Temperatures are climbing. That means sunshine and swing sets.

But it also means sweat and stink.

AFOs and SMOs may be life-changing, but that doesn’t make them immune to the grungy side of summer. If you don’t already have a regular cleaning schedule in place, now is the time.

There isn’t one strict plan you have to follow. But here are several tips to help keep your child’s braces fresh, clean, and effective:

• Rubbing alcohol or isopropyl alcohol are great options to kill both odor and bacteria. Pour onto a clean cloth and give each part of the brace a thorough wipe down.
• Regular soap and water also work well. But never submerge the braces under water. This can cause the padding to peel away.
• Be wary of Clorox wipes. Some kids have a bad reaction to them. But baby wipes are a quick, easy option.
• Gravel and mulch often find their way into braces. If you know your child is going to be stomping through ground cover, it can help to cut the tall part off of old socks and slide them over top of the shoes.
• Pick out or comb out any lint that gets stuck in the Velcro straps.
• Bring an extra pair of socks when you’re out and about. Wet, sweaty socks can cause skin irritation.

So how often should you clean those braces? It really depends on how sweaty your child gets and your own personal preference. But at least once a week is a good rule of thumb.

 

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