Does freezing shoes remove odor? The short answer is: yes, but not entirely. Freezing your shoes can help reduce the odor by killing some bacteria that cause the smell, but it won’t eliminate all of it. Here’s why:
- Bacteria thrive in moist, warm environments.
- Freezing kills some but not all odor-causing bacteria.
- Combine freezing with other methods for best results.
If you’re dealing with smelly shoes, the culprit is usually sweat mixed with bacteria. Our feet have a high concentration of sweat glands, which means they can produce quite a bit of moisture. When this sweat gets trapped in your shoes, it creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria like corynebacterium and micrococci. These bacteria break down sweat into isovaleric acid, which is the real source of the smell.
“Just as with all other organisms, bacteria need fluid to thrive, and your foot sweat does that job perfectly,” explains Sara Landvik, a science manager at Novozymes.
We at NuShoe Inspect & Correct know a thing or two about shoe maintenance. I’m Eric Neuner, the founder of NuShoe Inc., with over two decades of experience in shoe repair and maintenance. Freezing shoes to remove odor is one method we recommend, although it’s important to use it alongside other solutions to keep your shoes fresh and odor-free.
What Causes Shoe Odor?
Ever wondered why your shoes smell bad after a long day? The answer lies in the fascinating world of sweat glands, bacteria, and some chemistry.
Sweat Glands
Each foot has about 125,000 sweat glands, more than any other part of your body. These glands can produce up to half a pint of sweat daily. While sweat itself is odorless, it creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.
Bacteria
When your feet sweat, they create a moist environment inside your shoes. This is a breeding ground for bacteria. One key bacterium is Kytococcus sedentarius, which produces sulfuric compounds when it breaks down sweat. These compounds are what give foot odor its characteristic smell.
Isovaleric Acid
Another byproduct of bacterial activity is isovaleric acid. This compound is responsible for the pungent, cheesy odor you often smell. The more you sweat, the more isovaleric acid is produced, leading to stronger odors.
Physical Activity
Physical activity increases sweat production. Whether it’s running, hiking, or just walking around all day, your feet are bound to sweat more. This extra sweat means more food for bacteria, resulting in a stronger odor.
Hot Weather
Hot weather exacerbates the problem. The heat makes you sweat more, and the increased moisture inside your shoes becomes a playground for bacteria. This is why shoe odor tends to be worse in the summer.
Lack of Aeration
Wearing the same shoes every day without giving them a chance to air out can also lead to bad odors. Shoes that don’t breathe well trap moisture and bacteria, making the smell even worse.
Understanding these factors can help you take the right steps to prevent and treat shoe odor. Next, we’ll explore whether freezing shoes can actually help remove that nasty smell.
Does Freezing Shoes Remove Odor?
How Freezing Works
Freezing shoes can be an effective way to reduce odor. But how does it work? Let’s break it down.
Bacteria are the main culprits behind smelly shoes. These microorganisms thrive in warm, moist environments. When you freeze your shoes, the cold air creates a “cold shock” that can kill these bacteria. This process is known as bacteria elimination.
Moreover, freezing helps in moisture reduction. Cold air extracts moisture from the shoes, making it harder for bacteria to survive and multiply. Reduced moisture means less odor.
Steps to Freeze Shoes Properly
To make sure you get the best results, follow these steps:
-
Place Shoes in a Plastic Bag: Before putting your shoes in the freezer, place them in a plastic bag. This prevents any odors from transferring to your food.
-
Seal the Bag: Make sure the bag is sealed tightly to keep out moisture and odors.
-
Overnight Freezing: Leave the bagged shoes in the freezer for at least 12 hours. Overnight is ideal for optimal odor reduction.
-
Thawing Process: After removing your shoes from the freezer, let them thaw and air out completely before wearing them again. This ensures that any remaining moisture evaporates.
-
Baking Soda Supplement: For extra odor-fighting power, sprinkle some baking soda inside the shoes before freezing. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that absorbs bad smells.
By following these steps, you can effectively use freezing to remove odors from your shoes. But freezing is not the only method. Let’s look at some alternative ways to tackle shoe odor.
Alternative Methods to Remove Shoe Odor
While freezing shoes can be effective, there are several other methods to remove shoe odor that you might find helpful. Let’s explore some of these options:
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can absorb odors and neutralize pH levels in your shoes. It’s simple to use:
- Simple Method: Sprinkle straight baking soda directly into each shoe and leave it for at least 24 hours. The baking soda will absorb the odors, leaving your shoes smelling fresh.
- Overnight Method: Mix ¼ cup of baking soda, ¼ cup of baking powder, and ½ cup of cornstarch. Add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent. Fill a pair of clean, cotton socks with the mixture and tie them off. Place the socks in your shoes overnight.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is excellent for bacteria neutralization and odor removal. Here’s how to use it:
- Spray Bottle Method: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution inside your shoes after each use and let them dry completely. For the best results, clean your shoes thoroughly inside and out before applying the solution.
Tea Bags
Tea bags, especially black tea, contain tannins that help reduce bacteria. They also absorb moisture and leave a pleasant scent:
- 24-Hour Method: Place a dry tea bag in each shoe and leave them overnight. The tannins in the tea help fight bacteria, while the bags absorb excess moisture and odors.
Baby Powder
Baby powder is a classic remedy for sweat absorption and odor neutralization. It keeps your feet dry and reduces the likelihood of bad smells:
- Application Method: Sprinkle some baby powder inside your shoes before and after use. This helps absorb moisture and keeps your shoes smelling fresh.
HOCl Fogging
For a more advanced solution, consider HOCl fogging. This method uses a chlorine-based disinfectant (hypochlorous acid) that can control germs and odors at very low concentrations. It’s delivered via a dry mist that reaches every nook and cranny of your shoes:
- Dry Mist Delivery: By fogging this disinfectant with a specially designed fogger, the HOCl ingredients can be delivered by dry mist to surfaces throughout the space without any labor. This system can also serve to improve daily cleanliness in your home.
These alternative methods provide various ways to keep your shoes odor-free. Whether you prefer natural solutions like baking soda and tea bags or more advanced methods like HOCl fogging, there’s an option to suit your needs.
How to Prevent Shoe Odor
Keep Shoes Dry
Keeping your shoes dry is crucial to preventing odor. Moisture creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which causes that unpleasant smell. Here are some simple methods:
- Newspaper Stuffing: Stuff your shoes with newspaper to absorb moisture. This helps them dry faster and maintain their shape.
- Sun Drying: Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area to air dry. A bit of sunlight can also help kill bacteria, but avoid direct sunlight to prevent material damage.
- Moisture Control: Use moisture-absorbing products like silica gel sachets. These can be placed inside your shoes to keep them dry.
Rotate Shoes
Wearing the same pair of shoes every day can trap moisture and odors. Rotating shoes gives each pair time to dry out completely.
- 24-Hour Drying Period: Allow at least 24 hours for your shoes to dry before wearing them again.
- Multiple Pairs: Invest in more than one pair of shoes. This way, you can alternate between pairs, reducing odor buildup and extending their lifespan.
Proper Storage
Storing your shoes correctly can prevent moisture and odor buildup.
- Ventilated Space: Store your shoes in a well-ventilated area to allow air circulation. Avoid dark, damp places like closets.
- Silica Gel Sachets: Keep silica gel sachets in your shoes during storage. They absorb moisture and help prevent odors.
Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential to keep your shoes fresh and odor-free. Follow the brand-specific advice for the best results.
- Hand Washing: Some shoes require gentle hand washing. Use mild soap and water, and scrub lightly.
- Machine Washing: Check if your shoes are machine washable. Use a gentle cycle and cold water to avoid damage.
- Brand-Specific Advice: Always refer to the brand’s website for cleaning instructions. This ensures you don’t damage your shoes while trying to clean them.
By following these tips, you can keep your shoes fresh and extend their lifespan. Proper care and maintenance go a long way in preventing shoe odor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Freezing Shoes to Remove Odor
Does freezing shoes damage them?
Freezing shoes is generally safe for most materials, but it’s always wise to be cautious. Leather shoes, for instance, might not react well to extreme cold. It’s a good idea to test on a small section first if you’re unsure. Placing your shoes in a resealable plastic bag before freezing helps protect them from moisture and odors.
According to NuShoe Inspect & Correct, freezing can kill the bacteria causing the odor without using harsh chemicals. Just make sure to let the shoes thaw and dry completely before wearing them again to avoid any potential damage from condensation.
How long should I leave my shoes in the freezer?
For effective odor removal, it’s recommended to leave your shoes in the freezer for at least 12 hours. However, for best results, aim for 24-48 hours. This duration ensures that the cold temperature thoroughly kills the odor-causing bacteria.
As one user shared on Reddit, “the longer the freeze, the better.” They found that freezing their shoes for over 24 hours, followed by gentle thawing, effectively eliminated the smell.
Can I use other methods alongside freezing?
Absolutely! Combining freezing with other odor-fighting techniques can improve the results. For instance, after freezing, you can:
- Sprinkle Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that absorbs any remaining moisture and odors.
- Use White Vinegar Spray: A mix of white vinegar and water can neutralize bacteria. Spray lightly and let the shoes dry.
- Insert Tea Bags: Tannins in tea bags can further reduce bacteria. Place them in the shoes for about an hour after freezing.
Combining these methods can give you a more comprehensive odor removal solution. The key is to ensure your shoes are completely dry before wearing them again to prevent any new bacterial growth.
Freezing your shoes is a simple, cost-effective way to tackle odor. With these additional tips, you can keep your footwear smelling fresh and extending their lifespan.
Conclusion
At NuShoe Inspect & Correct, we understand how frustrating shoe odor can be. It’s more than just an annoyance; it’s a problem that can affect your confidence and comfort. That’s why we focus on effective shoe odor removal techniques that tackle the root cause: bacteria.
Freezing shoes is a straightforward and cost-effective method to eliminate odor-causing bacteria. By exposing your shoes to extreme cold, you can significantly reduce the bacterial load and, consequently, the odor. This method works best when combined with other solutions like baking soda or tea bags for a comprehensive approach.
However, freezing isn’t the only way to keep your shoes smelling fresh. Alternatives like white vinegar, HOCl fogging, and baby powder also offer excellent results. Each method has its unique benefits and can be used in conjunction with freezing for even better outcomes.
Prevention is key. By keeping your shoes dry, rotating pairs, and ensuring proper storage, you can minimize odor buildup. Regular cleaning is also crucial to maintain a fresh and bacteria-free environment for your feet.
If you’re looking for professional help with shoe odor removal, NuShoe Inspect & Correct offers specialized services. We use advanced techniques to ensure your shoes are not only odor-free but also in top condition.
For more information on our shoe odor removal services, click here.
By following these tips and utilizing our expert services, you can enjoy fresh, comfortable shoes every day.