Searching for the best shoe odor eliminator can be tough. Especially when you’re desperate to get rid of smelly shoes.
Unfortunately, smelly shoes don’t keep their stink to themselves. If you put them in a cupboard, they can stink up the entire closet within seconds. Sometimes it may seem like the only solution is to throw them away.
But there are ways to sort out a smelly sneaker. Read on to discover the best ways to get your shoes smelling like new again.
How to Stop Shoes From Smelling
The fact is that feet get sweaty. And when your feet get sweaty, that moisture gets trapped in your socks which then festers inside your shoes. This gets even worse if you’re wearing them for a long period, exercising or if you’re in a humid environment.
There are also a variety of ways to protect your shoes before you wear them. If you're heading out into the elements with your shoes investing in a good waterproof spray is a must!
Summer can make smelly shoes even worse. Plus, if you’re planning a holiday, packing shoes in a suitcase that smell is a horrible idea.
But all hope is not lost. There are solutions to get rid of stinky shoes. You can get a variety of sprays, powders, leave-in pods, or inserts. But there are also plenty of at-home remedies for you to choose from.
1. Dry Them Out and Give Them Some Air
Since it’s often the moisture causing the mighty stink, it’s a good idea to dry your shoes. Whether you step in a puddle, get caught in the rain, or simply walk around for an extended period in your shoes, it’s always smart to dry out your shoes.
The first thing to do is remove the insoles from your shoes. Then grab some newspaper and stuff it in the shoes. Next, you’ll need to leave them to hang overnight in a well-ventilated area. The newspaper should absorb some of the moisture and, with it, the odor.
Then it’s time to get your hands on a good shoe deodorizer. There are plenty available from pharmacies, supermarkets, and shoe stores. Find one you like and use it on a regular basis.
2. Use Some Essential Oils
Essential oils can be a great way to eliminate odors and get your shoes smelling nice.
Use oils like tea tree, lavender, lemongrass, peppermint, clove leaf, and eucalyptus. Add a few essential oil drops on a tissue or cotton ball. Then rub that on the inside of your shoes and leave them overnight. Your shoes should be smelling fantastic by the morning.
3. Stick Them in the Freezer
Move aside your frozen food because it’s time to shove your shoes in the freezer. Put them in a plastic bag and freeze them overnight. Then let them thaw out.
Bacteria thrives in dark, warm places, so sticking them in the freezer will kill the bacteria and prevent the odor from getting worse.
4. Buy Yourself Some Kitty Litter
Kitty litter is a fantastic way to absorb moisture. If you can get your hands on a litter that eliminates odors, you’ll be killing two birds with one stone.
The cat litter will help to absorb the moisture, helping to get rid of the stink. After a few hours, just throw the kitty litter away and enjoy your fresh-smelling shoes.
5. Get Some Baking Soda
Eliminate the stink from your shoes using this common household item. Whether you already have it in your kitchen or you need to pop down to your local supermarket, baking soda is easy to find.
Baking soda is amazing at absorbing both moisture and odor. Sprinkle it in your shoes and let them sit overnight. Then take a paper towel and wipe the powder away.
6. Give Your Shoes a Wash
You won’t be able to put all types of shoes in the washing machine, but if you’ve got fabric or canvas shoes, plastic or rubber shoes, you’ll be able to give them a good clean. Just make sure to remove the insoles and wash them separately.
It’s a good idea to read the instructions before you put them in the washing machine and take note of the cleaning directions. Rather avoid heat (both in the washing machine and the tumble dryer). This can cause shrinking or damage to the adhesive in the shoes.
7. Consider Replacing Parts of the Shoes
Sometimes the stink just persists. No matter what you do, the smell just won’t go away. At this point, it may be time to consider replacing some of the shoe parts.
Try to replace the soles or the insoles. These aren’t too hard to replace. Just find a good cobbler.
8. Try Using Vinegar
Some shoes can’t handle a machine wash. In this case, it’s worth making your own shoe deodorizer. Combine half a cup of white vinegar with half a cup of water and put it in a spray bottle. Shake it well to make sure it’s thoroughly mixed.
Spritz the inside of your shoes, and then use a cloth towel to wipe the inside of the shoes. Then allow them to air dry before slipping them on your feet.
9. Invest in the Best Shoe Deodorizer
If you’re looking for a product designed specifically for shoes, you can buy some of the best shoe deodorizers at your local pharmacy or online. Just follow the instructions on the spray bottle and enjoy your fresh smelling footwear.
What Causes Stinky Shoes?
The biggest cause of stinky shoes is moisture. This causes bacteria to build up and collect in your shoes. The bacteria then breaks down and releases a stink.
Final Thoughts How to Get Rid of Shoe Odor
So now you know how to fix smelly shoes, you’ll be able to show off your favorite sneakers without worrying about the stench.
Do you have any tips on how to get rid of shoe odor? Let us know in the comments below.