How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes: 24 Proven Methods for Fresh & Odor-Free Footwear

Are your shoes emitting an unpleasant odor that’s leaving you embarrassed and uncomfortable? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Smelly shoes can be a bothersome issue that affects many people, but luckily, there are effective ways to tackle this problem and regain confidence in your footwear.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share the best methods to eliminate that unpleasant smell from your shoes.

Understanding the Root Cause of Shoe Odor

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s understand why shoes develop that unpleasant smell. Shoe odor is primarily caused by the accumulation of sweat, bacteria, and moisture inside the shoes. This environment becomes a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria, resulting in the foul smell we experience.

How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes

Proper Shoe Hygiene and Care

To start your journey towards odor-free shoes and maintain your footwear in top condition, it’s essential to establish a proper shoe hygiene routine. Proper shoe hygiene not only helps eliminate shoe odor but also ensures your feet stay healthy and comfortable.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on the basics of maintaining your footwear:

1. Regularly Clean Your Shoes

The first way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is cleaning your shoes regularly. Cleaning your shoes regularly is essential to prevent the buildup of sweat, bacteria, and dirt that contribute to shoe odor. Depending on the material of your shoes, you can use a damp cloth or a shoe-specific cleaning product to wipe off any stains or grime.

For fabric or canvas shoes, you can toss them in the washing machine for a thorough cleaning. Remember to let them air dry completely before wearing them again.

2. Let Your Shoes Dry Thoroughly

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is let your shoes dry thoroughly. Moisture is the primary culprit of smelly shoes, as it creates an ideal environment for odor-causing bacteria to thrive. After wearing your shoes, make sure to let them dry completely before storing them.

Remove the insoles and laces if possible and place them in a well-ventilated area. Avoid storing damp shoes in closed spaces like shoe racks or closets, as this can exacerbate the odor problem.

3. Use Moisture-Proofing Products

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is to combat moisture buildup in your shoes, consider using moisture-proofing products like shoe deodorizers, cedar shoe inserts, or moisture-absorbing packets. These products can help absorb excess moisture and prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria inside your shoes.

4. Rotate Your Shoes

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day. Give your shoes a break and rotate between multiple pairs. This allows each pair to air out and dry thoroughly between uses, reducing the chances of odor buildup.

5. Socks

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is wearing socks. Wearing socks acts as a barrier between your feet and the shoes, absorbing sweat and preventing direct contact with the shoe lining. Opt for moisture-wicking socks made of materials like wool or synthetic blends that help keep your feet dry and comfortable.

6. Store Your Shoes Properly

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is when storing your shoes, avoid cramming them together or stacking them tightly. Allow sufficient space for air circulation to prevent moisture retention and odor development. Consider using shoe trees to help maintain the shape of your shoes and promote proper ventilation.

By following these simple steps and incorporating proper shoe hygiene practices into your routine, you can keep your shoes fresh, odor-free, and your feet happy and healthy. Remember to be consistent with your shoe hygiene routine, and you’ll enjoy the benefits of odor-free footwear for a long time to come!

Drying Them in the Sun

One of the easiest and most natural ways to remove odor from shoes is to dry them in the sun. The sun’s ultraviolet rays can kill the bacteria and fungi that cause the smell in your shoes, as well as evaporate the moisture that they thrive on.

Drying your shoes in the sun can also help prevent mold and mildew from growing in your shoes, which can damage them and make them smell worse.

To use this method, you will need:

• A sunny spot
• A towel or a cloth
• A brush or a cloth

To use this method, follow these steps:

1. Remove the shoelaces and insoles from your shoes. You can wash them separately with soap and water or vinegar and water.
2. Brush off any dirt or debris from your shoes with a brush or a cloth. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe off any stains or spots, but make sure to squeeze out any excess water.
3. Place your shoes in a sunny spot, such as a windowsill, a balcony, or a backyard. Make sure the spot is well-ventilated and not too humid. You can also place a towel or a cloth under your shoes to protect them from dirt or dust.
4. Open your shoes as much as possible to expose the inside to the sun. You can also turn them upside down or sideways to let the sun reach all the areas of your shoes.
5. Leave your shoes in the sun for at least two to three hours, or until they are completely dry. You can also check them periodically and rotate them to ensure even drying.
6. Once your shoes are dry, put the shoelaces and insoles back in. You can also sprinkle some baking soda or cornstarch inside the shoes to absorb any residual moisture and odor.

This is how you can use the sun to get rid of smell in shoes. The sun is a powerful and eco-friendly deodorizer that can help you keep your shoes fresh and clean.

However, you should always test a small area of your shoes before exposing them to the sun, as some materials may fade or crack under the sun. You should also avoid using the sun on shoes that have metal parts, as the sun can cause oxidation.

Natural Remedies to Banish Shoe Odor

Natural deodorizers are an effective and budget-friendly way to freshen up your shoes and keep them smelling pleasant. Here are some household items and natural ingredients that act as excellent deodorizers for your shoes:

1. Baking Soda

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is using baking soda. Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a powerful natural deodorizer that neutralizes odors. It can effectively absorb moisture and eliminate bacteria, which are the main culprits behind shoe odor.

To use baking soda, sprinkle some directly into your shoes and let it sit overnight. Shake out the excess baking soda before wearing your shoes again.

2. Tea Bags

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is using tea bag. Tea bags are another effective natural deodorizer for shoes. The tannins present in tea have natural antibacterial properties that can help combat shoe odor.

Place dry tea bags inside each shoe and let them sit for a few hours or overnight to absorb unpleasant odors. Tea bags can leave a refreshing scent in your shoes as well.

3. Dryer Sheets

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is using dryer sheets. Dryer sheets are not just for laundry; they can also help deodorize your shoes. Place a fresh dryer sheet in each shoe when not in use to absorb odors and leave a pleasant scent behind.

4. Salt

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is using salt. Sprinkling a little salt inside your canvas shoes can help absorb moisture and keep them odor-free. Salt acts as a natural drying agent and can inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause shoe odor.

5. Old Socks and Baking Soda Air Freshener

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is create your own air freshener by filling old socks with baking soda and tying them securely. Place these makeshift air fresheners inside your shoes to absorb moisture and odors.

6. Kitty Litter

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is using kitty litter. Kitty litter, especially the non-clumping, unscented variety, can be used as a shoe deodorizer. Fill a sock or a small cloth bag with kitty litter and place it inside your shoes to absorb moisture and eliminate odors.

Using these natural remedies regularly can help you maintain fresh-smelling and odor-free shoes without the need for expensive commercial products. Choose the remedy that suits you best and enjoy the benefits of naturally freshened footwear!

7. White Vinegar

White vinegar is a common household product that has many uses, such as cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing. White vinegar contains acetic acid, which can neutralize the odor-causing bacteria and fungi in your shoes. It can also help remove stains, dirt, and sweat from your shoes.

There are different methods to use white vinegar to clean your shoes, depending on the type and material of your shoes. Here are some of the most effective ones:

Method 1: Spray and Wipe

This method is suitable for shoes that are made of leather, suede, or other delicate materials that cannot be soaked or washed in water. You will need:

• A spray bottle
• White vinegar
• Water
• A soft cloth or paper towel

To use this method, follow these steps:

1. Fill the spray bottle with equal parts of white vinegar and water. Shake well to mix.
2. Remove the shoelaces and insoles from your shoes. You can wash them separately with soap and water or vinegar and water.
3. Spray the inside and outside of your shoes with the vinegar solution. Make sure to cover all the areas, especially the ones that are stained or smelly.
4. Wipe the shoes with a soft cloth or paper towel to remove any excess vinegar and dirt. You can also use a toothbrush to scrub any stubborn spots.
5. Let the shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area. You can also place them in front of a fan or in the sun to speed up the drying process.
6. Once the shoes are dry, you can put the shoelaces and insoles back in. You can also sprinkle some baking soda or cornstarch inside the shoes to absorb any remaining moisture and odor.

Method 2: Soak and Wash

This method is suitable for shoes that are made of fabric, canvas, rubber, or other materials that can be soaked or washed in water. You will need:

• A large bucket or basin
• White vinegar
• Water
• Laundry detergent
• A washing machine or a sink

To use this method, follow these steps:

1. Fill the bucket or basin with enough water to submerge your shoes. Add one cup of white vinegar for every gallon of water. Stir well to mix.
2. Remove the shoelaces and insoles from your shoes. You can wash them separately with soap and water or vinegar and water.
3. Place the shoes in the vinegar solution and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. You can also add some laundry detergent to the solution for extra cleaning power.
4. After soaking, you can either wash the shoes in the washing machine or by hand in the sink. Use cold water and a gentle cycle if using the machine. Rinse the shoes well with clean water to remove any vinegar residue.
5. Let the shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area. You can also place them in front of a fan or in the sun to speed up the drying process.
6. Once the shoes are dry, you can put the shoelaces and insoles back in. You can also sprinkle some baking soda or cornstarch inside the shoes to absorb any remaining moisture and odor.

Method 3: Freeze and Thaw

This method is suitable for shoes that are made of leather, suede, or other materials that cannot be exposed to water or heat. You will need:

• A large ziplock bag
• White vinegar
• A freezer
• A microwave or a hairdryer

To use this method, follow these steps:

1. Pour some white vinegar into the ziplock bag. You don’t need to fill it up, just enough to cover the bottom of the bag.
2. Remove the shoelaces and insoles from your shoes. You can wash them separately with soap and water or vinegar and water.
3. Place the shoes in the ziplock bag and seal it tightly. Make sure there is no air left in the bag.
4. Put the bag in the freezer and leave it overnight. The vinegar will freeze and kill the bacteria and fungi in your shoes.
5. The next day, take the bag out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. You can also use a microwave or a hairdryer to speed up the thawing process. Be careful not to overheat the shoes, as this can damage them.
6. Once the shoes are thawed, remove them from the bag and wipe them with a soft cloth or paper towel to remove any vinegar and moisture. You can also use a toothbrush to scrub any stubborn spots.
7. Let the shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area. You can also place them in front of a fan or in the sun to speed up the drying process.
8. Once the shoes are dry, you can put the shoelaces and insoles back in. You can also sprinkle some baking soda or cornstarch inside the shoes to absorb any remaining moisture and odor.

These are some of the ways to use white vinegar to get rid of smell in shoes. White vinegar is a cheap and effective solution that can help you keep your shoes fresh and clean.

However, you should always test a small area of your shoes before applying vinegar to the whole shoe, as some materials may react differently to vinegar. You should also avoid using vinegar on shoes that have metal parts, as vinegar can cause corrosion.

The Magic of Essential Oils

Essential oils are indeed a powerful natural solution for eliminating shoe odor and providing a pleasant fragrance to your footwear. They offer various therapeutic properties, including antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal effects that can help combat the bacteria and fungi responsible for causing foul odors in shoes.

Additionally, essential oils can leave a refreshing aroma that replaces bad smells in your shoes, making them more pleasant to wear.

Here are some of the best essential oils for tackling shoe odor and how to effectively apply them to your shoes:

1. Tea Tree (Melaleuca) Oil

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is using tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is a potent essential oil with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It is particularly effective in eliminating bacteria that cause shoe odor and can also help soothe skin irritation resulting from the smell.

To use tea tree oil as a shoe deodorizer, you can create a DIY shoe spray by mixing 20 drops of tea tree oil with ½ cup of rubbing alcohol in a small spray bottle. Shake well to combine, then spray the inside of your smelly shoes and allow them to dry before wearing.

2. Lavender Essential Oil

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is using lavender essential oil. Lavender oil has calming and soothing properties, making it an excellent choice for fighting stinky shoes. It works by preventing bacteria growth and cutting off the oxygen supply to the odor-causing microorganisms.

To use lavender essential oil, you can add a few drops directly onto a cotton ball and place it inside your shoes overnight to freshen them up.

3. Eucalyptus Essential Oil

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is isong eucalyptus essential oil. Eucalyptus oil possesses antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it effective in combating the bacteria responsible for shoe odor.

You can create a shoe spray by mixing 20 drops of eucalyptus oil with ½ cup of rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle, similar to the tea tree oil spray mentioned above.

4. Lemon Essential Oil

The next way How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes is using lemon oil. Lemon oil has a refreshing and citrusy scent, which can help mask unpleasant shoe odors. It also possesses antimicrobial properties that aid in neutralizing the bacteria responsible for causing the smell.

You can add a few drops of lemon oil to a cotton ball and place it inside your shoes overnight for a fresh fragrance.

To apply these essential oils effectively, it’s important to use a carrier substance like rubbing alcohol or water, as pure essential oils can be too concentrated and may cause skin irritation. Creating a spray solution allows for easy and even application inside your shoes, ensuring that the oils can reach all areas where bacteria may be thriving.

Using essential oils as a natural deodorizer for your shoes is a fantastic way to maintain fresh-smelling footwear without resorting to harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. Enjoy the benefits of essential oils in combating shoe odor and keeping your feet feeling and smelling great throughout the day!

You can learn more about the benefits and uses of essential oils in our article on How to Make the Bathroom Smell Good, where we share some tips and tricks on how to create your own DIY air fresheners with essential oils.

Old Newspaper

If you have a pair of shoes that are smelly and you don’t want to use any chemicals or products to clean them, you can try using old newspaper to deodorize them. Newspaper is a cheap and eco-friendly way to absorb the moisture and odor from your shoes, leaving them fresh and dry. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Remove the shoelaces and insoles from your shoes. You can wash them separately with soap and water or vinegar and water.
2. Crumple up some old newspaper into balls. You can use any kind of newspaper, but avoid glossy or colored pages that might stain your shoes.
3. Stuff your shoes with the newspaper balls. Make sure to fill the shoes completely, especially the toe and heel areas where the smell is usually strongest.
4. Leave the shoes stuffed with newspaper for at least 24 hours. You can also place them in a sunny or well-ventilated spot to speed up the drying process.
5. Take out the newspaper from your shoes and discard it. You can also recycle it or use it for other purposes, such as cleaning windows or wrapping gifts.
6. Check your shoes for any remaining smell. If they still smell bad, you can repeat the process with fresh newspaper or try another method, such as baking soda, vinegar, or kitty litter.
7. Put the shoelaces and insoles back in your shoes. You can also sprinkle some baking soda or cornstarch inside the shoes to absorb any residual moisture and odor.

This is how you can use old newspaper to get rid of smell in shoes. Newspaper is a simple and effective solution that can help you save money and reduce waste.

However, you should always test a small area of your shoes before stuffing them with newspaper, as some materials may react differently to newspaper. You should also avoid using newspaper on shoes that have metal parts, as newspaper can cause rusting.

Ventilation and Proper Storage

Proper ventilation and storage are essential for keeping your shoes odor-free and maintaining their condition over the long term. By allowing your shoes to breathe and storing them correctly, you can prevent the buildup of moisture, bacteria, and unpleasant odors that often result from wearing shoes daily.

Here’s why ventilation and proper storage are crucial for maintaining fresh-smelling shoes:

1. Prevents Moisture Buildup: When you wear shoes, your feet naturally sweat, and this moisture can accumulate inside the shoes. Over time, the damp environment becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and mold growth, leading to unpleasant odors and potential damage to the shoes. Adequate ventilation allows air to circulate inside the shoes, helping to dry out any accumulated moisture and preventing bacterial growth.
2. Reduces Bacterial Growth: Moisture trapped inside shoes can lead to the proliferation of bacteria, which are a major cause of shoe odor. Proper ventilation allows for better airflow, reducing the chances of bacterial colonization and the subsequent foul smell.
3. Extends Shoe Lifespan: Shoes that are not allowed to breathe and are stored improperly may develop a musty smell and lose their shape and quality over time. Properly ventilated shoes maintain their integrity, last longer, and remain more comfortable to wear.

To ensure that your shoes have adequate ventilation and are stored correctly, consider the following tips:

1. Choose Breathable Shoe Materials: Opt for shoes made from breathable materials like canvas or mesh, as they allow air to flow in and out, keeping your feet and shoes fresher.
2. Use Shoe Cabinets with Ventilation: Select shoe cabinets that have adequate ventilation or open shelving to allow air circulation. This will help prevent moisture buildup and unpleasant odors inside the storage space.
3. Rotate Shoes Regularly: Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes day after day. Give your shoes a chance to air out and recover by rotating them regularly.
4. Avoid Sealed Plastic Bags: Refrain from storing shoes in sealed plastic bags, as they trap moisture and promote bacterial growth. Instead, use fabric shoe bags or shoe boxes with ventilation holes to allow air to circulate.

By prioritizing proper ventilation and storage, you can keep your shoes smelling fresh, maintain their condition, and enjoy comfortable and odor-free footwear for a longer period.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes

If you want to learn more about how to get rid of smell in shoes, you can visit this website for more tips and tricks. You will find detailed information on different methods and products that can help you keep your shoes fresh and odor-free. Whether you have leather, fabric, or rubber shoes, you will find a solution that suits your needs and preferences.