1. Air out your shoes
One common cause of the bad smell is bacteria that thrive in the warm and damp environment created inside shoes. Therefore, the first solution is to air them out. You can do this by leaving them outside in a dry and sunny place. The sun and fresh air will help eliminate moisture, and the odor will disappear.
2. Use dry tea bags
Did you know that tea bags can come in handy in reducing the bad smell in your shoes? Tea bags contain tannins that are efficient in eliminating odors. All you need to do is put a dry tea bag in each shoe and let them sit overnight or for a few hours. The tea will absorb any unwanted odor and leave your shoes smelling fresh.
3. Baking soda method
Baking soda is a household item that can be used to remove odor from shoes. First, clean the insides of shoes with a damp cloth. Then, sprinkle some baking soda into them and leave them alone overnight. In the morning, remove the baking soda by shaking the shoes, and enjoy the fresh and neutral scent.
4. Rubbing alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is an excellent disinfectant that helps kill bacteria and fungus that could be causing the bad smell. Mix a 50/50 solution of water and rubbing alcohol and use a spray bottle to spray the insides of the shoes. Leave them to dry in a cool and ventilated place.
5. Lemon peels
The natural scent of lemon is excellent for getting rid of unwanted odors in shoes. Peel some lemon and put the peels in each shoe, then let them sit overnight. The following day, remove the peels, and your shoes will be smelling fresh and clean.
6. Use of essential oils
Essential oils are another natural solution to neutralizing bad odors. They have antimicrobial properties that eliminate the odor-causing bacteria and add a pleasant aroma to the shoes. Choose your favorite scent among essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, tea tree, and lemon oil, among others. Combine a few drops with water and spray inside the shoes.
7. Cedarwood inserts
Cedarwood has a natural scent that is effective in eliminating bacteria and reducing odor in shoes. Purchase cedarwood inserts designed for shoes and place them inside. As an added benefit, cedarwood also helps absorb moisture, keeping your feet dry and fresh.
In conclusion, shoe odor can be annoying, but with the methods above, you can restore their freshness and odorless state. The key is to take action regularly and get rid of the odor-causing bacteria before it becomes a permanent fixture in your shoes. Try out one or a combination of these solutions today and enjoy wearing your favorite shoes again.