How To Keep Your Footwear Clean During Monsoon

The monsoon is that magical time of year when the skies open up like they've just lost a bet, and your state Traffic Police alert starts showing puddles instead of roads. While the rain gods may be dancing in joy, your shoes, those poor, unfortunate souls, are suffering a soggy fate. Before you step out of the house, they're squeaky clean and Instagram-worthy, but the moment you step out, they resemble something Indiana Jones might dig out of an ancient swamp.

How To Keep Your Shoes Clean In Rainy Season; Photo Credit: Pexels

So, if your footwear is looking more 'swamp chic' than street style, here's a survival guide to keep them clean, dry, and vegetation-free, without completely losing your will to live.

1. Pick The Right Pair For The Weather

Monsoon is not the time to be flaunting your white canvas sneakers or suede loafers. If you still insist on wearing them, you probably also enjoy walking barefoot through Lego fields.

Invest in rainy-day warriors. Rubber sliders, waterproof sandals, Crocs (yes, we said it), or gumboots may not win a fashion award, but they'll keep your feet dry and your washing machine free of muddy tantrums. Keep your fancy footwear tucked away like royal jewels until the sun returns.

Also Read: Step Into The Comfort Zone: Adidas, Asics And Puma Sneakers Under ₹8000 Now On Myntra End Of Reason Sale

2. Use A Shoe-Brella

Ever wondered why your umbrella's loyalty stops at your head? Well, your feet can also use an umbrella for all those mud splashes.

We suggest you bring in these heroes: plastic shoe covers. Yes, they exist, and no, they don't look as ridiculous as you think, especially on a waterlogged day. Some even come in colours and zips. Bonus: they'll make you look like you've got your life sorted, even if you're crying inside because your socks are still wet from Tuesday.

3. The Sock Situation

How To Keep Your Shoes Clean In Rainy Season; Photo Credit: Pexels

If you're wearing socks during the monsoon, may we suggest adding a modest dose of practicality to your shopping list?

But if you must, say, in the name of office dress codes or cold feet, then go for quick-dry or moisture-wicking socks. Avoid cotton like your ex's texts: it'll cling, get soggy, and haunt you all day.

And please, change your socks every day. No one wants to sit next to a cheese-scented foot furnace during a morning meeting.

4. Dry Shoes And Socks Diligently

So you've survived the urban floods, dodged splashy autos, and made it home. First thing, don't chuck your wet shoes in a corner and forget about them. That's how shoes die, and how new ecosystems form inside them.

Instead, do this:

• Remove the insoles and stuff the shoes with old newspaper (finally, a reason to save those dated newspapers).
• Avoid putting them directly under a hairdryer or next to a heater, they're shoes, not pot roast.
• Let them air out in a dry space with decent ventilation. A fan works wonders.

And if your shoes start smelling like a suspicious puddle, sprinkle a little baking soda in them overnight. Just don't mix it with vinegar unless you fancy an Instagram-inspired small science experiment in your hallway.

5. Quick Cleaning Hacks

How To Keep Your Shoes Clean In Rainy Season; Photo Credit: Pexels

Here are some foolproof cleaning hacks:

• For sneakers: Mix mild soap and warm water, use a toothbrush, and scrub away the sins of the streets.
• For rubber sandals: Hose them down. Honestly, even a bucket and enthusiasm will do.
• For faux leather: Wipe with a damp cloth and pray.
• For real leather: You brave soul. Use a leather cleaner and conditioner, or better yet, don't wear them till October.

Also, please stop using tissue paper to clean shoes. It's not absorbent, it tears faster than a paper straw in cola, and it'll leave you with soggy clumps and disappointment.

6. Storage Shenanigans

Shoes hate humidity more than cats hate baths. Store them in a cool, dry place. Toss in a few silica gel packets, the ones you're told not to eat, and they'll help keep things dry and fresh.

No shoe rack? A makeshift shelf and an old newspaper will do. Anything that keeps your kicks away from floor-level floods.

Here Is My Monsoon Wishlist Of Waterproof Footwear

1. Crocs Unisex Grey Bayaband Perforations Clogs

2. Crocs Brooklyn Women Black Solid Sandals

3. Crocs Unisex Black Solid Thong Flip-Flops

4. SHUAN Men Solid Round Toe Mules

5. G L Trend Men Velcro Sandals

6. JQR Women CROMA-W Basic Sneaker

7. Pepe Jeans Men Printed Sliders

8. HRX by Hrithik Roshan Men Grey Self Design Rubber Clogs

9. Red Tape Men Textured Thong Flip-Flops

10. HRX by Hrithik Roshan Women Lime Green Textured Thong Flip-Flops

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of footwear is best during the monsoon season?

Go for waterproof options like rubber sandals, Crocs, or rain boots. Avoid suede, canvas, and leather as they soak easily and get damaged.

2. How can I dry wet shoes quickly and safely?

Remove insoles, stuff your shoes with newspaper to absorb moisture, and place them near a fan. Avoid direct heat from hairdryers or heaters as it can warp the material.

3. My shoes smell after getting wet, what should I do?

Sprinkle baking soda inside your shoes and leave overnight. You can also use activated charcoal or place silica gel packets to absorb moisture and odours.

4. Are plastic shoe covers useful?

Yes! They protect your shoes from water and mud, especially during heavy rain. They're affordable, reusable, and surprisingly effective.

5. Can I wear socks during the rainy season?

If needed, go for quick-dry or synthetic socks. Avoid cotton as it holds moisture and causes discomfort (and foot odour). And please, change them daily!

However, no matter how hard you try, monsoon will claim at least one shoe as tribute. But with a little planning and a pinch of common sense, you can get through it with most of the footwear intact for next season.

And if all else fails? Just wear flip-flops, walk with confidence, and pretend every puddle you step in was intentional. Own it, darling.