How to Remove Smell from Shoes?

Smelly shoes are a common problem that can make even the most confident person feel self-conscious. Shoe odor arises mainly from bacteria thriving in damp, sweaty environments. Luckily, there are simple, effective ways to eliminate these odors and prevent them from coming back.

Using everyday items and making small changes in how you care for your shoes can make all the difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get rid of shoe smells once and for all.

1. Clean Your Shoes Thoroughly

Cleaning is the first and most important step in tackling smelly shoes. Over time, sweat and dirt build up inside your shoes, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and odors. Follow these steps for a deep clean:

• Remove the insoles if they’re detachable and wash them separately.
• For non-leather shoes, scrub the inside and outside with mild soap and warm water. Use a soft brush to reach the seams and crevices.
• If your shoes are machine washable, put them in a laundry bag and wash them on a gentle cycle using cold water and a mild detergent.
• Air-dry your shoes completely after washing. Avoid using a dryer, as excessive heat can damage the shoe material. Place them in a sunny, well-ventilated area for faster drying.

Learn more about how to clean used shoes?

2. Neutralize Odor with Baking Soda

Baking soda is a powerful and natural deodorizer that can effectively absorb unpleasant odors from your shoes. Here’s how to use it:

1. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda into each shoe, making sure it covers the entire insole area.
2. Let it sit overnight or for at least 8 hours.
3. Shake out the baking soda the next morning, ensuring no powder remains inside.

This method works particularly well for fabric or canvas shoes. For leather shoes, place baking soda inside a cloth bag or sock before inserting it into the shoe to avoid damaging the material.

3. Use Vinegar and Water Spray

White vinegar is another excellent odor eliminator due to its antibacterial properties. To use vinegar:

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• Lightly mist the inside of your shoes. Avoid soaking them, as too much moisture can damage certain materials.
• Allow the shoes to air-dry completely in a ventilated area, preferably in sunlight.

Vinegar neutralizes the bacteria causing the smell and helps freshen up your shoes.

4. Freeze Your Shoes to Kill Bacteria

For stubborn odors that won’t go away with regular cleaning, freezing your shoes can be an effective solution. Extreme cold kills bacteria and stops them from producing unpleasant smells. Here’s how to do it:

1. Place your shoes in a resealable plastic bag to protect them from moisture or odors in the freezer.
2. Leave the bagged shoes in the freezer overnight.
3. Remove them the next morning and let them thaw at room temperature before wearing them.

This method works particularly well for athletic shoes, casual sneakers and other non-leather footwear.

5. Add Wooden Shoe Trees for Long-Term Freshness

Wooden shoe trees, especially those made from cedarwood, are excellent tools for maintaining your shoes and keeping them odor-free. They serve multiple purposes:

• Absorb Moisture: Wooden shoe trees naturally absorb sweat and dampness from the inside of your shoes, which helps prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
• Neutralize Odors: Cedarwood shoe trees, in particular, have a fresh, natural scent that deodorizes your shoes.
• Preserve Shape: They keep your shoes in shape, preventing creases and maintaining their structure.

Simply insert the shoe trees into your shoes after wearing them and leave them there whenever the shoes aren’t in use. This is a simple yet effective way to keep your shoes fresh over time.

You can check our wooden shoe tress made from cedarwood: https://prelovedtreasures.pk/products/shoe-trees

6. Use Activated Charcoal or Odor Absorbers

Activated charcoal is a highly absorbent material that traps odors and moisture. Place small pouches of activated charcoal inside your shoes when they’re not in use. Alternatively, you can use commercial odor-absorbing products like silica gel packs or shoe deodorizers.

7. Practice Proper Foot Hygiene

Smelly shoes often start with sweaty or unclean feet. Keeping your feet clean and dry can significantly reduce shoe odor. Follow these steps:

• Wash your feet daily with soap and water.
• Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, before putting on socks and shoes.
• Use a foot powder or antiperspirant spray designed for feet to minimize sweating.

8. Rotate Your Shoes

Wearing the same pair of shoes every day doesn’t give them enough time to dry out fully, which leads to persistent odors. Alternate between two or more pairs to allow each pair to breathe and dry out completely.

9. Choose Breathable Shoes and Socks

Invest in shoes made from breathable materials like leather, canvas or mesh. These materials allow better airflow and reduce moisture buildup inside the shoes. Pair them with moisture-wicking socks that draw sweat away from your skin. Cotton or bamboo socks are great options for daily wear.

10. Freshen with Essential Oils

Essential oils not only add a pleasant scent to your shoes but also have antibacterial properties. To use essential oils:

• Apply a few drops of tea tree, lavender or eucalyptus oil onto cotton balls or tissues.
• Place them inside your shoes overnight.

This method provides a natural, long-lasting freshness and helps combat bacteria.

11. Replace Insoles Regularly

Insoles tend to trap sweat and bacteria over time, making them a major contributor to shoe odor. If the smell persists even after cleaning, it may be time to replace the insoles. Choose odor-resistant or washable insoles for better results.

12. Use Commercial Shoe Deodorizers

If you’re looking for convenience, many store-bought options like sprays, powders and deodorizing inserts are available. These products are designed specifically for tackling shoe odors and can provide quick results.

Consistency is the Key to Fresh Shoes

Keeping your shoes odor-free requires consistent care and maintenance. By combining these methods and incorporating good habits, you can effectively eliminate shoe smells and enjoy wearing your favorite footwear without worry.

Start with cleaning, introduce wooden shoe trees for ongoing freshness and remember to give your shoes the attention they deserve. Fresh shoes not only make you feel more confident but also extend the life of your footwear.

At Preloved Treasures, we care for your health and fitness, that's why, our shoes are washed and maintained with proper hygiene!