Shoes are commonly made from natural fibre fabrics and leather, as well as materials such as synthetic leather, textiles and rubber. Cloth footwear often uses cotton fabrics or cotton wadding, which readily absorb moisture and create favourable conditions for mould growth. In addition, adhesives used during manufacturing can provide nutrients that further encourage mould development. Once footwear becomes mouldy, it is usually impossible to fully restore for sale, resulting in significant financial losses and unnecessary resource waste.
Common Moisture-Related Issues: Mould growth on footwear, adhesive degradation, musty odours and structural collapse of shoeboxes.
Moisture Prevention Recommendations
Finished shoes should undergo UV sterilisation before packaging to reduce the risk of microbial contamination.
Place calcium chloride desiccant inside the packaging to rapidly absorb excess moisture.
Monitor warehouse temperature and humidity, ensuring relative humidity is maintained within an appropriate range.
Container desiccants ideal for use in shipping containers.
