Top 8 Simple and Safe Ways to Remove Mold from Shoes at Home

Shoes are an indispensable daily item, in direct contact with many different environments. However, improper shoe storage, especially in humid weather conditions, can easily cause moldy shoes, causing loss of aesthetics and affecting health. So how to safely and effectively remove mold from shoes at home? In this article, Shondo will provide you with the top 8 simple and easy-to-implement ways to remove mold from shoes , helping your shoes stay clean and shiny like new.

1. Causes of Moldy Shoes

Before we learn how to remove mold from shoes, we need to understand what causes mold. Mold is a fungus that grows in damp, poorly ventilated environments. Some common causes of mold on shoes include:

• Storing shoes in a humid environment: This is the most common cause. Storing shoes in a closed, unventilated closet, or in a humid environment will create favorable conditions for mold to grow.
• Wet shoes that are not dried promptly: Foot sweat, rainwater or other liquids that stick to shoes and are not dried will create a humid environment that causes mold to grow.

[caption id="attachment_6086" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Shoes get moldy for many different reasons[/caption]

• Improper shoe cleaning: Not cleaning shoes thoroughly, not removing all dirt and sweat can also cause mold.
• Shoe material: Some shoe materials such as suede and canvas are more susceptible to mold than other materials.

Understanding the causes of mold will help you take more effective preventive measures.

2. How to Remove Mold from Shoes at Home Effectively

Below are 8 simple, easy-to-do ways to remove mold from shoes at home that you can apply:

2.1. Potatoes

Potatoes contain enzymes that can clean and remove mold stains on shoes naturally.

• How to do: Cut the potato in half, rub the potato flesh on the moldy area. Leave for about 15-20 minutes then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
• Advantages: Safe, easy to do, easy to find ingredients.
• Cons: May not be effective on stubborn mold stains.
• Suitable for: Leather shoes, canvas shoes.

[caption id="attachment_6087" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Potatoes contain enzymes that help remove mold stains[/caption]

2.2. Candle Wax

Candle wax can create a protective layer, preventing mold growth.

• How to use: Apply a thin layer of candle wax to the surface of the shoe after cleaning. Use a hair dryer to heat the candle wax so it penetrates the shoe.
• Advantages: Effectively prevents mold, creates shine for shoes.
• Disadvantages: No effect in removing mold, only preventive effect.
• Suitable for: Leather shoes.

[caption id="attachment_6088" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Candle wax creates a protective layer for shoes to prevent mold[/caption]

2.3. Sandpaper

Sandpaper can remove mold stains from shoe surfaces, especially suede shoes.

• How to do: Use fine sandpaper to lightly rub the moldy area. Be careful to rub gently to avoid scratching the shoe.
• Advantages: Effectively removes mold stains on suede shoes.
• Disadvantages: May wear down shoe surfaces if scrubbed too hard.
• Suitable for: Suede shoes.

[caption id="attachment_6089" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Sandpaper can clean mold stains on shoes[/caption]

2.4. Soap

Soap is a common cleaning agent that can remove stains and light mold from shoes.

• How to use: Dilute soap with warm water, use a soft brush to gently scrub the moldy area. Rinse with water and dry.
• Advantages: Simple, easy to make, easy to find ingredients.
• Disadvantages: Not effective on heavy mold stains.
• Suitable for: Canvas shoes, leather shoes.

[caption id="attachment_6090" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Using soap to remove mold stains is chosen by many people[/caption]

2.5. Javen Water

Javen water has strong cleaning properties and can remove stubborn mold stains. However, it should be used carefully to avoid damaging the shoes.

• How to use: Dilute Javen with water in a ratio of 1:10. Use a soft cloth to absorb the solution and wipe the moldy area. Rinse immediately with water and dry in the sun.
• Advantages: Strong mold remover, effective on stubborn mold stains.
• Disadvantages: May discolor shoes, not suitable for all types of shoes.
• Suitable for: White canvas shoes.

[caption id="attachment_6091" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Javen water has strong cleaning properties to help remove mold stains[/caption]

2.6. Vinegar

Vinegar is mildly acidic, has the ability to kill mold and deodorize.

• How to do: Dilute vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio. Use a soft cloth to absorb the solution and wipe the moldy area. Dry the shoes in the sun.
• Advantages: Deodorizes, safe, easy to do.
• Cons: The smell of vinegar can be a bit unpleasant.
• Suitable for: Canvas shoes, leather shoes.

[caption id="attachment_6092" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Vinegar is acidic and helps remove mold from shoes.

2.7. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural cleaner that can remove mold and odors.

• How to do: Sprinkle baking soda on the moldy area, leave overnight. The next morning, use a brush to scrub the baking soda off and let the shoes dry.
• Advantages: Deodorizes, safe, effective.
• Cons: Can take a while to wait.
• Suitable for: Canvas shoes, leather shoes.

[caption id="attachment_6093" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Baking soda helps remove mold and odors[/caption]

2.8. Alcohol

Alcohol has high antiseptic properties and can effectively kill mold.

• How to do: Use a cotton ball soaked in alcohol and wipe the moldy area. Then dry the shoes in the sun.
• Advantages: Antibacterial, effective.
• Disadvantages: May discolor shoes, not suitable for all types of shoes.
• Suitable for: Leather shoes.

[caption id="attachment_6094" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Alcohol has high antiseptic properties that effectively remove mold from shoes. >>>See more: How to remove yellow stains on white shoes super clean at home.

3. Notes When Handling Moldy Sports Shoes

• Identify the shoe material: Each shoe material requires different treatment. Using the wrong method can damage the shoe.
• Test on a small area: Before applying to the entire moldy area, test on a small, hidden area to check if the solution discolors or damages the shoe.
• Use soft tools: Use a soft brush or soft cloth to clean shoes, avoid scratching the shoe surface.

[caption id="attachment_6095" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Use soft tools to avoid damaging the shoes[/caption]

• Dry your shoes completely: After cleaning, dry your shoes completely in the sun or use a specialized shoe dryer. Residual moisture can cause mold to return.
• Store shoes properly: Keep shoes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use desiccant packets or newspaper to absorb moisture in the shoe cabinet.
• Clean shoes regularly: Clean shoes regularly to remove dirt, sweat and prevent mold growth.

Removing mold from shoes at home is not difficult if you know how to apply the right method. Hopefully, with the 8 ways to remove mold from shoes and the important notes that Shondo has shared, you can easily handle stubborn mold stains, keeping your shoes clean, shiny and durable over time.