How to get mildew out of shoes: 3 Easy Steps

Introduction: Understanding the Fungal Foe on Your Footwear

How to get mildew out of shoes is simpler than you think. Here’s the quick answer:

Quick Steps to Remove Mildew from Shoes:

Brush off visible mold outdoors with a firm-bristled brush
Clean with vinegar solution – Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, wipe affected areas
For leather shoes – Use rubbing alcohol and water (1:1 ratio), then apply saddle soap
Dry completely – Air dry in sunlight or well-ventilated area
Prevent recurrence – Store shoes in dry, ventilated spaces with silica gel packets

You’ve opened your closet to find a fuzzy, musty disaster on your footwear. Whether it’s a single pair or an entire shipment, that distinctive earthy smell is mildew.

Mildew is a mold that thrives in damp, warm environments. When shoes don’t dry properly after exposure to moisture—from rain, sweat, or humidity—they become a perfect breeding ground. The dark, humid interior of a shoe is an ideal habitat for fungal growth.

The main culprits behind mildew on shoes are:

Moisture buildup from wet conditions or perspiration
Poor storage in damp, unventilated closets or containers
High humidity in manufacturing facilities or warehouses
Inadequate drying time before storage

Left untreated, mildew doesn’t just smell bad. It can permanently stain shoes, degrade materials like leather and canvas, and spread to other items in storage. For manufacturers and retailers, a moldy shipment can mean thousands of dollars in losses and damaged customer relationships.

The good news? Most shoes can be saved with the right approach. Acting quickly is key to preventing permanent damage.

I’m Eric Neuner, founder of NuShoe Inc. Since 1994, I’ve helped countless companies tackle how to get mildew out of shoes through our quality correction services, handling millions of pairs affected by mold. Whether you’re dealing with a few pairs or an entire container, the proper remediation process can save your inventory and reputation.

How to get mildew out of shoes vocabulary:

First, Identify the Problem: Signs of Mildew vs. Regular Odor

Before you learn how to get mildew out of shoes, it’s crucial to identify the problem. Is it regular shoe odor or a fungal issue? Mildew has tell-tale signs that set it apart.

Visual Cues: More Than Just a Little Dirt

Mildew isn’t always the fuzzy green or black patches you might recognize from old bread. It can be surprisingly varied in appearance, often blending in until it’s too late. Keep an eye out for:

Fuzzy or Downy Texture: This is perhaps the most common visual sign. Mildew often appears as a powdery, velvety, or slightly fuzzy growth on the surface of the shoe material.
Variety of Colors: Don’t expect just green! Mildew can manifest in a surprising array of hues. We’ve seen it as white mold on shoes, as well as green, black, brown, and even shades of orange. The color can sometimes depend on the type of mold and the material it’s growing on.
Patchy Appearance: Instead of an even discoloration, mildew tends to form in patches or spots, often concentrating in areas where moisture might linger, such as seams or creases.

The Nose Knows: A Distinctive Musty Smell

This is often the first and most unmistakable sign. Mildew produces a distinct, earthy, and sometimes slightly sweet, musty odor. It’s quite different from the typical shoe odor caused by perspiration. While regular shoe odor might be unpleasant, it usually lacks that damp, stale, “old basement” smell that screams mildew. If you catch a whiff of that unmistakable scent, it’s time to take action.

Health Concerns: Is Mildew on Shoes Dangerous?

Beyond the unpleasant aesthetics and smell, you might be wondering, “Is mildew on shoes dangerous to health?” The short answer is: yes, it can be.

Mildew is caused by bacteria and fungi growth, and while the smell itself isn’t a direct health concern, prolonged exposure to mildew and the associated allergens can certainly cause or worsen respiratory issues or allergies in some individuals. Imagine breathing in those microscopic spores every time you slip on your shoes!

Wearing moldy shoes can also lead to:

Skin Irritations: Direct contact with mold can cause rashes, itching, or other skin reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Foot Infections: Moldy shoes create an environment ripe for fungal foot infections like athlete’s foot or trench foot. Recognizing these health symptoms can also indicate mold presence in your footwear.
Spread to Other Items: Mold spores are tiny and can easily spread from your shoes to other items in your closet or home, worsening the problem.

So, while a little mold might seem harmless, it’s best to address it promptly for both the longevity of your footwear and your personal well-being.

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get Mildew Out of Shoes

Now that we’ve identified the culprit, let’s get down to business. Removing mildew from shoes is a process that requires a little patience and the right approach. The good news is that you often don’t need heavy chemical cleaners; common household items are incredibly effective.

Safety First!

Before you begin, mold spores can become airborne during cleaning. To protect yourself and prevent the spread of spores, we highly recommend:

Working Outdoors: This is a crucial step! Completing the whole cleaning process outside prevents the spread of mold spores throughout your home or facility.
Wearing Gloves: Protect your hands from both the mildew and the cleaning solutions.
Wearing a Face Mask: A disposable face mask will help prevent you from inhaling mold spores, which can irritate your respiratory system.

General Supplies You’ll Need:

Gather these items before you start:

A firm bristled brush (an old toothbrush can work for small areas)
A soft cloth (microfiber works great)
A bucket or small bowl
White distilled vinegar
Water
Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol)
Baking soda
Leather conditioner (for leather shoes)
Saddle soap (for leather shoes)

Initial Step: Brush Off Loose Spores

Once you’re safely set up outdoors with your protective gear, take your shoes and use the firm-bristled brush to gently brush off any visible, loose mold or mildew. This initial dry brushing helps remove the surface layer of spores and prevents them from getting pushed deeper into the material during wet cleaning. Be thorough but gentle, especially on delicate materials.

Now, let’s look at material-specific methods, because a canvas sneaker needs different care than a leather boot.

How to get mildew out of shoes made of leather

Leather shoes, with their luxurious feel and durability, are unfortunately quite susceptible to mold and mildew, especially when humidity is high. Their porous nature can easily trap moisture, creating that perfect breeding ground. The key to cleaning leather is to be effective without damaging the material.

Prepare the Cleaning Solution: In your bucket, mix equal parts cool water and rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol). The alcohol acts as a disinfectant, killing mold spores. For particularly stubborn areas or if you prefer an alternative, a solution with about 12% white vinegar (mixed with water) can also be effective.
Wipe Down the Leather: Dip your soft cloth into the cleaning solution, wring out any excess, and gently wipe down all affected areas of the leather. For crevices or intricate designs, a cotton swab dipped in the solution works wonders. Be sure to wipe the entire shoe, including the inside, to avoid water marks upon drying.
Deep Clean with Saddle Soap (Optional but Recommended): For a deeper clean, especially if the mold has left stains, consider using saddle soap. Follow the product’s instructions, typically involving working up a lather with a damp cloth and gently scrubbing the leather. Wipe away any soapy residue with a clean, water-dampened cloth.
Rinse (Lightly): If you used saddle soap, lightly wipe the leather with a clean, water-dampened cloth to remove any remaining cleaner.
Air Dry Away from Direct Heat: This is critical for leather. Allow the shoes to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area, but away from direct sunlight or artificial heat sources. Direct heat can severely damage and crack leather, undoing all your hard work. Stuff the shoes with plain white paper (not newspaper, as ink can transfer) to help them maintain their shape and absorb internal moisture.
Recondition the Leather: Once your leather shoes are completely dry, they’ll need some TLC. Apply one or two layers of a good quality leather conditioner. This restores the moisture and suppleness to the leather, which can be stripped away during the cleaning process. If needed, apply shoe cream or even colored polish to even out any color variations.

How to get mildew out of shoes made of canvas or fabric

Canvas and other fabric shoes are often a bit more forgiving than leather, but they still require careful attention when dealing with mildew.

Prepare a Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in your bucket. White distilled vinegar is an organic disinfectant and deodorizer, making it an excellent choice for eradicating mildew odors and killing spores.
Apply and Scrub: Dip your firm-bristled brush or soft cloth into the vinegar solution and scrub the affected areas of the canvas. For stubborn spots, let the solution sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing again.
Baking Soda Paste Method (for tough stains or odors): For persistent mildew or a really stubborn musty odor, a Baking soda paste can be highly effective. Mix baking soda with a small amount of hand soap and water to form a thick paste. Apply this paste to the moldy spots and scrub with your soft brush. Baking soda is a known mold and mildew killer and helps neutralize odors. Rinse off the paste thoroughly with clean water.
Rubbing Alcohol Technique (for canvas): For canvas shoes, a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water (equal parts) is another go-to solution. This can be particularly effective for disinfecting and ensuring all spores are killed. Apply with a cloth and allow to air dry.
Sun Drying Benefits: After cleaning, the best way to dry canvas shoes is in direct sunlight. Mildew thrives in damp, dark environments, so exposing your shoes to sunlight and fresh air helps kill any remaining odor-causing bacteria and dries the shoes thoroughly. The UV rays are a natural mold killer!
Machine Washing Option (for some canvas shoes): If your canvas shoes are machine washable, an extra wash (by hand or machine on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent) might be needed to remove any lingering vinegar smell or deep-seated mildew. Always check the shoe’s care label first!
Address Lingering Vinegar Smell: The vinegar has a potent smell, which can sometimes linger. You can overcome it by spraying an essential oil or tea tree/water mix afterwards, or simply by allowing them to air out for an extended period. Tea tree oil’s antifungal and antibacterial qualities can further help get rid of mildew and keep your shoes smell-free.

Special Care for Suede Shoes

Suede shoes are notoriously delicate and require the most careful approach when dealing with mildew. Water saturation can easily damage suede, leading to stiffening or permanent marks, so we need to be extra gentle. If your suede shoes have heavy mold, they might be beyond simple DIY remedies and could require professional attention.

Initial Dry Brushing: Start by using a specialized suede brush or a very soft-bristled brush to gently buff off any loose, visible mold. Always brush in one direction to avoid damaging the nap.
Spot-Treat with Diluted Solution: Unlike leather or canvas, you should avoid saturating suede. Instead, use a very lightly damp cloth with a highly diluted solution. You can use:
- Diluted White Vinegar: Mix 1 part white vinegar with 5-10 parts water.
- Rubbing Alcohol: Mix 1 part rubbing alcohol with 5-10 parts water.
- Mild Soap and Water: A very gentle, non-detergent soap mixed with water can also work. Dab the cloth onto the affected areas, working in small sections. The goal is to lift the mildew, not soak the suede.
Air Dry Thoroughly: Allow the suede shoes to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat, which can cause the suede to stiffen or crack.
Restore the Nap: Once completely dry, use your suede brush to gently restore the nap (the soft, fuzzy texture) of the suede. This helps to lift any flattened fibers and make the shoes look fresh again.
For Odor: If a musty odor persists, sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch or Baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight to absorb odors. Then, vacuum or brush it out.

This method is best for light mildew issues on suede. For extensive mold or deep stains, professional cleaning might be the safest bet to preserve your delicate footwear.

From Clean to Maintained: Preventing Future Mildew Growth

Removing mildew is a victory, but preventing its return is the ultimate goal. Most preventative measures are simple habits that save hassle and extend the life of your shoes. Since moisture buildup is the main cause, our prevention strategies focus on managing dampness.

Proper Drying is Key

This is perhaps the most crucial step in preventing mildew. The warm, damp environment inside a shoe after a long day of wear, or after getting caught in the rain, provides a perfect breeding ground for mildew.

Remove Insoles: The insoles of your shoes, in particular, can absorb liquid and stay damp longer than many people expect. Always remove insoles from your shoes to allow them to dry separately and more thoroughly. You can hang them on a line or simply lay them flat in a well-ventilated area.
Stuff with Newspaper: For wet shoes, stuffing them with newspaper can help absorb excess moisture. However, be cautious: if the environment isn’t warm enough to dry the newspaper quickly, it can worsen the problem. Change the newspaper frequently, or better yet, use plain white paper to avoid ink transfer.
Use a Shoe Dryer: For those whose shoes frequently get wet, an electric shoe dryer is a game-changer. These devices use gentle heat or airflow to dry shoes quickly, preventing mildew growth. Many models even include UV light for sanitization. My dad bought me one years ago; I thought it was a dumb gift, but it has been the best ever. It gets them bone dry without damage!
Air Them Out: If you don’t have a shoe dryer, simply opening up your shoes (undoing laces, pulling tongues forward) and placing them in a well-ventilated area, perhaps with a fan blowing directly on them, can significantly speed up drying.

Smart Storage for a Mildew-Free Future

Where and how you store your shoes makes a huge difference. Storing your shoes in a damp, dark place is like rolling out the red carpet for mildew.

Well-Ventilated Areas: Always store your shoes in a dry, well-ventilated environment. Avoid damp basements, humid closets, or sealed plastic containers that trap moisture. If the atmosphere inside your closet is overly damp, that could help foster mold growth on your shoes.
Wire Racks Over Wood: If possible, use wire shelving for shoe storage. Wire racks allow for better air circulation around your shoes compared to solid wooden shelves, which can sometimes contribute to moisture retention.
Avoid Plastic Bags: While it might seem like a good idea to protect shoes in plastic bags, these can trap humidity and create a perfect microclimate for mildew. Opt for breathable fabric bags or boxes with air holes if you need to store them.
Consider a Dehumidifier: If you live in a humid climate like San Diego, California, or have a particularly damp closet, a dehumidifier can be an excellent investment. It will pull excess moisture out of the air, creating an environment far less hospitable to mold growth.

Moisture Absorbers: Your Secret Weapon

These little helpers work wonders in keeping your shoes and storage areas dry.

Silica Gel Packets: Those small packets that come with new shoes? Don’t throw them away! Tuck silica gel packets into your shoes or place them in your shoe storage areas to absorb excess moisture. Remember to replace them regularly as they lose effectiveness over time.
Activated Charcoal: Activated charcoal is highly effective at absorbing and neutralizing odors and moisture. You can buy charcoal sachets specifically for shoes or place a few pieces of activated charcoal inside each shoe for at least 24 hours.
Dry Tea Bags: As a simple, natural alternative, dry tea bags can also help absorb moisture and impart a pleasant scent to your shoes.

Regular Maintenance and Rotation

A little routine care goes a long way.

Rotate Your Shoes: Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes day in and day out. Rotating your footwear allows each pair to completely dry out and air between wears, significantly reducing the chance of mildew.
Clean Regularly: Even if they don’t appear moldy, regularly cleaning your shoes (especially insoles) helps prevent future problems.
Choose Breathable Materials: When buying new shoes, consider materials like leather, canvas, or mesh, which tend to be more breathable than some synthetics, helping to reduce moisture buildup.

By adopting these habits, you’ll not only keep the mildew at bay but also extend the life and freshness of your beloved footwear.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mildew on Shoes

We know you might have a few more questions swirling around your head after tackling the mildew monster. Let’s address some of the most common ones we hear.

What’s the fastest way to remove the mildew smell?

Sometimes, you need a quick fix for that musty stench. While thorough cleaning is always recommended, here are some speedy solutions for getting rid of the mildew smell:

Baking Soda Overnight: This is our go-to for speed and effectiveness. Baking soda is a versatile and effective remedy for eliminating unpleasant musty odors. It works by absorbing moisture and neutralizing odors. Simply sprinkle a generous amount inside the shoes, ensuring all areas are covered, and leave it overnight. In the morning, shake out the residue.
Activated Charcoal Sachets: Activated charcoal is highly effective at absorbing and neutralizing odors. Place a few pieces or sachets of activated charcoal inside each shoe for at least 24 hours.
Freezing Method: Believe it or not, freezing can kill the mildew and eliminate the odor. Place your shoes in a sealable plastic bag and put them in the freezer overnight. Thaw them out and air them well afterward.
Sunlight and Fresh Air: Mildew thrives in damp, dark environments. Exposing your shoes to direct sunlight and fresh air for a few hours can help kill odor-causing bacteria and dry out any residual moisture. Just be mindful of direct sunlight on delicate materials like leather, as it can cause damage.
Tea Tree Oil Spray: Tea tree oil has natural antifungal and antibacterial qualities. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with water in a spray bottle, shake well, and lightly spritz the inside of your shoes. Allow them to air dry. This can also help combat any lingering vinegar smell from cleaning.

Can mildew permanently damage my shoes?

Unfortunately, yes, mildew can cause permanent damage to your shoes if left untreated. It’s not just a surface problem. Here’s how:

Staining and Discoloration: Mildew often leaves behind unsightly stains and discoloration that can be very difficult, if not impossible, to remove, especially on lighter-colored materials.
Material Degradation: Mold and mildew literally feed on organic materials. Over time, they can degrade the fibers of fabrics like canvas, break down the structure of leather, or weaken synthetic materials. This can lead to brittleness, cracking in leather, and general weakening of the shoe’s integrity.
Persistent Odors: Even after cleaning, deeply penetrated mildew can leave behind a persistent, musty odor that just won’t go away, making the shoes unpleasant to wear.

Acting quickly is crucial. The sooner you address the mildew, the higher the chance of a full recovery for your footwear. If the mold has deeply penetrated the material or caused significant structural damage, the shoes might be beyond saving.

What commercial products can help with mildew?

While home remedies are often effective, sometimes you might want the extra power or convenience of commercial products.

Odor-Eliminating Sprays: There are many shoe-specific odor-eliminating sprays on the market designed to neutralize smells rather than just mask them. Some, like Scholl Fresh Step Shoe Spray, 150ml, are well-regarded for tackling stubborn odors.
Hospital-Grade Disinfectants: Broad-spectrum, hospital-grade disinfectant sprays work very well for getting rid of shoe odor because they kill both fungus (like mildew) and bacteria that may be lurking in the shoes. You can often find these at veterinary or pet supply stores. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and ensure proper ventilation when using these products.
Moisture-Absorbing Products: Beyond silica gel packets, you can find larger moisture-absorbing products or activated charcoal bags designed for closets or shoe storage, which can help prevent mildew in the first place.
Odor-Neutralizing Insoles: If you frequently deal with shoe odor, consider investing in odor-neutralizing insoles, often designed with activated carbon, to absorb smells before they become a problem.

When using any commercial product, always read the label carefully and test it on an inconspicuous area of your shoe first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.

Conclusion: Step Forward with Fresh, Mold-Free Shoes

Finding mildew on your shoes can be disheartening, but as we’ve explored, it’s a common problem with very achievable solutions. By understanding the causes, recognizing the signs, and following our step-by-step guide on how to get mildew out of shoes, you can breathe new life into your footwear.

Remember the key takeaways:

Clean: Act quickly and use the right cleaning agents for your shoe material – vinegar and rubbing alcohol are your best friends.
Sanitize: Ensure you’re killing the mold spores, not just wiping them away.
Dry: Thorough and proper drying is paramount to prevent recurrence.
Prevent: Implement smart storage habits and use moisture absorbers to keep mildew at bay.

Saving your shoes isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about hygiene, extending the life of your investments, and making sustainable choices. Most of the time, a little elbow grease and common household items are all you need to tackle the problem.

However, for extensive or commercial-scale mold issues – perhaps you’re a retailer in San Diego, California, or a manufacturer in India dealing with an entire shipment – DIY might not be enough. That’s where professional expertise comes in. At NuShoe Inspect & Correct, we’ve been specializing in quality control inspection and repairs, including comprehensive mold removal, for the shoe and apparel industries since 1994. Our experience ensures fast turnaround times and competitive prices, helping you protect your inventory and your brand.

Don’t let mildew ruin your day or your inventory. Step forward with confidence, knowing your shoes are fresh, clean, and ready for whatever comes next.

Learn more about professional shoe odor removal services and how we can help.

Moldy Shoes? No Problem! Easy Steps to Clean and Restore