Should You Clean Your Orthotics?

Yes, you must clean your orthotics. With use, they can gather dirt and moisture and begin to smell. More so, mold and mildew can easily grow in uncleaned orthotics. By keeping your custom orthotics clean, you prevent them from getting damaged from mold and mildew.

How to Clean Orthotics

As important as it is to clean your orthotics, you cannot just clean them how you see fit. You have to follow the instructions that are provided on their packaging. For instance, you cannot wash your orthotics in a washer or dryer. They will flatten out and lose shape. Instead, you can clean them with a mild detergent and a soft damp cloth, ensuring that you wipe the orthotics dry before putting them back in your shoes.

Another way to clean your orthotics is to submerge them in baking soda. Baking soda will kill all bacteria and neutralize any odor. To clean with baking soda, place the orthotics in a plastic bag filled with baking soda overnight. By morning, remove the orthotics from the plastic bag and wipe off any baking soda traces with a clean dry, or damp cloth.

Aside from these methods, you can also clean your orthotics by spraying them with rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or white vinegar. These solutions will kill any bacteria and they also dry off easily. You may, however, follow up the spraying of the orthotics with a mild detergent and a light scrub with water.

How Often Should You Clean Your Orthotics?

No matter which type of orthotics you own, whether they are arch supports or insoles, you should aim to clean them regularly. The idea is to establish a routine that will help you stay consistent with the cleaning. Most people either clean their orthotics weekly or fortnightly. Do what works for you and stick to it.