After countless hours on your feet, the last thing you want is to end your nursing shift in pain. Investing in high-quality nursing shoes can make a huge difference, but you also want to maintain them properly to extend their mileage.
By following a few simple tips, you can make sure your best nursing shoes remain in excellent condition for many shifts to come.
1. Clean and disinfect your shoes regularly
One of the easiest ways to care for your best nursing shoes is to clean and disinfect them regularly. Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on your shoes, causing wear and tear over time. Cleaning your shoes helps them to last longer and reduces the spread of infection. Depending on the material of your shoes, different cleaning methods will apply:
- Leather shoes: Use a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and grime. For a deeper clean, apply a small amount of leather cleaner and gently scrub with a soft brush. Finish by wiping off the cleaner with a damp cloth and letting the shoes air dry. Apply a leather conditioner to keep the material of your shoes supple and to prevent cracking.
- Synthetic shoes: Wipe with a damp cloth or sponge. For stubborn stains, use a mild soap solution and a soft brush. Rinse with a damp cloth and let them air dry.
- Synthetic mesh athletic shoes or fabric sports or casual shoes: Remove the insoles and laces, then hand wash the shoes and laces with a mild laundry detergent or dish soap and water. Use a soft brush to scrub away any dirt. Rinse thoroughly and air dry. Avoid using a washing machine, as it can damage the structure of the shoes.
In addition to cleaning your best nursing shoes, disinfect them after each shift. Use a disinfectant spray or wipes with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution to prevent the spread of pathogens. A study found that the soles of healthcare workers’ shoes possibly aided in the spread of a germ that causes diarrhea and colitis.
2. Properly dry your shoes
After cleaning, it’s important to always dry your shoes. Never place them in direct sunlight or use a heat source like a radiator or hairdryer, since this can warp or damage your nursing shoes. Instead, stuff them with an absorbent material, such as paper towels (which also helps them retain their shape), and allow them to dry naturally in a well-ventilated area to prevent bacteria build-up.
3. Rotate your shoes
Using the same pair of shoes every day can cause them to wear out more quickly. By rotating your shoes, and wearing a different pair, you can make them last longer and protect your feet.
4. Use shoe inserts
Shoe inserts or insoles can provide additional support and cushioning, enhancing your comfort and preserving the inside of your shoes. Look for arch support and padded insteps if you have plantar fasciitis or flat feet.
5. Store shoes properly
Proper storage helps to maintain the shape and condition of your nursing shoes. Keep your shoes in a cool, dry spot and out of direct sunlight, and away from heat sources. Use shoe trees or fill them with newspaper to help maintain their shape. Avoid piling items on them.
6. Waterproof your shoes
If your nursing shoes are made of leather or another material that can be waterproofed, consider applying a waterproofing spray to help protect them from spills and moisture. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results and reapply the waterproofing treatment every four to six weeks.
7. Address minor repairs promptly
Loose stitching or minor scuffs can age your shoes if not addressed promptly. Replace shoelaces when they wear out and keep an eye out for any signs of damage. Take care of minor shoe repairs as soon as possible, by using a leather repair kit to fix small scuffs or taking your shoes to a professional shoe repair shop to keep them looking and feeling their best.
8. Use protective gear
Working in a busy healthcare environment exposes your nursing shoes to spills and other hazards. Consider using protective shoe covers, during particularly messy tasks. This can protect your shoes and keep them in good condition.
9. Fight shoe odor
To keep your best nursing shoes smelling fresh, sprinkle some baking soda inside your shoes and then spray with white vinegar.
Even with excellent care, your best nursing shoes won’t last forever. A recent study found that nurses generally walk between 5,000 and 9,000 steps per day! Nurses should pay close attention to the condition of their work shoes and replace them every 6 to 12 months or whenever they show signs of wear and tear.
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