There's nothing worse than slipping on your favourite shoes and noticing an unpleasant smell. Over time, sweat, moisture, and bacteria build up inside footwear, creating odours that are hard to ignore. Many people toss their shoes aside or mask the smell without tackling the cause. The good news? Smelly shoes aren't permanent.
In this blog, we'll explain how to clean and deodorise shoes, recommend effective shoe deodoriser sprays and methods, and share DIY fixes to keep odours at bay.
Why do Shoes Smell?
Unpleasant shoe odours often develop due to a combination of sweat, bacteria, and poor airflow. When moisture builds up inside footwear, it creates the ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, resulting in lingering smells. Regular use, especially in warm or damp conditions, can make the problem worse over time.
Adopting simple habits like airing out shoes and maintaining proper hygiene can help prevent odour build-up. Learning how to clean shoes at home and following consistent cleaning routines are key to keeping footwear clean, dry, and odour-free.
How to Clean and Deodorise Shoes: Step-by-Step
Keeping your shoes clean isn't just about appearance; it also helps prevent smells from developing. Here's a simple process to follow:
1. Remove Laces and Insoles
Take out the insoles and laces before cleaning. This allows air to circulate and ensures every part of the shoe is addressed.
2. Wipe Down the Exterior
Gently wipe the outer surface with mild soapy water on a soft cloth. This approach is suitable for leather, canvas, and synthetic finishes.
3. Deodorise the Interior
Sprinkle baking soda inside and leave it overnight to absorb odours. Shake it out the next morning. Alternatively, you can use a shoe deodoriser spray for a quicker fix.
4. Air Dry Completely
Always let shoes dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct heat as it can damage materials.
Best Shoe Deodoriser Sprays and Methods
If you prefer ready-made solutions, shoe deodoriser sprays are quick and effective. These sprays are specially formulated to kill odour-causing bacteria and leave a fresh scent.
- Antibacterial Sprays: These neutralise germs and are perfect for gym or work shoes.
- Essential Oil Sprays: Natural alternatives with lavender, tea tree, or peppermint oil to mask odours.
- Dual-Action Sprays: Clean and deodorise in one step, making them ideal for everyday use.
Pairing these sprays with regular cleaning can keep footwear fresher for longer.
DIY Fixes for Cleaning Shoes and Removing Odour
Prefer natural methods? Here are some easy at-home hacks for cleaning shoes and removing odour:
- Baking Soda Sachets: Place baking soda in a small cloth bag and leave it inside your shoes overnight.
- Vinegar Spray: Mix water and white vinegar in equal amounts in a spray bottle. Spray lightly inside the shoes and leave them to air dry.
- Citrus Peels: Lemon or orange peels can freshen up shoes at home with their pleasant scent.
- Tea Bags: Dry tea bags (especially peppermint or green tea) can absorb moisture and leave a light fragrance.
These are a few excellent options if you're wondering how to freshen shoes at home without chemicals.
How to Freshen Shoes at Home: Everyday Tips
Odour prevention is always easier than odour removal. Here are some habits to help:
1. Rotate Your Shoes
Wearing the same pair every day doesn't give them time to air out. By rotating between different pairs, you allow each one to dry fully between wears, which helps prevent moisture and bacteria from building up inside.
2. Use Odour-Resistant Insoles
Insoles can absorb sweat and trap odours over time. Swapping them out for odour-resistant or antibacterial insoles is an easy way to keep shoes fresher for longer. Remember to replace insoles regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
3. Wear Breathable Socks
Your choice of socks plays a big role in shoe hygiene. Cotton or moisture-wicking socks help reduce sweat and keep your feet dry, minimising the conditions that cause unpleasant smells.
4. Dry Shoes Properly
Avoid keeping damp shoes in closed spaces. After wearing, place paper towels inside to soak up moisture and speed up drying. For extra freshness, let them air out in a well-ventilated area.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Small mistakes can make shoe cleaning less effective and even cause damage.
Oversoaking shoes during cleaning can cause water to seep deep into the material, creating the perfect environment for mould and mildew. It doesn't just create unwanted smells, it can also harm the shape and materials of your shoes. Limit water use and focus on targeted cleaning.
Putting on shoes before they're fully dry encourages bacteria and odours to return quickly. Damp interiors trap moisture and promote bacterial growth. Allow shoes to air dry completely in a ventilated space before wearing them again.
- Overusing Perfumed Sprays
While fragranced sprays can provide a quick fix, they often mask odours without addressing the root cause, bacteria. Relying on them without proper cleaning may leave smells lingering. Always clean shoes thoroughly first, then use a deodorising spray for freshness.
Fresh Shoes Made Simple
Keeping your shoes clean and fresh doesn't have to be difficult. With a mix of regular cleaning, proper drying, and occasional deodorising, you can prevent unpleasant odours and extend the life of your footwear.
From natural home remedies like baking soda to quick fixes with sprays, these easy methods ensure your shoes stay hygienic and comfortable. Make these habits part of your routine to enjoy odour-free, well-maintained shoes every time you step out.
Source:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/7081113_Foot_odor_due_to_microbial_metabolism_and_its_control
https://www.scribd.com/document/821798074/Capstone-Shoe-Deodorizer?utm_