For shoe lovers, it’s common to have some pairs with attached insoles. They are more preferable when you need high arch support.
But the question is how to clean non-removable insoles? You cannot take out the insoles to wash them. So, how can you wash them when they are dirty?
Well, you can clean the attached insoles by mixing regular detergent and water in a bowl. Always use a soft-bristled brush to clean the shoes thoroughly. And for better results, use a handheld steamer.
However, there are some other ways to make the non-removable shoes look fresh and new again. Let’s head towards the details below!
Is It Better to Use Non-Removable Insoles?
To some extent, yes. It helps people deal with special foot conditions like flat feet. But they might create problems when you need padding inside.
Unlike removable shoes, non-removable ones lack adequate padding. Resultantly, you don’t feel comfortable at all. But in terms of foot support on harder surfaces, they do provide some extra cushion.
How Do You Clean Non-Removable Insoles?
It is tough to clean these shoes, especially when they get wet. Instead of throwing them in the washer, you can follow some basic cleaning steps with an old toothbrush, soap/detergent, and water.
To effectuate this technique, mix the soap/detergent with water. Then submerge the shoes in the mixture for a while. Finally, scrub the insoles gently with an old toothbrush.
Please remember any harsh bristle would affect the insoles. So, always look for a soft-bristled brush. Once you are satisfied that the dirt has been scrubbed off, rinse the shoes with clean water and dry them entirely.
Another alternative way of cleaning your glued insoles is to apply a thick layer of baking soda. Of course, you need to make a paste mixing water. The ratio of baking soda and water is 1:2 tablespoons.
Now, apply the paste to the dirt inside. Wait for half an hour at least. After that, soak a rag into lukewarm water and rub off the paste. Repeating this process a few times wonderfully works to eradicate the accumulated dirt inside.
Aside from that, you can use liquid soap, dishwasher, etc. as well to wash the inside of a non-removable pair of shoes. Interestingly, you can put them directly on the dirt and scrub with a used toothbrush for five to ten minutes.
Tired of the odor? Not anymore. What you need to eradicate the odor from the attached insoles is charcoal. Yes, you heard it right!
Although many people are not acquainted with this method, charcoal magically removes odor when placed inside the shoes wrapped with socks.
But you must be patient with this technique. Place the charcoal inside at least for twelve hours. Hopefully, you’ll get rid of the horrible foul smell.
And most importantly, you should not leave the shoes wet. After every wash, make sure to dry them inside out so that the remaining dirt may drop out!
How Do You Clean the Insoles of Leather Sandals?
As leather sandals are pretty expensive, you must be careful while cleaning their insoles. And you have to avoid washing machines as it is unfavorable for leather insoles.
To restore the attractive shine of leather shoes, there are some DIY tips. And the same afore-mentioned household materials like soapy water, microfiber cloth, used toothbrush, vinegar, baking soda, etc. come in handy while scouring any stain, dirt, or dust from the shoes.
First, get rid of the dried-out dirt with the help of a dampened cloth. It’s better to use microfiber cloth so as not to affect the leather surface.
Now, prepare a solution of liquid detergent or soap with water. Dip a piece of soft cloth in the solution and scour the shoes gently. Make sure it reaches every corner. And avoid using hot water as it might shrink the leather.
Nevertheless, you should wait for 15-20 minutes at least after applying the solution to the shoes. For leather sandals, we don’t recommend brushes. Instead, use a clean and soft cloth to wipe out the soapy residue. And a gentle scour is enough to rub off the dirt particles.
If needed, you can repeat the circle. But don’t put much pressure while scouring the shoes. And for removing odor from leather insoles, the anti-bacterial spray works great.
However, to stop mold and mildew build-up, you should clean the leather insoles after every use. Otherwise, sweat and moisture can pile up unexpected dirt and foul smell. So, be sure you can take care of the exposed surfaces as required.
How to Disinfect Inside of Non-Removable Shoes?
Due to limited access inside, non-removable insoles are pretty hard to clean. Therefore, it’s even harder to disinfect them thoroughly. So, how can you sterilize them without taking them out?
You can rely on direct sunlight to kill the germs inside of the shoes. Sunlight would help kill bacteria and remove odor. Other than that, vinegar, disinfectant spray, etc. will also work.
The most reliable way of sterilizing the shoes is to use disinfectant spray. First, you need to spray it on the shoe surface. Then rapidly wipe it off with a paper towel. Of course, you can use a piece of clean cloth too. But the spray shouldn’t last longer than twenty seconds on the shoe surface.
However, disinfectant spray is an expensive option. What if you don’t have one and you need to sterilize the shoes right away? Don’t worry, we have some household recommendations for that kind of emergency.
Did you know vinegar is a wonderful odor remover? On top of that, it prevents bacterial attacks not only on your food but also into your shoes!
With that being said, leave an adequate amount of vinegar inside the attached insoles overnight. The more you wait, the better they will be soaked. And therefore, there are more chances that your shoes will be germ-free.
The following morning, rinse the shoes thoroughly and soak the moisture with paper towels. Thus, you can easily eradicate any odor or germs from the attached soles of the shoes without harming them.
Can You Put Insoles in the Washing Machine?
No, you can’t. Usually, insoles should be hand washed even if they are removable. A solution of lukewarm water and mild detergent is a far better way to wash the insole than a machine wash, be it removable or non-removable.
Final Thoughts
On the closing note, we would like to recommend hand washing to clean your non-removable shoes. As you cannot take aside the insoles to wash them separately, using baking soda, vinegar, dish soap, or detergent is the most convenient way to clean them entirely.
Also, you can put some packs of silica gel inside. This won’t let the shoes stink. And cleaning them at a regular interval is an absolute must to prolong their lifespans.
If you are still confused about how to clean non-removable insoles, try any of the techniques above. Eventually, you will master the craft of cleaning glued insoles with ultimate perfection. And avoid dryers as air drying is the best choice to make the shoes pristine again.
