How to Remove Shoe Odor

Can't bear the thought of sliding on your favorite pair of shoes because they stink from the last wearing? It can take diligence and time to remove shoe odor, but your shoes are worth the trouble.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Shoe Inserts
• Foot Odor Removers
• Talcum Powder
• Baking Soda
• Foot Powders

1. Wash shoes thoroughly--inside and out--with soapy detergent and bleach.

2. Sprinkle the insides of the shoes liberally with bicarbonate or baking soda. Leave overnight, and shake out before wearing again.

3. Spray shoes daily with disinfectants and deodorizers specially designed for foot odor problems.

4. Apply foot powder specially designed for foot odor problems to feet and/or shoes daily.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for products that absorb and combat odor-causing bacteria. A product that simply masks the odor only compounds the problem.

[mittermeier]

on 1/23/2009 Thanks for the above tips, especially the one with the baking soda. In addition I am using disposable insoles which absorb the moisture from the feet. For me they are really helping to reduce foot odor. After 1-2 weeks I just replace the used insoles with fresh ones.
I made good experience with Odor Eaters from Walgreens or the more cost efficient alternative Fresh Soles (http://www.fresh-soles.com)

[vizmotion]

on 12/15/2008 Another solution for stinky feet I found is a shoe tree called Stuffitts. It is a cedar filled shoe insert which both clears up shoe odor over night while also drying the inside of your shoes. I think the website is http://www.stuffitts.com. Just thought I would add my two cents. Thanks for the article. Very helpful.

Robert

[vizmotion]

on 12/15/2008 Another solution for stinky feet I found is a shoe tree called Stuffitts. It is a cedar filled shoe insert which both clears up shoe odor over night while also drying the inside of your shoes. I think the website is http://www.stuffitts.com. Just thought I would add my two cents. Thanks for the article. Very helpful.

Robert

[katiegrey]

on 3/4/2008 Is there something I can do for open toe dress shoes or pumps? I really don't want to get rid of my FAVORITE and MOST COMFORTABLE work shoes!

[katiegrey]

on 3/4/2008 Is there something I can do for open toe dress shoes or pumps? I really don't want to get rid of my FAVORITE and MOST COMFORTABLE work shoes!