If you’re like most people, the chances are that you don’t pay much attention to what goes on in your shoes. You slip them on, go about your day, and when it’s time to remove them, you don’t give it much thought. However, did you know that something sinister could be lurking in your shoes that could lead to an unsightly fungal infection? Toenail fungus is a common affliction that can cause brittle, discolored nails and a host of other uncomfortable symptoms. But did you also know that this fungus could be lurking in your shoes for quite some time, just waiting for the opportunity to spread and wreak havoc on your toes?
The truth is that toenail fungus can thrive in shoes and socks for extended periods of time. But just how long can it survive, and what can you do to prevent this pesky fungus from growing and multiplying? Toenail fungus can survive in the dark, warm, and damp conditions of your shoes and socks for up to 12 months or more. This persistent fungus can spread quickly if left unchecked, leading to painful, hard-to-treat infections that can take months (or even years) to resolve.
So, if you’re someone who prefers to go sockless or frequently shares shoes with others, you could be putting yourself at risk of contracting toenail fungus. But don’t worry just yet; there are plenty of measures you can take to protect yourself from this menacing infection. From choosing breathable footwear to keeping your feet clean and dry, there are simple ways to keep your toenails healthy and fungus-free. In this article, we’ll explore some of the things you can do to prevent toenail fungus from taking root in your shoes, and how to treat it if you’ve already fallen victim to its wrath.
Types of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection of the toenails that can cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail. There are several different types of toenail fungus, and each has its own unique characteristics and treatment options.
- Dermatophytes: These are the most common type of fungus that cause toenail infections. They thrive in warm, moist environments and can be spread from person to person through contact with contaminated surfaces.
- Yeasts: Yeast infections are less common, but can still affect the toenails. They are more common in people with weak immune systems and in those who have a history of taking antibiotics or corticosteroids.
- Mold: This type of fungus is less common than dermatophytes or yeasts, but can still cause toenail infections. It is more likely to occur in people who spend a lot of time in damp environments.
Dermatophytes are the most common type of fungus that cause toenail infections. They can live for several months in shoes, socks, and other footwear, which makes it easy for them to spread from person to person. The best way to prevent toenail fungus is to keep your feet clean and dry, avoid sharing footwear, and wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe.
Treatment Options for Toenail Fungus
If you suspect you have toenail fungus, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. There are several treatment options available, including:
- Topical antifungal medications: These are applied directly to the affected nail and surrounding skin, and are often effective in treating mild to moderate cases of toenail fungus.
- Oral antifungal medications: These are taken by mouth and are often used to treat more severe cases of toenail fungus.
- Laser therapy: This is a newer treatment option that uses laser light to destroy the fungus in the affected nail.
In some cases, surgical removal of the affected nail may be necessary if the infection is severe or does not respond to other treatment options. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment option for you.
Preventing Toenail Fungus
The best way to prevent toenail fungus is to take steps to reduce your risk of infection. This includes:
- Keeping your feet clean and dry
- Wearing shoes and socks that allow your feet to breathe
- Avoiding sharing footwear or other personal items
- Using antifungal sprays or powders as needed
- Washing your feet regularly with soap and water
While toenail fungus can be difficult to treat, it is possible to prevent it from occurring in the first place. By taking steps to reduce your risk of infection, you can keep your feet healthy and avoid the discomfort and embarrassment of a toenail fungal infection.
Symptoms of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. It can affect one or more nails, causing thickened, discolored, and brittle nails that may separate from the nail bed. The following are some common symptoms of toenail fungus:
- Discoloration: The infected nail may turn yellow, brown, or white. In some cases, it may also have dark or black spots.
- Thickening: The infected nail may become thick and difficult to trim or file.
- Brittleness: The infected nail may become brittle and crumbly, making it prone to breakage.
- Distortion: The infected nail may become distorted in shape, with uneven edges or ridges.
- Separation: The infected nail may separate from the nail bed, causing pain, discomfort, and foul odor.
- Pain: The infected nail may cause pain or discomfort, especially when pressure is applied.
In some cases, toenail fungus may lead to complications, such as cellulitis (skin infection), osteomyelitis (bone infection), or sepsis (blood infection).
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor may recommend antifungal medications, creams, or nail lacquers to treat the infection. In some cases, your doctor may also suggest removing the infected nail to prevent further spread of the infection.
Causes of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. The fungus responsible for this infection thrives in warm and moist environments, making it highly contagious and difficult to treat. While several factors may contribute to the development of toenail fungus, the most common causes include:
- Exposure to fungi: The most common cause of toenail fungus is exposure to fungi in places such as public showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms. Fungi thrive in warm and moist environments, making these areas a breeding ground for the fungus.
- Compromised Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients or those with autoimmune diseases, are at an increased risk of developing toenail fungus. A weak immune system makes it harder for the body to fight off infections, including fungal infections.
- Poor Foot Hygiene: Poor foot hygiene can also contribute to toenail fungus. Failure to keep feet clean and dry, regularly trimming toenails, wearing dirty or damp socks and shoes, and not using protective footwear in public places may increase the risk of developing toenail fungus.
Risk Factors for Toenail Fungus
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing toenail fungus. These include:
- Age: Elderly individuals are at an increased risk of developing toenail fungus due to decreased blood circulation and slower nail growth.
- Gender: Men are more likely to develop toenail fungus than women.
- Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at increased risk of developing toenail fungus due to poor blood circulation and weakened immune system.
- Skin or nail injury: An injury to the nail or skin surrounding the nail can increase the risk of developing toenail fungus.
- Tight-fitting Shoes: Shoes that are too tight or squeeze the toes together can create moisture, which increases the risk of toenail fungus.
How Long Can Toenail Fungus Live in Shoes?
Toenail fungus can survive and multiply in shoes and socks for years. The fungus responsible for the infection can live on surfaces for weeks, months, or even years, making it difficult to control and prevent the spread of the infection. The fungus can thrive in damp and dark environments, making shoes and socks a perfect breeding ground. Proper foot hygiene, such as wearing clean and dry socks, regularly changing shoes, and using antifungal sprays or powders, can help prevent the growth and spread of toenail fungus.
| Preventing Toenail Fungus | Actions to take |
|---|---|
| Keep feet clean and dry | Wash feet with soap and water regularly, and dry them thoroughly. Use a clean towel to wipe feet dry, especially between the toes. |
| Trim toenails properly | Use proper nail clippers to trim toenails straight across and avoid rounded corners, which can cause ingrown nails and create a moist environment for fungi to thrive. |
| Avoid walking barefoot in public places | Wear sandals or shower shoes in public showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms to avoid exposure to fungi. |
| Keep shoes dry and clean | Rotate shoes daily, and let them air out in between wearing. Use antifungal sprays or powders to keep shoes dry and free of fungi. |
| Choose shoes that fit well | Wear shoes that fit well and avoid overly tight or narrow shoes that squeeze the toes, which can create moisture and encourage the growth of fungi. |
By following these preventive measures, individuals can reduce the risk of developing toenail fungus and prevent the spread of the infection. If you suspect you have toenail fungus, seek medical attention and follow the prescribed treatment plan to help eliminate the infection and prevent it from recurring.
Prevention Methods for Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is an unsightly and uncomfortable problem that can plague even the most hygienic individuals. Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding toenail fungus, as it can be difficult to fully eliminate once it has taken hold. Here are some effective methods for preventing toenail fungus:
- Keep your feet clean and dry.
- Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or do not allow proper ventilation.
- Wear socks made of breathable materials such as cotton or wool.
Additionally, it is important to protect your feet from potential exposure to toenail fungus in environments such as public locker rooms and swimming pools. Consider wearing sandals or flip flops in these environments to avoid direct contact with the fungus. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting any shared or public areas where you may be walking barefoot can also help to prevent toenail fungus.
For those who already suffer from toenail fungus, it is important to take steps to prevent the spread of the condition to others. Avoid sharing shoes, socks, or any other items that come into contact with the infected area. Consider wearing nail polish or other coverings to prevent the spread of the fungus through direct contact.
Treatments for Toenail Fungus
If prevention methods fail and toenail fungus does take hold, there are several treatment options that can help to eliminate the condition. These may include topical or oral medications, as well as laser treatments or surgical removal of the infected nail. Consult with a medical professional to determine the best treatment option for your specific case.
Length of Time Toenail Fungus Can Live in Shoes
One common question regarding toenail fungus is how long it can live in shoes. Unfortunately, there is no set answer to this question, as the lifespan of the fungus can vary depending on several factors such as the specific strain of fungus and the conditions in which it is living.
A 2012 study published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association found that certain strains of toenail fungus could remain viable in shoes for up to 20 months. However, not all strains of the fungus behave in the same way, and some may be less hardy and die off more quickly.
The best way to prevent the spread of toenail fungus through shoes is to regularly clean and disinfect them. Consider using a UV light device specifically designed for sanitizing shoes, or washing them in hot water with a disinfectant solution. Additionally, it is important to avoid wearing the same shoes every day, as this can lead to a buildup of moisture and increase the likelihood of fungal growth.
| Prevention Methods | Treatment Options |
|---|---|
| Keep feet clean and dry | Topical or oral medications |
| Avoid tight or poorly ventilated shoes | Laser treatments |
| Wear breathable socks | Surgical removal of infected nail |
No matter what steps you take to prevent toenail fungus, it is important to stay vigilant and monitor your feet for any signs of infection. Early detection is key when it comes to treating toenail fungus, so don’t hesitate to consult with a medical professional if you suspect that you may have the condition.
Treatment options for toenail fungus
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by various species of fungi that thrive in warm and moist environments. One of the most common places where toenail fungus can thrive is in your shoes. But how long can toenail fungus live in shoes? Let’s investigate.
Top 3 treatment options for toenail fungus
- Antifungal medications: prescription antifungal medications such as terbinafine, itraconazole, and fluconazole can help kill the fungus. Oral antifungal medications are generally more effective than topical ones, but they may cause side effects and interact with other medications. Topical antifungal medications, such as creams, gels, and nail lacquers, may take longer to work and are less effective than oral medications, but they can be an option for mild cases.
- Laser therapy: this type of treatment uses a high-intensity laser light to kill the fungus and promote healthy nail growth. Laser therapy is a relatively new treatment option that shows promising results. It is safe and painless, but it can be expensive, and it may require multiple treatment sessions.
- Home remedies: some people try home remedies, such as tea tree oil, vinegar, or bleach, to treat toenail fungus. While these remedies may have some antifungal properties, there is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. Also, some home remedies can cause skin irritation and damage.
Tips to prevent toenail fungus from spreading
If you are dealing with toenail fungus, there are some preventive measures you can take to reduce the risk of spreading it to other people or parts of your body:
- Wash your feet regularly with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly.
- Wear clean and dry socks every day. Avoid wearing tight or synthetic socks that can trap moisture.
- Avoid sharing shoes, socks, or towels with others.
- Wear shoes that fit well and allow your feet to breathe. Avoid tight or pointed shoes that can squeeze your toes together.
- Disinfect your shoes regularly with antifungal sprays or ultraviolet light devices.
How long can toenail fungus live in shoes?
Now, back to the question we asked at the beginning of the article. How long can toenail fungus live in shoes? The answer is, it depends. Toenail fungus can survive in shoes for up to 6-12 months or even longer, especially if the shoes are damp, warm, and stored in a dark place. Therefore, it is crucial to disinfect your shoes regularly if you have toenail fungus to prevent reinfection or spreading it to others.
| Shoe disinfection methods | Effectiveness against toenail fungus |
|---|---|
| Washing shoes in hot water | Effective if the shoes can withstand high temperatures |
| Using antifungal sprays or powders | Effective if used regularly and combined with other preventive measures |
| Using ultraviolet light devices | Effective if used correctly and for a sufficient amount of time |
Overall, toenail fungus can be a challenging condition to treat, but with the right treatment options and preventive measures, you can manage it effectively. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or a podiatrist if you have persistent toenail fungus.
Home remedies for toenail fungus
While toenail fungus can be stubborn, there are several home remedies that you can try to treat it before seeking medical attention. Here are some of the most effective treatments:
- Tea tree oil: This essential oil has natural antifungal properties which make it effective in treating toenail fungus. Mix a few drops with coconut oil and apply the mixture to the affected nails. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing it off. Repeat twice daily for several weeks until the fungus clears up.
- Vinegar: Soak your affected toes in a mixture of white vinegar and warm water for 15 minutes daily. The acidic environment created by the vinegar inhibits the growth of fungus. For best results, add tea tree oil to the mixture.
- Baking soda: Create a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for five minutes before washing it off. Repeat daily until the fungus clears up. For added effectiveness, add a few drops of tea tree oil.
Home remedies can be effective, but it’s important to bear in mind that they may take longer to work than prescription medications. Additionally, not all home remedies work for everyone. If you don’t see any improvement after several weeks, it’s best to consult your doctor.
If you’re looking for more effective treatments, you can also consider prescription topical or oral medications. There are several over-the-counter treatments as well, such as antifungal creams and ointments.
Prevention tips for toenail fungus
While toenail fungus is contagious and can spread easily, there are several steps you can take to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips:
- Keep your feet dry: Fungi thrive in moist environments, so make sure to keep your feet dry and clean. Dry them thoroughly after bathing or swimming, especially between your toes.
- Avoid sharing items: Don’t share nail clippers, shoes, or socks with others, as this can transfer the fungus.
- Wear breathable shoes: Wear shoes that allow air to circulate, such as sandals, and avoid tight-fitting shoes.
- Use antifungal sprays and powders: If you are prone to developing toenail fungus, consider using antifungal sprays or powders to prevent infection.
When to see a doctor
If your toenail fungus doesn’t improve with home remedies or over-the-counter treatments, or if it becomes painful or starts to emit an unpleasant odor, it’s time to consult a doctor. They may prescribe prescription-strength antifungal medication, or recommend a surgical procedure to remove the infected nail.
| Symptoms of toenail fungus | Normal nail | Toenail fungus |
|---|---|---|
| Thickened nail | Thin and smooth | Thick and brittle |
| Discolored nail | Pinkish-white | Yellow, brown, or black |
| Crumbly or ragged nail | Smooth and uniform | Uneven and crumbly |
If you suspect that you have toenail fungus, it’s best to act quickly. The longer you wait to treat it, the harder it will be to get rid of. Use a combination of prevention methods and treatments to combat toenail fungus and keep your feet healthy.
How Toenail Fungus Spreads
Toenail fungus is a contagious infection caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi thrive in warm and moist environments and can easily spread from one person to another. In this article, we will take a closer look at how toenail fungus spreads and what you can do to prevent it from infecting your nails.
- Direct Contact: One of the most common ways of spreading toenail fungus is through direct contact with an infected person. If you come into contact with someone who has toenail fungus, you can easily pick up the fungus from their skin or nails. This can happen when you share shoes or socks, or when you walk barefoot in public areas such as swimming pools, gym locker rooms, or saunas.
- Indirect Contact: Toenail fungus can also spread indirectly. For example, if you touch a surface that has been contaminated with the fungus, such as a shower floor or a towel, you can pick up the fungi from the surface and transfer it to your nails. This is why it’s important to maintain good hygiene practices and always wash your hands and feet after using public facilities.
- Self-Infection: Another way toenail fungus can spread is by self-infection. This happens when the fungus spreads from one nail to another on the same foot or hand. This can happen when you scratch or touch your infected nail, and then touch another uninfected nail on the same hand or foot.
Toenail fungus can live for a long time in your shoes, increasing your chances of getting re-infected even after you have treated the infection. This is why it’s important to disinfect your shoes regularly by spraying them with an antifungal spray or using a UV shoe sanitizer to kill the fungi. Additionally, it’s important to avoid wearing tight or uncomfortable shoes that can cause your feet to sweat and create a warm and moist environment for the fungi to thrive.
| Fungal Infection | Symptoms | Susceptible Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Athlete’s Foot | Itching, burning, cracking, and peeling skin | Feet |
| Jock Itch | Itching, burning, and red rash | Genital area, inner thighs |
| Ringworm | Ring-shaped rash, itching, and scaly skin | Scalp, arms, legs, feet |
In summary, toenail fungus is a common and contagious infection that can spread easily through direct, indirect, and self-infection. It’s important to maintain good hygiene practices, disinfect your shoes regularly, and avoid wearing tight or uncomfortable shoes to prevent the infection from spreading. If you suspect you have toenail fungus, seek medical attention immediately to prevent further complications and minimize the risk of spreading the infection to others.
Factors that Increase the Risk of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus can be highly contagious and spreads easily. There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of getting infected with toenail fungus. Here are some of the most common factors:
- Age: Aging can weaken your body’s immune system, making you more susceptible to toenail fungus. According to research, the prevalence of toenail fungus increases significantly with age.
- Excessive sweating: If you have a history of excessive sweating or frequently wear tight-fitting shoes, you may be at an increased risk of developing toenail fungus. Fungi thrive in moist environments, and sweating can create the perfect condition for them to grow.
- Weak immune system: If you have a weakened immune system, you may be more susceptible to toenail fungus. Certain medical conditions like diabetes, HIV, and cancer can weaken your immune system and increase your risk of getting infected.
Other factors that can increase your risk of toenail fungus include:
- Walking barefoot in public areas like swimming pools, locker rooms, and gyms
- Wearing tight-fitting shoes or socks
- Having a history of athlete’s foot or other fungal infections
- Using communal nail grooming tools like clippers and files
It is important to note that toenail fungus can survive for a long time in certain environments. For instance, toenail fungus can live in shoes for up to 6 months or longer, making it easy to reinfect yourself or others.
| Factors that Increase the Risk of Toenail Fungus | |
|---|---|
| Age | As you age, your immune system weakens, making you more vulnerable to toenail fungus. |
| Excessive sweating | Excessive sweating or wearing tight-fitting shoes can create a moist environment that is conducive to fungal growth. |
| Weak immune system | Medical conditions that weaken your immune system can make you more susceptible to toenail fungus. |
| Walking barefoot in public areas | Walking barefoot in moist public areas like swimming pools and locker rooms can expose you to toenail fungus. |
| Wearing tight-fitting shoes or socks | Tight-fitting shoes and socks can create excessive moisture that encourages fungal growth. |
| History of athlete’s foot or other fungal infections | A previous history of athlete’s foot or other fungal infections can increase your risk of getting infected with toenail fungus. |
| Using communal nail grooming tools | Sharing nail grooming tools like clippers and files can spread toenail fungus from one person to another. |
Therefore, it is important to take preventive measures to reduce your risk of getting infected with toenail fungus. This includes keeping your feet clean and dry, avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, wearing breathable shoes and socks, and not sharing nail grooming tools with other people.
How to properly clean and disinfect shoes
When dealing with toenail fungus, cleaning and disinfecting shoes is just as important as treating the infection on your foot. It is recommended that you clean and disinfect your shoes every time you treat your infection, to avoid getting re-infected.
- Begin by removing any visible dirt or debris from the shoes using a soft-bristled brush. This will help to get rid of any loose fungal spores that may be present on the surface of the shoes.
- Next, wipe the shoes down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
- Once the shoes are clean, you can begin the disinfection process. There are several ways to disinfect shoes:
| Method | Effectiveness | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| UV Light | Very effective | Place shoes under UV light for at least 30 minutes. |
| White Vinegar | Effective | Mix equal parts water and white vinegar. Spray or wipe onto shoes and let dry. |
| Tea Tree Oil | Effective | Mix 10-20 drops of tea tree oil with water. Spray or wipe onto shoes and let dry. |
| Lysol Spray | Effective | Spray onto shoes and allow to dry completely. |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | Not as effective, may cause discoloration | Mix equal parts water and 3% hydrogen peroxide. Spray or wipe onto shoes and let dry. |
After disinfecting your shoes, allow them to dry completely before wearing them again. You can speed up the drying process by placing them in a sunny location or using a fan.
How to Dispose of Infected Shoes
If you have been battling toenail fungus and tried several treatments without success, it may be time to consider getting rid of your infected shoes. It is imperative to dispose of your infected shoes properly to avoid spreading the fungus to others or even reinfecting yourself. Here are some tips to help you get rid of your infected shoes safely:
- Do not donate or give away your infected shoes to anyone. This may lead to spreading the fungus to others.
- Avoid leaving your infected shoes in public areas or shared spaces such as gyms, swimming pools, or locker rooms. The fungus can survive in moist environments and can spread to others.
- Seal the infected shoes in a plastic bag before discarding them in the trash to prevent the fungus from spreading to other items.
It is essential to remember that fungi can remain alive in shoes for long periods. According to a study, toenail fungus can survive in shoes for up to 6 to 12 months. Therefore, it is necessary to take the necessary precautions to prevent the fungus from spreading and recontaminating you.
Alternative Option for Disposing of Infected Shoes
If you do not want to dispose of your shoes, an alternative option is to disinfect them using antifungal sprays or treatments. Here are some methods to disinfect your infected shoes:
- Use antifungal sprays or powders on the inside of your shoes. Make sure to follow the instructions on the product for the best results.
- Consider using UV light or heat to kill the fungi in your shoes. You can use a UV shoe sanitizer device or leave your shoes in direct sunlight for several hours to kill the fungi.
- Freezing your shoes may also help to kill the fungus. Place your shoes in a plastic bag and leave them in the freezer for at least 24 hours to kill the fungus.
Conclusion
Disposing of your infected shoes can be a challenging decision to make, especially if they are your favorite pair. However, it is essential to take the necessary precautions to avoid spreading the fungi to others or reinfecting yourself. If you decide to dispose of your shoes, seal them in a plastic bag before discarding them in the trash. Alternatively, you can disinfect your shoes using antifungal sprays and powders, UV light, or freezing. Remember always to follow the instructions on the product to achieve the best results and prevent reinfection.
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Disposal | Seal the infected shoes in a plastic bag before discarding them in the trash to prevent the fungus from spreading to other items. |
| Antifungal sprays or powders | Apply antifungal sprays or powders on the inside of your shoes. Follow the instructions on the product for the best results. |
| UV light | Use a UV shoe sanitizer device or leave your shoes in direct sunlight for several hours to kill the fungi present in your shoes. |
| Freezing | Place your shoes in a plastic bag and leave them in the freezer for at least 24 hours to kill the fungus present in your shoes. |
The table summarizes the different methods for disinfecting or disposing of infected shoes to prevent the spread of toenail fungus.
How Long Can Toenail Fungus Live in Shoes?
1. How long can toenail fungus survive in shoes?
Toenail fungus can live in shoes for a long time, even up to 18 months.
2. Can toenail fungus spread from shoes?
Yes, toenail fungus can spread from one person to another through shoes, especially if they share the same pair of shoes.
3. What kind of shoes are more prone to toenail fungus growth?
Shoes made of non-breathable materials, such as vinyl or rubber, can create a moist environment that favors toenail fungus growth.
4. Can washing shoes kill toenail fungus?
Regular washing and drying can help prevent toenail fungus growth, but it may not completely eliminate the fungus.
5. Can freezing shoes kill toenail fungus?
Freezing shoes may help to kill the fungus, but it’s not a reliable method for eliminating toenail fungus.
6. How to prevent toenail fungus from growing in shoes?
You can prevent toenail fungus growth in shoes by wearing breathable and moisture-absorbing shoes and socks, washing your feet regularly, and avoiding wearing the same pair of shoes every day.
7. When should I replace my shoes to prevent toenail fungus?
To minimize the possibility of spreading toenail fungus, it’s recommended to replace your shoes once in a while, especially if they are old, damaged, or have been in contact with someone who has toenail fungus.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know how long toenail fungus can live in shoes and how to prevent its growth, don’t forget to take proper care of your shoes and feet. Thanks for reading this article, and we hope to see you again soon with more useful tips and information.