be-careful-with-shoes!-animals-can-hide-in-themBe careful with shoes! Animals can hide in them
Avatar of Luis De Jesus

By Luis De Jesus

19 Jul 2024, 21:43 PM EDT

One of those details that we often overlook in our daily routine is checking our shoes before putting them on. Although it may sound exaggerated, there are several animals that could find them an attractive place to hide.

Here we tell you what these potential intruders are and how to prevent unpleasant surprises.

Spiders

Spiders, especially small and medium-sized ones, may find your shoes a perfect refuge.

Some species, such as the brown recluse and black widow spiders, are dangerous and their bites can be serious.

Check your shoes before putting them on to make sure there are no animals inside. Photo: Jay Ondreicka / Shutterstock

Scorpions

In hot, dry areas, scorpions seek shelter in dark, cool places, such as the inside of your shoes.

A scorpion sting can be extremely painful and in some cases, dangerous.

Insects

Various insects, from crickets to cockroaches, can get into your shoes. Although many are not dangerous, they can cause discomfort and allergic reactions.

Small reptiles

In rural areas or near wooded areas, small reptiles, such as lizards, may find your shoes welcoming.

Although they are generally not dangerous, encountering one can be quite unpleasant.

Rodents

Although less common, small rodents such as mice may seek shelter in your shoes, especially if they are stored in dark, accessible places.

Keeping your shoes in a closed, elevated place can help prevent this.

Use boxes to store your shoes and keep rodents out. Photo: Heiko Kiera / Shutterstock

How to prevent animals from hiding in your shoes?

To avoid unwanted encounters with these animals, store your shoes in a closed place or shake them out before putting them on. This is a good practice to avoid these intruders.

Here are some other tips:

Store your shoes indoors: Use shoe racks or boxes to prevent animals from easily accessing your shoes.

Shake your shoes before putting them on: this simple gesture can scare away any hiding intruders.

Check with a flashlight: In areas prone to dangerous animals, use a flashlight to inspect the inside of your shoes.

Keep it clean: Keep your home and storage areas clean to avoid attracting insects and other animals.

Use natural repellents: Some scents can help keep certain insects and small animals away.

Checking your shoes before putting them on may seem like a minor task, but it can save you a lot of scares and, in some cases, health problems.

Keep reading:
• Complete guide for your holidays: How to choose the best suitcase for your next trip?
• The main animal pests affecting the inhabitants of the United States
• How to keep your home cool without using air conditioning, according to artificial intelligence

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