How to remove shoe odor quickly: the most effective ways

In summer, the problem of footwear odor is multiplied. Warm weather increases sweating on the feet, and lightweight sneakers and open sandals allow free access to air, which accelerates the development of bacteria.

But you can fight shoe odor. OBOZ.UA has collected all the effective methods that will help you easily freshen up any of your favorite pairs.

Detergent for washing

Sneakers, sneakers, and ballet flats that are machine washable are best freshened this way. Remove the laces and insoles (they should be washed by hand), put the pair in a laundry bag, and load it into the drum. Use the detergent you always use, but reduce the dosage slightly. Also, choose a low spin speed. The washed steam should dry outdoors, but not in direct sunlight.

Coffee grounds

The nitrogen in coffee absorbs odors well. So, the next time you drink coffee, collect the grounds and dry them well, either in the oven or in the air. Then take an old pair of tights or a lonely sock, pour the product into it, and put it in your shoes overnight. In the morning, there will be no trace of the odor. Throw away the used grounds.

Salt

Salt has antibacterial properties and is highly absorbent. This means that it works well as a deodorizer for shoes. Pour the product inside your problematic pair, making sure that it completely covers the insole. Rub the salt in well with your fingers. Leave it on for 24 hours and then shake it out thoroughly. The odor should disappear.

Baking soda

Baking soda works in much the same way. As a bonus, it will absorb excess moisture, making your shoes more comfortable for you and completely bacteria-free. A tablespoon for each sneaker or sneaker will be enough. Spread the baking soda evenly over the insole and leave it to act for 24 hours. You can also put baking soda in your shoes wrapped in paper or an old sock - it will also be effective.

Alcohol

Vodka can also be used to deodorize shoes that smell bad. Even the cheapest vodka will do. Pour a little vodka into a spray bottle and spray it liberally on the smelly shoes. If the smell is not too strong, dilute the drink with water in a 2:1 ratio. Just make sure your shoes are dry before putting them back on.

Soap

An ordinary soap bar can not only absorb odors but also leave a pleasant scent behind. Put a small bar of soap in your shoes and leave it there overnight. But make sure that the soap is not wet.

Activated charcoal

This product, like barbecue charcoal, is a great odor absorber. However, you need to put it in your shoes wrapped in something to avoid staining the inside. A couple of teaspoons will be enough for each sneaker.

Old newspapers

If you have some old newspapers lying around, you should know that newsprint dries shoes well, which means it removes odors. Roll up the newspaper into a loose ball and put some steam inside. Leave it there overnight. If you want to not only remove the odor but also freshen up your shoes or sneakers, apply a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil to the paper.

Vinegar

White vinegar can solve a lot of everyday problems. The secret lies in acetic acid, which attaches to volatile molecules that cause an unpleasant odor and neutralizes them. Take a spray bottle and mix vinegar and water in equal proportions. If you want to remove the characteristic vinegar odor, add 12 to 24 drops of essential oil to the mixture. Shake the bottle to mix the ingredients well and spray the inside liberally. Do not apply this mixture to the outside of the shoe, as vinegar can leach out the dyes. Wait until the steam is completely dry.

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