How To Remove Bad Odor From Shoes Easily

2023 Author: Lynn Laird | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 21:10

The appearance of odors is one of those little annoyances that often happen to us in life. So, after explaining everything about fridge deodorant to you, today we are going to pay attention to such another concern that very often makes us uncomfortable. These include shoes that stink. Do not panic because, in the end, there is a solution for every problem! In the current article, we are going to explain to you how to remove bad odor from shoes thanks to several tested and approved natural tips. What is more, the editorial staff will reveal the factors behind this syndrome while giving you some useful prevention and maintenance tips.

What are the factors behind smelly shoe syndrome?

It's no secret that getting rid of stubborn odors in your shoes has become a daily task. But where does this unpleasant phenomenon that makes us ashamed to take off our shoes originate? It is indeed a cocktail of causes and more precisely of heat, perspiration and bacteria. The bad odor develops when bacteria begin to break down sweat as well as converting fatty acids into formic and butyric acids. And since bacteria love a warm, humid environment, closed-toe, non-breathable shoes are a great place to “thrive”.

This is how the stinky shoe phenomenon occurs. After these important revelations, it is crucial to learn how to act. So, don't delay any longer and find out how to remove bad odor from shoes effectively, naturally and inexpensively!

How to remove bad odor from shoes in a natural and inexpensive way?

As mentioned at the beginning of our article, there are several natural tips to remove bad odor from shoes. What's more, in most cases, these are ingredients that you already have in your kitchens. We are talking about baking soda, tea bags, citrus fruits, essential oils and so on. Focus!

Baking soda to neutralize odors in shoes

We have mentioned the many uses of baking soda on several occasions, especially in cleaning. An extremely valuable ally in carrying out household chores, this miraculous powder indeed has a natural chemical element with the ability to absorb stains as well as bad odors. In addition, its antiseptic properties destroy bacteria and absorb moisture, which promotes the development of harmful microorganisms. So it's no coincidence that our first tip is to use baking soda to effectively remove bad odor from shoes.

So, pour 1 tablespoon of baking soda inside each shoe including the soles and let it act overnight. The next day, all you have to do is remove the excess powder. For best results, repeat three times. However, if these are real leather shoes, be careful that the baking soda does not fall on them as it can damage it.

Talc

The action of talc is the same as that of baking soda. Yet here you have two different methods to follow. The first is to put a little talc (or baby powder) in each shoe and leave it on overnight. The next morning, shake to remove the excess.

The second step is easier to do. All you need to do is apply talcum powder to your feet before putting on the shoes, which will prevent them from sweating. This trick is particularly effective because it does not allow the shoes to absorb sweat.

How to remove bad odor from shoes using boric acid crystals?

Using boric acid is another tip for removing bad odor from shoes naturally and effectively. Get some boric acid crystals (available at specialty stores) and sprinkle a handful in your shoes.

A bouquet of lavender and officinal sage

We recommend that you always have lavender and sage on hand. Why ? So, because these two plants have the ability to successfully neutralize bad odors, regardless of their origin. So put sage leaves and a little lavender in your shoes. Then lay them out on the balcony in the fresh air overnight.

Citrus fruits to remove bad odor from shoes?

Yes, we all know the magnificent benefits of citrus fruits in winter. But did you know that these remarkable fruits are particularly effective in the fight against bad odors in shoes? So, it is more precisely the peel of the lemon, the orange and the grapefruit. So choose your favorite citrus fruit and put its bark in the shoes that give off an unpleasant smell. Let "work" overnight.

Apple cider vinegar

The malic and acetic acids contained in apple cider vinegar destroy the environment favorable to the development of microorganisms responsible for bad odors. Soak cotton pieces in apple cider vinegar and put them in your shoes. Leave on for two hours.

How to deodorize your shoes using dryer wipes?

Believe it or not, dryer wipes are a great solution to removing bad shoe odors. In addition, they are particularly effective for sneakers that emit an unpleasant odor. Place a wipe in each shoe and let sit overnight to better neutralize bad aromas.

Black tea

Containing tannins that kill bacteria responsible for odors, black tea comes to the rescue of our shoes. So instead of throwing away the teabags after your tea is finished, put them in your shoes for about an hour.

Alcohol

Another trick to removing bad smells from shoes is to use alcohol - an inexpensive method that should be tested urgently. So, soak a cotton ball in the alcohol and run it inside the shoes to disinfect and neutralize bad odors.

A 100% effective shoe deodorant? Her Majesty the Essential Oil

Unblock the nose, treat skin problems, relieve joint pain and even cook… the use of essential oils knows no limits. It is therefore not at all surprising that these precious essences can help us remove bad odor from shoes. Among the most effective oils, we first distinguish that of tea tree (tea tree) very famous for its antiseptic, antifungal and antimicrobial properties. To deodorize your shoes, pour a few drops on the soles. Perform this procedure twice a week. Moreover, if it is a pain that is too persistent, combine tea tree EO with a little baking soda and leave to act overnight. Eucalyptus and clove essential oil are two other options that should not be overlooked.

However, in order to better help you in the fight against smelly shoes, the editorial staff will give you a super easy to prepare air freshener spray recipe. First, get yourself a spray bottle (800ml) and fill half with unscented witch hazel. Add distilled water almost to the brim. Then, incorporate the following essential oils:

• 6 drops of peppermint essential oil
• 4 drops of tea tree essential oil
• 2 drops of EO of eucalyptus
• 1 drop of essential oil of thyme

Finally, close and shake well to combine the ingredients. Lightly spray the inside of your shoes and let them dry well before putting them back on. Remember to shake the spray before each use.

And here are all our tips for removing bad odor from shoes in a natural, effective and inexpensive way. However, as explained above, this fairly common problem occurs as a result of sweating feet and bacteria that thrive. To prevent this from happening, it would be best to familiarize yourself with some prevention and good hygiene tips.

Tips to take into account to avoid bad odors in shoes

• Choice of material: this is perhaps the most important thing to remember. Why ? Because shoes made from poor quality materials are more likely to start to smell. So forget about synthetic coverings and opt for natural and breathable materials such as leather.
• Choice of socks: Socks can also trap moisture, which promotes the growth of bacteria. So changing socks every day is crucial. Here, it is also important to favor natural materials such as cotton.
• Washing shoes: washing shoes in the washing machine is quite possible and easy, provided their material allows it. Before using it, first remove the laces and put them in a washing net. As a general rule, a 30 ° C cycle is recommended but it is best to follow the manufacturer's instructions. After washing your shoes, let them air dry with the soles separated. Take into account that these must be changed after a given time.
• Foot care: Needless to say, it is mandatory to wash your feet every day! Prefer cold water and pH neutral soap rather than aggressive shower gels. Regular foot baths are also a good idea as it can also extend the life of the shoes. Do not hesitate to add a little boric acid crystals to it.

Yes, there are several tips to remove bad odor from shoes but the most important thing is to have impeccable foot hygiene. So follow the tips listed above and your shoes will enjoy a longer life.