We’ve all been there. By accident, you step in a pile of dog poop. It’s disgusting. It’s annoying. And it’s solid. But don’t worry, this guide will take you through the real-life test method. These methods will make your women’s shoes and men’s shoes look (and smell) like new. From grass scraping to high-pressure hoses, you’ll find out what works best and what doesn’t.
Grass mopping: quick but not perfect
Let’s start with the classic method. The first step is simple: drag your shoes across some grass.
How it works:
- Find a short- or medium-sized patch of grass.
- Drag the soles of your shoes back and forth.
- Try to get both sides as well, not just the bottom.
What we learned: Dragging your shoes does help remove most of the dirt. But it’s not perfect. It may remove surface goo. However, a lot of feces gets stuck in the grooves, especially if your shoes have deep tread marks.
Tip: This method is slightly better if the grass is long and dry. Wet grass or short grass? Not really.
Hose blast: the clear winner
Let’s get right to the point—this is the most effective method. It’s also the most satisfying.
Steps:
- Take your shoes to the backyard or somewhere you don’t mind getting dirty.
- Use a hose with a powerful jet setting.
- Tilt your shoes so the water splashes right onto the poop.
- Spray until clean.
Result: Boom—clean soles. The pressure of the water washes away hidden debris stuck in the tread. Unlike the method with grass, it leaves shoes looking brand new. No odor, no mess.
FAQ:
What if I don’t have a hose?
- Try a sink sprayer or park faucet. Be careful and clean up.
Won’t my shoes get wet?
- Not if you tilt them while spraying. Then let them dry in the sun.
Mini case study: We tried it on three different shoes—sneakers, sandals, and hiking boots. Everything went well. The hiking boots needed a second rinse but ended up with no feces.
Let it dry out, then finish it off: low effort, low reward
This is for lazy days. Here’s how it works:
- Go to the stern. Accept your fate.
- Let your shoes dry out overnight.
- The next day, knock the bottoms of the shoes together and knock the dried poop off.
Does it work? A little. Dry poop comes off easier. But it never comes out completely. There’s always residue deep in the cracks. And your shoes stink a bit.
When to use it: Unless you’re in a hurry and don’t care if it’s clean.
Extra tools can help
Sometimes the job requires more than a hose or a blade of grass.
Useful add-ons:
- Old toothbrush: great for scrubbing tread patterns.
- Wooden stick or twig: easy to scoop up the first time.
- Mild detergent: removes lingering odors.
- Plastic gloves: save your hands, trust us.
Tip: Avoid bleach or harsh cleaners. They can damage the fabric or soles of your shoes.
Real talk: One user said they tried a pressure washer. It worked, but it also blew half the soles off the shoes. So maybe not that.
How to avoid this problem next time
Sure, accidents happen. But here are ways to reduce the risk:
- Stay alert—especially in parks or on trails.
- Walk around with your “poop radar” on.
- If you’re in a high-risk area (dog park, anyone?), use protective shoe covers.
- Keep a “poop bag” in your car: paper towels, plastic bags, gloves, mini spray bottle. You’ll thank yourself later.
Also dealing with stubborn stains or mold on your shoes? Check out our other guides on how to get a stain out of shoes and how to remove mold from shoes. These articles will help keep your shoes in top shape, no matter what messes you encounter.
So, how did it go? The hose method wins, easily. It’s fast, clean, and actually works. Mopping up grass is helpful in an emergency. What about the “air dry” method? Only for those who don’t mind crusty soles and lingering odors. But hey, no shame. We’ve all done the embarrassing poop shuffle. Now you know how to fix it like a pro. Next time you hear a squishing sound, don’t panic. Just grab a hose and blast the pile into oblivion.