Home remedies for foot odor

Shoes are an essential part of our daily lives. We wear them to protect our feet from the elements and to keep them clean and dry. However, as we wear our shoes day in and day out, they can start to develop an unpleasant odor. In this article, we will explore why shoes get smelly and which home remedies are said to help with the smell.

Why Do Shoes Get Smelly?

Shoes can get smelly for a variety of reasons. One of the most common reasons is sweat. Our feet have a large number of sweat glands, and when we wear shoes, our feet are often trapped in a warm, moist environment. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria, which thrive in damp conditions. As the bacteria multiply, they produce an unpleasant odor.

Another reason shoes can get smelly is due to bacteria and fungi. Our feet come into contact with a lot of bacteria and fungi throughout the day, and if these organisms are allowed to multiply unchecked, they can create an unpleasant smell.

Shoes made from synthetic materials are also more likely to develop an unpleasant odor. Synthetic materials do not breathe as well as natural materials like leather and canvas, which means that they trap moisture and sweat inside the shoe.

Home Remedies for Smelly Shoes

Now that we know why shoes can get smelly, let’s explore some home remedies.

1. Wash your shoes

One of the easiest ways to get rid of shoe odor is to wash your shoes. This will help remove any dirt or bacteria that may be causing the smell. However, not all shoes can be washed in the same way. Leather shoes should be cleaned with a damp cloth and a mild soap, while canvas shoes can be washed in the washing machine. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing your shoes.

2. Air out your shoes

Another way to get rid of shoe odor is to air out your shoes. After wearing your shoes, remove them and allow them to air out in a well-ventilated area. This will help dry out any moisture that may be trapped inside the shoe. If possible, leave your shoes outside in the sun for a few hours. The UV rays from the sun can help kill bacteria and fungi that may be causing the odor.

3. Use baking soda

Baking soda is an excellent natural deodorizer. It can help absorb moisture and neutralize odor-causing bacteria. To use baking soda, sprinkle a generous amount inside your shoes and leave it overnight. In the morning, shake out the baking soda and wear your shoes as usual.

4. Use tea bags

Tea bags are another natural deodorizer that can help get rid of shoe odor. The tannins in tea can help kill bacteria and neutralize odor. To use tea bags, place a few inside your shoes and leave them overnight. In the morning, remove the tea bags and wear your shoes as usual.

5. Use essential oils

Essential oils are another natural remedy for shoe odor. They can help kill bacteria and fungi and leave your shoes smelling fresh. To use essential oils, mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and spray the inside of your shoes. You can use any essential oil you like, but tea tree oil and peppermint oil are particularly effective.

6. Use charcoal

Activated charcoal is a natural deodorizer that can help absorb moisture and neutralize odor. To use charcoal, place a few pieces inside your shoes and leave them overnight. In the morning, remove the charcoal and wear your shoes as usual.

7. Replace your insoles

Sometimes, the insoles of our shoes can become smelly. This is because they absorb sweat and bacteria over time. To remedy this, replace your insoles with new ones. You can find insoles at most shoe stores and online.

In conclusion, shoes are the perfect habitat for the culprits (bacteria and fungi) that are causing them to smell. They’re moist, they’re porous and absorbent, and they are difficult to clean. These home remedies may be helpful for mild shoe odor issues. For more severe cases, we recommend applying FOOT SENSE powder directly to your shoes as directed.