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

Smelly shoes happen to everyone—sweat, bacteria, and dampness combine to create that unpleasant odor. This guide shows you how to clean the inside of your shoes, remove the smell at the source, and keep them fresh longer. You don’t need special equipment; most items are already in your kitchen or bathroom.

What You’ll Need

Mild soap or dish detergent
Warm water
Soft cloth or sponge
Old toothbrush (for scrubbing)
Baking soda
White vinegar
Rubbing alcohol (optional)
Newspaper or paper towels
Shoe deodorizer or dryer sheets (optional)

Step-by-Step

Remove laces and insoles. Take out the laces and any removable insoles. This lets you clean every part and allows everything to dry faster. If the insoles are very dirty, wash them separately with soap and water, then let them air dry.
Shake out loose dirt. Tap the shoes together over a trash can to remove loose dirt, pebbles, or debris. Use a dry brush or cloth to wipe off any surface dust. This prevents dirt from turning into mud during cleaning.
Wash the inside with soapy water. Mix a small amount of mild soap with warm water. Dip a cloth or sponge into the solution, wring it out well, and wipe the inside of each shoe. For stubborn stains or odor spots, use an old toothbrush dipped in the soapy water to gently scrub the lining and insole area.
Rinse with a damp cloth. Use a clean cloth dampened with plain water to wipe away any soap residue. Soap left behind can attract more dirt and cause irritation, so be thorough.
Apply baking soda for odor. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda inside each shoe, covering the entire interior. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for strong odors. Baking soda neutralizes acids and absorbs moisture that causes smell.
Shake out the baking soda. Turn the shoes upside down and tap them to remove the baking soda. Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to get any remaining powder out of the toe area.
Dry completely before wearing. Stuff each shoe with crumpled newspaper or paper towels to absorb moisture and help them hold their shape. Place them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat or sunlight, and let them dry completely—this can take several hours or overnight. Do not wear them until they are fully dry, as dampness encourages bacteria growth.

Common Mistakes

Using too much water. Soaking shoes can damage the material and make drying take much longer. Always use a damp cloth, not a dripping one.
Putting shoes in the dryer. High heat can warp the shape, shrink materials, and melt glue. Air drying is always safer.
Skipping the insoles. The insoles absorb the most sweat and odor. If they are removable, clean them separately; if not, make sure to scrub them well.
Wearing damp shoes. Putting on shoes that aren’t fully dry creates a perfect environment for bacteria, making the smell worse.
Using bleach or harsh chemicals. These can discolor the shoe and irritate your skin. Stick to mild soap and natural deodorizers.

Tips

Rotate your shoes. Don’t wear the same pair two days in a row. Give them 24 hours to air out between wears.
Wear moisture-wicking socks. Cotton socks absorb sweat and stay damp; synthetic blends or wool pull moisture away from your feet.
Use a shoe deodorizer spray. After wearing, spray the inside with a commercial deodorizer or a homemade mix of equal parts water and white vinegar. Let them dry.
Freeze them. For a quick fix, place shoes in a plastic bag and put them in the freezer overnight. The cold kills odor-causing bacteria. Let them thaw before wearing.
Dryer sheets. Tuck a dryer sheet into each shoe when you’re not wearing them to keep them smelling fresh.
Keep them dry. If your feet sweat a lot, use foot powder or antiperspirant on your feet before putting on socks.

Troubleshooting

Smell persists after cleaning. If the odor remains, the bacteria may have seeped deep into the lining. Try a vinegar spray: mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle, mist the inside, and let it dry completely. Vinegar kills bacteria and neutralizes odors. You can also repeat the baking soda treatment, leaving it in for a full 24 hours.

Shoes are still damp after several hours. Remove the newspaper and replace it with fresh, dry paper. Move the shoes to a warmer, drier spot (but not near a heater). If they are still wet after a day, they may have been soaked too much; consider using a shoe dryer or placing them near a fan.

The outside gets stained during cleaning. If you accidentally get soap or water on the exterior, wipe it off immediately with a clean, damp cloth. For stubborn stains on fabric shoes, use a gentle stain remover or a paste of baking soda and water applied with a toothbrush, then rinse.

Shoes become stiff after drying. This often happens with leather or canvas. After they are dry, work the material with your hands to soften it. You can also apply a small amount of leather conditioner (for leather shoes) or fabric softener (for canvas) according to the care label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wash my shoes in the washing machine?

Yes, but only if the care label says it’s safe. Use a gentle cycle with cold water, put them in a mesh bag or pillowcase, and air dry. Avoid washing shoes with leather, suede, or delicate materials.

Does baking soda really work?

Yes. Baking soda is a mild alkali that neutralizes acidic odors and absorbs moisture. It’s one of the most effective, cheap, and safe deodorizers for shoes.

Why do my shoes smell even after cleaning?

If you don’t dry them completely, bacteria will quickly multiply again. Also, if the insoles are not removable and you didn’t clean them thoroughly, the smell can persist. Make sure to clean the insoles separately or scrub them well.

How often should I clean my shoes to prevent smell?

It depends on how much you wear them. For daily wear, a quick baking soda treatment once a week is usually enough. If you notice an odor, clean them immediately.

Can I use vinegar on all shoe materials?

Vinegar is safe for most materials, but test it on a small, hidden area first. Avoid using it on suede or leather as it can cause discoloration. For those, stick to baking soda or a commercial cleaner.

What if my shoes are machine-washable but have leather parts?

It’s best to avoid machine washing if there is leather, as water can damage it. Clean those parts by hand with a damp cloth and mild soap, and use the baking soda method for the interior.

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