8 Easy Ways to Get Rid of Smells From Your Shoes Quickly

Dry out excess moisture from insoles and lining to eliminate smells. Remove laces, insoles, and detachable parts, then wash by hand or on a gentle machine cycle.

Aerate and Wash Shoes

Mix equal parts white vinegar and distilled water in a spray bottle. Spray inside shoes and let air dry. This natural solution banishes odors and bacteria.

Use White Vinegar

Sprinkle baking soda inside smelly shoes overnight. Shake out the residue before wearing. This chemical-free deodorizer absorbs bad odors effectively.

Apply Baking Soda

Add drops of lavender or tea tree oil to insoles and let dry. Use clove, cinnamon, or cedarwood bundles inside shoes overnight for natural deodorizing.

Essential Oils and Herbs

Use odor-eliminating shoe deodorizers or disinfecting sprays. These contain bacteria-fighting properties. Follow instructions and dry in a ventilated area.

Commercial Shoe Deodorizers

Place a dry bar of soap in each shoe overnight. Its porous nature absorbs and eliminates foul odors effectively.

Bar Soap Method

Leave fresh lemon, lime, or citrus peels in closed-toed shoes overnight to mask smells with a pleasant scent. Best for non-athletic shoes.

Citrus Peels

Put smelly shoes in a bag and freeze overnight. The cold kills bacteria, neutralizing odors. Let them dry naturally afterward.

Freeze Your Shoes