Scuffed and smelly school shoes are never a good look. If you want your kid’s school shoes to last, it is important to look after them well.

HOW TO DRY SCHOOL SHOES

Splashing around in rain puddles leads to a whole lot of fun - and a pair of drenched shoes. If your child has ever returned from school wearing a pair of wet shoes that they need dry for the following day, then you’ve likely found yourself in a frantic rush to get this done in time.

Mud or dirt should be removed from footwear with a damp cloth (or toothbrush) when still wet.

1.       NEWSPAPER

• Fill the inside of the shoe with balled up newspaper.  Then wrap the rest of the newspaper around the outside of the shoe and use an elastic band to hold it in place.
• Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area.
• Depending on how quickly you are needing the shoes, you can periodically check on them and replace with fresh newspaper as needed.

2.       FAN HEATER

• If you’re in a rush, place your shoes in front of a fan heater (or a fan) with the top facing inwards.
• Make sure to take the laces and insoles out of the shoes to open up the inside of the shoe.

HOW TO REMOVE BAD SMELLS FROM SCHOOL SHOES

Bacteria and sweat can cause school shoes to smell. Make them last longer and stay fresh with shoe deodorisers/sneaker balls or these home remedies.

1.       BAKING SODA

• Liberally sprinkle baking soda in the offending shoe (or shoes) and then let it sit overnight. Dump out the powder in the morning.

2.       FABRIC SOFTENER SHEETS

• Tuck a new dryer fabric softener sheet into each sneaker and leave overnight to neutralise odors. It’s also a great idea to deodorise places where your kids store their shoes, such as a sports bag.

• Pop two to three bags into each shoe and let sit for 24 hours in a cool, dry area. 

BROKEN LACES

Replace worn laces before they break! It’s always a good idea to keep an extra pair of laces in the cupboard – you never know when you might need them.

For more school shoe maintenance advice, read our SCHOOL SHOE CARE article.