisture-wicking socks can protect your feet from fungal infections. Avoid damp socks and opt for socks made from synthetic fibers, bamboo or hemp. White or black socks are a good choice to prevent bad odors and moisture retention.

In summary, always ensure your socks are moisture-wicking to keep your feet dry and healthy.

UV Light

UV light is known to kill fungi. A UV light device can spot hidden fungi in shoes and prevent their growth. Place the shoes in the device and turn it on for a few minutes. Avoid looking directly at the UV light.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar made by fermenting apple sugar is often used in eco-friendly cleaning products. To disinfect your shoes spray apple cider vinegar inside them.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is great for removing bad odors from insoles. Place the insoles in a plastic bag, sprinkle baking soda inside and leave it overnight. The next day, take out the insoles and let them dry. You can also use a disinfectant along with baking soda.

Dryer Sheets

For shoes with bad odors place dryer sheets inside them and leave them for a few days. This method is especially useful for dress shoes that can't be soaked in disinfectants. If needed consider taking them to a professional cleaner.

Disinfecting the Bottom of Your Shoes

When you walk around your shoes pick up dirt, bacteria and viruses which can be brought into your home. It's important to disinfect the bottom of your shoes before bringing them inside.

• Clean Off Dirt: Take your shoes off outside and remove any dirt or debris using a cloth, soap (preferably laundry detergent) and warm water.
• Dry the Shoes: Let the shoes dry outside.
• Disinfect the Soles: Spray the soles with a disinfectant such as a bleach spray or hydrogen peroxide. Wipe them with a cloth.
• Dry Again: Allow the shoes to dry for a few minutes before bringing them into your house.

This process helps keep your home clean and free from outside contaminants.

Dos & Don'ts for Disinfecting Used Shoes

Here are some tips to keep in mind when disinfecting shoes from thrift stores:

Dos

• Remove Dirt First: Clean off any dirt before washing shoes in a washing machine to avoid clogging it.
• Use Gentle Methods: Clean or disinfect shoes gently to avoid scratches and tears.
• Wear Socks: Always wear socks with used shoes to prevent infections.

Don'ts

• Avoid Rigorous Scrubbing: Don't scrub the surface too hard to prevent damage.
• No Machine Washing for Certain Materials: Do not wash suede, leather or plastic shoes in a washing machine.
• Avoid Bleach or Hydrogen Peroxide on Colored Shoes: These can cause discoloration.
• Don't Wear Damp Socks: Avoid wearing shoes with damp socks to prevent fungal infections.
• Don't Wear Used Shoes Without Socks: Always wear socks with used shoes for hygiene.

Following these guidelines will help keep your used shoes in good condition and ensure they are safe to wear.

Consider buying from prelovedtreasures.pk because our used shoes are already washed and cleaned with extra care!

What to Consider Before Buying Second-Hand Shoes?

Sole Strength

• Check the Soles: Make sure the soles are clean and not excessively worn. For sneakers or flat shoes ensure the soles are not too thin to avoid discomfort and pain.
• Inspect Inner Soles: Ensure they don't have a foot-shaped imprint and are in good condition.

Shoe Quality & Fit

• Inspect Quality: Check the shoes carefully to ensure they are in good condition and made of good quality materials.
• Check the Fit: Make sure the shoes fit properly on both feet. Remember that materials like leather and suede may have stretched to fit the previous owner's feet.
• Avoid Bad Odors: Ensure the shoes do not have a nasty smell and are not completely worn out.

Following these tips will help you find comfortable and hygienic second-hand shoes.

If you have cleaned your shoes then you must also be in giving them a new look. Learn How to Use Fabric Paint on Shoes?