Say Goodbye to Stinky Shoes: 8 Simple Remedies to Freshen Up Your Footwear

Say Goodbye to Stinky Shoes: 8 Simple Remedies to Freshen Up Your Footwear

We all have that favorite pair of sneakers that has developed an unpleasant odor over time. Luckily, there are effective methods to deodorize your shoes and restore their freshness.

Dealing with smelly shoes is a common problem that many people encounter. It can be frustrating—no matter how clean your feet may be, they can still leave your sneakers smelling less than pleasant. In some cases, the odor can be so strong that it leaves you wondering, "How do I get rid of this smell in my shoes?"

The main cause of shoe odour is bacteria. These microorganisms thrive in large numbers on your feet, producing organic acids—such as methanethiol, isovaleric acid, and propanoic acid—as by-products of their metabolism. While these bacteria aren't harmful, they can generate a lingering smell.

For instance, methanethiol, a waste product from Brevibacterium (the primary bacteria found on feet), has a pungent sulfuric scent reminiscent of decaying cabbage and sweaty socks.

Even with the best foot hygiene, foot odor can persist due to the high concentration of sweat glands on your feet. While sweat itself is odorless, the waste produced by bacteria is not. This makes shoes ideal breeding grounds for bacteria, as they trap moisture and sweat, creating an environment where these microorganisms can flourish.

8 Effective Ways to Remove Shoe Odor

1. Bicarbonate of Soda
   Want a home remedy to freshen up your shoes? Try Bicarbonate of Soda! This natural deodorizer absorbs unpleasant smells and bacteria. There are two ways to use it:
• Mix ¼ cup of Bicarbonate of Soda, ¼ cup of baking powder, and ½ cup of cornflour. Place this mixture in cotton socks or sprinkle it directly into your shoes, leaving it overnight. For a boost of fragrance, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil.
• Alternatively, you can simply sprinkle Bicarbonate of Soda inside the shoes and leave it for at least 24 hours.
2. Vinegar Spray
   Vinegar is excellent for neutralizing odors and combating bacteria in shoes. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then spritz the solution inside your shoes after use and allow them to dry. Doing this after each run can help keep your shoes smelling fresh.
   Tip: For maximum effectiveness, clean your shoes thoroughly both inside and out before applying the vinegar solution.
3. Soap
   Another simple remedy for sneaker odour is to place a bar of soap in each shoe overnight. Soap not only kills bacteria but also absorbs odours and replaces them with a pleasant scent.
   Tip: Ensure your soap bars are dry before placing them in your shoes, as moisture can promote bacterial growth.
4. Sunlight
   One of the easiest ways to eliminate odors is to dry out excess moisture in your shoes. After a run, leave your shoes in direct sunlight for a few hours to allow them to dry completely before wearing them again.
5. Wear Socks
   Going sockless is a surefire way to contribute to shoe odor. Socks help absorb sweat and moisture from warm feet, which is especially important if you tend to have sweaty feet.
   Tip: Opt for cotton socks, as they are breathable and effective at keeping your shoes odor-free.
6. Essential Oils
   Essential oils like tea tree, clove, and cedarwood are natural deodorisers with antifungal properties. For example, a December 2007 study published in Mycobiology found that clove oil effectively inhibits bacteria growth on the feet, thereby eliminating odor. These oils not only combat bacteria and bad smells but also leave a pleasant fragrance.
   You can apply a few drops of essential oil directly into your shoes or mix them with other deodorizing methods like Bicarbonate of Soda or vinegar.
7. Practice Good Foot Hygiene
   Taking extra care of your feet is crucial. Ensure you wash between each toe and scrub the soles thoroughly before rinsing. Here are some additional hygiene tips to keep shoe odour at bay:
• Wear socks only once between washes.
• Change your socks and shoes immediately after workouts to prevent odors from lingering.
• Make sure to dry your feet completely after washing, as any residual moisture encourages bacterial growth.
• Allow your feet to breathe by going without shoes or socks when possible to air out any sweat and reduce bacteria.
8. Inspect the Insoles
   If you’ve had the same insoles for years, it might be time for a replacement. Insoles are often a significant source of shoe odor, and a new pair can significantly reduce that persistent smell.

Addressing smelly shoes can be a simple process with the right techniques. By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy your favorite sneakers without the unpleasant odor that often comes with them. Remember that maintaining good foot hygiene and regularly cleaning your shoes are essential to keep them smelling fresh. Don’t let shoe odour deter you from wearing your favorite pairs—try these methods today!