How to get smell out of tennis shoes

Utilizing White Vinegar as a Natural Deodorizer

White vinegar is a great natural deodorizer that eliminates odors in smelly shoes. The reason for this is that it can neutralize the environment where bacteria thrive. To use this remedy, soak your shoes overnight in a mixture of white vinegar and warm water. After that, air dry them in a vented area. For added aroma, you may add a few drops of your favorite essential oil.

While this method might leave a mild vinegar smell, it’s just temporary and would dissipate after the shoes dry completely. But remember, you should only use this method with washable tennis shoes. Non-washable types might not withstand the vinegar’s acidity.

Placing Your Shoes in the Sun

Exposing your shoes to sunlight is another excellent method to get the smell out of tennis shoes. Besides acting as a natural deodorizer, the sun also helps keep the shoes dry, reducing the damp environment where bacteria thrive. Just put your shoes in the sun after wearing them or cleaning them.

However, ensure to check the shoes’ label for sunlight tolerance. This is because some shoes’ colors would fade under extended sun exposure. Also, don’t leave them out there for an extended time to avoid the sunlight from breaking down the shoes’ material.

Using Kitty Litter to Absorb Odors

You’d be surprised at how effectively kitty litter gets the smell out of tennis shoes. It’s not just for your feline friends, but it also works wonders for the smelly shoes by absorbing the unpleasant odors. Just put some kitty litter in a plastic bag and place your shoes in the bag.

Make sure the shoes are entirely in the kitty litter, and then seal the bag. Leave them there for 24 hours. The next day, remove them and tap off the excess litter before wearing or storing the running shoes.

Applying a Favorite Essential Oil

Essential oils aren’t only therapeutic, but they also work as excellent deodorizers. With their pleasant smell, they can mask the stench coming from your shoes, keeping your shoes smelling fresh. You might prefer to add a few drops of essential oil, like lavender, to a spray bottle filled with water and spray the insides of the shoes after they’ve been worn.

Not all essential oils are equally beneficial for all types of shoes. Hard leather shoes, for instance, might not absorb some oils adequately, resulting in oily stains. Therefore, always carry out a spot test before application.

Practicing Wearing Socks

One simple trick is just to wear socks, which absorb sweat that breeds bacteria, hence keeping odors at bay. Make sure to wear clean, dry socks every time you put on your tennis shoes.

Myriad sock material choices are available, however, avoid 100% cotton pairs as they actually promote sweat. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or specialised synthetic ones, ideal for running shoes.

Implementing Shoes Overnights in the Freezer

Considering putting your shoes in the freezer overnight? Yes, it might come off as odd, yet it’s an effective way to get the smell out of tennis shoes. The freezing temperatures kill the bacteria causing the odors. Just put the shoes in a plastic bag and leave them in the freezer for a 24 hours span.

After the freezing process, let the shoes air dry, preferably in the sunlight, to ensure all the moisture evaporates. Since the freezer method might cause some shoe parts to become brittle and crack, use this method sparingly.

FAQ

Q1. Does white vinegar remove shoe odor?

Yes, white vinegar is effective in eliminating odors. It neutralizes the environment that helps bacteria thrive, hence reducing the foul smell.

Q2. Is it advisable to put your shoes in the sun?

Yes, placing your shoes in the sun helps remove the smell; it acts as a natural deodorizer and helps to keep the shoes dry. However, ensure to check your shoes’ sensitivity to sunlight to avoid color fading.

Q3. How does kitty litter help in keeping shoes smelling fresh?

Kitty litter is excellent at absorbing unpleasant odors. By placing some kitty litter in a plastic bag and inserting your shoes in it for 24 hours, you can effectively deodorize your shoes.

Q4. Can essential oils help deodorize my tennis shoes?

Yes, adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water and spraying the insides of the shoes can help in deodorizing them.

Q5. Why is it advisable to wear socks with tennis shoes?

Wearing socks can absorb the sweat that breeds bacteria. Thus, it helps keep your shoes odor-free.

Q6. Can placing shoes overnight in the freezer help reduce odor?

Yes, freezing your shoes can help kill bacteria causing the odors. However, this method should be used sparingly as it might cause some shoe parts to become brittle and crack.

Q7. What can be added to white vinegar for a pleasant aroma?

Adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the vinegar solution can leave your shoes smelling fresh.

Q8. Can I keep my running shoes in the sun for too long?

No, leaving your shoes in the sun for an extended duration might fade their colors and break down the material.

Q9. Can all shoes be deodorized with essential oils?

Not all shoes absorb essential oils adequately. Hard leather shoes, for example, might get oily stains. Thus, always do a spot test.

Q10. Do all socks help in preventing shoe odor?

Not all. Avoid 100% cotton socks as they promote sweat. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics ideal for running shoes.