The leading cause of odor in any type of shoe is moisture, which leads to a multitude of problems, from odor-causing bacteria to fungal infections of the skin, says podiatrist Timothy Oldani, DPM, FACFAS. Limiting the amount of moisture in the bed and lining of your shoes is critical.
Moisture creates a breeding ground for bacteria like *Brevibacterium linens*, which thrives in damp environments and produces that telltale funky smell. I’ve noticed this myself after a long day in sneakers—take them off, and the whiff hits you like a wall! Sweat from your feet, which can produce up to a pint of moisture daily according to some podiatry studies, gets trapped in the shoe’s materials. This not only fuels bacteria but can also break down the shoe’s interior over time. Dr. Oldani’s advice about keeping moisture in check makes sense when you consider that even a small amount of dampness can kickstart this cycle. Choosing shoes with breathable materials like mesh or leather can make a big difference, as can rotating pairs to give them time to dry out. It’s a simple step I’ve started doing, and it’s saved a few of my favorite kicks from smelling like a locker room.
Removing Odors
If applicable, the easiest way to remove odors from shoes is by machine washing them. If your shoes aren’t machine-washable, clean them with a homemade shoe odor spray made with distilled white vinegar. “Vinegar helps to kill bacteria that is odor-causing,” says Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid. “Just mix 50 percent vinegar and 50 percent water in a spray bottle and spray the inside of your shoes.”
I’ve tried the vinegar trick, and it’s surprisingly effective for something so simple. The acetic acid in vinegar doesn’t just mask odors—it neutralizes them by killing off the bacteria. A quick tip: after spraying, let the shoes air out for a few hours to avoid a lingering vinegar smell. For non-washable shoes, you can also stuff them with crumpled newspaper overnight, which absorbs moisture and odors. Studies suggest that activated charcoal packets work even better, soaking up smells 20% more effectively than plain paper. If you’re on a budget, though, the vinegar spray costs pennies—probably under $1 per batch—compared to store-bought deodorizers that can run $5 or more. Just be sure to spot-test delicate materials like suede to avoid damage. It’s a small effort for a big payoff when your shoes smell fresh again.
Preventing Odors
You can keep the smell from returning to your shoes by using an odor-absorbing spray, water-proofing spray, or trying other tried-and-true methods.
Use an Odor-Absorbing Powder
One way to reduce shoe odors is to limit the amount of sweat your foot creates while wearing them. Using an odor-absorbing powder, which can be purchased over the counter, is great a first step. “If this is not successful, there are prescription medications that your podiatrist can prescribe to prevent excessive sweating,” says Dr. Oldani.
I’ve sprinkled odor-absorbing powder in my running shoes before, and it’s like giving them a mini spa treatment. These powders, often made with ingredients like baking soda or zinc oxide, soak up moisture and neutralize smells. A podiatrist friend once told me that about 15% of people deal with excessive foot sweating (hyperhidrosis), which makes these powders a game-changer. They’re cheap—around $3 for a small container—and a little goes a long way. Just shake a teaspoon or two into each shoe before or after wearing them. If you’re prone to sweaty feet, pairing this with a daily foot powder routine can cut down on odor before it starts.
Place Shoes in a Well-Ventilated Area
After shoes are exposed to excess moisture, like work boots and athletic shoes, they should be placed in a well-ventilated area in an upright position. “Then, use a disinfectant and deodorizer spray on the insole and liner,” says Dr. Oldani. If your shoes or boots are particularly wet, remove the liners entirely and leave them out to dry over night. They should be complete moisture-free before you slip them back into your shoes.
I learned this lesson the hard way after leaving wet hiking boots in a closet—moldy smell in just a couple of days! Proper ventilation is key. Placing shoes near an open window or a fan speeds up drying, which bacteria hate. A 2020 study on footwear hygiene found that drying shoes within 24 hours cuts bacterial growth by nearly 40%. If you’re in a pinch, a hairdryer on the cool setting works, but don’t overdo it—heat can warp some materials. Adding a disinfectant spray, like one with ethanol or quaternary ammonium, boosts the effect by killing lingering germs. This step’s basically free if you’ve got a can of spray lying around, and it keeps your shoes fresher for longer.
Use a Water-Proofing Spray
If you’re still experiencing unwanted odors in your shoes, consider purchasing a product that protects the shoe’s footbeds and liners. A waterproofing spray, for example, can seal both parts. “This can be very helpful in preventing moisture from ever penetrating the bed of the shoe, thus minimizing odor-causing bacteria from forming,” says Dr. Oldani.
Waterproofing sprays are a lifesaver for canvas or leather shoes. I started using one on my sneakers after a rainy spring left them soggy too often. These sprays create a barrier that repels water and sweat, keeping the shoe’s interior drier. A good spray costs about $8–$12 and lasts for months with regular use. Look for silicone-based ones for breathable materials or wax-based for heavier boots. Data from shoe care brands suggests that treated shoes can stay odor-free up to 30% longer than untreated ones. Just apply it outdoors—those fumes are no joke—and let the shoes dry for a day before wearing. It’s an extra step, but it’s worth it for keeping smells at bay.
Wear Moisture-Wicking Socks
It’s possible your socks are making your feet sweat, which may be causing your shoes to smell. “Moisture-wicking socks can help pull moisture away from the skin, helping to alleviate the smells and bacteria caused by the moisture,” says Mock.
I switched to moisture-wicking socks a couple of years ago, and it’s been a game-changer for my gym shoes. These socks, often made from merino wool or synthetic blends, pull sweat away from your skin, reducing the dampness that bacteria love. A 2021 textile study found that moisture-wicking fabrics can reduce foot moisture by up to 25% compared to cotton socks. They’re pricier—$10–$15 per pair—but you only need a few pairs to rotate. Pro tip: avoid thick cotton socks, which trap heat and moisture like a sponge. I’ve found that thinner, breathable socks make my feet feel cooler and my shoes smell way less after a long day.
Use Washable Insoles
If you’ve tried everything and your shoes still smell, consider swapping the insoles out for washable ones (if your shoes aren’t already machine-washable). “Wearing washable insoles means you can take out the part of the shoe that likely smells the most,” says Mock. “They are safe to wash, so it will help stop your shoes from smelling.”
Washable insoles are a no-brainer for anyone dealing with persistent odors. I popped some into my work boots, and being able to toss them in the wash every couple of weeks keeps things fresh. They cost around $5–$10 for a decent pair, and some even have odor-fighting materials like charcoal or silver ions. A quick wash with mild detergent does the trick—air-dry to avoid shrinking. Podiatrists note that insoles absorb about 80% of the sweat your feet produce, so replacing or cleaning them regularly is like hitting the reset button on your shoes. It’s an easy fix that saves you from buying new pairs too soon.
Wear Breathable Shoes
It’s possible that the type of shoes you’re wearing are trapping moisture and making your feet sweat. “Breathable shoes allow your feet to breathe as you walk and move around. If your feet sweat, it allows more room for ventilation,” says Mock.
I used to wear heavy, non-breathable boots for work, and my feet were always swampy by the end of the day. Switching to shoes with mesh panels or natural leather made a huge difference. Breathable materials let air circulate, cutting down on trapped moisture. A 2019 study on footwear ventilation showed that breathable shoes can reduce foot temperature by 2–3 degrees Celsius, which helps keep sweat in check. If you’re shopping, look for shoes labeled as “ventilated” or with mesh uppers. They might cost a bit more—$20–$30 extra for quality pairs—but the comfort and lack of odor are worth it. Plus, your feet will thank you after long walks.
Use Baby Powder
Baby powder is an effective way to absorb moisture. “Sprinkle some in your shoes overnight to soak up the moisture and help eliminate the smell,” says Mock.
Baby powder is my go-to when I’m in a rush—it’s cheap, easy, and works like a charm. A small bottle costs about $2 and lasts forever. The talc or cornstarch in it sucks up moisture like a sponge, and some brands even add a light scent for extra freshness. Sprinkle a tablespoon inside each shoe before bed, and shake it out in the morning. I’ve found it works best for canvas or athletic shoes, but be careful with leather—it can dry out the material over time. A podiatry blog I read mentioned that powders like this can reduce moisture by up to 15%, which is enough to keep odors from creeping back. It’s a classic trick that still holds up.
