As a waitress, you're on your feet all day. And as anyone who's ever worked in the food service industry can attest, a good pair of comfortable shoes is essential. But no matter how good your shoes are, they're bound to get a little bit dirty after a shift spent running around a busy restaurant. So, how do you clean them so they look presentable enough to wear out in public again?
What To Do
Start by removing the laces and setting them aside. Then, using a soft bristled brush (an old toothbrush will work in a pinch), lightly scrub away any dirt or grime that's built up on the surface of the shoe. Once you've given them a good once over with the brush, it's time to move on to cleaning the inside.
The easiest way to do this is to stuff each shoe with an old sock that's been dampened with warm water and a little bit of gentle detergent. Let them sit for about 15 minutes, then remove the socks and use the brush to scrub away any lingering dirt. Rinse each shoe thoroughly with warm water until all traces of soap have been removed, then stuff them with newspaper and allow them to air dry overnight.
In the morning, your shoes should be clean, fresh, and ready to go! Just be sure to give them a quick once-over with the brush before heading out—you don't want to track any dirt or grime back into the restaurant.
Conclusion:
A clean pair of shoes can make all the difference when you're working a long shift on your feet. And while it might seem like a daunting task, cleaning them is actually pretty simple—as long as you have an old toothbrush, some warm water, and a little bit of elbow grease. So next time your shoes are looking a little worse for wear, don't reach for that Lysol just yet—give them a good scrubbing first! Your customers (and your boss) will thank you for it.
