What To Do When Shoes Smell?

Written ByKevin K. Shaw Last Updated on: Shoes
What To Do When Shoes Smell?

Here are some things you can do when shoes smell:

  • Clean your shoes regularly. This is the best way to prevent them from smelling in the first place. Use a mild soap and water to clean the inside and outside of your shoes. Be sure to pay attention to areas that are prone to sweat and dirt, such as the toes and insoles.
  • Let your shoes dry completely. After you clean your shoes, be sure to let them dry completely before putting them away. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria, which can cause odors.
  • Use a shoe deodorant. There are a variety of different shoe deodorants available, both in powder and spray form. These products can help to absorb odors and keep your shoes smelling fresh.
  • Sprinkle baking soda in your shoes. Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda in your shoes before going to bed and let it sit overnight. Vacuum or shake out the baking soda in the morning.
  • Freeze your shoes. Freezing your shoes can help to kill bacteria that are causing odors. Place your shoes in a plastic bag and put them in the freezer for a few hours. Then, let them thaw completely before wearing them again.
  • Put your shoes in the dryer. If your shoes are machine-washable, you can put them in the dryer on a low heat setting. This will help to dry them out and kill bacteria.
  • Take your shoes to a professional shoemaker. If you have tried all of the above methods and your shoes still smell, you may need to take them to a professional shoemaker. They may be able to clean and deodorize your shoes for you.

How can I prevent my shoes from developing a bad odor in the first place?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your shoes from developing a bad odor in the first place:

  • Wear socks with your shoes. Socks help to absorb sweat and prevent it from getting on your shoes.
  • Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes two days in a row. Give your shoes a chance to dry out and air out between wearings.
  • Store your shoes in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing your shoes in hot, humid places, such as the garage or attic.
  • Use a shoe deodorant. There are a variety of different shoe deodorants available, both in powder and spray form. These products can help to absorb odors and keep your shoes smelling fresh.
  • Sprinkle baking soda in your shoes. Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda in your shoes before going to bed and let it sit overnight. Vacuum or shake out the baking soda in the morning.
  • Freeze your shoes. Freezing your shoes can help to kill bacteria that are causing odors. Place your shoes in a plastic bag and put them in the freezer for a few hours. Then, let them thaw completely before wearing them again.
  • Put your shoes in the dryer. If your shoes are machine-washable, you can put them in the dryer on a low heat setting. This will help to dry them out and kill bacteria.
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Are there any natural remedies or homemade solutions to eliminate shoe odor?

There are a number of natural remedies and homemade solutions that can help to eliminate shoe odor. Here are a few remedies I’ve been using since my adulthood cause smelly shoes has always been cursing my fate since long and now I’m pro at dealing with shoe odor :

  • Baking soda: Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda in your shoes before going to bed and let it sit overnight. Vacuum or shake out the baking soda in the morning.
  • Vinegar: Vinegar is a natural disinfectant. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray the inside of your shoes. Let the vinegar solution sit for a few minutes before wiping it out with a clean cloth.
  • Tea bags: Used tea bags can help to absorb odors and freshen your shoes. Place a used tea bag in each shoe and let it sit overnight.
  • Coffee grounds: Coffee grounds are another natural odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount of coffee grounds in your shoes before going to bed and let it sit overnight. Vacuum or shake out the coffee grounds in the morning.
  • Citrus peels: Citrus peels can help to freshen your shoes and remove odors. Place a citrus peel in each shoe and let it sit overnight.
  • Essential oils: Essential oils, such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil, have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Add a few drops of essential oil to a cotton ball and place it in each shoe. Let the essential oil sit in your shoes for a few hours before wearing them.

What are the most effective commercial products for getting rid of shoe odors?

There are a number of commercial products that can be effective at getting rid of shoe odors. Here are a few of the most popular and highly-rated options.Here is a general guide from my personal experiences:

  • Gold Standard Natural Shoe Deodorizer Spray: This spray uses a blend of natural ingredients, including essential oils, to eliminate odors and freshen shoes.
  • FunkAway Odor Eliminating Spray: This spray is designed to neutralize odors at the source, using a combination of enzymes and odor-fighting ingredients.
  • Odor-Eaters Ultra-Durable Insoles: These insoles contain activated charcoal, which helps to absorb and eliminate odors.
  • Arm & Hammer Odor Busterz Balls: These balls contain baking soda, which is a natural odor absorber.
  • Foot Sense All-Natural Foot and Shoe Powder: This powder contains a blend of natural ingredients, including baking soda, cornstarch, and essential oils, to absorb moisture and eliminate odors.
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Should I use shoe inserts or insoles to help combat the smell?

Shoe inserts and insoles can be effective at combating shoe odor. They can help to absorb moisture, reduce friction, and reduce the growth of bacteria, all of which can contribute to shoe odor. Some of the most popular materials for shoe inserts and insoles include:

  • Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is a natural odor absorber. It can help to absorb and eliminate odors from shoes.
  • Baking soda: Baking soda is another natural odor absorber. It can be used to make a homemade shoe deodorizer powder, or it can be purchased in commercial shoe inserts and insoles.
  • Copper: Copper has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can help to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi in shoes, which can contribute to shoe odor.
  • Gel: Gel insoles can help to absorb moisture and reduce friction in shoes. This can help to prevent the growth of bacteria and reduce shoe odor.
  • Wool: Wool is a natural fiber that can help to wick away moisture and keep feet dry. This can help to prevent the growth of bacteria and reduce shoe odor.

Can you suggest some tips for cleaning and maintaining specific types of shoes to prevent odors?

Here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining specific types of shoes to prevent odors:

Athletic shoes:

  • Remove the insoles and wash them separately in a washing machine with mild detergent and cold water. Air dry them completely before putting them back in your shoes.
  • Wipe down the inside of your shoes with a damp cloth and mild soap.
  • Pay extra attention to areas that are prone to sweat and dirt, such as the toes and insoles.
  • Let your shoes air dry completely before wearing them again.

Leather shoes:

  • Brush off any dirt or debris with a soft brush.
  • Apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a soft cloth and wipe down your shoes.
  • Be sure to buff the shoes until they shine.
  • Let your shoes dry completely before wearing them again.

Suede shoes:

  • Brush off any dirt or debris with a soft brush.
  • Use a suede eraser to remove any stubborn stains.
  • Apply a small amount of suede protector to a soft cloth and wipe down your shoes.
  • Let your shoes dry completely before wearing them again.

Canvas shoes:

  • Remove the laces and wash them separately in a washing machine with mild detergent and cold water. Air dry them completely before putting them back in your shoes.
  • Brush off any dirt or debris with a soft brush.
  • Wipe down your shoes with a damp cloth and mild soap.
  • Pay extra attention to areas that are prone to sweat and dirt, such as the toes and insoles.
  • Let your shoes air dry completely before wearing them again.

Boots:

  • Remove the laces and insoles, and wash them separately in a washing machine with mild detergent and cold water. Air dry them completely before putting them back in your shoes.
  • Brush off any dirt or debris with a soft brush.
  • Wipe down the inside and outside of your boots with a damp cloth and mild soap.
  • Pay extra attention to areas that are prone to sweat and dirt, such as the toes and soles.
  • Let your boots air dry completely before wearing them again.

Sandals:

  • Wipe down your sandals with a damp cloth and mild soap.
  • Pay extra attention to areas that are prone to sweat and dirt, such as the straps and soles.
  • Let your sandals air dry completely before wearing them again.
    Please follow the recommended procedures to avoid any kind of mishaps with your shoes as they’re my priority also.
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Are there any health risks associated with wearing smelly shoes?

There are some potential health risks associated with wearing smelly shoes. These risks include:

  • Foot infections: Smelly shoes can harbor bacteria and fungi, which can lead to foot infections such as athlete’s foot and toenail fungus. These infections can be painful and difficult to treat.
  • Skin problems: Smelly shoes can also cause skin problems such as blisters, calluses, and eczema. These problems can be caused by the friction and moisture created by smelly shoes.
  • Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the materials used to make smelly shoes, such as rubber, glue, and leather. This can lead to skin rashes, hives, and other allergic reactions.
  • Slips and falls: Smelly shoes can also be slippery, which can increase your risk of slipping and falling. This can lead to injuries such as broken bones and sprains.

What should I do if my shoes get wet and start to smell as a result?

If your shoes get wet and start to smell as a result, there are a few things you can do to remove the odor:

  1. Clean your shoes. This is the most important step, as it will remove the bacteria that are causing the odor. Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the inside and outside of your shoes. Pay special attention to areas that are prone to sweat and dirt, such as the toes and insoles.
  2. Dry your shoes completely. Wet shoes are a breeding ground for bacteria, so it is important to dry them completely before wearing them again. You can air dry your shoes or use a shoe dryer. If you are using a shoe dryer, be sure to use the lowest heat setting.
  3. Use a shoe deodorant. Shoe deodorants can help to neutralize odors and keep your shoes smelling fresh. Apply the deodorant to the inside of your shoes, under the insoles, and to any other areas where odor is present.
  4. Sprinkle baking soda in your shoes. Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda in your shoes before going to bed and let it sit overnight. Vacuum or shake out the baking soda in the morning.
  5. Freeze your shoes. Freezing your shoes can help to kill bacteria that are causing the odor. Place your shoes in a plastic bag and put them in the freezer for a few hours. Then, let them thaw completely before wearing them again.
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How often should I clean and deodorize my shoes to keep them smelling fresh?

How often you need to clean and deodorize your shoes to keep them smelling fresh will depend on a number of factors, including how often you wear them, the type of shoes they are, and the climate you live in. However, a general rule of thumb is to clean and deodorize your shoes at least once a week.

If you wear your shoes frequently, or if you live in a hot, humid climate, you may need to clean and deodorize them more often. You should also clean and deodorize your shoes immediately after getting them wet or dirty.

Here are some tips for cleaning and deodorizing your shoes:

  • Remove the insoles and laces. Clean the insoles separately in a washing machine with mild detergent and cold water. Air dry them completely before putting them back in your shoes.
  • Wipe down the inside of your shoes with a damp cloth and mild soap. Pay extra attention to areas that are prone to sweat and dirt, such as the toes and insoles.
  • Let your shoes air dry completely before wearing them again.

Are there any innovative or high-tech solutions for tackling shoe odor?

There are a number of innovative and high-tech solutions for tackling shoe odor. Here are a few examples of new technologies:

  • Smart shoes: Smart shoes are equipped with sensors that can track your activity level and foot temperature. They can then use this information to adjust the fit of the shoe and regulate airflow to help keep your feet cool and dry. This can help to prevent the growth of bacteria and reduce shoe odor.
  • UV shoe cleaners: UV shoe cleaners use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and fungi that cause shoe odor. They are typically portable and easy to use, and they can be used to clean all types of shoes.
  • Shoe dryers: Shoe dryers use heat and airflow to dry shoes quickly and efficiently. This can help to prevent the growth of bacteria and reduce shoe odor.
  • Odor-absorbing insoles: Odor-absorbing insoles are made with materials such as activated charcoal and baking soda, which help to absorb moisture and odor. They can be used in all types of shoes and can be replaced regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
  • Shoe deodorizers: Shoe deodorizers are available in a variety of forms, including sprays, powders, and gels. They work by neutralizing odors or killing bacteria. Shoe deodorizers can be used as needed or on a regular basis to keep shoes smelling fresh.
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Should I consider replacing my shoes if the odor persists despite trying various remedies?

If you have tried various remedies and the odor persists, you may need to consider replacing your shoes. This is especially true if your shoes are old or if you wear them frequently.

Here are some signs that it may be time to replace your shoes:

  • The shoes are visibly worn, with holes or tears in the fabric or soles.
  • The shoes are no longer supportive or comfortable.
  • The shoes have a strong odor that cannot be removed with cleaning or deodorizing.
  • The shoes are more than a year old and you wear them frequently.

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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.