How to Get Rid of Shoe Odor in Sneakers, Leather Shoes, Boots and Insoles

Shoe odor is caused by sweat and bacteria, so the fix is to clean the shoe, dry it fully and then deodorize it. Most smells go away with a washing or wiping step, a dry-out period of at least a day, and an overnight dose of baking soda. The right method depends on the material, so check the care label and avoid heat and harsh products on leather.

Why shoes smell

Feet sweat, and shoes trap that moisture. Bacteria feed on sweat and dead skin and produce the sour smell. Insoles and linings soak up the most moisture, which is why they usually hold the odor. Wearing the same pair every day, wearing shoes without socks and storing damp shoes in a closed bag or gym locker all make it worse.

First steps for any shoe

Remove the laces and the insoles, if they come out.
Knock out loose dirt and grit with a soft brush.
Wash laces separately in the washing machine, or by hand with detergent, then let them air dry.
Let the shoes dry completely before any deodorizing step, because damp shoes keep smelling.

Never use a clothes dryer or direct heat on shoes. High heat can warp glue, shrink materials and crack leather. Dry them at room temperature with good airflow.

Sneakers and fabric shoes

Many canvas and mesh sneakers can be cleaned by hand, and some can go in the washing machine if the care label allows it.

Hand wash: mix a small amount of mild laundry detergent in cool or lukewarm water. Scrub the inside and outside with a soft brush, rinse with a damp cloth and press out the water.
Machine wash, if allowed: put the shoes in a mesh bag or pillowcase with a few towels, use a gentle cycle with cold or warm water and a small amount of detergent, and skip the dryer.
Dry: stuff them loosely with plain paper or a clean towel to absorb water, change the paper after a few hours, and let them air dry for about 24 hours or until no dampness remains.

Leather shoes and boots

Leather should not be soaked. Excess water can stain and stiffen it.

Wipe the inside with a cloth that is barely damp with water and a drop of mild soap, then wipe again with a clean damp cloth.
Wipe the outside with a leather-safe cleaner or a lightly damp cloth.
Stuff the shoes with paper and let them dry away from heaters and sunlight.
When dry, apply a leather conditioner to the outside, which helps prevent cracking.

For suede, nubuck or expensive shoes, use a cleaner made for that material or take them to a professional shoe cleaner. Winter boots with removable felt liners can have their liners washed by hand if the label permits.

Insoles

Insoles hold most of the odor, so clean them on their own.

Washable foam or fabric insoles: scrub gently with warm water and mild detergent, rinse with a damp cloth and air dry flat. Avoid soaking them for long.
Leather or cork insoles and orthotics: wipe them with a lightly damp cloth and let them dry. Check the maker’s instructions for medical orthotics.
Worn-out insoles: if the smell comes back within a day or two of cleaning, or the foam is flattened and crumbling, replacing them is the simplest fix.

Deodorizing once the shoes are dry

Baking soda: sprinkle about 1 to 2 tablespoons inside each shoe, leave it overnight and tip it out or vacuum it up in the morning. Do not use it on wet shoes, and keep it off dark suede, where it can leave a residue.
Cedar shoe inserts: they absorb moisture and have a mild natural scent.
Odor-absorbing powder or charcoal bags: useful for ongoing control, and follow the label directions.
Sunlight and fresh air: a few hours of airing outdoors in the shade or in a breezy place can help, but avoid hot direct sun for leather.
Freezer trick: some people put shoes in a sealed bag in the freezer overnight. It may reduce odor-causing bacteria for a while but does not remove them, so it is a short-term fix.

Do not mix cleaning products, and do not add bleach, ammonia or vinegar together or with other cleaners. Use one product at a time, in a ventilated space, and keep it away from children and pets.

How to stop the smell from coming back

Rotate between at least two pairs, so each pair has a full day to dry.
Wear moisture-wicking socks, such as wool or synthetic blends, instead of thick cotton.
Take the insoles out after wearing and leave the shoes open to air.
Do not store damp shoes in a bag, closet or car trunk.
Wash feet daily and dry them well, especially between the toes.

If foot odor is severe, persistent, or comes with itching, peeling skin or redness, ask a doctor or podiatrist, since it can be a sign of a fungal infection or another condition that shoe cleaning will not solve.

Quick answers

Can I wash all sneakers in the washing machine?

No. Check the care label first. Shoes with glued parts, leather or special padding are better cleaned by hand.

How long does it take shoes to dry?

Plan on about 24 hours at room temperature, sometimes longer for boots and thick insoles. Make sure they feel dry inside before wearing.

Does baking soda really remove shoe odor?

It absorbs moisture and neutralizes some odors, so it helps with mild smells. It will not fix a shoe that is still damp or has a heavy buildup of bacteria in the insole.

When should I throw shoes away?

If the odor returns right after repeated cleaning and the lining or insole is worn out, replacing the shoes or insoles is often the practical choice.