Why Do Shoes Smell: A Guide to Getting Rid of Shoe Odor

Shoes can smell bad due to sweat, bacteria, and foot odor. Also, shoes often smell bad because of the materials used to make them. For instance, shoes made from rubber or other synthetic materials can release smells when they get wet or sweaty.  

Shoes should be removed and aired every day to avoid smelling bad. If you can’t stand your shoes’ smell, put them in the sun for a few hours to help break down the odor. Additionally, please place them in a dryer on low heat for an hour or two to help break down the odor. If your shoes still smell bad after following these tips, it might be time to replace them.

How to Remove Shoe Odors

Wash Them

Shoes can stink quickly if they need to be washed appropriately. Luckily, cleaning them is easy and can help eliminate foul odor. Remove any gum or wax with a brush before washing in hot water with detergent. Fill a bucket with warm water and detergent (washing soda is also acceptable). 

Dunk the shoes in the water for a few minutes, and shake them off every few minutes. Let the shoes dry completely before storing them away or wearing them again.

Wash Insoles

To reduce the smell and make shoes more wearable, it is crucial to wash the insoles regularly. Soak the insoles in warm soapy water for a few minutes. Check for dirt and stains before rinsing off thoroughly; air-dry the insoles to avoid moisture buildup.

Odor-Absorbing Powders

To absorb odors, sprinkle odor-absorbing powders into the shoes before wearing them. It would help to store powders in an airtight container for lasting effect. In addition, several products on the market are designed to absorb odors from shoes. You can use these products to help eliminate unpleasant smells caused by sweating, bacteria, and other factors. Some common types of odor-absorbing powders for shoes include:

• Baking soda: Baking soda is a natural odor absorber that can eliminate odors from shoes. Sprinkle some baking soda inside your shoes, let it sit for a few hours, and then shake it out.

• Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is a highly porous material that can absorb many odors. It can be purchased in powder form and sprinkled inside shoes to absorb odors.

• Cornstarch: Cornstarch is a natural, absorbent powder that can help to eliminate odors from shoes. Sprinkle a small amount inside your shoes and let them sit for a few hours before shaking them out.

• Specialty odor-absorbing powders: There are also various specialty powders specifically designed to absorb odors from shoes. These products may contain various ingredients in powders, sprays, or insoles.

Use Disinfectant

You will need to use a shoe or sandal disinfectant to remove the unpleasant odor. Various products available on the market claim to help with this task. Always use caution while using these products, as they may have harmful effects if not used properly. 

Make sure you read the label carefully before using them so that you don’t end up harming your shoes or sandals in any way!

Store Them in a Cool, Dry Place

It would help to store shoes in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture buildup. You can also store shoes in the box they came in if they are not being worn. 

Removing shoes before entering the shower or going out in the rain is vital, as water will soak them and cause odor problems. 

Shoe Deodorizers You Can Try at Home

Shoes can get smelly over time, and it can be challenging to figure out why. Try a homemade deodorizer to prevent them from stinking up your place. There are many different recipes available online, so experiment to find one that works best. 

DIY Shoe Spray

Clothing and shoes often produce an unpleasant odor due to sweat, bacteria, or fungus. If you’re looking for an easy way to deodorize your shoes without using chemicals, consider mixing equal parts water and white vinegar to make a DIY shoe spray. You can also use it to clean your shoes and remove their odors.

DIY Shoe Powder

A deodorizer like a DIY shoe powder made of baking soda is an excellent way to prevent odor buildup in shoes. Just add a teaspoon to your shoes and shake it before each use. 

Homemade Shoe Deodorizing Sachets

By making your shoe deodorizers, you can get rid of that unpleasant odor instantly. Not only that, but you will also be doing your part in conserving the environment. 

To make one simple and cheap deodorizer, you only need baking soda, lavender oil or essential oil of your choice, water, and a spray bottle. Mix everything well until it forms a thick liquid, put them in a sachet, and place them where you store your shoes. 

Try the Freezer

To get rid of shoe odor quickly and effectively, try putting your shoes in a plastic bag and freezing the shoes, and then removing the ice. This will stop the smell from spreading and remove any dirt or debris that may be stuck in the shoes. Make sure to clean all surfaces before putting them back in your closet!

How to Keep Shoes From Smelling

Wear Sweat-Wicking Socks

Sweat-wicking socks will help absorb moisture and prevent the release of an overpowering smell. It is also important to rotate your shoes so they are exposed to the air. This way, you can avoid foot odor problems in the long run. And finally, make sure your shoes are stored in a dry place where they can be accessed easily when you need them.

Store Them Properly

Proper shoe storage can go a long way in preserving shoes – ensure they are airtight and place them in an area where they will not be exposed to moisture or light. You should also keep shoes away from heaters and other appliances that could cause them damage. When these tips are followed correctly, you’ll likely never have to deal with smelly sneakers again!

Use Copper Sole Socks

Copper socks are a great way to reduce sweat and eliminate bad smells. Change them regularly and ensure they’re tight-fitting so air can’t get in. You can also keep your sneakers freshly aired by opening a window for a few minutes daily! If all else fails, spray baking soda on the shoes before storing them.

Wear Sole Socks or Washable Insoles

You can’t go wrong with wearing sole socks or insoles when keeping shoes smelling and looking good. Not only will they help absorb sweat, but they also make sure that your shoes are kept clean – either by washing them with a hose or on the delicate setting in the machine.

Apply Antiperspirant or Deodorant on Your Feet

Wearing shoes daily can be a hassle, but it’s incredibly annoying when your feet start to stink. To prevent this from happening, apply antiperspirant or deodorant on your feet every day. 

Make sure you wet the area before applying the product so that it will go on smoothly and evenly. And avoid overapplying, as this will only make the odor worse. Follow the instructions carefully on the package to get optimal results.