How to get rid of odour from shoes: Ultimate Guide 2025

Why Shoe Odor Happens—and How to Stop It

How to get rid of odour from shoes is a problem nearly everyone faces at some point. Whether it’s your favorite pair of sneakers, work boots, or athletic shoes, that unmistakable smell can be both embarrassing and stubborn.

Quick Solutions to Eliminate Shoe Odor:

Sprinkle baking soda inside shoes and leave overnight
Spray with white vinegar solution (equal parts water and vinegar)
Use activated charcoal sachets to absorb moisture and odors
Dry shoes in direct sunlight for natural disinfection
Wash shoes (if machine-safe) with mild detergent and air dry completely
Replace old insoles that harbor bacteria
Apply foot antiperspirant to reduce sweat at the source

The root cause is simple: your feet produce up to 250ml of sweat per day, and bacteria thrive in the warm, moist environment inside your shoes. These microorganisms break down sweat and produce organic acids like methanethiol and isovaleric acid—the compounds responsible for that distinctive foul odor. The good news? With the right approach, you can eliminate shoe odor completely and prevent it from returning.

I’m Eric Neuner, founder of NuShoe Inc, where we’ve handled thousands of how to get rid of odour from shoes projects since 1994, including specialized mold remediation and quality correction work for major footwear brands. Our experience processing over 1.5 million pairs annually has shown us what truly works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to eliminating stubborn shoe odors.

How to get rid of odour from shoes terms explained:

Understanding the Science Behind Shoe Odor

Before we dive into solutions, let’s get a little scientific. Understanding why your shoes smell is the first step to truly tackling the problem. The primary culprits are simple: sweat and bacteria.

Our feet are incredible sweat-producing machines. Did you know that your feet have more sweat glands than any other part of the body? It’s true! The average person’s feet can sweat up to 250ml per day. While sweat itself is odorless, it creates the perfect warm, dark, and moist environment inside your shoes—a veritable paradise for bacteria and fungi.

These tiny microbes, happily munching on your sweat and dead skin cells, produce waste products in the form of organic acids. It’s these acids that give off that signature foul smell. Specifically, bacteria like Brevibacterium can produce methanethiol, which has a sulfuric stench often compared to rotting cabbages. Other acids, such as isovaleric acid and propanoic acid, also contribute to the overall “foot odor” experience, a condition clinically known as bromodosis.

Sometimes, the odor isn’t just from sweat-loving bacteria, but also from fungi, which can lead to issues like athlete’s foot or even mildew shoes smell. Mildew in shoes is a sign of unwanted guests: moisture and bacteria, and it can compromise both the freshness and longevity of your footwear.

What’s the Difference Between Cleaning and Deodorizing?

It might seem like these terms are interchangeable, but there’s a key distinction when it comes to keeping your footwear fresh.

Cleaning your shoes typically involves removing visible dirt, grime, and debris. This is about physical cleanliness—getting rid of mud, dust, or stains. While cleaning can help reduce some odor by eliminating organic material, it doesn’t always address the microscopic bacteria that cause the most potent smells. Our goal at NuShoe is always to clean shoes thoroughly, but sometimes that’s just the first step.

Deodorizing, on the other hand, specifically targets the odor itself. This means neutralizing the smelly organic acids and, crucially, killing the odor-causing bacteria and fungi. You can clean a shoe and still have it smell, but a properly deodorized shoe will be free of the offensive scent. Often, effective deodorizing involves methods that absorb moisture, inhibit microbial growth, or both.

Immediate Action: How to Get Rid of Odour from Shoes Right Now

So, your shoes have developed an unwelcome aroma, and you need a solution fast. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! There are many quick fixes and natural remedies you can try at home, along with some powerful products we recommend.

Natural & Household Remedies That Work

These methods use common items you likely already have around the house, making them convenient and cost-effective ways to tackle shoe odor.

Baking Soda: This kitchen staple is a true hero for neutralizing odors. We often recommend sprinkling a generous amount of baking soda inside your shoes and letting it sit for several hours, ideally overnight. Baking soda works by absorbing moisture and neutralizing the pH, which helps to eliminate the acidic odors. You can find more detailed tips in our guide on Baking Soda Hacks: How to Clean and Deodorize Your Shoes. In fact, baking soda can yield results in less than 24 hours! Just remember to shake out the excess before wearing your shoes again.
White Vinegar Spray: Another powerful natural deodorizer, white vinegar is excellent for fighting bacteria and neutralizing odors. Simply mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. After wearing your shoes, give the insides a light spray and let them air dry completely. This DIY solution is so effective, we even have a dedicated guide for a DIY Shoe Deodorizer Spray. A 2014 study in mBio confirms that vinegar neutralizes odors and fights bacteria.
Activated Charcoal: Much like baking soda, activated charcoal is a fantastic odor absorber. It’s renowned for its ability to trap and neutralize odors. You can purchase activated charcoal sachets or even place pieces of charcoal (like those used for aquariums, just make sure they’re clean) inside your shoes overnight. It works by adsorbing odor particles, binding them to its porous surface.
Tea Bags: Don’t toss those used tea bags! The tannins in tea can actually penetrate the insole of your shoe, fighting off odor-causing bacteria and leaving behind a pleasant herbal scent. For a quick fix, place a few dry, unused tea bags in each shoe overnight. For more stubborn odors, moist tea bags can be even more effective. Curious about this method? Check out our article: Do Tea Bags Remove Odor from Shoes.
Essential Oils: Certain essential oils offer more than just a nice scent; they have antifungal and antibacterial properties. Tea tree oil, clove oil, and cedarwood oil are particularly effective. For example, a 2007 case study in Mycobiology found that clove essential oil strongly inhibits bacteria growth on the feet to eliminate odor. You can add a few drops directly into your shoes (test on an inconspicuous area first to avoid staining) or mix them with baking soda before sprinkling.
Sunlight: Mother Nature provides one of the best disinfectants! Placing your shoes in direct sunlight for a few hours after exercise can help dry out any excess moisture and allow the UV rays to kill odor-causing bacteria. Just be mindful with delicate materials like leather, as prolonged exposure can cause fading or damage.
Freezing Method: This is a popular trick, and while it might not be a permanent solution, it can offer temporary relief. Place your shoes in a plastic bag and toss them in the freezer overnight. The cold temperatures can kill some odor-causing bacteria. However, some experts suggest freezing may degrade shoes more quickly than proper storage, and it typically only diminishes the odor rather than eliminating it entirely, as it doesn’t remove the underlying moisture or bacterial residue. For more on this, read Does Freezing Shoes Remove Odor.

NuShoe-Recommended Solutions for Powerful Odor Control

Sometimes, household remedies need a little backup, or you might be looking for more specialized products to keep your shoes fresh. Our decades of experience in footwear quality control and repair have given us insight into products that truly make a difference.

Disinfectant Sprays: For a direct attack on odor-causing bacteria and fungus, disinfectant sprays are highly effective. Products like Lysol can be sprayed directly into the shoe’s interior. We recommend spraying at the end of the day and allowing the shoes to air dry overnight. As Dr. Breeann Wilson of Pure Podiatry notes, an antibacterial product is “the ultimate weapon against shoe odor.”
Odor-Absorbing Inserts & Insoles: These are game-changers, especially since insoles are often the primary source of persistent shoe odors. Their porous materials absorb and retain moisture, becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. Replacing your standard insoles with ones specifically designed to combat odor is a smart move. Look for options with activated charcoal or baking soda, as these materials are excellent at absorbing moisture and neutralizing smells. Brands like Dr. Scholl’s offer Odor-X Insoles with built-in odor-fighting properties. For a comprehensive guide, check out our recommendations for the Best Shoe Deodorizer.
Cedar Inserts: Not only do cedar shoe inserts provide a pleasant, natural scent, but they also absorb moisture and can even repel insects. Woodlore Cedar Shoe Fresh Inserts are a popular choice for their effectiveness.
UV Light Sanitizers: For those seeking a high-tech solution, UV light sanitizers, such as the PediFix ShoeZap UV Sterilizer, can be incredibly effective. UV light has been shown to kill bacteria and other pathogens, helping to eliminate the microbial source of shoe odor.
Odor-Eating Insoles: These insoles are specifically engineered with materials or treatments that absorb sweat and neutralize odor-causing bacteria. They’re a simple, proactive step to keep shoes smelling fresh from the inside out.

Deep Cleaning for a Total Reset

When odors are deeply embedded, or your shoes are visibly dirty, a thorough cleaning might be necessary. This is where we get to the heart of truly resetting your footwear.

Machine Washing: Good news! Some shoes are actually machine-washable. This typically applies to canvas, fabric, and rubber or plastic shoes. Brands like Rothy’s and Allbirds are known for their machine-friendly designs. Always check the care instructions for your specific pair. Generally, we recommend washing on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Crucially, always remove insoles (and wash them separately if possible) and always let your shoes air dry completely. Avoid hot water or using a machine dryer, as this can cause shrinkage, damage, or melt materials.
Hand Washing: For shoes that aren’t machine-safe, hand washing is a viable option. Use a mild detergent and warm water. Pay close attention to cleaning both the inside and outside, scrubbing gently to remove any grime and bacterial buildup. Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is gone, and then, you guessed it, air dry completely.
Air Drying: Regardless of whether you machine wash or hand wash, proper air drying is paramount. Wet shoes are an open invitation for bacteria and mold to return. Allow your shoes to dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat sources that could damage the material. You can stuff them with crumpled newspaper or dry towels to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape, speeding up the drying process. For a complete guide on eradicating persistent smells, read our article on Get Rid of Shoe Odor.

Prevention is Key: Keeping Your Shoes Fresh for Good

While we’ve covered many effective ways to get rid of existing odors, the best offense is a good defense! Preventing shoe odor in the first place is the most sustainable approach to keeping your footwear fresh. It involves a combination of good personal hygiene, smart choices, and regular maintenance. For larger collections, an Odor Eliminator for Shoe Closet can also make a huge difference.

The Role of Foot Hygiene

The journey to fresh shoes starts with fresh feet. Think about it: if your feet are clean and dry, they’ll produce less odor to transfer to your shoes.

Washing Feet Daily: This might seem obvious, but it’s often overlooked. Wash your feet daily with soap and water, paying special attention to scrubbing between your toes and across the soles. This removes sweat, dirt, and dead skin cells that bacteria love to feed on.
Drying Feet Thoroughly: After washing, make sure your feet are completely dry, especially between the toes. Any lingering moisture creates a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.
Using Antiperspirant on Feet: Yes, you read that right! If you experience excessive foot sweat, applying antiperspirant or deodorant spray directly to your feet can significantly reduce moisture production. This is a common recommendation, and can be quite effective. As noted on Sweathelp.org, antiperspirants aren’t just for underarms.
Trimming Toenails and Exfoliating: Keep your toenails clipped short and clean underneath them. Hard, dead skin on your feet can also become soggy and soft when wet, providing more food for bacteria. Regularly exfoliating with a foot file or scrub helps remove this dead skin. For more tips on this, check out How to Eliminate Foot Odor.

Smart Sock and Shoe Choices

The materials your socks and shoes are made from, and how you use them, play a crucial role in preventing odor.

Moisture-Wicking Socks: Ditch the cotton for everyday wear, especially if you’re active. Cotton absorbs moisture and holds it against your skin, creating a damp environment. Instead, opt for socks made of moisture-wicking materials like wool, polyester, or nylon. Wool socks are particularly excellent because the oils in their fibers act as a natural barrier to bacteria, making them potent odor-fighters. They also wick moisture away effectively.
Breathable Shoe Materials: Choose shoes made from breathable materials such as natural leather, canvas, or mesh. These materials allow air circulation, helping sweat evaporate and preventing moisture buildup. Conversely, synthetic materials that don’t breathe well can trap moisture, greatly encouraging smelly feet when combined with sweat and bacteria.
Shoe Rotation: This is one of the simplest yet most effective preventative measures. We strongly recommend rotating between at least two pairs of shoes, wearing a different pair each day. This allows each pair a full 24 hours (or more) to completely dry out between wears. Regularly airing out shoes can significantly reduce moisture and odor, breaking the cycle of bacterial growth. This strategy is especially important for athletic shoes or if you’re wondering How to Get Rid of Smelly Trainers.

How to get rid of odour from shoes with regular maintenance

Consistency is key when it comes to keeping your shoes smelling fresh. Incorporating a few simple maintenance habits into your routine can make a world of difference.

Regular Cleaning Schedule: Don’t wait until your shoes smell like a science experiment gone wrong. Periodically clean your shoes thoroughly, both inside and out. Even a quick wipe-down of the interior after each wear can prevent bacterial buildup.
Wiping Down: If washing isn’t feasible or necessary, a quick wipe with a disinfecting wipe can help sanitize the interior surfaces of your shoes, targeting odor-causing microbes.
Replacing Insoles: Insoles are often the unsung heroes—and unfortunately, the hidden villains—of shoe odor. Because they directly absorb sweat and friction, they can become saturated with bacteria and dead skin. We advise replacing your insoles at least once a year, or sooner if they start to develop an odor. Look for new insoles designed with odor-fighting properties, such as activated charcoal or antimicrobial treatments.
Using Preventative Inserts: Even with new insoles, you can add an extra layer of defense. Incorporate preventative inserts like cedar wood, activated charcoal sachets, or even dryer sheets when your shoes aren’t in use. These absorb residual moisture and impart a fresh scent. For the ultimate guide to keeping your footwear fresh, explore our Best Odor Control for Shoes resources.

Tackling Tough Cases and Special Materials

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, a shoe odor problem can become persistent, or you might be dealing with specialized materials that require a more delicate touch. When you’re facing severe issues like mold or mildew, or need to protect high-value footwear, it’s time to consider advanced strategies.

How to get rid of odour from shoes made of leather or suede

Leather and suede shoes are beautiful and durable, but they require particular care when dealing with odors, as they can be easily damaged by harsh chemicals or excessive moisture.

Specialized Cleaners: For leather and suede, avoid saturating the material with water. Instead, use cleaners specifically formulated for these materials. These products are designed to clean without causing damage or leaving water stains.
Avoiding Water Saturation: Water can stain, stiffen, or crack leather and suede. If your leather shoes get wet, stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture and let them air dry naturally, away from direct heat. For extreme cases, a disinfecting wipe can be used carefully on the interior.
Conditioners: After cleaning leather, always apply a leather conditioner to keep the material supple and prevent drying or cracking. For work boots, applying wax or oil can help repel water and prevent moisture absorption, which in turn helps prevent odor. This is a great tip for How to Get Rid of Boot Stink. For more specific advice on tackling odors in these materials, consult our guide on How to Get Rid of Smell in Leather Shoes.

When to Consider Professional Help

There are times when a shoe odor problem goes beyond what home remedies or standard products can fix. This is particularly true for high-value footwear, severe mold or mildew infestations, or industrial-scale odor issues.

High-Value Footwear: If you have expensive or sentimental shoes, attempting aggressive DIY methods can risk irreparable damage. A professional can assess the material and apply the safest, most effective treatment.
Severe Mold or Persistent Mildew: Mold and mildew are not just smelly; they can be harmful to your health and actively degrade your shoes. If you see visible mold growth or the mildew smell persists despite your best efforts, it’s time for expert intervention. Our specialists at NuShoe Inspect & Correct are experts in How to Get Mold Out of Shoes safely and effectively.
Ozone Treatment: For the toughest odors, professional services often employ advanced techniques like ozone treatment. Ozone gas has powerful antimicrobial properties that effectively kill bacteria, fungi, and other odor-causing contaminants. It’s a chemical-free process that can penetrate deep into materials, eliminating odors at their source without leaving residues. At NuShoe, with our facilities in San Diego, California, and India, we have the expertise and equipment to handle high-volume and severe odor removal projects. Our experience since 1994 means we’ve seen it all and know how to get your shoes smelling fresh again.

Frequently Asked Questions about Eliminating Shoe Odor

We hear a lot of questions about smelly shoes, and we’re happy to share our insights to help you keep your footwear fresh.

How long does it take for baking soda to deodorize shoes?

Baking soda is one of our go-to recommendations for how to get rid of odour from shoes. For best results, sprinkle a generous amount inside your shoes and allow it to work its magic overnight, or for at least 8-12 hours. Many of our clients report noticeable improvements in less than 24 hours. The longer it sits, the more moisture and odor it can absorb. Just remember to shake out the excess thoroughly before you wear your shoes again.

Can you get rid of shoe odor without washing the shoes?

Absolutely! Washing isn’t always an option, especially for delicate materials like leather or suede, or simply when you need a quick fix. Many of the methods we’ve discussed allow you to eliminate odor without a full wash:

Baking soda or activated charcoal sachets absorb odors.
The freezing method can kill some bacteria.
Disinfectant sprays target microbes directly.
Sunlight provides natural disinfection and drying.
Tea bags absorb odors and impart a fresh scent.
White vinegar spray (used lightly) neutralizes odors and fights bacteria.

What is the most effective home remedy for shoe odor?

While effectiveness can vary depending on the severity of the odor and the shoe material, we consistently find that baking soda and white vinegar are among the most effective home remedies. Baking soda excels at absorbing moisture and neutralizing odors, while white vinegar actively kills odor-causing bacteria. Often, a combination approach works best—using a vinegar spray for disinfection, followed by baking soda to absorb lingering smells and moisture. For a range of proven techniques, explore our Homemade Odor Remover for Shoes guide.

Conclusion

Tackling shoe odor doesn’t have to be a losing battle. By understanding the science behind why shoes smell and consistently applying a few key strategies, you can enjoy fresh-smelling footwear every day. The ultimate solution lies in managing moisture and bacteria through a combination of good foot hygiene, smart shoe and sock choices, regular maintenance, and effective deodorizing techniques.

Whether you opt for simple household remedies like baking soda and vinegar, invest in specialized odor-absorbing inserts, or commit to a regular cleaning schedule, consistency is your best friend. Prevention is always easier than cure, so make these tips a regular part of your routine.

For particularly stubborn odors, severe mold or mildew, or when dealing with high-value footwear, professional help can provide a safe and effective solution. Our team at NuShoe Inspect & Correct has been providing specialized shoe odor removal and quality control services since 1994, helping countless individuals and major brands in locations like San Diego, California, and India.

Ready to put an end to smelly shoes for good? Learn more about comprehensive shoe odor removal solutions and how we can help you keep your footwear fresh and functional.

The Ultimate Guide to Eliminating Shoe Odor: Tips and Tricks That Actually Work