Are Used Shoes Hygienic? How to Wear Preloved Sneakers Safely

It is the question many first-time buyers ask: is it okay to wear shoes someone else has worn? For most people, yes, as long as the pair is properly cleaned and you take a few simple steps yourself.

What good sellers do before listing

A responsible seller washes or professionally cleans each pair, checks the condition and photographs it. At Shanasa, every pair is cleaned before it is listed, and the grade tells you what wear remains.

What to check when your parcel arrives

  • Smell the insole and the inside of the shoe
  • Look at the insole condition and the lining near the heel
  • Check the sole for heavy wear or damage
  • Compare what you received with the photos and the grade

Simple steps for peace of mind

  • Replace the insole: a fresh insole costs little and makes any pair feel your own
  • Air the pair out: leave it in a ventilated spot, out of direct sun
  • Wear clean socks: always, especially in summer
  • Use a shoe deodoriser or baking soda overnight if you want extra freshness

For cleaning the outside of your pair, follow our guide on how to clean sneakers at home.

Choosing a lower-risk grade

If you want the cleanest feel, look for Grade A+ or A. Grades C and D carry visible wear and are priced for it. See what each grade means.

If something is wrong

If a pair arrives in worse condition than its grade says, raise it within 3 days of delivery. See our refund policy.

New to secondhand? Read the buyer's guide or browse all shoes.