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10 Ways to Neutralize All Shoe Odors

Edited By: Shai K.

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If you want to ensure that your family's shoes last longer and don't have to be thrown away due to bacteria accumulation and unpleasant odors, this article is for you. The main reasons for bad smells from shoes are sweat and bacteria. Feet have the highest number of sweat glands in the human body, and this sweat provides a food source for bacteria that thrive in warm and humid environments, such as inside shoes.

This can lead to not only bad smells but also potential fungal infections. To combat these issues, we've compiled a list of 10 simple solutions that are readily available in most households.

stinky shoes

1. Correct shoe choice

In terms of prevention, choosing the right shoes is crucial. It's important to pay attention to your choice of shoes to prevent bacteria from spreading and avoid any potential embarrassment. Make sure your shoes fit properly, as ill-fitting shoes can cause discomfort and excessive sweating. It's also advisable to opt for shoes made of breathable materials like cotton and linen to prevent moisture from building up inside the shoe. Avoid heavy, constricting socks paired with shoes that do not "breathe", such as leather.

2. Variety

To prevent bacterial growth, it's recommended to alternate between different pairs of shoes and store unused shoes in a warm and dry area to allow them to air out and evaporate any moisture. Additionally, using talcum powder can help absorb excess moisture and prevent the spread of bacteria.

3. The magic powder technique

If you happen to detect an unpleasant odor emanating from your shoes, there are a few easy methods to eradicate the stench. To create the "magic powder," simply combine equal parts of baking soda, cornflour, and baking powder. Fill an old pair of socks with the mixture and place them inside the shoes overnight. This mixture acts as an antibacterial agent, destroying the bacteria that causes the odor with surprising ease.

4. The freezer technique

Another effortless solution is to sprinkle talcum powder inside or on the soles of the shoes, place them in a sealed bag, and store them in the freezer overnight. The cold temperature destroys bacteria while the talcum powder absorbs moisture. Afterward, wash and air-dry your shoes.

5. Rubbing alcohol

You can also create a disinfectant by mixing alcohol and water. Wet some cotton balls with the solution and place them inside the shoes. Leave them in a dry place overnight, and the alcohol will eliminate the odor-causing bacteria. Once you've completed this step, you can utilize any of the other techniques to give your shoes a pleasant aroma.

6. Aromatic oils

You can use scented oils to give your shoes a pleasant fragrance and refresh your home as well. Just drip a few drops of your favorite aromatic oil on a paper towel, put it inside your shoes, and leave them in a dry place overnight. You can choose from a variety of oils like lavender, eucalyptus, clove, tea tree oil, or any other oil you especially like the scent of.

7. Tea bags

If you're someone who likes to recycle materials, this tip is perfect for you. After using tea bags, rinse them with lukewarm water and let them dry on a paper towel. Once dry, put 3-4 of them in each shoe, store them in a bag overnight, and you'll find that the bad smell is gone in the morning.

8. Ground coffee

If you're looking for ways to freshen up your shoes, there are a few simple tricks you can try. One option is to use old pantyhose to create small bags filled with ground coffee. Place these inside your shoes overnight, and the coffee will absorb any unpleasant odors.

9. Vinegar

Another option is to mix water and vinegar in equal parts, then spray or drip the mixture into your shoes and leave them in a warm, dry place for several hours. Vinegar is always a great natural neutralizer of odor. If you hate the smell of vinegar, try diluting it a bit more.

10. Citrus peels

Finally, you can use citrus peels to give your shoes a refreshing scent. Simply place a few peels in each shoe overnight and enjoy the citrus fragrance in the morning.

It is important to understand that while these solutions can be effective in reducing foot odor, they should not replace good hygiene practices. As mentioned earlier, the odor is caused by bacteria on the skin, which emit an unpleasant smell due to the acid they produce. By treating the bacteria and incorporating the ten tips mentioned earlier, you can effectively eliminate foot odor. Don't forget to share this article with your friends and family so that everyone can benefit from it and keep their shoes smelling fresh for longer.

Photo sources: djneight, raymondclarkeimages, Boozysmurf, arsheffield, HouseholdHacker

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