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Washing Moldy Shoes In Washing Machine
If you have a pair of moldy shoes, you may be wondering how to clean them properly without causing damage. Fortunately, using a washing machine is one of the most effective ways to get rid of mold on shoes. However, it’s important to take proper precautions to ensure that you clean your shoes safely.
First and foremost, remove any loose mud, dirt, or debris from the shoes. Once you’ve done this, use a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to clean the shoes. You may also want to add some white vinegar to the mixture, as it can help kill off any remaining mold spores.
When it’s time to wash the shoes, place them in a laundry bag or pillowcase to protect them from banging around in the washing machine. Use a delicate cycle and cold water to avoid damaging the shoes. Once the cycle is complete, air dry the shoes rather than putting them in the dryer.
In conclusion, washing moldy shoes in a washing machine can be a simple and effective way to eliminate mold and freshen up your shoes. Just remember to take proper precautions and use gentle settings to ensure that you don’t cause more harm than good.
The Ultimate Guide on How to Wash Moldy Shoes in a Washing Machine
Have you ever opened your closet or shoe rack and noticed a pungent odor coming from your shoes? Or maybe you’ve noticed black spots growing on the surface of your shoes, especially if they’ve been in storage for a while. These are all signs of mold growing on your shoes.
Mold can be a real hassle to deal with if not handled properly. Not only does it leave a disgusting odor on your clothes and shoes, but it can also be hazardous to your health. Luckily, washing moldy shoes in a washing machine is a quick and easy way to get rid of the fungus without the need for expensive cleaning services.
Here are some tips to help you wash moldy shoes in a washing machine:
Gather Your Materials
Before you start washing your shoes, you’ll need to gather a few materials. These include:
- A washing machine
- Mild detergent
- Vinegar
- Old towels or rags
Pre-Treat Your Shoes
The first thing you’ll want to do is to pre-treat your shoes before putting them in the washing machine. You can do this by using a vinegar-water solution. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray it onto the moldy areas of your shoes. Make sure to do this outside or in a well-ventilated area to avoid any inhalation of fumes.
After applying the vinegar solution, use an old towel or rag to gently scrub the mold off your shoes until it is no longer visible. This will help prevent further spread of the mold within the washing machine.
Wash Your Shoes
Once you’ve pre-treated your shoes, you are now ready to put them in the washing machine. Use a mild detergent and set the machine to a delicate cycle. Avoid using hot water as this can cause damage to certain types of shoes.
Make sure to place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to prevent damage during the wash cycle. Also, avoid washing your shoes with any other clothing or items as this can cause damage to both your shoes and other items.
Air Dry Your Shoes
After washing your shoes, always dry them in a well-ventilated area. Never put them in the dryer as this can cause damage to your shoes. Instead, stuff them with old newspaper or paper towels to help absorb excess moisture and leave them to air dry completely. This can take several hours or overnight.
If your shoes are still wet in the morning, simply replace the old newspaper or paper towels with fresh ones and leave them to air dry for a few more hours until completely dry.
Conclusion
Cleaning moldy shoes doesn’t have to be a hassle. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to get rid of the fungus without spending a lot of money. Just make sure to always take the necessary precautions to avoid spreading the fungus to other areas of your home and always ensure that your shoes are completely dry before wearing them again.
If you have any questions or concerns on the above topic, feel free to check out this CDC website for more information.
How to Wash Moldy Shoes in a Washing Machine
Step 1: Pre-treatment
Before washing moldy shoes in a washing machine, it is important to pre-treat them. Use a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar to spray the moldy areas on the shoes. Let the mixture sit for at least an hour to kill the mold spores.
Step 2: Choose the Right Cycle
When washing moldy shoes, choose a hot water cycle and add a cup of white vinegar to the wash. The hot water and vinegar will work together to kill any remaining mold spores and remove any odor.
Step 3: Air Dry
After washing, put the moldy shoes in a well-ventilated area to air dry. Avoid using a dryer as the heat can cause the shoes to shrink or become misshapen.
If the mold on the shoes is extensive, it may be best to discard the shoes and purchase a new pair.
For more information on mold and how to prevent it from growing in your home, visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mold.
Washing Moldy Shoes In Washing Machine FAQs
Can I wash my moldy shoes in the washing machine?
Yes, you can certainly wash your moldy shoes in the washing machine. However, it is important to take some precautions beforehand to ensure that your shoes come out clean and mold-free.
What precautions should I take before washing moldy shoes in the washing machine?
Before washing moldy shoes in the washing machine, you should remove any visible mold on the shoes using a clean cloth or brush. It is also recommended to use a pre-wash cycle to help remove any remaining mold spores and to prevent the spread of mold to other clothes in the washing machine.
What detergent should I use to wash moldy shoes in the washing machine?
You can use any detergent that is suitable for the material of your shoes. However, it is recommended to use a detergent that has anti-fungal properties to help kill any remaining mold spores on the shoes.
How should I dry my moldy shoes after washing them in the washing machine?
You should avoid drying your moldy shoes in a dryer as the heat can cause the mold to spread and grow even faster. Instead, you should let your shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area. You can also stuff them with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb any excess water and to help them maintain their shape while drying.
Is it safe to wear my moldy shoes again after washing them in the washing machine?
Yes, it is safe to wear your moldy shoes again after washing them in the washing machine provided that you have removed all visible mold, used a pre-wash cycle, and dried them properly. However, it is recommended to also clean the inside of the shoes and to use a shoe spray to help prevent future mold growth.
Washing Moldy Shoes In Washing Machine
- Remove excess dirt and debris from shoes
- Fill washing machine with warm water and add detergent
- Place shoes in washing machine and select gentle cycle
- Add a cup of white vinegar to help kill mold
- Allow washing machine to complete cycle before removing shoes
- Air-dry shoes completely before wearing them again