What causes mildew on shoes?

What causes mildew on shoes?

Moisture comes from washing shoes, and not giving them enough time to dry before storing them. The dark, damp closet is the perfect environment for shoe mold. Alternatively, mold growth can also happen when the shoes are moist from sweat, and stored improperly while still damp.

Can moldy shoes be saved?

First, clean your shoes outside in the shade. If there’s visible mold, wear a mask and gloves. Remove the laces and the insoles if you can. Use a soft bristle brush or dry cloth to brush off your shoes, then disinfect them with a mixture of equal parts water and rubbing alcohol.

Should I throw out moldy shoes?

Is Shoe Mold Dangerous? Mold is a harmful element, and even moldy shoes can cause trouble. Besides the musty smell, it’s the spores you’ll need to watch out for. When inhaled, these can aggravate your sinuses and trigger allergies as well as asthma attacks.

What gets mildew smell out of shoes?

Mildew can cause shoes to have an unpleasant musty odor. If you’re curious how to get mildew smell out of boots, the secret is to remove moisture to stop the growth of the mildew. Wash the shoes, add in a couple of teaspoons of baking soda, and try a hospital-grade disinfectant spray to deodorize them.