It’s common for shoes to develop unpleasant odors, which can be embarrassing. The main reason is usually wearing damp shoes and storing them in poorly ventilated areas. Since most shoes can’t easily be washed, alternative solutions are needed. Here are some home remedies and cleaning tips to refresh your footwear.
Store-Bought Deodorizers
Commercial shoe deodorizers are available and can be effective in eliminating odors, as they often contain antibacterial properties that target the root cause. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and leave your shoes to dry in a well-ventilated space. But if such products aren’t available, you can try these homemade remedies.
White Vinegar
Vinegar helps kill bacteria and remove odors:
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Mix equal parts of white vinegar and filtered (or distilled) water in a spray bottle.
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Spray the solution inside each shoe.
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Leave to air dry.
Baking Soda
Baking soda absorbs unpleasant smells:
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Sprinkle the powder inside each shoe and leave it overnight. Shake them out before wearing.
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Alternatively, fill a pair of cotton socks with baking soda, place them inside the shoes overnight, and let them absorb odors.
Essential Oils & Herbs
Add a few drops of essential oils (such as clove, cinnamon, or cedarwood) to a tissue or sock and place it inside your shoes overnight. These natural scents work as deodorizers while leaving your shoes smelling fresh.
Soap
Simply place a dry bar of soap inside your shoes overnight. Soap is porous, so it absorbs bad smells while leaving behind a clean fragrance.
Citrus Peels
Like essential oils, citrus peels (lemon, orange, or grapefruit) can be left inside shoes overnight to neutralize odors naturally.
Freezing the Shoes
Although unusual, this method works:
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Place your shoes in a protective bag and leave them in the freezer overnight.
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Remove and let them air-dry the next day.Freezing kills bacteria that cause odors.
Dryer Sheets
Slip half a dryer sheet into each shoe overnight. By morning, the shoes will smell fresher.
Washing the Shoes
To prevent odors from returning, keep shoes clean:
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Check the manufacturer’s care instructions first.
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Remove laces and insoles. Wash with enzyme-based detergent and a disinfectant in cold water.
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Place shoes in a mesh laundry bag and use a gentle cycle, or handwash in a basin.
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Wash laces and insoles separately, or replace them with new ones.
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Always air-dry shoes completely before wearing them again.
⚠️ Note: Chlorine bleach is a strong disinfectant but may damage shoe material. Instead, choose a phenolic disinfectant or pine oil cleanser, and follow label directions carefully.
Most importantly, dry shoes thoroughly—remove laces and insoles, wash separately, and leave shoes to dry outdoors in fresh air and sunlight when possible. Once fully dry, store them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space to prevent odors from returning.
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