Gear Trade

When you find a perfect pair of used hiking shoes at a great price, it's like striking gold—except for the funky smell and questionable cleanliness. Don't worry! With the right approach, you can transform those pre-loved trail companions into fresh footwear that feels made just for you. Why Proper Sanitization Matters That pair of trail shoes has seen miles of adventure—and collected every bit of sweat, dirt, and bacteria along the way. Cleaning them properly isn't just about removing odors; it's about your foot health too. Did you know? The average hiking shoe contains over 100,000 bacteria per square centimeter when not regularly cleaned. That's about 10 times more than what's on your toilet seat! Essential Supplies for Trail Shoe Restoration Before diving into the cleaning process, gather these supplies: Basic Cleaning Deep Deodorizing Soft brush Baking soda Mild soap White vinegar Warm water Tea tree oil Old toothbrush Freezer bag Clean towels Newspaper The...

Found a great used backpack at a thrift store? Smart move! Buying second-hand is budget-friendly and better for the planet. But before you load it up with your stuff, you need to clean it thoroughly. Let's walk through how to transform that pre-loved bag into a fresh, sanitized backpack you'll feel good about using. Why Cleaning a Used Backpack Matters? That second-hand backpack has been places. It might carry invisible germs, allergens, or bugs that you definitely don't want tagging along on your adventures. A thorough cleaning isn't just about freshness—it's about your health. According to research from the University of Arizona, the average backpack carries thousands of bacteria and can harbor more germs than a toilet seat. Yikes! That's why a proper deep clean is non-negotiable. What You'll Need Before diving in, gather these supplies: Basic Supplies Optional Extras Mild soap or detergent Fabric sanitizer Soft brush or old toothbrush White vinegar Clea...