Smelly shoes not only impact your confidence but can also make those around you uncomfortable. However, everything will be quickly resolved if you have these detailed shoe odor elimination methods at your fingertips.
1. Reasons Behind Smelly Shoes
In reality, there are several factors causing your shoes to have an unpleasant odor, including:
- Not cleaning your feet before putting on shoes.
- Neglecting regular shoe maintenance and hygiene practices.
- Skipping the use of socks or stockings while wearing shoes.
- Individuals with a predisposition to sweaty feet when wearing shoes, sandals, or socks...

Shoe odor originates from various causes
Wearing a smelly pair of shoes not only creates a barrier to your daily confidence but can also result in skin issues and foot odor. Therefore, finding ways to eliminate shoe odor early is crucial.
2. TOP 15 effective and easy ways to eliminate shoe odor
In reality, eliminating shoe odor is neither complex nor time-consuming, as some people might think. Here are the top 15 effective and easy ways to eliminate shoe odor.
Use shoe spray for odor removal
Using shoe spray is the most efficient and quick method. Simply use a spray bottle to spray directly inside the shoes, and the entire problem of mold and unpleasant odor will be effectively resolved.
How to eliminate shoe odor using baking soda

Eliminating shoe odor with baking soda is a simple method to implement
Revitalize your shoes with the incredible odor-fighting power of baking soda. Simply place baking soda in a filter bag, add a few drops of essential oil for a delightful fragrance, and insert the mixture into your shoes overnight.
Say goodbye to unpleasant shoe odors using alcohol
Alcohol is renowned for its odor-neutralizing and superb antibacterial properties. Apply alcohol-soaked cotton balls inside your shoes, and wake up amazed as the foul smell completely disappears overnight.
Keep your feet fresh with baby powder

Say farewell to unpleasant odors by sprinkling baby powder into your shoes
Children's baby powder not only helps eliminate shoe odors entirely but also 'exterminates' harmful bacteria to better protect your feet. Sprinkle a bit of baby powder inside your shoes, shake evenly, and seal it in a tight plastic bag. Then, leave it in the refrigerator compartment for about 3 - 5 hours, and the shoe odor will be effectively absorbed by the powder.
Dealing with smelly sandals? Expose them to sunlight
After cleaning your sandals with soapy water, let them air dry and then expose them directly to sunlight for 3 - 5 hours. The natural sunlight temperature has the ability to eliminate harmful bacteria, deodorize your shoes. However, avoid using this method frequently as it may unintentionally affect the color of your shoes.
Freshen up new shoes with odor-fighting shoe deodorizer balls
Quick and convenient shoe deodorizer balls are the top choice for many
Currently, on the market, there are shoe deodorizer balls receiving numerous praises from satisfied customers. The product can eliminate odors for various types of shoes, from soccer cleats to dolls and sandals, without causing any unintended irritation. The usage is super simple—just buy the shoe deodorizer balls, twist the rotary knob to release the fragrance, and you're done.
Utilize scented moisture-absorbing paper
This method is perfect for those who are too busy with work. Simply insert a scented moisture-absorbing paper into the shoes, and the unpleasant odor will vanish in just a few hours.
Shoe deodorizer machine
Experience excellence with a shoe deodorizer machine
Shoe deodorizer machines are praised as a convenient product, providing the highest effectiveness in eliminating shoe odors. After each day of wearing shoes, simply place them in the deodorizer machine, which will completely remove all odors and bacteria, ensuring confidence when you wear your shoes.
Combat shoe odor with activated charcoal
If you're unsure how to eliminate the unpleasant smell in your shoes, try using activated charcoal. Place activated charcoal inside a dry, clean sock and tie it tightly. Insert it into the shoes overnight, and this charcoal method will keep your shoes dry, minimizing odors when you wear them
Put shoes in the freezer compartment

The cold temperature in the freezer compartment effectively kills bacteria in the shoes
When it comes to deodorizing shoes by placing them in the freezer compartment, many people might be surprised. However, this tip offers outstanding effectiveness. The cold temperature has the ability to eliminate bacteria and mold, the culprits behind unpleasant odors. Simply put the shoes in a sealed bag and place them in the freezer.
Salt
Salt can absorb moisture from shoes, eliminating unpleasant odors. To execute, put a small amount of salt in a small bag and place it inside the shoes overnight; the entire odor will disappear.
Use white vinegar to deodorize new leather shoes
Simply use paper towels soaked in white vinegar and gently wipe the inside of the shoe. Once the shoes are dry, you can wear them as usual. This method provides high effectiveness and doesn't take much time to execute.
Deodorize shoes with alcohol

Simple method to deodorize soccer shoes with alcohol
Alcohol contains a certain amount of alcohol content, making it suitable for treating shoe odors. Additionally, alcohol has disinfecting properties, eliminating bacteria and various types of mold. For optimal odor elimination, apply alcohol to a soft cotton ball and rub it on dirty areas.
Deodorize shoes with coffee grounds
Coffee has a distinct, pleasantly fragrant aroma. Therefore, coffee is also utilized to eliminate odors from various types of shoes such as dolls, athletic shoes, and leather shoes. Place coffee grounds in the freezer until dry, then sprinkle them inside the shoes. After 3 hours, the shoe odor will be significantly reduced.
Soap bars aid in absorbing shoe odors

Soap bars help absorb shoe odors
One of the final ways to deodorize shoes that you should explore is placing a soap bar inside the shoes. Soap not only absorbs unpleasant odors but also imparts a pleasant, gentle fragrance. Moreover, this deodorizing method is cost-effective, requiring minimal time and effort to implement.
Hoping that with the detailed information shared in this article, you now have a clearer understanding of various shoe deodorizing methods. Wishing you successful implementation and a swift farewell to this unpleasant odor.