Shoes, especially the ones we wear frequently, can become smelly due to a variety of reasons such as sweat, bacteria, and fungi. The smell can be quite unpleasant and embarrassing, but there are several ways to make your smelly shoes fresh and odourless again. In this article, we will discuss some effective ways to eliminate shoe odour and prevent it from coming back.
- Wash your shoes: Depending on the type of shoes you have, you can wash them in the washing machine or by hand. For sneakers, canvas, or athletic shoes, you can put them in a pillowcase or laundry bag and wash them on a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach or fabric softener. For leather or suede shoes, wipe them with a damp cloth or use a special cleaner designed for those materials. Air-dry your shoes completely before wearing them again.
- Use baking soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can absorb unpleasant odours. Sprinkle some baking soda inside your shoes and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Then, shake out the baking soda and wipe the inside of the shoes with a clean cloth. You can also make a paste by mixing baking soda and water and applying it to the inside of the shoes. Let it dry completely before wiping it off.
- Use activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is another natural deodorizer that can absorb odours. Place a few pieces of activated charcoal in a breathable bag or sachet and put them inside your shoes. Let them sit for a few hours or overnight. You can also place them near your shoes to absorb any lingering odours.
- Use essential oils: Essential oils have antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help eliminate odours and prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. Add a few drops of essential oil, such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, or peppermint oil, to a cotton ball or a piece of cloth and place it inside your shoes. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight. You can also mix a few drops of essential oil with water and spray the inside of your shoes.
- Freeze your shoes: Freezing your shoes can kill bacteria and fungi that cause odours. Place your shoes in a plastic bag and seal it tightly. Then, put the bag in the freezer for several hours or overnight. Take the shoes out and let them thaw completely before wearing them again.
- Use a shoe deodorizer: Shoe deodorizers are specifically designed to eliminate shoe odour. They come in various forms, such as sprays, powders, and inserts. Choose a deodorizer that suits your needs and follow the instructions on the package.
- Keep your shoes dry: Moisture can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi, so it’s important to keep your shoes dry. If your shoes are wet, remove the insoles and let them air-dry completely before wearing them again. You can also stuff your shoes with newspaper or a dry cloth to absorb any moisture.
- Alternate your shoes: Wearing the same shoes every day can cause them to become smelly. Try to alternate your shoes and give them time to air out between wears. You can also use shoe trees or inserts to help maintain the shape of your shoes and absorb moisture.
In conclusion, smelly shoes can be a nuisance, but there are several ways to make them fresh and odourless again. From washing your shoes to using natural deodorizers and keeping them dry, these tips can help eliminate shoe odour and prevent it from coming back. Remember to also maintain good hygiene practices, such as washing your feet and changing your socks regularly, to keep your shoes and feet clean and fresh.