10 Easy Ways to Eliminate Shoe Odour: Fast & Naturally
Shoe odour, or smelly shoes, is a common issue caused by a mix of sweat, bacteria, and moisture. When feet sweat, the warm and damp environment inside shoes allows bacteria and fungi to grow. As these microorganisms break down sweat and dead skin cells, they produce an unpleasant odour.
While everyone’s feet naturally sweat, shoe odour becomes a problem when moisture isn’t managed properly. Fortunately, you don’t need harsh chemicals to get rid of it, simple daily habits and natural shoe odour removers can make a lasting difference. Here are 10 effective and science-backed ways to eliminate shoe odour and keep your footwear fresh.
1. Use a Shoe Odour Spray
A high-quality shoe spray is one of the most efficient ways to eliminate bacteria inside shoes. These sprays often contain antibacterial and deodorising ingredients that neutralise odour at the source rather than masking it.
Read more about Foot Spray vs. Foot Powder: Which Is Better?
2. Let Your Shoes Air Out
After wearing your shoes, don’t store them immediately in an enclosed space. Instead, loosen the laces, remove insoles if possible, and leave them in a well-ventilated area. This allows moisture to evaporate and prevents bacteria from multiplying.
Even just a few hours of air exposure after use can make a big difference in keeping shoes dry and odour-free.
3. Clean and Dry Insoles Regularly
Insoles absorb the most sweat and bacteria, yet they are often neglected. Wash them every one to two weeks with warm water and mild soap, then dry them under sunlight. UV light naturally kills odour-causing microbes.
If your insoles are worn out or permanently stained, replacing them can also help prevent recurring odour.
4. Use Baking Soda as a Natural Deodoriser
Baking soda is a well-known natural deodoriser. It absorbs moisture and neutralises acidic odours. Sprinkle a tablespoon of baking soda inside each shoe before bed, and shake it out the next morning.
This simple method can be repeated several times a week for consistent freshness.
5. Wear Breathable Socks
Choosing the right socks plays a huge role in preventing foot odour and shoe odour. Socks made from natural fibres like cotton, bamboo, or merino wool absorb sweat more effectively than synthetic materials.
Moisture-wicking socks keep your feet dry, reducing bacterial growth and preventing unpleasant smells.
6. Rotate Your Footwear
Wearing the same pair of shoes every day traps moisture and doesn’t give them time to dry completely. Rotating between two or more pairs allows each pair to breathe, dry, and recover before the next use.
This simple habit also extends the lifespan of your shoes.
7. Try Freezing Your Shoes
Placing your shoes in a sealed plastic bag and leaving them in the freezer overnight can help kill bacteria and fungi that cause odour. The cold temperature stops bacterial growth and refreshes your footwear.
This method works best for fabric-based shoes like sneakers or canvas shoes. Avoid using it for leather footwear.
8. Use Dryer Sheets or Charcoal Bags
Charcoal bags and dryer sheets can absorb unwanted smells and moisture. Activated charcoal is highly effective in trapping odour-causing particles and keeping the inside of shoes dry.
Place one charcoal bag or dryer sheet in each shoe overnight for best results.
9. Maintain Good Foot Hygiene
Keeping your feet clean is essential for preventing both foot odour and shoe odour. Wash your feet daily with antibacterial soap, dry them thoroughly especially between the toes and apply a foot deodorant spray or shoe smell spray to keep them fresh throughout the day.
To learn more about effective deodorant habits, read: Best Time to Use the Foot Deodorant Spray
10. Use a Natural Shoe Odour Remover
Instead of synthetic sprays or perfumes, use a shoe odour remover made from natural ingredients. These products neutralise odours safely while maintaining shoe quality.
Look for formulas containing natural antibacterial essential oils. They not only eliminate odour but also leave a subtle, long-lasting scent.
Learn about the Best Natural Ingredients for Foot Odour Relief and Fresh Feet
Bonus
Persistent shoe odour often starts with foot odour. If you manage foot hygiene properly, your shoes will naturally stay fresher for longer. Regular cleaning, moisture control, and natural deodorising sprays can help eliminate odour at its source.
Read our complete guide on How to Stop Foot Odour Naturally
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What causes shoe odour?
Shoe odour is caused by sweat and bacteria accumulating inside shoes, especially when moisture isn’t allowed to dry properly.
2. Does shoe spray really work?
Yes, a shoe odour spray neutralises bacteria and odour, especially when used consistently after wearing shoes.
3. How often should I clean my insoles?
Clean insoles weekly or whenever you notice moisture or odour build-up to prevent bacteria growth.
4. Can baking soda damage my shoes?
No, baking soda is gentle and safe for most materials, though you should avoid using it on delicate leather surfaces.
Conclusion
Eliminating shoe odour doesn’t require harsh chemicals or expensive treatments. By following these 10 easy steps from airing out your shoes to using a reliable shoe odour spray, you can keep your footwear clean, dry, and fresh.
Small daily habits, combined with natural deodorising products, are the key to preventing unwanted odours for good.
Keep your feet and shoes fresh with Florentine Gold Fresh Foot Spray Deodorant, a gentle and natural formula designed to fight bacteria and maintain long-lasting freshness. Shop Florentine Gold Deodorant Collection today!
Disclaimer: At Florentine Gold, we’re all about natural wellness and love sharing tips, stories, and insights we’ve picked up along the way. That said, everything you read in this blog is for general information and educational purposes only. It’s not medical advice and isn’t intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. If you’re dealing with a health issue or taking medication, we always recommend checking in with your healthcare provider as part of your wellness journey.
