Do your favourite pairs of shoes end up discoloured, crumbled, and unusable due to dry rot caused by fungi and material breakdown?
Don’t fret; there are ways to prevent this tragedy! Join us in exploring effective techniques on how to keep shoes from dry rotting. Let’s dive in and save our soles together!
What Is Dry Rot In Shoes?
Dry rot can wreck your shoes. Unfortunately, it occurs when the materials become excessively dry and start to decay under a lack of moisture. A fungus named Serpula lacrymans is usually responsible for this shoe destroyer.
This destructor causes a brittle texture that looks powdery on the surface of your favorite footwear. The issue differs by the type of shoes you own: Dry rot in leather shoes, results in discolouration while rubber may decompose polymers making them exceedingly dry and useless.
If you keep your shoes in a moist place without enough airflow, they could develop a problem where they become brittle and crack.
Dry Rot in Sneakers Shoes
Sneaker lovers beware, dry rot can take a toll on your precious pair! Improper storage and exposure to certain environmental factors can deteriorate the structure and comfort of your sneakers. Even synthetic materials like rubber and foam are not immune to dry rot caused by polymer breakdown.
Possible Reasons Dry Rot Occurs In Shoes
Dry rot in shoes can occur due to various reasons, including improper storage. One of the primary contributing factors is exposing shoes to damp or humid environments, which creates a favorable breeding ground for fungi and bacteria.
Also, if you ignore taking care of your shoes regularly, they can get ruined more quickly.
Storing shoes in plastic boxes can be a convenient and space-saving option. But it may not be the best idea if you want to maintain your footwear’s condition.
The plastic containers can trap moisture inside, which can make things worse. Since wet environments are breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi that can cause smelly feet and even foot infections. Similarly, exposing shoes to direct sunlight
Using cheap materials and ineffective techniques can lead to dry rot in your shoes. To avoid this, it’s essential to address these factors by investing in high-quality footwear and proper construction methods. This investment will significantly decrease the likelihood of dry rot happening again.
How to Keep Shoes from Dry Rotting
Below are some 10 tips to prevent shoes from dry rotting. The following methods work for sneakers, leather and rubber shoes.
1. Don’t Store Shoes in a Plastic Shoe Box
Storing shoes in a plastic box may seem neat and tidy, but it can do more harm than good. By trapping moisture and limiting air flow, plastic boxes create the perfect environment for mould and mildew to grow.
Worse still, low ventilation can cause materials in the shoe to dry out and lead to “dry rot shoes.” That’s why it’s important to store shoes somewhere with proper airflow – on open shelves or racks! Having enough circulation will keep your favourite footwear fresh for longer.
2. Invest in High-Quality Shoes
Investing in high-quality shoes is a no-brainer for anyone keen on preventing shoe decay and increasing the longevity of their footwear.
High-end shoes boast resilient materials that can survive diverse weather conditions without compromising your comfort needs. Fake and cheap leather shoes, not so much.
Genuine leather boasts lower rates of deterioration, provided you take care of them appropriately. By investing in legitimate brands known for producing quality products, you are securing the future health of both your shoes and feet while also guaranteeing value for money in the long run.
3. Buy Corrosion Resistant Metal Hardware
One way to prevent dry rot in shoes is by using corrosion-resistant metal hardware. The metal components like eyelets or buckles can rust over time, causing material decay.
Investing in rust-proof metal hardware can help increase the longevity of shoes and keep them looking as good as new.
Choosing shoes with corrosion-resistant hardware or replacing the existing one with rust-proof alternatives is a great way to keep your footwear intact. This not only improves the overall look and performance of your shoes but also increases their lifespan while minimizing dry rot risk.
When taking care of your shoes, it’s important to remember that even the most well-maintained pairs can still fall victim to rust. To ensure your favourites last for years, opt for rust-proof metal components.
4. Store Shoes in a Dry Environment
To keep your shoes in top shape, it’s essential to store them in a dry environment that prevents the development of dry rot in shoes and maintains their quality. The best location should have enough air circulation to balance moisture levels and moderate temperature.
Consider storing your shoes in a walk-in closet or dedicated shoe cabinet with adequate airflow – they can be perfect options for keeping your footwear looking its best!
To keep your leather shoes looking like new, remember to avoid direct sunlight. The excessive heat can cause cracks or discolouration in the material.
If your shoes are wet or damp, don’t panic, simply stuff them with some newspaper – it works wonders at absorbing excess moisture and maintaining their shape.
You can protect your shoes from dry rot and prolong their lifespan by adopting these simple measures. By safeguarding them, your shoes will stay in perfect condition for a more extended time.
5. Always Keep Leather Shoes Polished
One should keep their leather shoes polished to maintain their appearance and condition. This is because regular polishing helps prevent the leather from drying out, retains its original colour, and prolongs wear. By keeping your shoes polished, you can project a professional image and enhance your overall sophistication.
For shiny leather shoes, start by wiping off any dirt or debris using a soft cloth or brush. Next, apply a quality leather polish that matches your shoe colour.
Gently buff the polish into the leather using circular motions. Finally, allow the polish to dry completely before wearing your shoes. By making this polishing routine a priority, you’ll ensure long-lasting durability and chicness for your beloved footwear.
6. Apply Anti-Rust Protectant
Protecting your shoes from dry rotting is achievable by applying an anti-rust protectant. This type of protection forms a barrier on the surface of the shoe material, preventing moisture and oxygen from causing damage.
To safeguard your favourite pair of shoes and prevent potential issues like dry rot, it’s important to use a high-quality anti-rust spray.
Following the product instructions carefully will ensure the best results. Always allow the shoes to dry completely before wearing them again. This small step can help prolong their lifespan and keep them looking great for longer. Incorporating this into your regular shoe care routine is highly recommended.
7. Use Shoe Trees
Shoe lovers, did you know that dry rot can ruin your favourite kicks? Lucky for you, using shoe trees is a simple solution. These little helpers, made from materials like cedar or other woods, absorb moisture and maintain the shape of your shoes.
Leather shoes benefit especially from shoe trees since they prevent the leather from shrinking and cracking due to dryness.
Shoe trees have an essential role in keeping your shoes fresh and free from unpleasant odours. They are a simple yet effective way to extend the life of your beloved shoes by maintaining their pristine appearance, enabling you to wear them again with confidence. After each use, using shoe trees guarantee that they remain in top-notch condition.
8. Place Shoes on a Shoe Rack
Keeping shoes in good condition is important if you want them to last. Placing them on a shoe rack is an effective way to prevent shoes dry rot and ensure that they stay fresh and dry.
When stored properly, shoes receive the necessary ventilation and airflow which prevents dampness from causing damage. This ultimately saves you money by extending the lifespan of your footwear.
Shoe racks not only keep your footwear organized but also protect them from moisture damage by keeping them off the floor and away from damp areas.
With a shoe rack, you can easily find your desired pair whenever you need it. Don’t let damp floors ruin your favourite shoes – invest in a shoe rack today.
Additionally, using shoe racks not only makes your life easier by keeping everything organized but also adds a touch of elegance to your closet. These practical storage solutions can be a stylish element that enhances the overall visual aspect of your space.
9. Clean Insoles with Vinegar
To prevent dry rot and prolong the life of your shoes, try cleaning the insoles with vinegar. It’s easy to do: just remove the insoles from your shoes and soak them in a mixture of equal parts water and white distilled vinegar. This simple method will keep your shoes fresh for longer!
For those dealing with noticeably bad insole odours, a simple solution involves adding a few drops of tea tree or lavender essential oil to help eliminate bacteria that cause the odour.
Once this mixture is created, submerge your insoles and let them soak for at least 3 hours or even overnight if necessary. Afterwards, rinse thoroughly under running water and air-dry completely for fresh-smelling shoes.
10. Fill Your Shoes With Newspaper
If you want to prevent your shoes from dry rotting, filling them up with newspaper is a great hack. The moisture absorption quality of newspapers keeps your shoes dry and prevents fungi growth that may cause dry rot in the first place.
Besides, using newspaper can help maintain the original shape of your footwear, which significantly reduces the chance of developing cracks or crevices resulting in deterioration.
To keep your favourite footwear in top condition, all you need is a few sheets of crumpled newspaper. Stuff it into your shoes until they are filled to absorb the moisture and maintain the perfect environment.
Remember to change the newspaper every week for best results. This simple solution will help extend the life of your shoes and keep them looking fabulous for years.
Things You Can Do To Help Stop The Spread Of Dry Rot
Preventing dry rot from spreading is critical for maintaining the quality and extending the life of your shoes. It’s highly recommended to take necessary steps to control it before it sets in completely.
1. Storing your shoes in a cool, dry place can help prevent fungal growth and dry rot caused by excessive moisture and humidity. Keep your footwear safe from these pesky problems by giving them the right home.
2. One should check their shoes regularly for any signs of damage or wear. By doing so, they can ensure that their shoes last longer and are always in top condition. Using specialized products engineered to preserve the material of one’s shoes can
3. Regularly cleaning and shining your shoes is crucial to keeping them in top condition. To ensure they stay nourished and protected, it’s important to use waterproof sprays or treatments to keep moisture and potential fungal growth at bay.
By taking these simple steps, one can easily prevent their shoes from getting damaged by dry rot. This will help them keep their favorite pair of shoes in excellent condition for years to come. It’s important to follow precautions and avoid the spread of dry rot.
Conclusion
To keep your shoes in tiptop shape, it’s essential to care for them properly. This means investing in quality pairs, keeping them in a dry space, and using tools like shoe trees.
Luckily, preserving footwear isn’t as hard as it may appear at first glance: by following the above suggestions, you can enjoy many extra years with your favourite kicks while avoiding the disappointment of chucking them due to decay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Are My Shoes Dry Rotting in My Closet?
shoes falling apart in closet might be because of your damp closet, which is prone to developing dry rot. The lack of air circulation and exposure to moisture cause the shoes’ natural oils and moisture to evaporate, resulting in brittle material that can crack or break entirely.
Are Plastic Shoe Boxes Good for Storing Shoes?
When it comes to storing shoes, plastic shoe boxes might not be the best option for the long haul. Why, you ask? Well, they can actually hold onto moisture and contribute to mould growth.
And nobody wants mouldy shoes! If left unchecked, this can cause your shoes to start dry rotting which can make them too brittle before ultimately disintegrating.
What Kind of Shoes Are More Susceptible to Dry Rotting?
Leather shoes may be prone to drying out and rotting, but they can be long-lasting if you take good care of them.
Can Dry Rotting Be Fixed?
When shoes dry rot, the damage can’t be undone, but you can prevent it from happening in the first place. Taking precautions is key to avoiding dry rot and extending the lifespan of your shoes. Follow the above recommendations for protecting your footwear.
How Can I Tell If My Shoes Are Dry Rotting?
When shoes become brittle and fragile to the touch, it may indicate dry rotting. Additionally, if a white powdery substance appears on the surface or there is any discolouration (in case of leather), or cracking and breaking apart (if rubber), these are further signs of dry rotting.
To preserve your beloved shoes for longer wear, it’s essential to recognize these symptoms and take action before irreversible damage occurs.
