If you've ever thrown on a pair of shoes without socks or you've taken a run in the rain, you probably know that your shoes make you pay for it later. Bacteria and mold can cause odor to develop in your shoes, making them unpleasant for you to wear. When the stench gets really strong, the people around you might not like it too much, either. In some cases, you may have to ditch the shoes and buy a new pair, but if the stench hasn't reached epic proportions yet, you may have time to salvage the shoes.
Fixing the Smell
Step 1
Remove the insoles from your shoes.
Step 2
Place the shoes and insoles in the sun, allowing them to dry. Much of the odor comes from the breakdown of perspiration. If you allow the shoes to completely dry, much of the odor will go away.
Step 3
Spray the insides of your shoes with an antifungal and antibacterial spray.
Step 4
Sprinkle baking soda in your shoes. This will help absorb moisture and decrease the smell.
Preventing Odor
Step 1
Rotate your shoes. To allow your shoes to dry fully between uses, purchase two pairs and switch off which pair you use. Allow the shoes to dry in the sun whenever possible.
Step 2
Make two baking soda sachets. Cut the piece of cloth, sprinkle baking soda in the center of each piece, wrap the cloth up and tie it tight with string. Place the sachet in your shoes each night.
Step 3
Pack extra socks. If you sweat profusely while exercising, pack a couple pairs of socks and change them during or following your workout to cut down on moisture buildup within your shoes.
Step 4
Maintain good hygiene. Wash your feet with antibacterial soap every day and when you can, go without shoes, allowing your feet to keep dry.
Tips and Warnings
- Purchase moisture-wicking socks and shoes made from natural materials in order to help your feet breathe.
- Never wear your shoes without socks. Your feet will sweat directly into your shoes and odor will build up as bacteria tries to break down the perspiration.
Things You'll Need
- Baking soda
- Piece of cloth
- String
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