Shoes are a part of our daily lives, whether for work, school, exercise, or casual wear. But one common problem that almost everyone faces is shoe odour. The unpleasant smell that lingers in footwear can be embarrassing, especially when you’re asked to take off your shoes at someone’s home, at the gym, or during travel.
The good news is, shoe odour isn’t permanent. With the right cleaning habits, home remedies, and preventive measures, you can eliminate the smell and keep your shoes fresh for longer. This guide will cover everything you need to know about how to remove odour from shoes, including why it happens, simple DIY hacks, long-term solutions, and prevention tips.
Why Do Shoes Smell?
Before tackling the problem, it’s important to understand why shoe odour occurs.
1) Sweat and Moisture:
Feet naturally sweat, and when moisture gets trapped inside shoes, it creates the perfect environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive. These microbes break down sweat and skin cells, leading to a bad smell.
2) Bacteria and Fungi Growth:
Shoes that aren’t aired out properly can harbour bacteria and fungi, especially if they remain damp. Fungal infections like athlete’s foot can also worsen odour.
3) Poor Ventilation:
Synthetic shoes or those made with non-breathable materials don’t allow enough air circulation. This traps heat and sweat, making odour more likely.
4) Wearing Without Socks:
When shoes are worn without socks, sweat directly soaks into the fabric or insoles, creating odour quickly.
5) Lack of Cleaning:
Shoes that are never washed or disinfected will accumulate sweat, dirt, and bacteria, leading to persistent odours.
How to Remove Odour from Shoes?
Deep Cleaning Methods for Smelly Shoes
Sometimes quick fixes aren’t enough. If your shoes have persistent odour, a deeper cleaning method might be necessary.
1. Wash Them (If Washable)
Many sneakers and fabric shoes can be machine washed.
- Remove the insoles and laces.
- Wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
- Air dry completely.
Avoid using the dryer, as heat can damage materials.
2. Hand Wash Leather or Delicate Shoes
For leather or suede shoes:
- Use a soft brush and mild soap solution.
- Wipe gently, avoiding soaking the material.
- Use leather conditioner afterward.
3. Replace Insoles
Odour often lingers in the insoles.
- Remove and wash them, if possible.
- If washing isn’t an option, replace them with fresh or odour-fighting insoles.
4. Freeze Your Shoes
Cold temperatures kill bacteria and fungi.
- Place your shoes in a plastic bag.
- Put them in the freezer overnight.
- Let them thaw before wearing.
5. Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol helps kill bacteria and dries quickly.
- Spray a little inside your shoes.
- Allow them to air dry completely.
It eliminates both odour and germs.
Long-Term Solutions to Keep Shoes Fresh
Once you’ve removed the odour, the next step is preventing it from coming back. Here are some long-lasting solutions:
1. Wear Moisture-Wicking Socks
Cotton socks absorb sweat, but moisture-wicking socks made of synthetic blends keep feet dry and prevent odour.
2. Alternate Shoes
Wearing the same pair daily doesn’t give them time to air out. Rotate between pairs so each gets time to dry completely.
3. Use Shoe Deodorisers
You can buy activated charcoal bags, cedar shoe inserts, or special deodorising balls designed to absorb odour.
4. Keep Feet Clean
Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly before wearing shoes. Trim toenails and treat fungal infections promptly.
5. Store Shoes Properly
Avoid keeping shoes in damp places. Store them in a cool, dry area with good air circulation.
Effective Home Remedies to Remove Shoe Odour
Sometimes, you don’t need fancy products to tackle smelly shoes. Simple household items can do the trick. Here are some of the most effective natural remedies you can try:
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a powerful natural deodoriser.
- Sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons inside your shoes.
- Leave overnight to absorb moisture and neutralise odour.
- Shake it out the next morning before wearing.
This works best for sneakers, canvas shoes, and casual footwear.
2. Citrus Peels (Lemon, Orange, or Grapefruit)
Citrus peels add freshness while fighting bacteria.
- Place fresh lemon or orange peels inside your shoes overnight.
- Remove them in the morning.
Not only will your shoes smell better, but they’ll also have a light, refreshing scent.
3. Tea Bags
Dry black tea bags contain tannins that help kill bacteria.
- Place a few unused tea bags inside each shoe.
- Leave overnight or for at least 6–8 hours.
This is an easy and inexpensive method for quick results.
4. Vinegar Spray
White vinegar neutralises odour and kills bacteria.
- Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Lightly spray the inside of your shoes (don’t soak them).
- Let them air dry completely before wearing.
5. Essential Oils
Tea tree, lavender, and eucalyptus oils have antibacterial properties.
- Put a few drops on cotton balls or tissues.
- Place them inside your shoes overnight.
They leave shoes smelling fresh while reducing bacteria growth.
6. Cornstarch or Baby Powder
Both work well to absorb sweat and moisture.
- Sprinkle inside shoes and leave overnight.
- Shake out the excess in the morning.
This is especially helpful if you have sweaty feet.
7. Cat Litter
Surprisingly, cat litter absorbs moisture and odour effectively.
- Fill a pair of old socks with fresh cat litter.
- Tie the ends and place them inside your shoes overnight.
By morning, the odour will be much less noticeable.
8. Salt
Salt works best for canvas shoes.
- Sprinkle salt inside your shoes.
- Let it sit overnight to draw out moisture.
- Shake it out before wearing.
How to Make Your Own Shoe Deodoriser Sachets at Home?
If you want a reusable, natural, and affordable way to keep your shoes fresh, making your own deodoriser sachets is a great option. They are easy to create, last for weeks, and can be customised with your favourite scents.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Small fabric pouches, muslin bags, or even clean old socks
- 2–3 tablespoons of baking soda (per sachet)
- 1–2 tablespoons of dried herbs (lavender, rosemary, or chamomile work well)
- A few drops of essential oil (tea tree, eucalyptus, or lavender)
- Ribbon, string, or rubber bands (to seal if using socks)
Steps to Make Shoe Deodoriser Sachets:
1) Prepare the Base:
- Take your fabric pouch or sock.
- Add 2–3 tablespoons of baking soda as the base ingredient, since it neutralises odour.
2) Add Herbs:
- Mix in dried herbs like lavender or rosemary for a natural, pleasant fragrance.
3) Enhance with Essential Oils:
- Add 3–5 drops of essential oil. Tea tree oil works well for its antibacterial properties, while lavender or eucalyptus leave a refreshing scent.
4) Seal the Sachet:
- Tie the end of the sock with a ribbon or rubber band, or draw the string of the pouch tightly to close it.
5) Place in Shoes:
- Put one sachet inside each shoe and leave overnight (or longer for stronger smells).
Tips for Best Results:
- Replace or refresh the sachets every 2–3 weeks.
- Store extra sachets in your wardrobe or gym bag to keep everything smelling fresh.
- You can experiment with different herbs and oils for custom scents.
How to Prevent Shoe Odour?
Instead of waiting until your shoes smell, build habits that prevent odour altogether:
- Always wear socks, especially with closed shoes.
- Let shoes air out after use.
- Clean insoles regularly.
- Dry wet shoes immediately (use newspaper or a shoe dryer).
- Avoid synthetic shoes for daily wear; choose breathable materials.
- Keep spare socks if your feet sweat excessively.
- Use foot powder or antiperspirant sprays to reduce sweating.
Best Products for Removing Shoe Odour
While DIY remedies are effective, some people prefer ready-made products. Here are common options available in the market:
- Shoe deodorant sprays: Convenient for quick freshness.
- Activated charcoal bags: Long-lasting and natural odour absorbers.
- Odour-fighting insoles: Replace standard insoles with antibacterial ones.
- Foot powders and sprays: Prevent excessive sweating that causes odour.
When Shoe Odour Indicates a Bigger Problem
In most cases, shoe odour is caused by sweat and bacteria. But sometimes, persistent foot odour may signal a medical issue such as:
- Fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
- Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).
- Skin conditions that affect foot health.
If shoe odour persists despite cleaning and preventive care, it may be worth consulting a doctor or podiatrist.
Final Thoughts
Shoe odour can be frustrating and embarrassing, but it’s not something you have to live with. From simple hacks like baking soda and tea bags to long-term solutions such as moisture-wicking socks and deodorising products, there are plenty of ways to remove the smell and keep your footwear fresh. The key is consistency—clean your shoes regularly, care for your feet, and store footwear properly. With these steps, you can say goodbye to smelly shoes and hello to confidence whenever you slip them on.
FAQ’s
Can I wash leather shoes to remove odour?
No, soaking leather shoes damages them. Instead, wipe with a mild soap solution and use deodorising methods like vinegar spray or cedar inserts.
What’s the best natural way to remove shoe odour?
Baking soda and essential oils are the most effective natural remedies for absorbing odour and fighting bacteria.
How do I dry wet shoes quickly without causing smell?
Stuff shoes with newspaper to absorb moisture, or use a shoe dryer. Avoid direct heat like a hairdryer, as it can damage materials.
What is the fastest way to remove shoe odour?
The quickest way is to sprinkle baking soda inside your shoes and leave it overnight. It absorbs moisture and neutralises odour effectively.
Can I wash my shoes to remove odour?
Yes, if they’re machine-washable (like most sneakers and fabric shoes). For leather or suede shoes, avoid soaking—use gentle cleaning methods instead.
Does freezing shoes really remove odour?
Yes, freezing kills bacteria and fungi that cause bad smells. Just place your shoes in a sealed bag and freeze them overnight.
How often should I replace insoles to avoid odour?
Insoles should be cleaned regularly and replaced every 6–12 months, depending on wear and smell.
Why do my shoes smell even if I wear socks?
Socks help, but if your feet sweat a lot or your shoes don’t allow airflow, bacteria can still thrive and cause odour.
Do shoe deodorising sprays really work?
Yes, but they provide temporary freshness. For long-term results, combine sprays with cleaning and proper shoe care.
Can shoe odour be a sign of a health issue?
In some cases, yes. Persistent odour could indicate fungal infections or excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). If it doesn’t improve, consult a doctor.
What’s the best long-term solution to stop smelly shoes?
Regular cleaning, proper storage, moisture control, and good foot hygiene are the best long-term strategies.
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