Short answer: Plastic shoe covers, usually CPE or PE film, keep out more water but are often slippery and do not breathe. Fabric covers made of non-woven polypropylene breathe, resist water and can carry a non-slip sole. For walking through homes and job sites, fabric with a non-slip sole is usually the safer choice; plastic suits short, wet tasks.
Plastic vs fabric at a glance
| Plastic (CPE or PE film) | Fabric (polypropylene) | |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Blocks more water | Water-resistant, not waterproof |
| Grip | Often slippery on smooth or wet floors unless the sole is textured | Can carry a non-slip sole |
| Breathability | Does not breathe; feet can get hot | Breathes |
| Durability | Thin film can split at the heel or toe | Woven-feel fabric that resists tearing |
| Noise | Crinkles when you walk | Quiet |
| Best for | Short tasks around water | Home visits, open houses, job sites, clean rooms |
Products vary, so check each listing for the sole and the material.
When plastic covers make sense
- You are stepping through a wet area for a few minutes.
- You walk on carpet or rough surfaces where slipping is less of a concern.
If you are regularly in wet or muddy conditions, a reusable waterproof shoe cover with a rubberized sole is a better option than thin plastic.
When fabric covers make sense
- You walk on hardwood, tile or polished floors, where a non-slip sole matters.
- You wear covers for more than a few minutes and want them comfortable.
- You want covers that will not tear on the first step over a boot.
What our covers are made of
Our disposable shoe covers are 100% homopolymer polypropylene at about 40 gsm, latex-free, PVC-free and phthalate-free, with a non-slip sole. They are water-resistant, not waterproof. Full test results are on our product specs page, and more on the material in polypropylene shoe covers explained.
Frequently asked questions
Are plastic shoe covers recyclable?
It depends on the plastic and your local program. Polypropylene can be recycled where facilities accept it. Read what to know about recycling shoe covers.
Which bin do used shoe covers go in?
At home, used covers usually go in general waste unless your recycling program accepts them. In hospitals and labs, follow the facility's disposal rules.
Are fabric covers waterproof?
No. They resist splashes and wet floors but are not made for standing water. See how we test water resistance.