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How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate shoe odor easily with our step-by-step guide. Discover how E-Cloth offers a simple, effective solution for fresh shoes.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Clean towel
- Plastic bag

Ventilate and Dry Shoes

Remove the laces and open up the shoes to boost air circulation.
Place them in a well-ventilated area or outdoors on a dry day to let moisture evaporate.

Clean and Sanitize

Wipe the inside with a cloth dampened in a mix of equal parts water and vinegar.
Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes, then dab dry with a clean towel.

Use Odor Absorbers

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight.
Shake out the baking soda the next day to reveal fresher-smelling footwear.

Fresh Air and Sunlight

Place your shoes under direct sunlight for a few hours. The UV rays help reduce bacteria.
Monitor the process to avoid damage to delicate materials or colors.

Deep Freeze Method

Seal your shoes in a plastic bag and place them in the freezer overnight.
This cold treatment helps kill odor-causing bacteria very effectively.

Safety Precautions

Test cleaning solutions (like vinegar) on a small, hidden area first to avoid damaging shoe materials.
Wear gloves when handling cleaning agents or soiled shoes to protect your skin.
Ensure shoes are completely dry before wearing to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Do not use direct sunlight or heat on leather or delicate fabrics, as this can cause cracking or fading.
Keep baking soda and cleaning products away from children and pets.
Never put wet shoes in the freezer; ensure they are dry to prevent ice damage and odors.
Ventilate the area when using vinegar or other strong-smelling substances.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes: Extra Tips

Regular Cleaning Routine

Brush off debris: Remove dirt and dust regularly with a soft-bristled brush to prevent buildup that can lead to odor.
Wipe with a damp cloth: Clean the exterior with a slightly damp cloth and a mild soap solution to keep them looking fresh.
Dry thoroughly: Always air-dry your shoes after cleaning; avoid direct sunlight which may cause the material to warp.

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Keep Them Dry and Ventilated

Air them out: Remove insoles if possible and let shoes dry in a well-ventilated area to reduce moisture buildup.
Use newspaper: Stuffing your shoes with crumpled newspaper can help absorb excess moisture and speed up the drying process.
Avoid plastic bags: Do not store damp shoes in enclosed spaces, as trapped moisture leads to odor development.

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Home Remedies for Odor Removal

Baking soda soak: Sprinkle baking soda inside your shoes and leave overnight to neutralize bad smells.
Vinegar spray: Lightly mist the interior with a vinegar-water solution (1:1 ratio) and allow to dry completely; the vinegar smell will dissipate.
Essential oils: Add a few drops of tea tree or lavender oil to cotton balls and place them in your shoes to provide a fresh scent.

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Preventative Maintenance and Storage

Rotate shoes: Avoid wearing the same pair every day; give them time to air out and recover between uses.
Proper storage: Store shoes in a cool, dry place with adequate airflow; consider using shoe trees to maintain shape and reduce odor.
Regular checks: Periodically inspect your shoes for signs of moisture or wear; early intervention can prevent more severe odor problems.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes

Not Decluttering Before Cleaning

Clear surfaces first. Removing clutter makes it easier to clean and prevents dust from hiding in nooks.
Organize items into designated areas; extra clutter often leads to missed spots.

Using Too Many Chemicals

Stick with a few multi-purpose cleaners to avoid chemical residue and potential damage.
Learn what each product is best for, so you can use them efficiently and safely.

Neglecting High-Touch Areas

Focus on frequently used surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
Regularly disinfect these areas to prevent the spread of grime and germs.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Shoes

Frequency Guidelines

For everyday shoes, cleaning them about once a week works best. This routine stops sweat and bacteria from building up inside the shoe, which are the main culprits behind persistent odors.
If you use your shoes for intense activities like workouts or sports, consider cleaning them every 3–4 days. High moisture and heavy use can speed up odor formation, so a more frequent refresh helps keep them fresh.
For shoes that aren’t worn daily, monthly cleaning may be enough, but make sure to air them out after each use to discourage moisture retention.

Reasoning Behind the Frequency

Regular cleaning disrupts the cycle of sweat accumulation and bacterial growth, which are the primary causes of unpleasant smells.
Moisture management is key: Frequent cleaning helps remove trapped dampness, preventing the environment that bacteria thrive in.
Maintaining a consistent cleaning schedule not only keeps your shoes smelling fresh but also extends their lifespan by reducing the buildup of grime and residue over time.

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