Smelly shoes are a common problem. It can be annoying; no matter how clean your feet are, it makes your sneakers smell. The worst part is, “How can I get rid of the smell in my shoes?” It can be awkward, forcing you to ask.
Bacteria is the culprit of dirty shoes. It grows in large quantities on your feet, producing organic acids – methanethiol, isovaleric acid and propanoic acid – as waste products. Although this type of bacteria is not harmful, they can leave the pores for a long time.
For example, methanethiol is produced as a byproduct of Brevibacterium, the main bacteria found in the feet. This organic acid has a distinct sulfurous odor reminiscent of rotting cabbage and smelly socks.
Even with the best foot hygiene, your feet can still smell. One reason is that your feet have more sweat glands per square inch than anywhere else on your body. Although the skin does not smell, it is a waste product of bacteria. This makes shoes an ideal breeding ground for bacteria because it traps sweat and moisture, creating an environment for bacteria to grow.
The dough is capital
Want to deodorize your shoes with home remedies? Use baking soda. A natural deodorizer that absorbs odors and bacteria.
Another home remedy to get rid of shoe odor is to pour soap on each shoe and leave it overnight. Soap kills bacteria and the odors they produce. Plus, the soap is porous, so it will absorb the smell and replace it with a clean, soapy scent.
Sunrise
Drying excess moisture from shoes is the easiest and most effective way to get rid of odors. Leave your shoes in direct sunlight for a few hours after your run to ensure they are completely dry before your next use.
Put on socks
Going without socks is a surefire way to smell shoes. Socks absorb skin and moisture produced by warm feet. This is especially important if you are prone to sweaty feet.
Essential oils
Tea tree, clove, and cedarwood essential oils are popular natural deodorants with antifungal properties. For example, a study published in Mycobiology in December 2007 found that the essential oil of cloves inhibits the growth of foot odor-causing bacteria. This oil is a triple threat: fights bacteria, eliminates odors, and leaves a pleasant smell.
Cleanliness of the feet
It is important to be careful when cleaning your feet. Rub soap or cleanser between each foot and the soles of the feet and rinse well.
Check the insoles
If you’ve been using the same insole for years, it might be time to replace it. Insoles are often the source of shoe odor. You may find that a new pair of insoles “miraculously” removes the lingering odor.
