How To Clean Mould Off Shoes

• What causes mould to grow on shoes?
• How does mould affect shoes?
• How to remove mould from shoes
• Ways to prevent mould on shoes
• Contact us today

Mould growth on your shoes does not just tarnish their aesthetic. It can damage the material, put your health at risk, and may spread to the rest of your clothes. Immediate removal as soon as you spot mould growth anywhere in your home is essential to protect your health and possessions. 

We have mould remediation specialists stationed across the UK who are ready to make your property a safe space again. They are available 24/7, 365 days a year and can be on site within several hours if it is an emergency. 

Keep reading to learn more about what causes mould on shoes and how to remove it. 

What causes mould to grow on shoes?

Mould grows in damp conditions where there is poor ventilation and plenty of organic material for it to feed off of. Shoes tend to provide it with its ideal conditions for growth. Mould growth on pairs of shoes is primarily caused by the presence of excessive moisture tracked in from outdoors. But shoes also tend to be stored in damp, dark places with poor ventilation like a cloakroom or cupboard.

Another factor contributing to mould growth is the organic materials often used to make shoes. Leather and suede are particularly susceptible as they absorb moisture easily which can lead to the formation of mould spores.

Cleaning habits play a significant role, too. Infrequent cleaning and drying can allow dirt and organic matter to accumulate on shoes, providing nutrients that support mould growth. As mould can start growing within 24 to 48 hours, not thoroughly drying out very wet shoes quickly enough can allow mould growth.

How does mould affect shoes?

Mould growth does not just cause unsightly patches to appear on them. It can eat away at organic materials, causing them to deteriorate. The harmful fungus can cause them to emit an unpleasant, damp and musty odour, too.

If you keep your shoes near other garments, the mould could quickly spread to them. Mould on shoes in the wardrobe, for example, could quickly take over all your possessions. 

Mould is also dangerous to be exposed to. Inhaling, touching, and ingesting mould can trigger a range of health problems from an allergic reaction to asthma attacks and pulmonary infections.

People with weakened immune systems or pre-existing respiratory conditions, like asthma, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of mould, as are young children and elderly people.

Some kinds of mould release toxic substances as well as allergens and irritants, like Stachybotrys chartarum. These mycotoxins are linked with far more serious issues, including sick building syndrome. 

How to remove mould from shoes

While there are DIY mould removal methods available, they often involve harsh chemicals like bleach or white vinegar that could harm fabrics and damage your shoes more. Mould on leather shoes, for example, will require specific products for gentle removal.

Handling mould without proper protective gear can put your health at risk, too, as you will be highly likely to touch or inhale the spores. 

Abrasive cleaning methods can encourage the mould to release spores which can then travel to other parts of your property and cause a mould problem elsewhere. 

You should always leave mould remediation to specialist cleaners. They have access to specialised equipment and cleaning solutions designed specifically for use on delicate materials. They can eliminate all the mould from your property and diagnose the cause of the mould growth so you can take steps to prevent it returning in the future. 

Ways to prevent mould on shoes

First, always make sure your shoes are dry before putting them away. This might mean leaving them out to dry completely after a rainy day or after cleaning.

You should also avoid storing shoes in plastic bags which trap moisture and create the perfect breeding ground for mould. Instead, opt for breathable fabric bags or an open shelf that allows air to circulate around the shoe.

You can even tuck silica gel packets one into each shoe before storage to absorb moisture and maintain a drier environment.

High humidity levels indoors encourage mould growth not just on shoes but on walls and other surfaces, too. Use dehumidifiers or air conditioners to manage indoor humidity effectively and aim for levels below 60%.

Ventilation plays a crucial role, as well. Ensure rooms where you store your shoes have good airflow. Opening windows regularly helps reduce indoor moisture significantly.

Regularly cleaning your shoes not only enhances their look but can even help you catch the early signs of mould growth. 

You can learn more about the different ways to prevent mould growth on and inside shoes in this blog. 

Contact us today

Our technicians have been accredited by a wide range of organisations including Dewpoint Professional, BICSc, and SafeContractor. They can give you peace of mind that all the mould will be removed from your property safely. 

To learn more about our mould removal services, get in touch with our team on 0208 066 0360 or enquiries@icecleaning.co.uk.