How to Get Rid of Odor in Shoes: Stop Embarrassing Foot Smells

Why do my shoes stink? Shoe odor is usually caused by sweat and bacteria. This article explores how to get rid of odor in shoes, offering a range of smelly shoe solutions to eliminate foot odor in shoes and freshen up your footwear.

Image Source: sterishoe.com

Deciphering the Source of Shoe Stink

Before tackling the stench, it’s crucial to understand why your shoes smell in the first place. It’s more than just “sweaty feet.” Several factors contribute to shoe odor. Let’s dive into them.

The Sweat-Bacteria Connection

Our feet have more sweat glands than any other part of the body. When we wear shoes, especially for long periods, sweat gets trapped. This creates a warm, moist environment perfect for bacteria to thrive. These bacteria break down the sweat, producing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that cause the unpleasant smell.

Shoe Materials Matter

The material of your shoes plays a big role. Synthetic materials like nylon and polyester don’t breathe well, trapping moisture. Leather and canvas are more breathable, but can still absorb sweat and harbor bacteria if not properly cared for.

Foot Hygiene Practices

Poor foot hygiene can worsen the problem. Not washing your feet regularly or wearing the same socks multiple times can lead to a buildup of bacteria and dead skin cells, contributing to shoe odor.

Medical Conditions

In some cases, excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) or fungal infections like athlete’s foot can cause unusually strong shoe odor. If you suspect a medical condition, see a doctor.

Simple Shoe Deodorizing Tips

Fortunately, many simple and effective methods exist for shoe odor removal. These range from quick fixes to more involved cleaning routines.

Air It Out

The easiest solution is often the most overlooked: air out your shoes!

• Remove the insoles to let them dry separately.
• Place shoes in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors in sunlight. Sunlight has natural antibacterial properties.
• Avoid storing shoes in dark, enclosed spaces like closets, which promote moisture buildup.

Rotate Your Shoes

Don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day. Give them at least 24 hours to dry out completely between wearings. This reduces moisture and prevents bacteria from multiplying.

Sock Strategies

• Wear breathable socks: Choose socks made from cotton, wool, or synthetic materials designed to wick away moisture.
• Change socks regularly: Change your socks at least once a day, or more often if your feet sweat heavily.
• Consider antimicrobial socks: Socks infused with silver or copper can help kill bacteria and reduce odor.

Shoe Inserts to the Rescue

Shoe inserts can absorb sweat and help control odor.

• Replaceable insoles: Use absorbent insoles and replace them regularly.
• Charcoal insoles: Charcoal is a natural odor absorber.
• Cedar insoles: Cedarwood also absorbs moisture and has a pleasant scent.

Home Remedies for Stinky Shoes

Many common household items can serve as a natural shoe deodorizer. Here are some of the most popular and effective shoe odor remedies:

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a powerful odor absorber.

• How to use: Sprinkle baking soda liberally inside your shoes, let it sit overnight, and then shake it out in the morning.
• For extra odor control: Mix baking soda with a few drops of essential oils like tea tree or lavender.

Vinegar

Vinegar has antibacterial and antifungal properties.

• How to use: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the inside of your shoes and let them air dry.
• Caution: Avoid over-saturating leather shoes, as vinegar can be drying.

Tea Bags

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

• How to use: Place a few dry tea bags inside your shoes and let them sit overnight.
• Alternatively: Brew a strong cup of black tea, let it cool, and then use a cloth to wipe the inside of your shoes.

Essential Oils

Essential oils have antimicrobial and deodorizing properties.

• Popular choices: Tea tree, lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint.
• How to use: Add a few drops of essential oil to a cotton ball and place it inside your shoes overnight.
• Another option: Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle and lightly spray the inside of your shoes.

Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is a disinfectant that can kill bacteria and help dry out shoes.

• How to use: Soak a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and wipe down the inside of your shoes. Let them air dry completely.

Shoe Cleaning for Odor

Sometimes, a more thorough cleaning is necessary to remove shoe stink completely. The best approach depends on the type of shoe.

Cleaning Canvas Shoes

Canvas shoes are generally easy to clean.

• Machine washing: Remove the laces and insoles. Place the shoes in a laundry bag to protect them. Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Air dry completely.
• Hand washing: Mix warm water with mild detergent. Use a brush to scrub the shoes inside and out. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

Cleaning Leather Shoes

Leather shoes require more care.

• Wipe down: Use a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and grime.
• Leather cleaner: Apply a leather cleaner according to the product instructions.
• Condition: Use a leather conditioner to keep the leather soft and prevent cracking.

Cleaning Synthetic Shoes

Synthetic shoes can often be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

• Hand washing: Mix warm water with mild detergent. Use a cloth or brush to clean the shoes inside and out. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Don’t use bleach or other harsh chemicals, as they can damage the material.

Cleaning Insoles

Insoles are often the biggest source of odor.

• Hand washing: Remove the insoles and wash them with warm water and mild detergent.
• Soaking: Soak the insoles in a solution of water and vinegar or baking soda.
• Replace: If the insoles are heavily soiled or damaged, consider replacing them.

Best Shoe Odor Eliminator Products

When home remedies aren’t enough, consider using commercial shoe deodorizing products.

Shoe Sprays

Shoe sprays are a quick and easy way to freshen shoes.

• Look for: Sprays with antibacterial and antifungal properties.
• Ingredients to consider: Silver, zinc, and essential oils.

Shoe Powders

Shoe powders absorb moisture and help control odor.

• Popular options: Baking soda-based powders, medicated foot powders.

Shoe Sanitizers

Shoe sanitizers kill bacteria and fungi.

• Look for: Products containing antimicrobial agents.

UV Shoe Sanitizers

UV shoe sanitizers use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and fungi.

• Benefits: Effective, non-toxic, and odor-free.

Preventing Shoe Odor: A Proactive Approach

The best way to deal with shoe odor is to prevent it in the first place.

Foot Hygiene Matters

• Wash your feet daily: Use soap and water to wash your feet thoroughly, paying attention to the areas between your toes.
• Dry your feet completely: Moisture breeds bacteria, so dry your feet thoroughly after washing, especially between your toes.
• Use foot powder: Apply foot powder to absorb sweat and keep your feet dry.

Shoe Care Habits

• Store shoes properly: Store shoes in a well-ventilated area.
• Use shoe trees: Shoe trees help maintain the shape of your shoes and absorb moisture.
• Clean shoes regularly: Clean your shoes regularly to remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria.

When to Replace Your Shoes

Sometimes, shoes become so saturated with sweat and bacteria that they can’t be salvaged.

• Signs it’s time to replace: Persistent odor, visible stains, worn-out soles or insoles.

FAQ: Shoe Odor Problems Solved

What is the best way to eliminate foot odor in shoes quickly? Sprinkle baking soda inside your shoes and let it sit overnight. Shake it out in the morning.

Can I put my shoes in the washing machine? Some shoes, like canvas sneakers, can be machine-washed. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Leather shoes should not be machine-washed.

Who is most likely to have smelly shoes? People who sweat heavily, athletes, and those who wear closed-toe shoes for long periods are more prone to shoe odor.

How to freshen shoes that have been wet? Remove the insoles and stuff the shoes with newspaper to absorb moisture. Let them air dry completely, away from direct heat.

What is a good natural shoe deodorizer? Baking soda, vinegar, tea tree oil, and cedarwood are all effective natural shoe deodorizers.

What are some common causes of shoe odor? The most common causes are sweat, bacteria, and poor foot hygiene.

What can I do if I have athlete’s foot and smelly shoes? Treat the athlete’s foot with an antifungal medication and disinfect your shoes regularly. Consider using an antifungal shoe spray.

How can I prevent my shoes from smelling in the first place? Practice good foot hygiene, wear breathable socks, rotate your shoes, and clean them regularly.

Are expensive shoes less likely to smell? Not necessarily. The material and construction of the shoe, as well as your foot hygiene and shoe care habits, are more important factors than price.

Table: Shoe Deodorizing Methods Compared

Method	Description	Pros	Cons	Best for
Airing Out	Leaving shoes in a well-ventilated area to dry	Simple, free, effective for mild odor	Only works for mild odor, time-consuming	Daily maintenance, shoes with slight odor
Baking Soda	Absorbing odor with baking soda	Inexpensive, readily available, effective odor absorber	Messy, may not eliminate strong odors	Mild to moderate odor, most shoe types
Vinegar	Disinfecting with vinegar	Natural disinfectant, kills bacteria and fungi	Strong odor, may damage some materials, potential discoloration	Shoes with bacterial or fungal growth, canvas and synthetic shoes
Tea Bags	Absorbing odor with tea bags	Natural, absorbent, contains tannins that kill bacteria	May stain light-colored shoes, less effective for strong odors	Mild odor, shoes that need a gentle freshening
Essential Oils	Deodorizing with essential oils	Pleasant scent, antimicrobial properties	May irritate skin, can be expensive	Adding a pleasant scent, shoes with mild bacterial odor
Rubbing Alcohol	Disinfecting with rubbing alcohol	Kills bacteria quickly, dries shoes	Can be drying to leather, strong odor	Shoes needing quick disinfection, canvas and synthetic shoes
Shoe Sprays	Commercial sprays for odor control	Convenient, quick, often contain antibacterial agents	Can be expensive, may contain harsh chemicals	Quick freshening, travel
Shoe Powders	Absorbing moisture with shoe powder	Absorbs sweat, controls odor, helps prevent fungal growth	Can be messy, may clump, not suitable for all shoe types	Heavy sweaters, athletes, shoes worn for extended periods
UV Sanitizers	Using ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and fungi	Effective, non-toxic, odor-free	Expensive, requires electricity	Thorough sanitation, shoes with persistent odor, people with foot infections

By understanding the causes of shoe odor and implementing these strategies, you can effectively eliminate foot odor in shoes and keep your footwear smelling fresh and clean. Remember that consistency is key, and a combination of these methods may be necessary to achieve the best results.