Stinky Shoe Remedy #011 – Nuclear Option…Use Bleach
PROPOSED HOME REMEDY
I throw my husband and children’s shoes in a tub full of hot water and bleach and it takes care of any stench that permeates through the house. It cleans the shoes up real good too. For non-whites I use color-safe bleach. Also helps that we leave all the shoes in the garage upon entering inside the house.
I tried baking soda in my own sneakers before but because the inside was a dark blue, this didn’t work very well. I ended up having to toss the shoes in the wash. So be careful what shoes you put baking soda in.
By mommynah
Now I’m not an biochemist, but every time I’ve pulled out the bleach to clean something it was THE last resort. This stuff works for a reason. With the power of the web, that answer is close at hand. Look no further than, What is Bleach and How Does it Work. Here’s the skinny. Most bleaches are oxidizing agents. They work by breaking down the chemical bonds of a chromophore (part of a molecule that has color). That’s why it removes color (not a good idea to use on those beautiful new neon yellow Nike Lunas). Of course, they make color-safe bleach, but the whole idea is starting to not sound very good.
Can bleach kill the odor-causing bacteria in your shoes? Sounds like it, but read this sentence and tell me if you want this “caustic stuff” bleaching your $100 shoes (with high tech synthetic fabric and EVA foam) or indirectly coming into contact with your foot (let’s hope you’re not a sockless runner or walker).
For 200 years, chlorine bleach has been the go-to chemical for obliterating germs, but scientists are just beginning to uncover how the caustic stuff kills bacteria and other microbes….While using bleach will certainly kill the germs on your kitchen counter or in your tub, it is also hazardous to the environment after it’s washed down the drain, as well as to your health if the room you’re working in isn’t properly ventilated.
While I’m certainly sympathetic to those who have lost a great pair of shoes to the stink monster, after reading above I just can’t back the bleaching method. Seems too high risk. Fraught with peril for all who go there. Hey, I got an idea. How about a 100% natural, totally cost-effective way to keep your shoes from the clutches of the Stink Monster. Just use Stuffitts Shoe Savers. Your feet, your family and the environment will thank you for it!
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