How To Clean Shoes After Toenail Fungus? Expert Tips!

Dealing with toenail fungus can be a frustrating and embarrassing experience. While seeking medical treatment is crucial, it’s also essential to take steps to prevent the fungus from spreading or re-infecting your feet. One often overlooked aspect of managing toenail fungus is properly cleaning your shoes, as they can harbor fungal spores and contribute to recurring infections. In this article, we’ll explore expert tips on how to clean shoes after toenail fungus, based on recommendations from trusted sources.

Understanding Toenail Fungus And Its Spread

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition caused by various types of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making shoes an ideal breeding ground. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), toenail fungus can spread from one toenail to another or to other parts of the body, including the skin (Source: https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/nail-infections.html).

The Importance Of Cleaning Shoes

When you have toenail fungus, your shoes can become contaminated with fungal spores, increasing the risk of re-infection or spreading the fungus to other areas. Even after successful treatment, wearing shoes that harbor fungal spores can lead to a recurrence of the condition. That’s why it’s crucial to clean and disinfect your shoes thoroughly to prevent the fungus from spreading further.

Expert Tips For Cleaning Shoes After Toenail Fungus

1. Disinfect The Shoes

The first step in cleaning your shoes is to disinfect them using a fungicidal spray or wipe. Look for products specifically designed to kill fungi, such as those containing quaternary ammonium compounds or boric acid. Pay close attention to the insides of the shoes, especially the toe box area where your toes make contact. Allow the disinfectant to dry completely before proceeding.

2. Scrub The Insoles

Remove the insoles from your shoes and scrub them thoroughly with a solution of warm water and antibacterial soap. You can also soak the insoles in a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) for 30 minutes before rinsing them thoroughly with clean water. This will help kill any fungal spores that may be present. (Source: https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/ss/slideshow-toenail-fungus)

3. Use Antifungal Powder

After cleaning and drying the shoes, sprinkle antifungal foot powder inside, focusing on the toe box area. Antifungal powders containing ingredients like miconazole nitrate or tolnaftate can help absorb moisture and inhibit fungal growth. (Source: https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/staying-one-step-ahead-of-toenail-fungus)

4. Expose To Sunlight

If possible, place your shoes in direct sunlight for a few hours. The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can help kill fungal spores and dry out any remaining moisture inside the shoes.

5. Replace Insoles

Consider replacing the insoles of your shoes with new ones, especially if they are heavily soiled or worn out. This will help eliminate any remaining fungal spores that may be present in the old insoles.

6. Rotate Shoes

Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes daily, as this can create a warm and moist environment that promotes fungal growth. Instead, rotate between different pairs of shoes, allowing each pair to dry out completely between uses.

7. Use Shoe Sanitizers

There are specialized shoe sanitizers available that use ultraviolet light or ozone to kill fungi and bacteria inside shoes. These products can be an effective way to disinfect your shoes and help prevent the spread of toenail fungus.

8. Deep Clean Regularly

Repeat the cleaning process regularly, especially if you continue to experience toenail fungus infections. Consistent cleaning and disinfecting of your shoes can help prevent the fungus from spreading or re-infecting your feet.

Remember, while cleaning your shoes is essential, it should be done in conjunction with appropriate medical treatment for toenail fungus. Consult with your healthcare provider or podiatrist to determine the best course of action for treating and managing your toenail fungus effectively.

Conclusion

Taking the necessary steps to clean and disinfect your shoes after toenail fungus is crucial to prevent the spread of the fungus and reduce the risk of re-infection. By following these expert tips and consulting with healthcare professionals, you can effectively manage toenail fungus and keep your feet healthy.