Can coronavirus live on the bottom of shoes?

Updated 3/30/2020

As research continues and our knowledge grows about COVID-19 we are learning more and more about how the virus spreads. One thing that researchers do know is that coronavirus is spread from person-to-person through respiratory droplets. But what happens when those droplets land on plastic, cardboard, or worse… the bottom of our shoes? Can coronavirus live on shoes and be tracked into my home?

What materials can coronavirus live on?

According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infections, “scientists found that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19) was detectable in aerosols for up to three hours, up to four hours on copper, up to 24 hours on cardboard and up to two to three days on plastic and stainless steel”.

Can coronavirus live on shoes?

While more research needs to be done, based on the life span (and depending on what your shoes are made of), yes, shoes can be a source. In an article posted by HuffPost, family practitioner Georgine Nanos stated that “As of today, we believe coronavirus can live on surfaces for up to 12 hours, potentially longer,” Nanos said. “And this definitely includes shoes.”

Just think about where you have been! If you’ve been in heavily populated areas, you’re going to be picking up more germs, bacteria, and viruses and bringing those into your home on the bottom of your shoes!

HuffPost also includes in this article that Infectious disease specialist Mary E. Schmidt said “the time can actually be five days or more (according to studies done on materials closely related to shoe materials at room temperature).”

What else is on the bottom of my shoes?

The sole of your shoes, in general, are a breeding ground for bacteria, germs, and viruses. Just think about where you go with your shoes… bathrooms, parks, stores, etc.! They can quickly and easily pick up a lot of gross stuff! Check out our Stop Wearing Shoes in Your Home! blog to learn more about what in general is living on the bottom of your shoes.

How do I stop bacteria and viruses from being tracked into my home?

First and foremost, take your shoes off before you enter your home. This is a great day-to-day habit to get into (even when a pandemic isn’t spreading). Leaving your shoes outside, in the garage, or right inside the door and going barefoot or slipping on a pair of house shoes is a great way to reduce the spread of bacteria, germs, and viruses on the bottom of your shoes.

Clean your floors regularly, especially if you own carpeting, as a lot of things can creep and crawl in your carpets. And don’t forget about your rugs, too!

As the CDC states, “surfaces such as carpeted floor, rugs, and drapes, remove visible contamination if present and clean with appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces.”

Can Woodard clean and disinfect my home?

Yes! Woodard is here to help you as we all go through this together. Our services include rug, carpet, hard surface, and furniture cleaning. We will also be offering a disinfectant that can be applied as well! Our EPA-approved disinfectant can be applied in your home should you choose to include that in your cleaning.

For a free estimate, please give us a call at (314) 961-9102 or submit a form online. A member of our Customer Response Team will be in contact with you shortly to provide you with a free estimate.