Summer is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine. But it can be a challenging season for those of us who rely on orthotic inserts. Sweat and heat can lead to odor, discomfort, and even damage to your orthotics. So in the pursuit of happy feet this summer, we're breaking down our tried-and-true tips to help you keep your orthotic inserts fresh and clean during the hot weather.
Understanding the Sweat Factor
Keeping your orthotics dry and clean prolongs their wear. The environment inside your show can be moist and warm speeding up the growth of bacteria and other factors that damage your inserts and lead to less-than-pleasant smells.
Of course, in the summer, sweating is inevitable. With that in mind, there are several maintenance tips you can use to keep your inserts in good condition.
Choosing the Right Materials
The first step to keeping your orthotic inserts fresh is choosing the right materials for both your inserts and your shoes. Breathable materials like leather, mesh, and moisture-wicking fabrics can make a huge difference in keeping your feet cool and dry.
Breathable Shoes:
Opt for shoes made of natural materials like leather or canvas, which allow air to circulate.
Look for shoes with mesh panels to enhance breathability.
Avoid plastic or synthetic materials that trap heat and moisture.
Orthotic Insert Materials:
Consider orthotic inserts made from moisture-wicking materials that draw sweat away from your feet.
Inserts with antimicrobial properties can help reduce odor-causing bacteria.
Daily Care Routine
Keeping your orthotic inserts fresh requires a bit of daily care. Sure, creating a new habit can be hard, but it's really starting that's the toughest. If you can muster the gumption to give this a try, you'll have a new habit in no time.
Here’s a simple routine you can follow:
1. Remove Inserts Daily: After you take off your shoes, remove the orthotic inserts. This allows them to air out and dry properly.
2. Wipe Down Inserts: Use a damp cloth to wipe down your inserts and remove any sweat or dirt. Avoid soaking them, as this can damage the materials.
3. Air Dry: Let your inserts air dry completely before putting them back in your shoes. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the materials to degrade over time.
Deep Cleaning Your Orthotic Inserts
Even with daily care, your orthotic inserts will need a deeper clean from time to time. Our Premium Orthotic Inserts can last up to 6 months, more than double the industry average, if you take care of them.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Check Manufacturer Guidelines: Before cleaning, check any care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some materials may require special handling.
2. Gentle Wash: For most inserts, a gentle wash with mild soap and warm water is sufficient. Use a soft brush to scrub away any dirt or grime.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure to rinse your inserts thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
4. Dry Completely: Allow your inserts to air dry completely. Pat them dry with a towel to remove excess water, then leave them in a well-ventilated area.
We break this process down in more detail on this blog.
Fighting Foot Odor
Foot odor can be a major issue in the summer, but there are ways to combat it and keep your orthotic inserts smelling fresh.
Wear Breathable Socks:
Choose socks made from moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic blends designed for athletic wear.
Avoid cotton socks, which tend to retain moisture.
Use Foot Powder:
Apply foot powder to your feet before putting on socks and shoes. This helps absorb moisture and keep your feet dry.
Look for powders with anti-fungal properties to prevent infections.
Antibacterial Sprays:
Use an antibacterial spray on your orthotic inserts to kill odor-causing bacteria. Make sure the spray is safe for the materials of your inserts.
Rotating Your Inserts
This one is a biggie. If you use orthotic inserts daily, consider having more than one pair.
Rotating between inserts allows each pair to dry out completely and reduces wear and tear. This not only keeps them fresh but also extends their lifespan.
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Proper Shoe Care
Keeping your shoes fresh is just as important as caring for your inserts. Here are a few tips:
Alternate Shoes:
Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes two days in a row. Give them time to air out and dry completely. Try airing them on the porch or near circulating air for a faster and more efficient drying time.
Use Shoe Deodorizers:
Place shoe deodorizers or cedar shoe trees in your shoes overnight to absorb moisture and neutralize odors.
Wash Shoes Regularly:
For washable shoes, clean them regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For non-washable shoes, wipe them down and use antibacterial sprays.
Keeping Feet Clean and Dry
Last but not least, maintaining good foot hygiene is crucial. Here’s how to keep your feet clean and dry:
Wash Your Feet Daily:
Make sure to wash your feet thoroughly with soap and water every day. Pay special attention to the areas between your toes.
Dry Feet Well:
After washing, dry your feet completely. Moisture between your toes can lead to fungal infections.
Moisturize Wisely:
Use a light, non-greasy moisturizer on your feet to prevent dry skin, but avoid the areas between your toes.
Enjoy a Fresh and Comfortable Summer
Keeping your orthotic inserts fresh and clean in hot weather might require a bit of extra effort, but it’s well worth it for the comfort and health of your feet. By choosing the right materials, maintaining a daily care routine, deep cleaning regularly, and practicing good foot hygiene, you can enjoy all your summer activities without worrying about sweat and odor.
So go ahead, get out there and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. With these tips, your feet – and your orthotic inserts – will stay fresh, clean, and ready for every summer adventure!
Time to freshen up your inserts? Check out our shop.
*Disclaimer: This blog does not constitute medical advice. Premium Orthotics, a division of Wrymark, encourages you to seek professional medical care before starting any new healthcare or well-being practices.
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