Try this easy expert hack to prevent mouldy shoes
Mouldy shoes can lead to health problems. Read on for an easy expert hack for removing and preventing mould in shoes.
Today, diligent cleaning of kitchens and living areas is expected, but one crucial area people often neglect is their shoe collection and the accumulation of mould.
Keeping shoes neatly arranged in the closet isn’t enough to prevent mould buildup and the health problems that come with it, warns Karl Graham, a professional organiser at Click Storage. Everyone should ensure their shoes are free from harmful mould, which can be difficult to detect and treat.
Mould build-up inside shoes can lead to multiple issues, including skin rashes, fungal infections, and even respiratory problems. This can happen anywhere, and quickly, but is especially risky for those in hot and humid climates. Not even an air-conditioned environment can stop mould growth.
Allowing mould to grow in your shoes doesn’t just harm you; it can harm those around you. But with this one trick, you can prevent mould growth before it ever becomes a problem.
Karl uses his extensive experience to reveal a hack that not only prevents mould from building up in shoes, so you and your family can avoid risk and stay healthy.
Try this expert hack to prevent mouldy shoes
Silicon packs, also known as silica gel packs or desiccant packs, can help prevent shoe mould. These small packets contain silica gel, a highly porous and granular form of silicon dioxide. This material has a strong affinity for water and is commonly used as a drying agent in various products.
When placed in a closed environment, such as a shoe, the silica gel in the pack will absorb moisture from the surrounding air. This process, known as adsorption, occurs because the silica gel has a high surface area and can attract and hold water molecules on its surface, Karl states.
Mould, like many other types of fungi, requires a moist environment to grow and thrive. The silica gel pack removes moisture from the shoe, creating an inhospitable environment for mould spores, preventing them from reproducing.
How to use a silicon pack to prevent mould in shoes
Here’s how to use a silicon pack to prevent mould in shoes.
Choose the right size packs
Silica packs come in different sizes and weights, ranging from 1 gram to 1000 grams. For use in shoes, choose small and compact packs, such as those ranging from 1-10 grams. This size makes sure the packs can easily fit inside the shoes without being too bulky.
Determine the number of packs needed
Depending on the size of the shoes, some may need more than one pack. Use 1-2 packs per shoe, with larger or more moist shoes requiring more packs.
Place the packs inside the shoes
The packs should be placed inside the shoes, close to the toe or heel area, where moisture tends to accumulate. The packs should not be in direct contact with the shoes, to avoid any potential damage.
Adjust for closet or leaving out
Whether the shoes are stored in a closet or left out, the use of silica packs remains the same. However, if the shoes are stored in a closed space such as a close. Regularly check and replace the packs as they may reach their maximum moisture absorption capacity faster in such environments.
Reuse and replace them when needed
Silicon packs can be reused multiple times simply by drying them out in the sun or a low-heat oven. Replace the packs every four to six months to ensure their effectiveness in preventing mould.
Keep your shoes mould-free
To keep your shoes mould-free, make sure you store them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and excess humidity. Regularly cleaning and airing out shoes will also help prevent mould growth.
Mould requires a moist environment to thrive, and excess moisture in shoes can be caused by factors such as sweat and wet weather. Silicon packs work by absorbing this excess moisture, thereby creating a less hospitable environment for mould to grow.
Silicon packs are non-toxic and safe to use in close contact with fabrics, making them an ideal solution for preventing mould in shoes. To prolong their effectiveness, regularly rotate the silicon packs and keep them in a dry, airtight container when not used.
Using silicon packs is a practical, low-cost, and non-invasive solution that can significantly decrease the risk of mould growth, keep you and your family healthy, and extend the lifespan of shoes.
Click Storage offers secure and convenient storage solutions across Kansas and Oklahoma. Their facilities feature modern security measures, including video surveillance and controlled access.
Customers can choose from various unit sizes, enjoy climate control options, and access their units 24/7 upon request. The company provides month-to-month leases with online management and payment options. Their customer service is available seven days a week, ensuring a smooth rental experience.
