How To Remove Stink From Shoes: Proven Methods That Work

Why do shoes stink, and how do you get rid of that awful shoe odor? Shoe odor is usually caused by sweat and bacteria. This article provides many smelly shoes solutions and will show you how to get rid of shoe stink using proven methods, from simple home remedies to the best shoe deodorizers.

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The Source of the Stink: Why Shoes Get Smelly

Before diving into shoe odor removal, it’s helpful to know where the smell comes from.

Sweat and Bacteria: The Culprits

Our feet sweat a lot—up to half a pint a day! This sweat, trapped inside shoes, creates a warm, damp place where bacteria thrive. These bacteria break down the sweat, producing that distinctive, unpleasant shoe smell.

Types of Shoes and Materials

• Synthetic Materials: Shoes made from synthetic materials like nylon or plastic don’t breathe well. This makes sweat build up faster, leading to more odor.
• Leather Shoes: While leather breathes better than synthetics, it can still trap moisture if not cared for properly.
• Closed-Toe Shoes: Sneakers, boots, and other closed-toe shoes are more likely to become smelly because they limit airflow.

Foot Hygiene Plays a Role

Good foot hygiene is key in preventing smelly shoes. Not washing your feet regularly or wearing dirty socks can worsen the problem.

Simple Home Remedies for Freshening Shoes

Many effective solutions for how to freshen shoes involve items you likely already have at home. These are great first steps for mild shoe odor removal.

Baking Soda: The Odor Absorber

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer. It absorbs moisture and neutralizes odors.

How to Use:

1. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside each shoe.
2. Let it sit overnight, or even for 24 hours for stubborn smells.
3. Shake out the baking soda before wearing the shoes.

Pros: Cheap, easy to find, and effective.
Cons: Can be messy; may not work for very strong odors.

Vinegar: The Acidic Approach

Vinegar has antibacterial properties. It can kill bacteria causing the shoe stink.

How to Use:

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Lightly spray the inside of your shoes. Don’t soak them!
3. Let them air dry completely.

Pros: Readily available, kills bacteria.
Cons: The vinegar smell fades, but some may find it unpleasant while drying.

Tea Bags: Tannins to the Rescue

Tea bags, especially black tea, contain tannins that kill bacteria.

How to Use:

1. Boil water and steep two tea bags for a few minutes.
2. Let the tea bags cool until you can handle them.
3. Place the tea bags inside your shoes for a few hours.
4. Remove the tea bags and let the shoes air dry.

Pros: Natural, good for leather shoes.
Cons: Can stain light-colored shoes; use with caution.

Essential Oils: Aromatic Relief

Certain essential oils, like tea tree, eucalyptus, and cedarwood, have antibacterial and antifungal properties.

How to Use:

1. Mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the inside of your shoes lightly.
3. Let them air dry.

Pros: Pleasant smell, antibacterial properties.
Cons: Some people are sensitive to essential oils; test a small area first.

Sunlight and Fresh Air: Natural Deodorizers

Sunlight and fresh air are great for shoe cleaning methods and naturally deodorize shoes. UV rays from the sun kill bacteria, and fresh air helps to dry out moisture.

How to Use:

1. Place your shoes outside in direct sunlight for several hours.
2. Make sure they are in a well-ventilated area.

Pros: Free, simple, and effective.
Cons: Weather-dependent; can fade colors over time.

Advanced Techniques for Stubborn Stink

If the simple remedies aren’t enough, these more intensive methods may be needed for complete shoe smell elimination.

Freezing: Killing Bacteria with Cold

Freezing can kill bacteria that cause shoe odor.

How to Use:

1. Place your shoes in a plastic bag.
2. Put the bag in the freezer for at least 24 hours.
3. Thaw the shoes before wearing them.

Pros: Effective for killing bacteria.
Cons: Only suitable for shoes that can withstand freezing temperatures.

Shoe Washing: A Thorough Clean

Some shoes can be washed in the washing machine. Check the care label first!

How to Use:

1. Remove the laces and insoles.
2. Place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag.
3. Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.
4. Air dry completely. Avoid the dryer!

Pros: Thorough cleaning, removes dirt and bacteria.
Cons: Not all shoes are machine washable; can damage some materials.

Commercial Shoe Deodorizers: Targeted Solutions

There are many commercial shoe deodorizers available, ranging from sprays to powders to inserts. These are some of the best shoe deodorizers.

Sprays

These are easy to use and often contain antibacterial agents and fragrances.

Examples:

• Odor Eaters
• Lysol Disinfectant Spray

Pros: Convenient, fast-acting.
Cons: The scent may mask rather than eliminate odor; some contain harsh chemicals.

Powders

Powders work similarly to baking soda, absorbing moisture and odor.

Examples:

• Gold Bond Powder
• Dr. Scholl’s Odor-X

Pros: Good for absorbing moisture.
Cons: Can be messy.

Inserts

These inserts contain activated carbon or other materials that absorb odor.

Examples:

• Activated Carbon Shoe Inserts
• Cedar Shoe Inserts

Pros: Long-lasting, can provide support.
Cons: Can be bulky; need to be replaced regularly.

UV Shoe Sanitizers

These devices use UV light to kill bacteria and fungi inside shoes.

Examples:

• SteriShoe
• Dr. Dryer Shoe Sterilizer

Pros: Effective at killing bacteria.
Cons: Can be expensive.

Preventing Shoe Stink: Proactive Measures

The best way to deal with smelly shoes is to prevent them from becoming smelly in the first place. Here are some tips for preventing shoe stink and implementing a good foot care routine.

Wear Socks: A Moisture Barrier

Always wear socks with closed-toe shoes. Socks absorb sweat and prevent it from soaking into your shoes.

• Choose the Right Socks: Opt for socks made from moisture-wicking materials like cotton, wool, or synthetic blends.

Rotate Shoes: Give Them a Break

Don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day. Rotate your shoes to allow them to dry out completely between wearings.

Dry Shoes Thoroughly: After Every Use

After wearing your shoes, let them air dry completely. Remove the insoles to speed up the drying process.

Foot Hygiene: Keep Feet Clean and Dry

Wash your feet daily with soap and water. Pay special attention to the areas between your toes. Dry your feet thoroughly after washing.

Use Foot Powder: Absorb Excess Moisture

If your feet tend to sweat a lot, use a foot powder to absorb excess moisture.

Treat Foot Conditions: Address Underlying Problems

If you have a foot condition like athlete’s foot or plantar warts, treat it promptly. These conditions can contribute to foot odor.

Deciphering Specific Shoe Types

Different shoes require specific care.

Leather Shoes

Leather shoes require special care to prevent odor buildup.

• Use Leather Conditioners: Leather conditioners keep the leather soft and supple, preventing it from cracking and trapping moisture.
• Air Dry Properly: Always air dry leather shoes away from direct heat.
• Use Shoe Trees: Shoe trees help maintain the shape of leather shoes and absorb moisture.

Athletic Shoes

Athletic shoes are prone to odor because they are often worn during strenuous activity.

• Wash Regularly: Wash athletic shoes regularly, either by hand or in the washing machine (if the care label allows).
• Use Shoe Deodorizers: Use shoe deodorizers specifically designed for athletic shoes.
• Replace Insoles: Replace the insoles regularly, as they tend to absorb a lot of sweat and bacteria.

Boots

Boots can be challenging to keep fresh because they are often worn in wet or muddy conditions.

• Clean Regularly: Clean boots regularly with a brush and mild soap.
• Use Boot Dryers: Boot dryers help to dry boots quickly and prevent odor buildup.
• Store Properly: Store boots in a well-ventilated area.

Table: Shoe Odor Removal Methods Compared

Method	Materials Needed	How To Use	Pros	Cons
Baking Soda	Baking soda	Sprinkle inside shoes, let sit overnight, shake out.	Cheap, effective, absorbs moisture.	Messy, may not work for strong odors.
Vinegar	White vinegar, water	Mix equal parts, spray inside shoes, air dry.	Kills bacteria, readily available.	Vinegar smell, may not be suitable for all materials.
Tea Bags	Tea bags, hot water	Steep tea bags, cool, place inside shoes, air dry.	Natural, good for leather shoes.	Can stain light-colored shoes.
Essential Oils	Essential oil, water	Mix with water, spray inside shoes, air dry.	Pleasant smell, antibacterial.	Some people are sensitive to essential oils.
Sunlight & Air	Sunlight, fresh air	Place shoes in direct sunlight and fresh air.	Free, simple, effective.	Weather-dependent, can fade colors.
Freezing	Plastic bag	Place shoes in a bag, freeze for 24 hours, thaw.	Kills bacteria.	Only suitable for certain shoes.
Washing Machine	Mild detergent, mesh bag	Remove laces/insoles, wash on gentle, air dry.	Thorough cleaning.	Not all shoes are machine washable.
Shoe Deodorizer Spray	Commercial spray	Spray inside shoes according to instructions.	Convenient, fast-acting.	May mask odor, contains chemicals.

FAQ: Common Questions About Shoe Odor

• What is the main cause of shoe odor? The main cause is sweat and bacteria breaking down the sweat inside the shoe.

• Can I use dryer sheets to deodorize shoes? Yes, dryer sheets can help absorb odors and add a fresh scent, but they may not eliminate the underlying bacteria.

• Who is most likely to have smelly shoes? People who sweat a lot, wear closed-toe shoes frequently, or have poor foot hygiene are more likely to have smelly shoes.

• How often should I clean my shoes to prevent odor? Clean your shoes regularly, ideally every few weeks, depending on how often you wear them and how much you sweat.

• Is it safe to put shoes in the dryer to dry them quickly? It’s generally not recommended, as the heat can damage the shoes. Always air dry.

• Why do my new shoes smell bad? New shoes can sometimes have a chemical smell from the materials used in manufacturing. Airing them out can help.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Shoes Fresh

Eliminating shoe odor requires a multi-pronged approach. By understanding the causes of shoe stink, using effective shoe cleaning methods, and practicing good foot hygiene, you can keep your shoes smelling fresh and clean. Experiment with different stinky shoe remedies to find what works best for you, and remember that prevention is always better than cure.