FAQs: How to Get Dog Poop Off Shoes

Getting dog poop on your shoes is never fun, but don’t worry! It’s a common mishap, and with the right approach, you can clean your shoes and make them good as new. Here’s a helpful FAQ guide on how to remove dog poop from your shoes quickly and effectively.

1. What’s the first step to take when I get dog poop on my shoes?

The first thing you want to do is act quickly to prevent the stain from setting. Here’s the initial process:

Remove excess poop: Use a disposable paper towel or an old napkin to gently scrape off as much poop as possible. Be careful not to push the mess further into the shoe.
Avoid smearing: Try to wipe in a downward motion, not rubbing it into the shoe material, to prevent spreading the stain.

2. How do I clean the shoe after removing the excess poop?

Once you’ve removed the bulk of the dog poop, here’s how to thoroughly clean your shoe:

Rinse with water: Take the shoe outside or use a sink to rinse the affected area with cold water. Don’t use hot water, as it can set the stain.
Use soap and water: Mix warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap or laundry detergent. Dip a cloth or sponge into the soapy water, then gently scrub the stained area.
Rinse again: After scrubbing, rinse the shoe with clean, cold water to remove any soap residue.

3. Should I use disinfectant or cleaner for a deeper clean?

If the shoe has a persistent odor or stain, you might need a more thorough cleaning:

Disinfectant wipes: Use wipes with a disinfectant or mild antibacterial solution to wipe down the affected area. This will kill bacteria and help with odor.
Vinegar solution: Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar and apply the solution to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it off. Vinegar also helps neutralize odors.

4. Can I use a brush to clean dog poop off shoes?

Yes, a soft-bristled brush can be very effective, especially for textured or rubber shoes:

Scrub gently: After applying soap and water, use a brush (like an old toothbrush) to scrub the soiled area. Be gentle to avoid damaging the shoe material.
Focus on grooves and seams: If the shoe has deep grooves or stitching, use the brush to clean those hard-to-reach areas where poop can hide.

5. How can I remove dog poop from leather or suede shoes?

Leather and suede are more delicate, so they require extra care:

Leather: For leather shoes, avoid soaking them. Instead, use a damp cloth with a small amount of mild soap to gently clean the stain. Afterward, use a leather cleaner and conditioner to restore the material’s luster.
Suede: For suede shoes, use a suede brush to gently scrub off the poop. Avoid getting the suede too wet, as this can ruin the texture. If necessary, use a mild suede cleaner designed for delicate materials.

6. How do I eliminate the odor of dog poop on my shoes?

Even after you’ve cleaned the poop off, odors can linger. Here are some tips to tackle that:

Baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe and let it sit overnight to absorb the odor. Shake it out the next day.
Activated charcoal: Place a small pouch of activated charcoal inside the shoe to absorb any lingering smells.
Air it out: Allow the shoe to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors. Sunlight can help reduce odors as well.

7. What if the poop stain won’t come off after cleaning?

If the poop stain has left a mark on your shoes despite your best efforts, don’t worry:

Use a stain remover: Try a commercial stain remover designed for tough stains. Apply it to the affected area, following the instructions on the product.
Repeat cleaning: Sometimes, it takes a couple of rounds of cleaning to completely lift the stain, especially if it’s set in.

8. Can I prevent dog poop from getting on my shoes?

While accidents happen, there are a few things you can do to reduce the chances of stepping in dog poop:

Stay alert: Watch where you're walking, especially in areas where dogs frequent. Pay attention to grassy areas or spots in parks where dog owners often let their pets go.
Wear shoes with more durable materials: Shoes with rubber soles or waterproof materials are easier to clean and less likely to absorb the stain.
Use shoe covers: In particularly messy environments, shoe covers can protect your shoes from contamination.

9. Can I put my shoes in the washing machine after getting dog poop on them?

If your shoes are machine washable (usually sneakers or certain types of fabric shoes), you can put them in the washing machine after cleaning off most of the poop. Here’s how:

Remove excess poop first: Scrape off as much poop as you can before washing them.
Place shoes in a laundry bag: To protect both your shoes and your washing machine, put the shoes inside a laundry bag.
Wash on a gentle cycle: Use cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using hot water, as it can set the stain and damage the shoes.

10. How do I dry my shoes after cleaning?

After cleaning your shoes, it’s important to dry them properly:

Air dry: Let the shoes air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators or hairdryers. High heat can cause the shoes to warp or lose their shape.
Use newspaper: For shoes with fabric, stuffing them with newspaper can help maintain their shape and absorb moisture.

Conclusion

Getting dog poop off your shoes isn’t a fun task, but with the right cleaning steps, you can easily tackle it. By acting quickly, using the right cleaning agents, and paying attention to the material of your shoes, you can restore them to their original state and avoid any lingering odors.