The Dangers of Dirty Shoes: Why You Need Regular Cleaning (2024)

Your feet are constantly exposed to the elements, and they can easily become dirty and covered in bacteria. This is why it is so important to clean your shoes regularly! Not only will it keep your feet clean and healthy, but it will also help protect you from the dangers of dirty shoes. In this article, we will discuss the dangers of dirty shoes and how you can keep your feet clean and healthy.

The Dangers of Dirty Shoes

The Dangers of Dirty Shoes: Why You Need Regular Cleaning (1)

Dirty shoes can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can lead to infections, athlete’s foot, and other health problems. In addition, dirty shoes can also tracking in dirt, dust, and other contaminants into your home or workplace, which can cause respiratory problems. Finally, dirty shoes can also cause foot odours and more, which can be embarrassing and difficult to get rid of. See a list of common health problems below.

Foot Odours

One of the most common problems caused by dirty shoes is foot odours. This is because sweat and bacteria build up in your shoes, which can create a foul smell. In addition, if you wear the same shoes day after day without allowing them to air out, the problem will only get worse. Luckily, Shoewash offers a to remove those built up odours.

Athletes Foot

The Dangers of Dirty Shoes: Why You Need Regular Cleaning (2)

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that can be contracted by walking barefoot in public places or by wearing dirty shoes. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, so dirty shoes are the perfect place for it to grow. Athlete’s foot can cause red, itchy, and scaly skin on the feet, as well as blisters and cracked skin. If left untreated, athlete’s foot can spread to the toenails and cause a more serious infection.

Infections

Bacteria and fungi can enter through cracks in the skin or through open wounds on the feet. Once they are inside, they can multiply and cause an infection. Infections of the foot are often painful and can lead to swelling, redness, and warmth. If you have an infection, it is important to see a doctor so that it can be treated properly.

Respiratory Problems

Dirty shoes can track in all sorts of contaminants, including dust, pollen, and pet dander. If you suffer from asthma or allergies, these contaminants can trigger an attack. In addition, dirty shoes can also tracking in bacteria and viruses that can cause respiratory infections.

So, as you can see, dirty shoes can be a real health hazard. That’s why it is so important to clean your shoes regularly! Here are some tips on how to keep your shoes clean.

How to Clean Your Shoes

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There are a few different ways that you can clean your shoes, depending on the material they are made from.

  • For leather or suede shoes, you can clean them with a soft cloth and a mild soap. Be sure to rinse the shoes off afterwards so that the soap doesn’t damage the material.
  • For canvas or fabric shoes, you can machine wash them on a gentle cycle with cold water. You can also hand wash them using a mild soap. Again, be sure to rinse the shoes off afterwards to remove all of the soap.
  • For all types of shoes, you can also use a commercial shoe cleaner or polish. Be sure to read the instructions on the label before using any type of cleaner or polish.

By following these tips, you can keep your shoes clean and free from bacteria and contaminants. Read our guide to learn how to wash your shoes at home.

Professional Shoe Cleaning Services

If you don’t have the time or ability to clean your shoes yourself, you can always take them to a professional shoe cleaning service like Shoewash Supreme. These services will clean and polish your shoes for you, so you don’t have to worry about doing it yourself.

Shoewash Supreme offers a variety of different shoe cleaning services, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. We offer everything from a basic cleaning to a complete restoration, so you can get your shoes looking like new again. If you are looking for a professional shoe cleaning service in Vancouver, BC, be sure to check out Shoewash for your footwear needs!

Final Thoughts

The Dangers of Dirty Shoes: Why You Need Regular Cleaning (4)

Dirty shoes can be a real health hazard, so it is important to keep them clean. There are a few different ways that you can clean your shoes, depending on the material they are made from. You can also take them to a cleaning service for a complete cleaning. To learn more, check out our services. By following these tips, you can keep your shoes clean and free from bacteria and contaminants, and avoid the dangers of dirty shoes.

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The Dangers of Dirty Shoes: Why You Need Regular Cleaning (2024)

FAQs

The Dangers of Dirty Shoes: Why You Need Regular Cleaning? ›

In addition to this, there are over 2,887 units of bacteria on the inside of our shoes. This bacteria is a combination of highly contagious diseases and infection-causing structures. Some of these can cause intestinal infections, urinary tract infections, lung conditions, pneumonia, meningitis, and more.

What will happen if shoes are not cleaned? ›

Foul Odors and Bacteria Build-up: Dirty shoes are a breeding ground for bacteria and odor-causing microbes. When you wear unclean shoes, these unwelcome guests multiply and release unpleasant smells that can be hard to eliminate. Furthermore, bacteria can lead to foot infections and skin irritations.

What happens if you wear dirty shoes? ›

Dirty shoes can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can lead to infections, athlete's foot, and other health problems. In addition, dirty shoes can also tracking in dirt, dust, and other contaminants into your home or workplace, which can cause respiratory problems.

Why you need to keep your shoes clean? ›

The main answer why to wash your shoes is to keep them bacteria-free and keep your feet healthy. Many people don't know this, but you can start to grow fungus on your toenails if you don't keep your shoes bacteria-free.

Should you wash your shoes regularly? ›

Shoes you wear frequently should be cleaned at least once a month. Shoes you wear only occasionally can be cleaned on an as-needed basis. All types of shoes should be properly cleaned or dried after wearing them in poor conditions like rain, mud, or snow and salt.

Can dirty shoes cause infection? ›

In addition to this, there are over 2,887 units of bacteria on the inside of our shoes. This bacteria is a combination of highly contagious diseases and infection-causing structures. Some of these can cause intestinal infections, urinary tract infections, lung conditions, pneumonia, meningitis, and more.

How long can bacteria live in shoes? ›

How long do bacteria live on shoes? Most bacteria only survive for several hours and up to a few days on soft materials like shoes, although some types, such as C. difficile, may live much longer.

What bacteria is in shoes in the house? ›

A study from the University of Arizona reveals that shoes from outside have an average of 421,000 units of bacteria. When you stroll into your home from outside, whether that's the grocery store or your walk from the car to your front door, you risk bringing a nest egg of germs and grime with you.

What bacteria is usually found on shoes? ›

Researchers tested the soles of thousands of shoes, and found that nearly 40 percent of the samples contained Clostridium difficile, commonly known as C. Diff, an intestinal bacteria that causes diarrhea. Touching those shoes or a surface infected by the bacteria could lead to upset stomach and discomfort.

Does cleaning shoes make them last longer? ›

Keeping your shoes clean is essential for protecting them from everyday wear and tear. Not only does cleaning your shoes regularly help keep them looking their best, but it also helps to preserve the materials they are made of and prevent damage such as cracking or discolouration.

How often should you disinfect shoes? ›

Sources online suggest the following daily or at the very least weekly cleaning practice to keep everyone safe. Isopropyl alcohol, or rubbing alcohol, is a powerful antiseptic that can fight odour-causing bacteria in your shoes. Simply mix some alcohol and water in a spray bottle and mist the interior of your shoes.

Why do my shoes get so dirty? ›

Each of your feet has more than 250,000 sweat glands and can excrete up to a pint of sweat each day. This fluid soaks into your socks and the bottom of your shoes, where it's trapped and grows bacteria and fungus. While the outside of your shoes is a concern, so is the inside!

Should I wash dirty shoes with clothes? ›

You shouldn't wash your shoes in the washing machine with clothes as the dyes in your clothes could stain your shoes. Instead, place a few old towels in with your shoes to prevent them from bouncing around during the wash cycle. Remember to wash your shoes in a mesh garment bag.

How often should you wash your sheets? ›

"Regular washing, or about once every one to two weeks, is recommended to maintain cleanliness and a healthy sleep environment," says Harris. Once a week if you don't use a top sheet. Once a month if you do. Once a week if you don't use a top sheet.

Do shoes go bad if not used? ›

Once shoes have been sitting around for a while, the impact absorption rate will go down, because the rubber and foam age,” says Stump. “The foam can also start to splinter on the inside.”

Do shoes get damaged if not used? ›

It depends on the quality and style. Old sports shoes can decline because the glue yellows and the EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), the old sponge soles, can crumble, but that would be after 5 or more years and that tends not to happen these days with more sophisticated material being used.

What happens when you wear bad shoes? ›

Wearing the wrong shoes can dramatically heighten the risk of injury, from minor blisters and corns to more severe issues such as sprains, fractures, and long-term musculoskeletal problems. Improper footwear can affect our body's alignment and gait, leading to an imbalanced distribution of weight.

What bacteria are usually found on shoes? ›

Researchers tested the soles of thousands of shoes, and found that nearly 40 percent of the samples contained Clostridium difficile, commonly known as C. Diff, an intestinal bacteria that causes diarrhea. Touching those shoes or a surface infected by the bacteria could lead to upset stomach and discomfort.

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