Buy Disposable Shoe Covers? Pros and Cons of Paper and Plastic VS. Neoprene Reusable Shoe Covers
Paper and plastic disposable shoe covers and neoprene reusable shoe covers are both a practical way for professionals to maintain the integrity of their safety boots while ensuring they do not leave a mess of dirt and debris when they enter a job site to do work. Both types of shoe covers are used by contractors, hospital workers, movers and property management workers to keep areas clean, project a professional image, and to meet safety standards.
The Pros and Cons of Paper and Plastic Disposable Versus Neoprene Reusable Shoe Covers
Both paper and plastic disposable shoe covers as well as neoprene reusable shoe covers slip over a shoe or work boot to prevent floors from getting dirty or scratched. Let’s dig deeper into an analysis to determine which product will give you the best value for your money.
Cost Comparison
At first glance it would seem that disposable paper and plastic shoe covers are cheaper to buy than neoprene reusable boot cover however this is deceiving because a price comparison must be based on a box of disposable shoe covers rather than one pair. A box of paper and plastic shoe covers costs approximately $65.00 for 150 pairs, lasting 4 months of sustained use. A single pair of neoprene reusable shoe covers costs anywhere between $19.99 and $29.99 lasts a contractor the same 4 month period. This is a minimal savings of over $30.00 over a four month period for those who buy a pair of neoprene reusable shoe covers.
Aesthetics
While both paper and plastic shoe covers and neoprene reusable shoe covers both slip over top of a pair of shoes or safety boots; paper and plastic shoe covers have been known to make a shoe or work-boot look more like an elf boot. The lack of contouring in the stitching used to fabricate disposable shoe covers, leaves them loose fitting, saggy and pointy toed as they sit over the work boot or shoe.
Neoprene boot covers fit snugly around safety boot or shoe like a glove, similar to the way a wetsuit contours the body.
Durability
Paper and plastic shoe covers do a decent job of holding up in conditions where a boot or shoe is exposed to minimal amounts of dirt and debris. A main problem encountered by users of disposable shoe covers is that once they get wet, they are prone to tears, rips and leaks.
Neoprene reusable boot covers, are made with 100% neoprene, making them very durable and lightweight. They will not fall apart when exposed to wet conditions, and the elastic stretch in the neoprene keeps their form, so they fit your boots properly every time you wear them.
Environmental Impact
Most contractors and business owners are conscientious about keeping a low impact on the environment. ‘Going Green’ is more than just trendy. It just doesn’t make sense to use shoe cover that gets thrown away after each use, when there are re-usable, fully machine washable shoe covers available. It is also important to note that your customers may be environmentally conscientious. If you demonstrate that you respect their beliefs about the environment through your actions as a professional in your business, this undoubtedly leads to greater customer satisfaction and referrals.
Functionality
Both products offer the functional ability to protect floors against dirt and debris. Each product offers an elastic stretchable opening that allows for easy boot insertion and quick removal. Paper and plastic disposable shoe covers are generally slippery on surfaces. Neoprene reusable boot covers are both durable and washable, and have the added safety benefit of a non-slip grip. The lightweight neoprene gives them an extra water resistant feature, while also allowing for breathability.
Storage
One pair of disposable shoe covers is small and can easily fit into a workers pocket. The problem arises with where to keep large box supply for four months or a year’s worth of shoe covers.
By using a pair of neoprene reusable shoe covers, you can keep a single pair in your vehicle, and not worry about storage space.
When making an educated decision about what type of shoe covers to purchase, you should ensure that all the features fit your needs in relation to quality, and price. Given the facts, it is easy to see why professionals in all businesses in the service/trade industry are switching to neoprene boot covers.
