How to eliminate stink shoes

Foot odor is a common issue that arises mainly because our feet sweat inside shoes.

When sweat reaches the skin’s surface, it mixes with bacteria that break it down, releasing a strong, unpleasant smell.

The feet contain more sweat glands than any other part of the body, making them especially prone to sweating.

People who wear shoes for long periods are more likely to develop smelly feet.

However, other factors can also contribute to the problem.

According to sweatblock.com, stress can trigger excessive sweating, while medical conditions like hyperhidrosis cause abnormally high sweat production.

Fungal infections such as athlete’s foot often make odor worse.

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during teenage years or pregnancy, can also increase sweating and odour.

Certain foods can influence how sweat smells, further intensifying foot odor. While it’s nearly universal among people who regularly wear shoes, managing foot hygiene, choosing breathable footwear, and addressing underlying health issues can help reduce the problem.

Below are some of the home remedies for smelly shoes;

1. Wash plus exfoliate feet to prevent stinky shoes

Since smelly shoes start with smelly feet, good foot hygiene is essential for preventing odor. Wash your feet daily with warm, soapy water, even if you skip a full shower. Rinse well and dry thoroughly with a clean towel, especially between the toes where bacteria thrive. Exfoliating your feet with a pumice stone, exfoliating pad, or shower wipe helps remove dead skin, which can also reduce odor. Keep your feet dry, as moisture creates the perfect environment for odour-causing bacteria.

Always wear breathable socks that wick away sweat, and avoid wearing shoes without socks, which can quickly lead to stinky footwear.

2. Stop sweaty feet to stop stinky shoes

If you’re struggling with sweaty, smelly feet, focus on reducing sweat to help control odour. Using an antiperspirant lotion like SweatBlock can effectively decrease excessive foot sweating. Since feet have more sweat glands than any other body part, they easily become a breeding ground for bacteria, which causes bad smells. By cutting down on sweating, you’ll also significantly reduce the odour it creates.

3. Shoe deodoriser spray

A shoe deodoriser is a great way to eliminate stink on your shoes. If you’re looking for the best shoe deodoriser, search for a deodoriser that can be sprayed on both your feet and shoes.

This quick and effective remedy is perfect for active walkers, sports enthusiasts, and students after gym class. The small spray bottle fits easily in your backpack or gym bag, and the fresh smelling spray will make your feet and shoes smell great right away. The deodorant spray provides natural antifungal protection and works on all types of shoes, sandals, and slippers.

4. Wear shoes that breathe

One of the best home remedies for smelly shoes is wearing the right footwear.

Choose shoes made from breathable materials like leather or mesh, which allow moisture to escape. Avoid non-breathable materials like vinyl, which trap moisture and lead to strong odors. Instead of relying on shoe deodorisers, start by picking shoes that help prevent odor in the first place.

5. Alternate your shoes—give them time to air out

The smell of your shoes can be greatly reduced by not wearing the same pair on consecutive days. Of course, this means you’ll need more than one pair of shoes. Assuming that you have at least two pairs, alternate the days you wear them. Give them a well-deserved rest.

On their days off, pull out the tongue, loosen the laces and put them in a ventilated spot where they can air out.

6. Use shoe insoles to fight foot odor

Specially treated insoles are another effective way to reduce shoe odor. Available at most grocery or drug stores, these insoles contain activated charcoal, baking soda, or both to neutralise bad smells. They also absorb moisture and add extra cushioning for comfort. Most come in a standard size you can trim to fit any shoe, making them especially helpful for controlling odor in gym shoes.

7. Sprinkle baking soda in those stinky shoes

Baking soda is a popular home remedy for smelly shoes. Just sprinkle it inside the shoes and leave it overnight to absorb odours. In the morning, shake it out, and your shoes will smell much fresher.

However, avoid using baking soda too frequently on leather shoes, as it can dry out the leather and cause cracking.