How to Get Rid of Shoe Odor—and Keep Them Smelling Fresh

Over time, well-loved shoes can develop odors that are difficult to conceal. This happens when sweat soaks through the materials of your shoes, allowing odor-causing bacteria to develop deep within. This doesn't mean that your shoes are destined for the trash or that you'll have to live with smelly soles forever. The best way to get rid of shoe odor is to target the moisture buildup directly, both by allowing your shoes to dry out completely in between wears and by treating them with moisture-proofing products. But if that doesn't work, you can remove shoe odors using a few common household supplies.

Why Shoes Start to Smell

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.

How to Remove Odor From Shoes

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."

How to Keep Shoes From Smelling

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.

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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

Use Baby 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.