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Best Tips for Cleaning Your Insoles

By all means, you must clean your insoles to rid them of any bacteria, mold, dirt, or smell they may accumulate as you wear them. Here's how you can do this.

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By Babafemi Adebajo
Joel Taylor
Edited by Joel Taylor

Published June 30, 2022.

For the sake of your foot health, by all means, you must clean and maintain your insoles properly. Insoles form the footbed of your shoes. With use, they can accumulate dirt marks and become moldy. They can also absorb moisture from the feet and begin to give off an offensive odor if they're not taken care of properly.

How Often Should You Clean Your Insoles?

While insoles need cleaning, there is no hard and fast rule guiding how often. You will have to decide how often you will clean them based on the type of orthotics you own, frequency of usage, and duration of use. Insoles like arch supports are most likely to be worn daily, and thus require a weekly clean.

Generally, most people aim to clean their insoles weekly or at least fortnightly.

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How to Clean Insoles

There are several ways to clean your insoles. Whatever method you choose, the idea is to remove the dirt and remove any bacteria, mold, or odor. Here are a few ways you can do that:

  • Scrub your insoles with warm water and mild soap, or detergent, subsequently use a clean damp cloth to dry them. Make sure you do not soak your insoles in water. Also, ensure that you air-dry them overnight to remove any excess moisture.
  • Clean your insoles with either white vinegar, rubbing alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide. The method: you can either spray or rub these liquids onto your insoles. The goal is to kill any bacteria growing in your insole. Make sure to dry your insoles after this.
  • Place your insoles in a plastic bag filled with baking soda. Ensure the entire insoles are covered in baking soda and leave them overnight. By morning, you can take them out and wipe any baking soda residue with a cloth. Baking soda neutralizes all odors and kills bacteria.

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