Skip to content

OneStopTown

  • Home
  • Shoes GuidesExpand
    • How To Remove Smell From Shoes Instantly?
    • How To Clean Shoes With Suede?
    • Is Youth Shoes The Same As Men’S?
    • Are Kohls Shoes Fake?
    • Are Tuk Shoes True to Size?
  • Blog
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • HTML Sitemap
OneStopTown

Home » Shoes » How To Remove Smell From Shoes?

How To Remove Smell From Shoes?

Written ByKevin K. Shaw Last Updated on:10 September 2023 Shoes
How To Remove Smell From Shoes?

Here are some ways to remove smell from shoes:

  1. Air them out: This is the simplest and most effective way to get rid of the initial odor. Take your shoes off as soon as you get home and let them air out for a few hours. You can also put them outside in the sun or by a fan.
  2. Sprinkle baking soda inside: Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside your shoes and let it sit overnight. Then, vacuum up the baking soda.
  3. Use a vinegar solution: Vinegar is also a good odor absorber. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution inside your shoes and let it sit for 30 minutes before wiping it away.
  4. Put your shoes in the freezer: The cold temperature will kill the bacteria that cause the odor. Put your shoes in a plastic bag and freeze them for 24 hours.
  5. Use a commercial shoe deodorizer: There are many commercial shoe deodorizers available. These products usually contain baking soda or other odor-absorbing ingredients.
  6. Wash your shoes: If your shoes are made of a material that can be washed, such as canvas or leather, wash them in the washing machine. Be sure to follow the care instructions on the label.
  7. Replace your insoles: If your insoles are old and worn, they may be the source of the odor. Replace them with new ones.

By following these tips, you can get rid of smelly shoes and keep your feet fresh and odor-free.

Here are some additional tips:

  • Avoid wearing the same shoes every day. This will give the shoes time to air out and dry completely.
  • Wear socks that wick away moisture. This will help to prevent sweat from building up in your shoes.
  • Take your shoes off when you come home. This will help to prevent the odor from getting worse.
  • Clean your shoes regularly. This will help to remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria that can cause odor.

By following these tips, you can keep your shoes smelling fresh and clean.

Here are some additional safety tips to keep in mind when removing smell from shoes:

  • Be careful not to use too much baking soda, as this can actually make the odor worse.
  • If you are using a vinegar solution, be sure to dilute it properly. Too much vinegar can damage the material of your shoes.
  • If you are using a commercial shoe deodorizer, be sure to read the label carefully and follow the instructions. Some shoe deodorizers can be harmful to certain materials.
  • If your shoes are made of leather, be sure to use a leather-safe product.
  • If you are unsure about how to remove the smell from your shoes, it is always best to consult with a professional.

What are the common causes of bad odors in shoes?

There are several common causes of bad odors in shoes. Here are some of the most common ones:

  • Sweat: When your feet sweat, it creates a moist environment that bacteria can thrive in. These bacteria produce acids that cause the unpleasant odor.
  • Dirt: Dirt, dust, and other debris can also get trapped in your shoes and contribute to the odor.
  • Bacteria: Bacteria can also build up on the inside of your shoes, even if you don’t sweat a lot. This is especially true if your shoes are made of materials that don’t breathe well, such as plastic or rubber.
  • Fungus: Fungus can also cause smelly feet and shoes. This is especially common in people who have athlete’s foot.
  • Poor hygiene: If you don’t wash your feet regularly or wear clean socks, this can also contribute to smelly shoes.
  • Wearing the same shoes every day: Wearing the same shoes every day without giving them a chance to air out can also make them smell.
  • Not drying your shoes properly: If you don’t dry your shoes properly after wearing them, this can also lead to odor.

If you have smelly shoes, there are a few things you can do to get rid of the odor. Here are some tips:

  • Air them out: The simplest way to get rid of the initial odor is to air your shoes out. Take them off as soon as you get home and let them air out for a few hours. You can also put them outside in the sun or by a fan.
  • Sprinkle baking soda inside: Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside your shoes and let it sit overnight. Then, vacuum up the baking soda.
  • Use a vinegar solution: Vinegar is also a good odor absorber. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution inside your shoes and let it sit for 30 minutes before wiping it away.
  • Put your shoes in the freezer: The cold temperature will kill the bacteria that cause the odor. Put your shoes in a plastic bag and freeze them for 24 hours.
  • Use a commercial shoe deodorizer: There are many commercial shoe deodorizers available. These products usually contain baking soda or other odor-absorbing ingredients.
  • Wash your shoes: If your shoes are made of a material that can be washed, such as canvas or leather, wash them in the washing machine. Be sure to follow the care instructions on the label.
  • Replace your insoles: If your insoles are old and worn, they may be the source of the odor. Replace them with new ones.
  • Store your shoes in a cool, dry place: This will help to prevent bacteria from growing.

By following these tips, you can get rid of smelly shoes and keep your feet fresh and odor-free.

Also Read:
  • What Shoes To Wear With Flare Jeans?
  • Are Peloton Shoes Supposed to Be Tight?
  • Do Dryer Sheets Make Shoes Smell Better?

Can you recommend any home remedies for removing shoe odors?

Yes, there are a few home remedies that you can use to remove shoe odors. Here are a few of the most popular options:

  • Baking soda: Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside your shoes and let it sit overnight. Then, vacuum up the baking soda.
  • Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is another natural odor absorber. You can buy activated charcoal in powder or pellet form. Sprinkle some activated charcoal inside your shoes and let it sit for a few hours or overnight.
  • White vinegar: White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and can help to kill bacteria that cause odor. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution inside your shoes and let it sit for 30 minutes before wiping it away.
  • Tea bags: Tea bags contain tannins, which have antibacterial properties. Place a few tea bags inside your shoes and let them sit overnight.
  • Essential oils: Essential oils, such as lavender, tea tree, and peppermint, have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Add a few drops of essential oil to a cotton ball and place it inside your shoes.
  • Lemon or lime peels: Lemon and lime peels contain citric acid, which can help to kill bacteria and neutralize odors. Place a lemon or lime peel inside your shoes overnight.
  • Coffee grounds: Coffee grounds are a natural deodorizer. Sprinkle some coffee grounds inside your shoes and let them sit overnight.
  • Cornstarch: Cornstarch is a natural odor absorber. Sprinkle some cornstarch inside your shoes and let them sit overnight.

When choosing a home remedy to remove shoe odors, it is important to consider the type of odor, the material of your shoes, and your personal preferences. For example, if your shoes have a strong odor, you may need to use a more powerful remedy, such as baking soda or vinegar. If your shoes are made of leather, you may want to avoid using products that contain alcohol, as this can damage the leather. And if you have sensitive skin, you may want to choose a remedy that is fragrance-free.

No matter which home remedy you choose, be sure to follow the instructions carefully. And if the odor is severe, you may need to combine multiple methods to get rid of it completely.

Are there any specific products or sprays that work well for eliminating shoe smells?

Yes, there are a few specific products and sprays that work well for eliminating shoe smells. Here are a few of the most popular options:

  • Baking soda: Baking soda is a natural odor absorber and is one of the most effective ways to get rid of shoe odors. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside your shoes and let it sit overnight. Then, vacuum up the baking soda.
  • Shoe deodorizer spray: There are many commercial shoe deodorizer sprays available. These products usually contain baking soda or other odor-absorbing ingredients.
  • Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is another natural odor absorber that is just as effective as baking soda. Sprinkle some activated charcoal inside your shoes and let it sit for a few hours or overnight.
  • Essential oils: Essential oils, such as lavender, tea tree, and peppermint, have antibacterial and antifungal properties. They can help to kill the bacteria that cause odor and leave your shoes smelling fresh. Add a few drops of essential oil to a cotton ball and place it inside your shoes.
  • Citrus peels: Citrus peels contain citric acid, which can help to kill bacteria and neutralize odors. Place a lemon or lime peel inside your shoes overnight.
  • Shoe deodorizer insoles: Shoe deodorizer insoles are designed to absorb moisture and odor. They are usually made of materials such as activated charcoal, baking soda, or cedarwood.

When choosing a product or spray to eliminate shoe odors, it is important to consider the type of odor, the material of your shoes, and your personal preferences. For example, if your shoes have a strong odor, you may need to use a more powerful product, such as a shoe deodorizer spray. If your shoes are made of leather, you may want to avoid using products that contain alcohol, as this can damage the leather. And if you have sensitive skin, you may want to choose a product that is fragrance-free.

No matter which product or spray you choose, be sure to follow the instructions carefully. And if the odor is severe, you may need to combine multiple methods to get rid of it completely.

Also Read:
  • What Shoes Do Pharmacy Techs Wear?
  • Are Peloton Shoes Universal?
  • How To Tell If Shoes Are Non Slip?

How often should I clean or treat my shoes to prevent odors?

The frequency with which you should clean or treat your shoes to prevent odors depends on a few factors, including:

  • The type of shoes you wear: Some shoes, such as sneakers, are more likely to develop odor than others, such as leather shoes.
  • How often you wear your shoes: The more often you wear your shoes, the more likely they are to develop odor.
  • Your personal hygiene: If you have sweaty feet, you will need to clean or treat your shoes more often than someone who does not sweat as much.
  • The climate you live in: If you live in a hot and humid climate, your shoes are more likely to develop odor than if you live in a cold and dry climate.

In general, it is a good idea to clean or treat your shoes at least once a week. If you wear your shoes every day, you may need to clean or treat them more often. Here are some tips for cleaning and treating your shoes to prevent odor:

  • Air them out: After you wear your shoes, take them off and let them air out for a few hours. You can also put them outside in the sun or by a fan.
  • Sprinkle baking soda inside: Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside your shoes and let it sit overnight. Then, vacuum up the baking soda.
  • Use a shoe deodorizer spray: There are many commercial shoe deodorizer sprays available. These products usually contain baking soda or other odor-absorbing ingredients.
  • Wash your shoes: If your shoes are made of a material that can be washed, such as canvas or leather, wash them in the washing machine. Be sure to follow the care instructions on the label.
  • Replace your insoles: If your insoles are old and worn, they may be the source of the odor. Replace them with new ones.
  • Store your shoes in a cool, dry place: This will help to prevent bacteria from growing.

By following these tips, you can keep your shoes smelling fresh and odor-free.

Is it possible to prevent shoe odors from occurring in the first place?

Yes, it is possible to prevent shoe odors from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips:

  • Wear clean socks: This is the most important thing you can do to prevent smelly shoes. Socks that wick away moisture will help to keep your feet dry and prevent bacteria from growing.
  • Change your socks daily: Even if you don’t sweat a lot, it’s a good idea to change your socks daily. This will help to prevent bacteria from building up on your feet and in your shoes.
  • Air your shoes out: After you wear your shoes, take them off and let them air out for a few hours. You can also put them outside in the sun or by a fan.
  • Sprinkle baking soda inside: Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside your shoes and let it sit overnight. Then, vacuum up the baking soda.
  • Use a shoe deodorizer spray: There are many commercial shoe deodorizer sprays available. These products usually contain baking soda or other odor-absorbing ingredients.
  • Wash your shoes regularly: If your shoes are made of a material that can be washed, such as canvas or leather, wash them in the washing machine. Be sure to follow the care instructions on the label.
  • Replace your insoles: If your insoles are old and worn, they may be the source of the odor. Replace them with new ones.
  • Store your shoes in a cool, dry place: This will help to prevent bacteria from growing.

By following these tips, you can keep your shoes smelling fresh and odor-free.

Resources

  • https://marathonhandbook.com/how-to-remove-smell-from-shoes/
  • https://www.homemadesimple.com/in-the-home/how-to-get-smell-out-of-shoes/
  • https://glovestix.com/blogs/news/7-best-ways-to-get-rid-of-stinky-shoes?al_pg_id=39360955-197b-43da-b87e-c7cc3e3112fa
  • https://www.anitashousekeeping.com/blog/effective-fixes-for-smelly-shoes/
  • https://www.rd.com/list/keep-shoes-smelling-fresh/
Also Read:
  • Is It Illegal To Drive Without Shoes?
  • Are Shoes From Goat Real?
  • Is Shoes And Sneakers The Same Thing?
  • Can You Wear Turf Shoes on Grass?
  • How Do I Know If Shoes Are Too Big?
  • What Are Padel Shoes and Why Are They So Popular?
  • How To Clean Shoes That Smell?
  • How Long Does It Take To Get Shoes From Goat?
  • How To Stop Shoes From Smelling?
  • How To Make Shoes Smell Better?

Kevin K. Shaw

Kevin K. Shaw is a fashion blogger who loves all things related to style, beauty and culture. He has been blogging for years now and he takes pride in his work.

Post navigation

Previous Previous
Are Shoes Or Boots Better For Walking?
NextContinue
HOW TO MAKE SHOES SMALLER?

Affiliate Disclosure

This post may contain affiliate links so I earn a commission. Please read my disclosure for more info

  • MOUNTAIN TOP Organic Shoe Odor Buster Spray (8oz) Maximum Strength
    MOUNTAIN TOP Organic Shoe Odor Buster Spray (8oz) Maximum Strength Deodorizes & Removes Bad Smells with Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Tea Tree & Lemongrass Oils
    Amazon Amazon
    $ 12.99
  • CleanKicks Odor Eliminator Spray, Deodorizes & Removes Bad Smells, Boots,
    CleanKicks Odor Eliminator Spray, Deodorizes & Removes Bad Smells, Boots, Cleats, Sneakers, Easy to Store, 4oz Bottle
    Amazon Amazon
    $ 7.97
  • PURA D'OR Organic Shoe & Foot Odor Eliminator Spray (8oz)
    PURA D'OR Organic Shoe & Foot Odor Eliminator Spray (8oz) Deodorizes & Removes Bad Smells with Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Tea Tree, Lemongrass Essential Oil, Maximum Strength (Packaging may vary)
    Amazon Amazon
    $ 15.99
  • Shoeblast Electric Portable Shoe Dryer Heater & Deodorizer Fan Heating
    Shoeblast Electric Portable Shoe Dryer Heater & Deodorizer Fan Heating Lamps w/Timer - Remove Bad Odors And Smells From Wet & Damp Shoes For Freshness Everyday Care
    Amazon Amazon
    $ 99.50
  • Shoe Deodorizer & Odor Eliminator Spray - Natural Shoe Smell
    Shoe Deodorizer & Odor Eliminator Spray - Natural Shoe Smell Eliminator by Lumi Outdoors - Extra Strength Eucalyptus Lemongrass Freshener
    Amazon Amazon
    $ 13.95 -22%
  • FunkAway Big Jobs Aerosol Spray, 13.5 oz, Extreme Odor Eliminator
    FunkAway Big Jobs Aerosol Spray, 13.5 oz, Extreme Odor Eliminator Spray, Ideal for Shoe Smells, Pet Odors and Large Stuff that Won't Fit in the Wash; Attacks Musty Odors at the Source
    Amazon Amazon
    $ 9.75 -25%
  • Dr. Scholl's ODOR-X FOOT ODOR PROBIOTIC SPRAY, 4 oz //
    Dr. Scholl's ODOR-X FOOT ODOR PROBIOTIC SPRAY, 4 oz // Immediately Eliminates The Worst Odors - Prevents Embarrasing Odors From Returning - Restores Skin's Microbiome
    Amazon Amazon
    $ 10.49 -30%

Copyright © 2023 OneStopTown 

Scroll to top
  • Home
  • Shoes Guides
    • How To Remove Smell From Shoes Instantly?
    • How To Clean Shoes With Suede?
    • Is Youth Shoes The Same As Men’S?
    • Are Kohls Shoes Fake?
    • Are Tuk Shoes True to Size?
  • Blog
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • HTML Sitemap