How to Clean Shoe Odor: Step-by-Step Guide

What You’ll Need

Mild dish soap or laundry detergent
Baking soda
White vinegar
Soft-bristled brush (old toothbrush works)
Clean cloth or sponge
Warm water
Newspaper or paper towels
Optional: rubbing alcohol, activated charcoal, or commercial shoe deodorizer

Step-by-Step

Remove laces and insoles. Take out the laces and any removable insoles. Wash the insoles separately in warm soapy water, scrub gently, rinse, and let them air dry completely. Laces can be hand-washed or put in a mesh bag in the washing machine.
Brush off loose dirt. Use a dry brush or cloth to remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the inside and outside of the shoes. This prevents grinding dirt into the fabric during cleaning.
Create a cleaning solution. Mix 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts warm water in a bowl. Add a few drops of mild dish soap. Stir gently. Vinegar neutralizes odors and kills bacteria, while soap lifts grime.
Scrub the interior. Dip a soft-bristled brush or cloth into the solution, wring out excess liquid, and scrub the inside of each shoe thoroughly. Pay extra attention to the toe area and heel where sweat accumulates. Avoid soaking the shoes completely.
Wipe and dry. Use a clean damp cloth to wipe away any soapy residue. Then stuff each shoe with crumpled newspaper or paper towels to absorb moisture and help maintain shape. Let them air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight.
Deodorize. Once completely dry, sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda inside each shoe. Leave it overnight, then shake it out. For persistent odors, place a few charcoal briquettes or a commercial shoe deodorizer inside and leave for 24 hours.

Common Mistakes

Machine washing without protection: Putting shoes in the washing machine can damage them or the machine. If you must machine wash, use a gentle cycle with cold water and place shoes in a pillowcase or mesh bag.
Using bleach or harsh chemicals: These can discolor or weaken shoe materials. Stick to mild soap, vinegar, or baking soda.
Drying with heat: Placing shoes on a radiator or in direct sunlight can warp or crack them. Always air dry at room temperature.
Skipping the insoles: Insoles absorb the most sweat and odor. Cleaning only the outer shoe leaves the main source of smell behind.
Not letting shoes dry fully: Moisture promotes bacterial growth, which causes odor. Ensure shoes are completely dry before wearing or storing.

Tips

Alternate your shoes: Don’t wear the same pair two days in a row. Give them at least 24 hours to dry out between wears.
Use moisture-wicking socks: Cotton socks trap sweat; synthetic blends like polyester or wool wick moisture away.
Apply rubbing alcohol: Spray the inside of shoes with a 50/50 water and rubbing alcohol solution to kill odor-causing bacteria. Let dry completely.
Store with cedar shoe trees: Cedar absorbs moisture and imparts a fresh scent. Alternatively, use a sock filled with baking soda.
Freeze the smell: Place shoes in a zip-lock bag and freeze overnight. Cold kills some bacteria, but this only works for non-leather shoes.

Troubleshooting

Odor returns quickly after cleaning: If the smell comes back within a day or two, the shoes may still be damp inside. Check if the insoles are fully dry and consider replacing them if they are worn out. Also, treat the cause: wash your feet with antibacterial soap and use foot powder.

Vinegar smell lingers: The vinegar odor usually disappears as the shoes dry. If it persists, rinse the interior with plain water and dry again. You can also wipe with a cloth dipped in a mild soap solution.

Stains on the exterior: For fabric shoes, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply to stains, let sit for 30 minutes, then scrub gently and rinse. For leather, use a leather cleaner and conditioner.

Shoes are still wet after 24 hours: Remove the newspaper and replace with fresh dry paper. Place shoes in front of a fan (not a heater) to speed up airflow. Never use a hairdryer as heat can damage glue and materials.

Severe odor that won’t go away: If cleaning doesn’t help, the shoe may have a buildup of bacteria deep inside. Try soaking the shoes in a bucket of warm water with 1 cup of baking soda and ½ cup of vinegar for 30 minutes, then rinse and dry. If that fails, consider replacing the shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put shoes in the washing machine?

Yes, but only if the care label allows it. Use a gentle cycle with cold water, place shoes in a mesh bag, and air dry. Avoid machine washing leather or suede shoes.

How often should I clean my shoes to prevent odor?

It depends on how often you wear them. For daily wear, clean them every 2–4 weeks. If you notice odor, clean immediately. Regular airing and using deodorizers between cleans helps.

Does baking soda really work for shoe odor?

Yes, baking soda is alkaline and neutralizes acidic odors. It also absorbs moisture. Sprinkle it inside shoes and leave overnight for best results.

Can I use vinegar on leather shoes?

Vinegar is acidic and can damage leather if used undiluted. Always dilute with water (1:2 ratio) and test on a small area first. For leather, consider a dedicated leather cleaner instead.

Why do my shoes smell even after washing?

Bacteria can survive in the material if not completely dried. Also, if the insoles are worn, they may harbor odor. Replace insoles and ensure shoes are fully dry before wearing.

Is it safe to use rubbing alcohol inside shoes?

Yes, rubbing alcohol kills bacteria and evaporates quickly. Mix with water (50/50) and spray lightly. Avoid on delicate materials like suede, as it can cause discoloration.

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