How Shoe Odours Develop
Before looking at how to prevent smelly trainers, it helps to understand where the smell comes from in the first place.
Even when we’re not noticeably sweating, our bodies constantly release moisture. In closed, waterproof or insulated footwear, some of that sweat remains inside the shoe, especially when worn for long periods. On its own, this isn’t a problem because sweat itself doesn’t smell. Odours only develop when bacteria, many of which naturally live on our skin, find their way into the shoe and begin breaking down the sweat. This happens to everyone and is usually unrelated to poor hygiene or disease. If you want to eliminate shoe odours effectively, you need to tackle the bacteria responsible for them.
How to Stop Shoes Smelling: Three Simple Measures
The easiest way to deal with shoe odour is to stop it developing in the first place. That may be easier said than done, but these simple habits can help keep smells at bay for longer:
- Don’t wear shoes barefoot. This may not apply to sandals, but in general you should always wear socks. Most of the bacteria are absorbed into the fabric of the socks, which can then be washed easily and effectively in the washing machine.
- Dry your shoes properly. The faster you dry your footwear after use, the less opportunity bacteria have to multiply. Never store freshly worn shoes in a plastic bag or airtight shoe sack. On particularly wet or cold days, shoe dryers can help, or you can simply stuff your shoes with newspaper to absorb moisture.
- Let in fresh air and sunshine. Drying and airing go hand in hand. Ideally, leave your shoes outside to air out. If possible, remove the insoles and place them in direct sunlight for a short time. UV rays can help reduce bacterial growth.
Washing Smelly Shoes
Sometimes prevention isn’t enough, and your footwear develops an unpleasant smell. In that case, the most straightforward solution is simple: wash them.
Shoes are best washed by hand using lukewarm water and soap. Here are a few useful tips:
- Brush off any loose dirt before washing. While you’re at it, clean the tread and remove any stuck stones or debris.
- Remove the insoles if possible. For hiking and mountaineering boots, take out the laces as well.
- Wash both the shoes and insoles thoroughly in lukewarm soapy water. A small brush can help with stubborn dirt. The interior can be cleaned effectively using a sponge or cloth.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Allow the shoes to dry completely afterwards. Pat them dry with an old towel and then leave them in a warm, well-ventilated area. Depending on the type of shoe, drying can take one to two days.
Smelly Shoes and the Washing Machine
Many people wonder whether shoes can be cleaned in the washing machine. The answer is… sometimes. It depends on the type of shoe, its materials and construction.
One thing is clear: leather shoes and footwear with a membrane must never go in the washing machine. The same applies to most outdoor footwear and shoes with heat-mouldable components. Brands such as On, Adidas and La Sportiva generally advise against machine-washing outdoor and hiking shoes.
Not only can this damage the materials, but high temperatures may also cause shoes to lose their shape, support and stability. The same applies when cleaning Gore-Tex footwear.
Slippers made primarily from textile materials or felt, on the other hand, can often be machine-washed. Haflinger, for example, recommends washing its felt slippers on a wool cycle at 30°C. Use a wool or delicate detergent and avoid fabric softener altogether.
Extra tip: Ski boots should never be put in the washing machine. If you’re unsure, it’s generally safer to use home remedies rather than machine washing when tackling shoe odours.
Home Remedies for Smelly Shoes
As shoes get older, occasional cleaning may no longer be enough. If unpleasant odours persist even after washing, there’s no need to reach for harsh chemicals or throw the shoes away. Several household remedies can help.
Baking Powder and Bicarbonate of Soda
Baking powder and bicarbonate of soda are popular household remedies for neutralising unpleasant smells. Simply sprinkle some baking powder inside your shoes and leave it to work for several hours. Afterwards, shake the powder out or vacuum it up. Bicarbonate of soda works in a similar way but also helps absorb moisture, making it particularly useful for damp footwear.
Essential Oils and Citrus Peels
Essential oils not only smell pleasant but also have antibacterial properties. Citrus peels, such as lemon and orange peel, naturally contain these oils. Cut the peel into small pieces and leave them inside your shoes overnight. For more stubborn odours, lightly dab the insoles with a small amount of tea tree oil or cedarwood oil, then allow the shoes to air thoroughly afterwards.
Soap
Soap can help reduce bacteria, absorb unpleasant smells and leave a fresh scent behind. The method couldn’t be simpler: place a completely dry bar of soap inside each shoe and leave it there for several hours.
Tea Bags and Coffee Pods
Tea and coffee are both known for their odour-absorbing properties. If you choose tea, use black tea or green tea. New or thoroughly dried tea bags work best, as loose tea tends to make a mess. The tannins naturally found in tea help absorb unwanted smells. Coffee drinkers can achieve a similar effect using coffee pods or coffee grounds. However, be careful with white or very light-coloured footwear, as tea and coffee can leave stains.
The Freezer Method
Don’t have the time or motivation to clean your running shoes or hiking boots thoroughly? Freezing them may be worth a try. Very low temperatures can kill some bacteria, although not all types are affected. Place completely dry shoes in a plastic bag or freezer bag and leave them in the freezer for around 24 hours. Important: Only freeze shoes that are completely dry.
Vinegar
Some shoes develop particularly stubborn odours, and simple odour absorbers may not be enough. Vinegar is highly effective against bacteria. Mix ordinary white vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio and pour the solution into a spray bottle. Spray the inside of the shoes and the insoles thoroughly. Afterwards, leave the shoes to dry completely before wearing them again.
Important: Many home remedies work better after repeated applications. If the first attempt doesn’t deliver the desired result, simply try again or combine several methods.
Using Disinfectants to Combat Shoe Odours
If thorough cleaning and home remedies still don’t solve the problem, disinfecting your shoes may be the next step. Disinfectant sprays for shoes and feet are readily available from most chemists and pharmacies.
There is also a wide range of shoe sprays and shoe deodorisers on the market. Some simply mask odours with fragrance, while others actively target the bacteria that cause the smell. If your shoes smell particularly bad, antibacterial products are usually the better option.
Most disinfectants and shoe sprays are sprayed directly into the footwear and left to take effect for a short period. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as application methods can vary between products.
