How to Remove Bacteria From Smelly Shoes

Even porous, ventilated athletic shoes can develop a bacterial odor.

Bacterial growth is usually the reason that shoes, especially athletic shoes, lined shoes and shoes worn in hot or rainy weather, develop an unpleasant odor. Getting rid of the bacteria that cause shoe odor not only eliminates the odor, but also prevents infections caused by contact with odor-causing bacteria. Bleach is a very effective disinfectant, but can damage some shoe materials. The best way to get rid of bacteria in smelly shoes, and to get rid of the odor caused by them, is by using a spray disinfectant.

Things You'll Need

• Spray disinfectant
• Odor-preventing insoles

Instructions

1. Remove the insoles of your shoes if possible. Soak them in warm water and detergent solution for an hour or so if they can withstand water and allow them to dry naturally for up to 12 hours. Dispose of your old insoles if you can replace them easily or if they are worn.

2. Spray the insides of your shoes with a regular aerosol or pump-spray disinfectant or with a disinfectant made specifically for shoes. Hold the can of disinfectant about six inches from the inside surfaces of your shoes and spray an even, fine mist of disinfectant onto all interior surfaces of the shoes. Follow the package directions for disinfectant shoe spray.

3. Spray the exterior surfaces of nylon or canvas shoes after first testing an inconspicuous area on the shoes to make sure the finish does not run or damage the shoes.

4. Allow the disinfectant to dry for about a half hour, then insert your new or washed insoles. Spray the inside of the shoes with disinfectant once again and wait another half hour or so before wearing them again.

5. Discard the shoes if the odor persists after a repeat of Steps 2 to 4 above. Repeat these steps every month or so for shoes you wear frequently so bacteria do not have a chance to multiply and again create odor.

Tips & Warnings

• Replacement athletic, walking and outdoor shoe insoles are often available at sporting goods stores and shoe dealers. Replacing your insoles periodically helps prevent bacteria from multiplying in your athletic and outdoor shoes.

Resources

• Squash Design: Shoe Disinfectant Deodorizer