NORTH DAKOTA ( KXNET ) — Clean kitchens and living areas are usually expected, but people neglect one critical area: Their shoe collection.

Not cleaning shoes can lead to the accumulation of mold, which can cause various health problems.

“Keeping shoes neatly arranged in the closet isn’t enough to prevent mold buildup and the health problems that come with it,” warned Karl Graham, a professional organizer at Click Storage. “Everyone should ensure their shoes are free from harmful mold, which can be difficult to detect and treat.”

The buildup inside shoes can lead to skin rashes, fungal infections, and even respiratory problems. It can happen everywhere, and not even air-conditioning can stop the growth.

“Allowing mold to grow in your shoes doesn’t just harm you; it can harm those around you,” Graham explained. “But with this one trick, you can prevent mold growth before it ever becomes a problem.”

To prevent the mold from ever starting, Graham recommends using silicon packs — also known as silica gel packs or desiccant packs. It’s a highly porous and granular form of silicon dioxide. The packs have a strong affinity for water and are used as a drying agent for various products.

“When placed in a closed environment, such as a shoe, the silica gel in the pack will absorb moisture from the surrounding air,” Graham stated. “This process, known as absorption, occurs because the silica gel has a high surface area and can attract and hold water molecules on its surface.”

Many types of fungi, including mold, need a moist environment to grow and thrive, and the silica gel removing moisture, makes for an inhospitable environment for mold spores, which prevents it from reproducing.

However, there are some tips for using silicon packets.

The first is to choose the right size, Graham said, “Silica packs come in different sizes and weights, rating from one gram to 100 grams. For use in shoes, choose small and compact packs, such as those ranging from one to 10 grams. This size makes sure the packs can easily fit inside the shoes without being too bulky.”

You should also figure out the number of packs you need. Depending on the size, some may need more than just one. Packs should be close to the toe or heel area, that’s where moisture tends to accumulate.

“The packs should not be in direct contact with the shoes, to avoid any potential damage,” Graham said.

If shoes are kept in a closet or are left out, the use stays the same, however, if they are stored in a closed space, they should be checked regularly.

Graham recommended to, “Regularly check and replace the packs as they may reach their maximum moisture absorption capacity faster in such environments.”

Thankfully, silicon packs can be reused multiple times, you just have to dry them out in the sun or in a low-heat oven. However, packs should be replaced in general every four to six months.

Shoes should also be in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.

“Mold requires a moist environment to thrive, and excess moisture in shoes can be caused by factors such as sweat and wet weather. Silicon packs work by absorbing this excess moisture, thereby creating a less hospitable environment for mold to grow,” Graham concluded. “Silicon packs are non-toxic and safe to use in close contact with fabrics, making them an ideal solution for preventing mold in shoes. To prolong their effectiveness, regularly rotate the silicon packs and keep them in a dry, airtight container when not used. Using silicon packs is a practical, low-cost, and non-invasive solution that can significantly decrease the risk of mold growth, keep you and your family healthy, and extend the lifespan of shoes.”

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