How To Avoid Odor In shoes
To avoid odor in shoes, you need to control moisture, bacteria, and sweat. Here’s a complete guide that actually works:
👟 1. Let Shoes Breathe
- Never wear the same pair two days in a row—rotate shoes to let them dry out.
- After wearing, air them out in a ventilated area (not a closed cabinet).
- Remove insoles (if possible) to dry separately.
🧼 2. Keep Your Feet Clean
- Wash your feet daily, especially between toes.
- Dry thoroughly before putting on socks/shoes.
- Apply antifungal powder or spray if you sweat heavily.
🧦 3. Always Wear Clean, Breathable Socks
- Use cotton, bamboo, or moisture-wicking athletic socks.
- Change socks daily—or more often if you sweat.
- Avoid reusing socks even if they “look clean.”
🌬️ 4. Dry Shoes Completely
- Stuff shoes with newspaper or silica gel packets overnight.
- Use a shoe dryer or place them near (not on) a heat source.
- Avoid storing wet shoes in closed spaces.
🦠 5. Kill the Bacteria
Try one of these inside the shoes:
- Baking soda: Leave overnight, then shake out.
- Activated charcoal insoles or pouches.
- Vinegar spray: 1 part vinegar + 1 part water to disinfect (let dry fully).
- Rubbing alcohol spray: Kills odor-causing bacteria fast.
🧴 6. Use Shoe Deodorizers
- Commercial options: Dr. Scholl’s, Odor-Eaters, etc.
- DIY: Place a small cloth bag with baking soda + essential oil inside each shoe.
🧼 7. Wash Your Shoes Occasionally
If washable:
- Check label: Machine-washable shoes (e.g., canvas) can be cleaned every few weeks.
- Wash insoles separately or replace them with odor-resistant ones.
🚫 Bonus: What to Avoid
- Don’t go sockless unless shoes are made for it (like loafers with liner).
- Don’t spray perfume—it masks the smell, doesn’t eliminate it.