How to Get Rid of Smell Inside Shoes

Smelly shoes happen to everyone. It’s not a character flaw. It’s just bacteria and moisture doing what they do. The good news? You can fix it fast with things you already own. Here is the exact plan to kill the odor and keep it from coming back.

Start With the Basics: Dry Them Out Completely

Moisture is the enemy. Bacteria thrive in damp, dark places. Your sweaty shoes are the perfect breeding ground. The first step to getting rid of smell is to remove all moisture.

Never put wet or damp shoes in a closed closet. That traps the moisture and makes the smell worse. Instead, pull the insoles out if you can. Open the shoes up fully. Let them air out in a dry, well-ventilated room for at least 24 hours.

For a faster fix, use a boot dryer. These are inexpensive and blow cool air through the shoes. They work wonders for athletic shoes and work boots. If you don’t have one, stuff the shoes with crumpled newspaper. The paper absorbs moisture quickly. Replace the paper after a few hours if it feels damp.

Kill the Bacteria With Baking Soda

Baking soda is the classic remedy for a reason. It neutralizes odors and absorbs moisture. It won’t kill all bacteria, but it will make the environment too hostile for them to survive.

Here is the simple method: sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda directly inside each shoe. Make sure it covers the entire insole. Leave it overnight. In the morning, tap the shoes together over a trash can to remove the powder. You can also use a vacuum with a hose attachment to suck out the excess.

For a stronger treatment, mix baking soda with a few drops of tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with five drops of oil. Apply it and let it sit overnight. This combo is excellent for recurring foot odor.

Use Vinegar to Neutralize Tough Odors

White vinegar is a powerhouse for killing odor-causing bacteria. It’s acidic, and bacteria cannot survive in acidic environments. The vinegar smell disappears as it dries, taking the shoe odor with it.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the inside of the shoes generously. Make sure the lining and insole are damp but not soaking wet. Let them air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Do not use this method on leather shoes. The acid can strip the finish. Stick to canvas, mesh, and synthetic materials.

For removable insoles, soak them directly in a bowl of vinegar and water for 30 minutes. Then rinse them with cold water and let them air dry. This deep clean will remove even the most stubborn smells.

Freeze the Bacteria Out

Cold temperatures can kill odor-causing bacteria. This sounds strange, but it works. The freezer trick is a favorite among runners and hikers.

Place your shoes in a large zip-lock bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible. Seal the bag and put it in the freezer overnight. The freezing temperatures kill the bacteria. In the morning, take the shoes out and let them thaw completely before wearing them. This method works best for shoes that are already dry.

Do not do this with leather shoes. Freezing can cause the leather to crack. Use this method only for canvas, mesh, or synthetic athletic shoes.

Deep Clean the Insoles and Linings

Sometimes the smell is baked into the fabric. A surface treatment won’t cut it. You need to actually wash the material. This is especially true for sneakers you wear without socks.

If the insoles are removable, wash them by hand. Use warm water and a mild dish soap. Scrub them gently with a soft brush or an old toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and press out the excess water with a towel. Let them air dry completely before putting them back in the shoes.

For the inside of the shoe itself, make a paste of baking soda and water. Use a 2:1 ratio of baking soda to water. Apply the paste to the lining with a cloth. Let it sit for 30 minutes. Wipe it off with a damp cloth. This lifts dirt and grime that trap odors.

For canvas shoes, you can throw them in the washing machine. Remove the laces and insoles. Put the shoes in a mesh laundry bag. Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water. Air dry them afterward. Never put them in the dryer. The heat can warp the shape and melt the glue.

Prevent the Smell From Coming Back

Killing the smell is only half the battle. You need to stop it from returning. The best defense is a good routine. It takes less than two minutes a day.

First, never wear the same pair of shoes two days in a row. Give them 24 hours to dry out completely. Rotate between two or three pairs. This simple habit prevents moisture buildup and bacteria growth.

Second, wear moisture-wicking socks. Cotton socks absorb sweat and hold it against your skin. Synthetic socks made from polyester, nylon, or merino wool pull moisture away from your feet. This keeps your feet drier and your shoes cleaner.

Third, use shoe deodorizers regularly. Charcoal inserts are excellent. They absorb moisture and neutralize odors without any chemicals. You can buy reusable charcoal packs online or at most shoe stores. They last for months and are completely silent. Just drop them in your shoes when you take them off.

Finally, treat your feet. If your feet sweat excessively, use an antibacterial foot powder. Apply it in the morning before putting on socks. This reduces the bacteria that cause the smell in the first place. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.