What to do with moldy shoes?

Springtime can mean a lot of things you guys and one of those things is rain. And if your not careful that could also mean mold. All this humidity in the air and open windows it’s not as farfetched idea as some may hope. Mold is very real and can be very easily in your clothes if you don’t watch out.  Believe it or not, mold growth on clothes and shoes is relatively common,. Mold generally refers to fungal growth that thrives in a warm, moist environment. These fungal spores can be airborne, and they can land and grow on almost any type of surface when conditions are right. But we have some tips for you to keep your belongings and warning signs for you to watch out for.

Tips to look out for:

 There are three warning signs of mold exposure: Moisture, Odor, and Discoloration. Moisture is self-explanatory. Odor - If you smell a musty or earthy smell in or on your clothes or shoes it could possibly mean there is mold. Discoloration - Mold comes in all different colors and textures. If you see areas of color change, you have a problem.

Leather shoes are especially susceptible to mold. It is not a breathable fabric and feet tend to sweat. That combination is not good for anything.

If you tend to leave your sweaty gym clothes in your gym bag over night, the moisture and being kept in a dark area is a breathing ground for mold. You might need to watch out, and wash that bag a.s.a.p. before it’s too late.

If you hit that point where the dots are connecting and you realize your favorite pair of shoes and/or pants has mold on it, it’s okay. We might be able to save them.

If your shoes have mold:

1.    Brush away all visible mildew. (Suede shoes only step)

2.    Pour ½ a cup of rubbing alcohol and ½ of warm water, equal amounts of both.

3.    Dip dishtowel into solution and wipe any past mildew spots, go over it twice.

4.    Dry shoe with a different towel

If your clothing has mold:

1. Dusts off the mildew and throw it in the washing machine. Replace laundry detergent with ¾ cup of vinegar in the load.

2. Brush off loose mold, place in the sun to dry thoroughly. Pre soak item in cold water and wash in hot water. Replace it in the sun to dry, if bleach safe add bleach to the washing machine for a second cycle. If not bleach safe solution of salt and lemon juice.

3. Mildicides and fungicides may also be purchased and sprayed onto clothing. Make sure to test first to make sure they don’t cause fading or discoloration on the fabric.

Keep in mind that mold will gradually consume the material that it is growing on. If mold growth is left untreated for a lengthy period of time, it ultimately may result in rotted and unsalvageable material.

If you all ever had mold anywhere let us know how you took care of it. Did you use at home remedies or did you have a professional take care of it?