06 Feb Preventing Shoes Odour: Tips for Keeping Your Footwear Fresh

Understanding the Causes of Shoe Odour

Shoe odour develops when moisture, bacteria, and poor ventilation combine to create the perfect environment for unpleasant smells. Here are the main causes:

• Sweat and Bacteria Growth: Your feet contain thousands of sweat glands, and when moisture gets trapped inside your shoes, it creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria break down sweat and dead skin cells, producing foul odours.
• Moisture Buildup: Whether from sweat, rain, or damp conditions, moisture trapped inside shoes leads to musty smells and promotes bacterial and fungal growth.
• Lack of Air Circulation: Shoes made from non-breathable materials, such as synthetic fabrics, trap heat and moisture, making odours worse.
• Worn-Out Insoles: Old, damp, or heavily used insoles absorb sweat over time and contribute to lingering bad smells.

By understanding these causes, you can take the right steps to prevent shoe odour before it becomes a problem.

Daily Habits for Preventing Shoes Odour

Incorporating simple daily habits into your routine can significantly reduce and prevent shoe odour. Here’s what you should do:

• Maintain Proper Foot Hygiene: Good foot hygiene is the first step in preventing shoes odour. Wash your feet daily with soap and warm water, paying special attention to the areas between your toes. Dry them completely before putting on socks and shoes to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wear Clean, Moisture-Wicking Socks: Choose socks from breathable, moisture-wicking materials such as wool or synthetic fibres. Avoid cotton socks, as they tend to absorb sweat and trap moisture, increasing the risk of odour. Change your socks daily, or more often if your feet sweat excessively.
• Choose Breathable Shoes: Wear shoes made from natural or breathable materials like leather, canvas, or mesh, which allow better airflow and reduce moisture buildup. Avoid wearing tight or non-ventilated footwear for long periods.
• Rotate Your Shoes: Wearing the same pair of shoes every day doesn’t allow them to dry properly. Rotate between different pairs to give each set enough time to air out, reducing the risk of bacteria buildup and persistent odours.
• Allow Shoes to Air Out After Use: Take off your shoes in a well-ventilated area. Loosen the laces, remove insoles if possible, and leave them in an open space to dry completely before the next use.

Home Remedies for Preventing Shoes Odour

If you’re struggling with smelly shoes, several simple home remedies can help eliminate odours and keep your footwear fresh. Here are some effective natural solutions:

• Use Baking Soda: Baking soda is a powerful deodoriser that absorbs moisture and neutralises odours. Sprinkle a small amount inside your shoes overnight and shake out any excess powder before wearing them.
• Try Tea Bags: Used or dry tea bags, especially black tea, contain tannins that help kill bacteria and absorb moisture. Place a tea bag inside each shoe overnight to reduce odours.
• Vinegar Spray: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist the inside of your shoes. Vinegar helps kill bacteria and eliminate bad smells. Allow the shoes to air dry completely before wearing them.
• Freeze Your Shoes: Extreme cold can kill bacteria and reduce odours. Place your shoes in a sealed plastic bag and leave them in the freezer overnight. Let them return to room temperature before wearing them.
• Citrus Peels: Citrus peels, such as lemon, orange, or lime, have natural antibacterial properties and a fresh scent. Place a few peels inside your shoes overnight to absorb odours and leave them smelling fresh.
• Essential Oils: A few drops of essential oils like tea tree, lavender, or peppermint can help kill bacteria and add a pleasant scent to your shoes. Apply the oil to a cotton ball and place it inside your shoes overnight.
• Cornstarch: Cornstarch works similarly to baking soda by absorbing moisture and reducing odour. Sprinkle a little inside your shoes, let it sit overnight, and shake out the excess in the morning.

Long-Term Solutions for Preventing Shoes Odour

While daily habits and home remedies can help manage shoe odour, long-term preventive measures ensure your footwear stays fresh in the long run. Here are some effective strategies:

• Invest in Odour-Reducing Insoles: Replace your shoe insoles regularly, as old ones absorb sweat and odour over time. Opt for activated charcoal, cedarwood, or antibacterial insoles, which help absorb moisture and prevent bacterial growth.
• Store Shoes in a Well-Ventilated Area: Avoid keeping your shoes in closed, damp spaces like lockers or airtight cupboards. Instead, store them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area where air circulation helps prevent moisture buildup.
• Use Shoe Deodorisers or Sachets: Keep small deodorising sachets filled with baking soda, activated charcoal, or cedar chips inside your shoes when not in use. These absorb moisture and neutralise odours over time.
• Wear Antiperspirant on Your Feet: Using a foot-specific antiperspirant spray or roll-on can help reduce sweating, minimising the moisture that causes odour. Apply it to clean, dry feet before putting on socks and shoes.
• Wash Shoes Regularly (If Possible): Machine-washable shoes should be cleaned periodically following the manufacturer’s instructions. For non-washable shoes, wipe the insides with a cloth dampened with vinegar or mild soap to remove bacteria.
• Avoid Wearing Shoes Without Socks: Socks act as a barrier between your feet and shoes, absorbing sweat and reducing direct contact with the insole. Wearing shoes without socks increases odour buildup, especially in closed-toe footwear.
• Replace Old or Worn-Out Shoes: Over time, shoes accumulate bacteria, moisture, and odours that become difficult to eliminate. If your shoes continue to smell despite all efforts, it may be time to invest in a new pair.

Final Thought: How Can NeatEx Laundrette & Dry Cleaning Help?

While home remedies and daily habits can help with preventing shoes odour, professional cleaning services provide a deeper level of freshness. NeatEx Laundrette & Dry Cleaning offers expert shoe cleaning solutions that eliminate bacteria, remove stubborn odours, and restore your footwear to a like-new condition.

At NeatEx, we use specialist cleaning techniques and deodorising treatments to ensure your shoes stay fresh for longer. Whether you need a deep clean for your trainers, work shoes, or delicate footwear, our professional care extends the life of your shoes while keeping them odour-free.

For the best results, pair your home care routine with NeatEx’s expert shoe cleaning services and enjoy fresh, clean footwear every day! Visit us today to learn more about how we can help keep your shoes in top condition.