12 Easy Tips To Remove Odor From Your Shoes

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Shoes are an essential part of our daily lives. They protect our feet, provide comfort, and complete our outfits. However, after continuous use, they can develop an unpleasant odor for us and those around us. The smell is caused by bacteria that thrive in the warm, moist environment inside shoes.

In this guide, we will explore easy tips for removing odor from shoes, which will help you keep them fresh and extend their lifespan.

Wash Your Feet Regularly

One of the leading causes of shoe odor is sweaty feet. To prevent this, wash your feet regularly with soap and water. Pay special attention to areas between toes where sweat tends to accumulate. Dry your feet thoroughly before putting on shoes. This practice will reduce the amount of sweat and bacteria in your shoes, resulting in less odor.

Wear Socks

Wearing socks is a great way to absorb and prevent sweat from seeping into your shoes. Opt for moisture-wicking socks made from breathable materials such as cotton or bamboo. They will keep your feet dry and comfortable, reducing the likelihood of shoe odor.

Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help eliminate odors from your shoes. Sprinkle baking soda inside your shoes before wearing them, and leave it overnight. In the morning, shake out the powder, and you’ll notice a significant improvement in odor reduction. You can also mix baking soda with water to create a paste and scrub the inside of your shoes for deeper cleansing.

Try Tea Bags

Tea bags are another inexpensive yet effective way to remove shoe odor. Place dry tea bags (unused or used) in your shoes overnight, and they will absorb unpleasant smells. Black tea is best for this purpose because it contains tannins that act as a natural deodorizer.

Use White Vinegar

White vinegar is known for its disinfectant properties, making it an excellent option for removing bacteria from your shoes. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water, and use a cloth or spray bottle to apply the solution to the inside of your shoes. Let them air dry, and the vinegar will neutralize the odor-causing bacteria.

Freeze Your Shoes

Freezing your shoes is a simple yet effective way to eliminate odor. Place your shoes in a plastic bag and freeze them for 24 hours. The low temperature will kill the bacteria that cause an unpleasant smell. However, note that this method suits only some materials, so be cautious.

Use Essential Oils

Essential oils are natural and have antibacterial properties that help remove shoe odor. Mix a few drops of essential oils such as tea tree oil, peppermint oil, or lavender oil with water in a spray bottle, and mist the inside of your shoes after wearing them. The oils will kill bacteria and leave a pleasant scent behind.

Lemon Peels

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Lemon peels are another natural deodorizer that can help remove odors from your shoes. Place a few dried lemon peels inside your boots overnight, and they will absorb the unpleasant smell. Additionally, their citrusy scent will add freshness to your shoes.

Use Charcoal Bags

Charcoal is well-known for its odor-absorbing properties. To absorb the unwanted smell, place charcoal bags or briquettes in your shoes overnight. You can also use activated charcoal powder by pouring it into a sock or cheesecloth and placing it inside your shoes.

Sun Them Out

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Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer, making it an excellent option for removing shoe odor. After wearing your shoes, please place them in direct sunlight for a few hours, killing the bacteria causing the smell. However, be cautious of prolonged exposure to sunlight as it can damage some materials.

Use Odor-Eliminating Insoles

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There are many types of insoles available on the market that are designed specifically to eliminate shoe odor. These insoles have antibacterial properties and are made with moisture-wicking materials that keep feet dry. They also provide extra cushioning and support, making them a great addition to any shoe.

Rotate Your Shoes

Rotating your shoes is a simple yet effective way to prevent shoe odor. Wearing the same pair of shoes daily results in excessive sweat and bacteria buildup. By alternating between two or more pairs, you give each pair time to air out and dry thoroughly, reducing the chance of odors developing.