Athlete’s Foot is a superficial fungal infection caused by dermatophytes, fungi that feed on keratin, the protein found in the outer layer of skin. While treating the infection is the first step, many people wonder whether contaminated shoes need to be discarded to prevent immediate recurrence. Throwing away all footwear is rarely necessary, as most shoes can be successfully disinfected and kept. The proper course of action depends less on the infection and more on the type and condition of your shoe.
Understanding Athlete’s Foot and Fungus Survival
Athlete’s Foot is caused by dermatophytes that colonize human skin. The fungus thrives in warm, dark, and moist environments, making the inside of a shoe an ideal breeding ground. Shed skin flakes contain highly resilient fungal spores that transfer easily to the shoe lining and other surfaces.
These fungal spores can remain viable inside footwear for months or even years. Continuing to wear the same shoes without proper sanitation allows the spores to serve as a constant source for re-infection. Disinfection is necessary to eliminate this reservoir of contamination and ensure the successful clearing of the infection.
When to Keep vs. When to Discard Footwear
The decision to discard footwear is based on the material and the shoe’s overall condition. Most common materials like leather, canvas, and synthetic athletic shoes can be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected without harm. Shoes that are heavily worn, cracked, or have significant interior damage, however, may be too compromised for complete sanitation.
Materials that are difficult or impossible to clean should be considered for disposal. Examples include heavily cushioned foam insoles or severely cracked leather that cannot withstand chemical or heat treatment. If the shoe is old, has a persistent odor after cleaning, or cannot be dried completely, replacement is the better choice. For most regular footwear, a comprehensive cleaning regimen is more economical and effective than replacement.
Effective Methods for Shoe Sanitation
Disinfecting shoes requires eliminating fungal spores and moisture. Begin by removing the insoles and laces, as these components absorb the most moisture and skin debris. Insoles can be scrubbed with hot water and an antifungal laundry disinfectant, then allowed to dry completely in the sun.
Interior Disinfection
For the shoe interior, use an antifungal or all-purpose disinfectant spray. Apply enough to lightly coat the inside surfaces, including the toe box and heel. Allow the disinfectant to remain wet for the contact time specified on the product label (often five to ten minutes) to ensure spore death. Once treated, place the shoes in a well-ventilated area to dry for at least 24 hours, since moisture encourages fungal growth.
Alternative Sanitation Methods
Another effective option for non-washable shoes is using an ultraviolet (UV) shoe sanitizer device, which kills fungi and bacteria inside the shoe within minutes. For shoes made of durable, washable fabrics like canvas, machine-wash them on a hot cycle using an antifungal laundry detergent. Never place shoes in a tumble dryer, as the heat can damage the structure and materials; instead, allow them to air dry thoroughly.
Steps for Long-Term Prevention
Preventing the recurrence of Athlete’s Foot depends on maintaining an environment inhospitable to the fungal spores. Ensure your feet are completely dry after bathing, paying particular attention to the spaces between your toes, where moisture often lingers. Using a separate towel for your feet and washing it frequently reduces the risk of spreading the fungus.
Shoe rotation is a protective measure, requiring you to alternate between different pairs of shoes daily, allowing each pair 24 hours to air out and dry completely. This prevents trapped moisture from creating the damp conditions the fungus needs to grow. Wearing socks made of moisture-wicking synthetic materials or absorbent natural fibers helps pull sweat away from the skin.
Applying an antifungal foot powder or drying powder to your feet and inside your shoes each morning helps to absorb excess moisture and suppress fungal growth. This routine, combined with proper sanitation, offers a strong defense against the re-emergence of the infection.