This document is not final and is subject to change.
Boots, heels, sneakers, tennis shoes, sport shoes, sandals
Inspection
Look closely at overlapping shoe material, laces and zippers. (Learn more about inspection).
Preferred Control Method
Heat
Clothes dryer, hair dryer, space heating. Place in mesh bag and hang on the inside of the dryer door. Close the door and let the dryer run without other items inside. Use a hair dryer to heat shoes quickly, but do so in an enclosed space to contain bed bugs. (Learn more about hand wash).
Isolation
Store inside an airtight plastic bag or bin for six months. (Learn more about isolation).
Other Control Options
Hand Wash
Soles can be washed by hand, but suede and other delicate materials can be damaged by soapy water. (Learn more about hand wash).
Vacuum
Use if bed bugs are visible on the shoes. (Learn more about vacuuming).
Not Recommended - Steam, Freeze, Desiccant dusts
Updated 5/23/2025