We’ve all been there – stepping in dog poop is one of the grossest and most unpleasant experiences. The smell and the mess can be overwhelming. But fear not! In this article, we will guide you through the process of cleaning dog poop off your shoes, leaving them looking and smelling as good as new. So, let’s get started!
What to Do When You Get Dog Poop on Your Shoes
First things first, if you find yourself with dog poop on your shoes, consider it a fortunate situation compared to being barefoot! The key here is to prevent spreading the mess any further. Remove your shoes immediately and place them in a plastic bag, sealing it tightly to contain the smell. It’s also important to promptly clean up the dog poop from the ground to prevent others from stepping in it. Remember, regular yard maintenance will reduce the chances of encountering this situation in the first place.
How to Clean Dog Poop Off Shoes
Knowing how to clean dog poop off shoes is a handy skill to have, although we hope it’s not something you have to deal with often. While it may be impossible to completely avoid it, we’ve compiled five proven methods to effectively tackle this stinky problem.
Use a Stick or Back of a Spoon
Using a stick or the back of a spoon is a good first step, especially if you’re in a pinch. These tools help remove the majority of the dog poop from your shoes, but they won’t completely solve the problem. You’ll still need to employ one of the following methods to fully restore your shoes to their former glory. Remember to dispose of any waste properly and sanitize the stick or spoon afterward.
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Spray With an Outdoor Water Hose
Spraying your shoes with an outdoor water hose is an effective way to clean off dog poop. This method works best with fresh poop but can also be effective for dried-on messes. Start with a gentle spray to remove the majority of the poop, then increase the water pressure to tackle any residue stuck in the treads. Consider using soap and an outdoor scrub brush to help eliminate odor and stubborn stains.
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Disinfect With Bleach Solution
Although a water hose can clean dog poop off your shoes, it doesn’t necessarily disinfect them. Enter bleach solution. Fill a shallow tray with a bleach solution, enough to submerge your shoes. Let them soak for 30 to 60 minutes while using an old toothbrush to remove any remaining poop from the treads or grooves. Rinse your shoes with water and dry them in the sun for optimal results.
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Put Them in the Washing Machine
If you’re comfortable with it, putting your shoes in the washing machine is an efficient way to clean them without handling them too much. However, make sure to remove most of the dog poop using a water hose or stick before attempting this method. Set the washing machine to a cold cycle and add detergent and some rags to balance the load. Afterward, sun dry the shoes to help disinfect them.
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Spray on WD-40
Surprisingly, WD-40 can be used to clean dog poop off shoes. Start by removing as much of the poop as you can using a water hose, stick, or spoon. Then, spray the soles of your shoes with WD-40 and let it sit for an hour or two. Wipe off the soles with a paper towel or use a water hose for a thorough rinse. Finish by using an old toothbrush to remove any remaining residue from the treads. Sun drying your shoes will further aid in disinfection.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What household item can remove dog poop?
While the methods mentioned above are recommended for cleaning dog poop off shoes, baking soda can also be effective. Mix it with water to create a paste, scrub it onto the fabric or canvas portion of your shoe, let it sit, then rinse it off. Club soda and dishwashing liquid can also help remove stains.
Q: Does putting shoes in the freezer remove dog poop?
Yes, some people use this method to clean dog poop off shoes. Place your shoes in a freezer bag and seal it before placing them in the freezer. Leave them there until the poop freezes, then remove the shoes and break off the poop. However, this method takes longer and may not be the most hygienic.
Q: What kills dog poop bacteria?
Lysol is a highly effective bacteria killer when it comes to dog poop. While it doesn’t clean, it disinfects and kills most bacteria it encounters. Lysol can be used indoors or outdoors, including on shoes and carpets.
Conclusion
With these tried and tested methods, you’ll be able to tackle the unfortunate situation of stepping in dog poop. Remember, prevention is key, so always carry poop bags and clean up after your dogs in public spaces. By following these steps, you can say goodbye to the unpleasant smell and mess, ensuring that your shoes stay clean and odor-free.
Have you ever found yourself in this situation? Share your experience and any additional cleaning methods in the comments below.
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