Shoe odour is a common problem caused by sweat and bacteria, but the good news is that you can easily deodorize your shoes and keep them fresh. Simple methods like washing your feet daily, cleaning your shoes, and using natural remedies such as baking soda work well to reduce odour.
For long-lasting freshness, anti-odour shoe inserts like FOOT WEAR HAVEN are the most effective solution. They wick away moisture, control odour, and make going sockless feel comfortable and worry-free.
Is It Normal for Shoes to Smell Bad?
If you’re feeling embarrassed by stinky shoes, don’t worry—it’s a common issue. When your feet sweat, the moisture creates an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive. While these microorganisms are harmless, they do produce a foul odor that can make your shoes smell bad.
The more your feet sweat, the more bacteria accumulate, making your shoes smell worse over time. Shoes made from synthetic materials or those that lack breathability can intensify the odour. Wearing socks typically helps absorb sweat and prevent smells, but going sockless doesn’t have to mean putting up with stinky shoes.
Fix Smelly Shoes with Anti-Odour Shoe Inserts
If you prefer not to wear socks, FOOT WEAR HAVEN offer a discreet yet effective way to fight shoe odour. These shoe inserts for smelly feet eliminate the need for socks—unless you want to wear socks with them. We won’t judge! FOOT WEAR HAVEN Paint Splatter, Leopard, and Peachy Rose sitting on yellow sofa
So, why is FOOT WEAR HAVEN the perfect remedy for stinky shoes? Here are a few reasons these barefoot insoles stand out:
- Moisture-wicking fabric layered over plush cushioning draws sweat away from your feet, keeping them dry and comfortable.
- Built-in odour control technology absorbs unpleasant smells caused by bacteria and sweat.
- They’re machine washable and dryer safe, making them easy to clean and ensuring lasting protection against odour.
A woman holding gray shoes with beige sock inserts in front of a cloudy blue sky. FOOT WEAR HAVEN are a great way to deodorize shoes, especially for those who prefer to go sockless. These anti-odour insoles keep your shoes fresh by preventing odour buildup from sweat stains and lingering smells.
FOOT WEAR HAVEN comes in a variety of patterns, so the inside of your shoes will look as fresh as they smell. With their no-show design and non-slip bottom, you may soon forget you ever had smelly shoes!
5 Ways to Remove Smell from Shoes
Even with an excellent foot care routine, shoes can still develop an odour, especially if you suffer from excessive sweating. Boost the odour-fighting power of FOOT WEAR HAVEN and rescue your shoes from unpleasant smells with these easy deodorizing hacks:
1. Wash Your Feet
Daily foot washing prevents the growth of odour-causing bacteria. Thoroughly clean your feet with soap and water, paying attention to the soles and spaces between your toes. Rinse and dry your feet completely—even if it means using a hair dryer to ensure they’re fully dry. And if you wear socks, always opt for a clean, dry pair.
2. Wash Your Shoes
In many cases, throwing your shoes in the washing machine can help eliminate sweat, bacteria, and odors. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying your shoes, or check out this handy guide on how to wash shoes. Make sure your shoes are completely dry, inside and out, before wearing them again.
3. Add Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural shoe deodorizer with antibacterial properties. It absorbs odours and moisture, making it an effective at-home remedy. For a fresher scent, combine baking soda with cornstarch and essential oil.
Here’s how you can use baking soda to deodorize your shoes:
- Fill two unused coffee filters with baking soda, cornstarch, and a few drops of essential oil (optional).
- Secure the filters with rubber bands.
- Place one in each shoe overnight to neutralise odours.
4. Alternate Your Shoes
Wearing the same pair of shoes every day increases the risk of bad odours. Shoes need time to air out, which helps prevent bacterial growth. If you only own one pair, consider removing the insoles to speed up drying or using an odour-absorbing insert. Going shoeless when indoors also gives your shoes a chance to breathe.
5. Use Shoe Deodorizers
There are many types of shoe deodorizers available, from sprays to boot dryers and charcoal bags. Choose the one that best suits your needs to keep your shoes smelling fresh. Sneaker deodorizer balls are a quick and efficient way to eliminate odours. They fit easily into shoes and provide a long-lasting, fresh scent for up to three months.
Do Insoles Help with Smell?
Worn-out, sweaty insoles are often the hidden cause of persistent shoe odours. They rarely get cleaned, which makes them a breeding ground for bacteria. Replacing your insoles with moisture-wicking, anti-odour inserts like FOOT WEAR HAVEN can effectively eliminate shoe odours and keep your shoes smelling fresh.
FQAs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How important is foot hygiene in keeping shoes odour-free?
Very important. Daily washing and completely drying your feet—and changing socks regularly—prevents bacterial buildup. Alternating your shoe pairs and keeping shoes well-ventilated also helps avoid persistent odours.
Will freezing shoes stop them from smelling?
Freezing shoes overnight is highly effective at killing odour-causing bacteria. Afterwards, be sure to air-dry your shoes thoroughly
Does rubbing alcohol help eliminate shoe odour?
Yes—spraying rubbing alcohol inside shoes can kill odour-causing bacteria. Just ensure the shoes are dry completely before wearing.
How do you deodorize your shoes using baking soda?
Sprinkle baking soda directly inside each shoe or fill clean socks with a mix of baking soda and cornstarch. Leave them overnight—this helps absorb moisture and neutralise odour-causing bacteria
Conclusion:
Shoe odour is caused by a buildup of sweat and bacteria, but you can combat this issue by keeping both your feet and shoes clean, along with using effective deodorizers. Don’t let shoe odour take over your life—eliminate it and keep it at bay with FOOT WEAR HAVEN anti-odour shoe inserts.
