How to Clean Shoes After Athlete’s Foot

How to Clean Shoes After Athlete's Foot

What You’ll Need

Disinfectant spray (look for one labeled antifungal or for shoes)
Mild soap or laundry detergent
Warm water
Old towel or cloth
Soft brush (old toothbrush works)
Rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl) or white vinegar
Plastic bag or spray bottle (optional)
Sunny, dry place or a shoe dryer

Step-by-Step

Remove laces and insoles. Take out the laces and any removable insoles or inserts. This exposes all surfaces where fungus can hide.
Brush off loose dirt. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove dried skin flakes, dirt, and debris from inside and outside the shoe. This helps the disinfectant reach the surface.
Wash removable parts. Hand-wash insoles and laces in warm water with mild soap. For extra antifungal power, add a splash of white vinegar to the rinse water. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry completely.
Wipe the inside with alcohol or vinegar. Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol or white vinegar. Wipe the entire interior of the shoe, including the heel and toe areas. This kills many fungi on contact.
Apply disinfectant spray. Spray an antifungal shoe disinfectant inside the shoes, following the product’s instructions. Pay extra attention to the toe box and any dark, damp areas. If you don’t have a spray, you can use a 50/50 water and vinegar solution in a spray bottle.
Dry completely. Place shoes in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight for leather shoes (it can crack them). Use a shoe dryer if you have one. Do not put them on until they are 100% dry—moisture lets fungus grow.
Reassemble and store properly. Once dry, put the insoles and laces back in. Store shoes in a dry, airy place. Avoid keeping them in a dark, damp closet or gym bag.

Common Mistakes

Skipping the drying step: If you put shoes on while still damp, you’re giving fungus a perfect environment to thrive.
Only cleaning the outside: The fungus lives inside, so focus on the interior and insoles.
Using bleach on all shoes: Bleach can damage many materials and is harsh on skin. Use it only on white cotton or canvas, and rinse very well.
Wearing the same shoes every day: Alternating pairs gives each pair time to dry out completely.
Ignoring socks: Wash socks in hot water and dry them on high heat. Fungus can survive in socks and re-infect your feet.

Tips

After your athlete’s foot clears, continue cleaning your shoes once a week for a few weeks to prevent recurrence.
Use a UV shoe sanitizer if you want a chemical-free option that kills fungus with light.
For leather shoes, use a leather-safe disinfectant and conditioner afterward to prevent drying.
If you have multiple pairs, clean them all at once to avoid cross-contamination.
Consider using antifungal foot powder or spray inside shoes before wearing them, as a preventive measure.

Troubleshooting

Shoes still smell after cleaning: The fungus may have left a stubborn odor. Try sprinkling baking soda inside and leaving it overnight, then vacuum or shake it out. Repeat the cleaning process after a few days.
Leather shoes got stiff: Over-drying or using too much alcohol can dry out leather. Apply a leather conditioner or a little coconut oil (test on a small area first) to restore softness.
Insoles are not removable: If insoles are glued in, wipe them with alcohol and spray disinfectant, then dry thoroughly. You can also use a hairdryer on a cool setting to speed up drying.
Fungus keeps coming back: It might be coming from your feet or socks. Treat your feet as directed by a doctor, wash socks in hot water, and consider replacing shoes that are heavily contaminated and cannot be fully cleaned.
Disinfectant smell is too strong: Air the shoes out for a day in a well-ventilated area before wearing. You can also wipe with a damp cloth to remove residue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put my shoes in the washing machine?

Yes, for many canvas or synthetic shoes. Remove laces and insoles, place shoes in a mesh bag, and wash on a gentle cycle with cold water. Air dry completely. Avoid washing leather, suede, or shoes with glued soles.

Does vinegar kill athlete’s foot fungus?

White vinegar has mild antifungal properties. A 50/50 vinegar-water solution can help disinfect shoes, but it’s not as strong as dedicated antifungal sprays. Use it as a supplement, not a replacement.

How often should I clean my shoes during an athlete’s foot infection?

Ideally, clean them every 2-3 days during the active infection. After the infection clears, continue weekly cleaning for a month to prevent recurrence.

Can I use the same cleaning method for all shoe types?

No. Leather, suede, and athletic shoes have different care needs. Check the manufacturer’s label. For suede, use a suede brush and a specialized cleaner, not water.

Should I throw away my old shoes after athlete’s foot?

Not necessarily. If the shoes are cleanable and you disinfect them thoroughly, you can keep them. However, if they are heavily worn or have a persistent odor, replacing them is safer.

Can athlete’s foot fungus survive in shoes after cleaning?

Most fungi are killed by thorough cleaning and drying. However, spores can survive if you miss spots. That’s why it’s important to clean all surfaces and let shoes dry completely.

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