How to Clean Orthotic Insoles?

There’s something about orthotic insoles that just seems to attract dirt and dust. No matter how often you clean them, they always seem to get a little bit grubby. But what’s the best way to clean them?

Many of our customers have questions about cleaning orthotic insoles, especially when they use orthotics for vigorous activities like hiking, cycling, or jogging. Your NetStep orthotic insoles will stay clean and fresh for a long time, but you’ll still want to clean them occasionally. 

Some recommend using a gentle soap and water solution, while others suggest using a special orthotic cleaner. But whichever method you use, it’s important to ensure that you don’t damage the insoles.

So if you’re looking for tips on how to clean your orthotic insoles, be sure to read more below.

The Best Way to Clean Your Orthotic Insoles 

As anyone who wears foot insoles knows, they can get pretty grimy after regular use. The good news is that there are a few easy ways to clean and keep them fresh. 

1. Let it out to dry 

You’ve probably been wearing your orthotic insoles for a while now, and they’ve seen better days. They’re starting to smell, they’re getting stained, and they’re just generally looking pretty gross. But before you toss them in the trash, you can do one more thing to prolong their life – remove them and let them air dry. 

This simple step will help to prevent bacteria and fungus from growing, and it will also help to prevent the insoles from breaking down as quickly. So next time your orthotics start to look and smell like they need a good cleaning, take them out and let them dry in the air for a day or two. Your feet will thank you!

2. Clean with a damp cloth 

Orthotic insoles can be a godsend for people with foot pain, providing support and cushioning that can help to improve comfort and alleviate symptoms. However, orthotic insoles can become dirty and grimy over time, leading to skin irritation. 

The good news is that cleaning these foot insoles is easy – simply wipe them down with a damp cloth. Be sure to let the insoles air dry completely before wearing them again. With regular cleaning, orthotic insoles can provide years of comfortable support.

3. Use a soft-bristle brush 

While orthotic insoles are typically made of durable materials, they can become covered in dirt and debris over time. It is important to use a soft bristle brush to clean orthotic insoles. This will help to remove any build-up without damaging the insoles. In addition, be sure to clean these foot insoles in a well-ventilated area to prevent mold or mildew buildup. With proper care, orthotic insoles can last for many years.

4. Let the baking soda do its magic 

Over time, orthotic insoles can start to smell bad. This is due to the build-up of sweat and bacteria, which can cause the insoles to become stained and difficult to clean. 

One way to combat this problem is to place your orthotic insoles in baking soda bags. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that will help to absorb sweat and eliminate bacteria. Just be sure to remove the insoles from the bag after a few hours so that they can air out. If you do this regularly, you can keep your orthotic insoles fresh and free of odor.

If your foot insoles are especially dirty, you may need to repeat this process a few times. 

What You Should Avoid When Cleaning Orthotic Insoles 

1. Don’t let them swim 

Many people who wear foot insoles are unsure of how to clean them. Some mistakenly believe they can simply be submerged in water, but this is not the case. Orthotics are materials that can break down when moisture is exposed, meaning they should never be placed in water. 

Instead, clean your orthotics with a soft brush or wipe them with a clean cloth. If you need to remove tough dirt or stains, you can use a mild soap. Just be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the materials in your orthotics. With proper care, your orthotics will last for many years.

2. Stay away from washing machine 

While some foot insoles can be washed by hand, most should never be placed in the washing machine. The high temperatures and harsh detergents can damage the material, making it less effective at providing support. In addition, the insoles can become misshapen or lose their adhesive properties. As a result, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning your orthotic insoles. With a little care, they can provide years of comfortable support.

3. Store them at room temperature

Orthotic insoles can be made from various materials, including plastic, leather, or fabric. These materials can be sensitive to extreme temperatures. If you expose your orthotic insoles to extreme heat or extreme cold, it can cause the material to break down. This can lead to the insole losing its shape and becoming less supportive. In addition, extreme temperatures can also cause discomfort and pain. 

Follow Us For More Orthotic Tips 

At NetStep™, we’re passionate about helping our patients live pain-free and active lives. We offer a wide range of products, from custom orthotic insoles and slippers to back pain treatment. 

We also believe in educating our patients to take an active role in their care. We regularly post tips and advice on our website and social media channels. Whether it’s information on choosing the right foot insoles for your needs or tips on staying active despite the pain, we hope our blog will be a valuable resource for our patients. So be sure to follow us for more orthotic tips!