How to care for footwear in monsoon: 4 rules to follow

Although it may feel good, rainy weather is terrible for your shoes. Sneakers smell, leather splits, and suede becomes irreparably discolored. If shoes aren't properly cared for, the extreme humidity and continuous exposure to rain can cause harm. We'll go over the best practices for maintaining and preserving your leather shoes throughout the monsoon season in this article. Here are four essential rules to follow to protect your footwear during the rainy season:

First things first— keep your leather and suede shoes away during the monsoon season. Before you even step into the rain, it’s important to pick the right type of footwear. Materials like rubber, PVC, and synthetic leather are perfect to step out in the monsoon, as they resist water damage and dry quickly. Invest in one or two good-quality waterproof pairs that can handle slush and rain while keeping your feet dry and supported. Avoid suede, canvas, and pure leather, which absorb water and take longer to dry, leading to bad odour and damage.

Taking care of your shoes during monsoon doesn’t have to be complicated. All you need to do is not let your shoes sit wet and dirty. As soon as you return home, wipe your shoes with a cloth, remove any mud, and stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture and maintain shape. Then place them in a well-ventilated spot to air-dry. Never use a hairdryer as a quick fix directly on shoes—it may permanently damage the material. Keeping them under direct sun for long hours can lead to cracking or fading of the shoe.

Wearing the same pair every day during the rainy season is a surefire way of ruining it. Waterlogged shoes need time to dry completely to avoid mold or foul smell. Therefore, it is better to keep at least two pairs in rotation so one can rest and dry while you wear the other. Use silica gel packets in your shoe racks or bags to absorb excess moisture.

Humidity often causes your shoes to smell or grow fungus. Dust a little talcum powder or baking soda inside them after use to prevent odour. You can also spray them with an anti-fungal or antibacterial spray to keep them fresh and hygienic. A few drops of tea tree oil or neem oil mixed with water can be sprayed inside shoes for a natural anti-fungal effect.

A few preventive steps, quick cleaning habits, and smart choices can go a long way in keeping your footwear looking and smelling fresh. Treat your shoes with care, and they’ll keep you walking comfortably—even through the heaviest rains.