How to Remove Odors from Dress Shoes

Shoe odor often occurs when the materials the shoes are made of do not allow air to properly pass through. We often refer to this as allowing the feet or the shoe to “breathe.” The result is moisture and bacteria begin to develop in the shoe and create the offensive odor. Here’s how to remove the odors from your dress shoes.

You Will Need:

Pick one of the following:

• Baking soda
• Coffee grounds
• Kitty litter
• Old pantyhose
• Plastic or paper bag
• Rubberbands

Steps to Remove Odors from Shoes:

1. There are several items that can be used to absorb both moisture and odors from dress shoes. Begin by choosing one of the items from above.
2. The item can either be sprinkled directly inside of the shoe, or a sachet can be used.
3. To make you own sachet, cut off the toe end of an old pair of pantyhose. The piece should be about 12-15 inches long.
4. Fill the pantyhose with enough of the chosen odor absorber to fill the shoe.
5. Tie the end or secure it closed with a rubberband.
6. Make several sachets so there are always some available.
7. Whenever the shoes are not being worn, simply place a sachet inside to absorb any moisture or odor that may have accumulated during use.

• Most shoes are not designed to withstand regular machine washing, especially those with sequins or other embellishments. For cleaning methods, see our guide How to Clean Ballet Flats. Although these shoes are not for ballet, the outer materials will use the same cleaning methods.
• There are often special cleaning products available for dress shoes. These can be used to spot clean most shoes safely without damaging the surface.
• For shoes with embellishments, spot cleaning is the only option. Washing these shoes or immersing them in water will loosen the glue that holds the embellishments in place. Machine washing can be rough and cause them to fall off.

You Will Need:

• Sea Breeze or Hand Sanitizer
• Antiperspirant

Steps to Keep Feet Dry:

1. Sometimes, the problem is feet perspiring more than the shoes holding an odor. There are a few things that can be done beyond normal washing to keep moisture away.
2. After washing and drying your feet, rub on some hand sanitizer or Sea Breeze on the bottom of each foot. This can be done before putting the shoes on and reapplied throughout the day as needed.
3. A second option is to rub antiperspirant on the bottom of your feet. This will help prevent excess moisture and perspiration from soaking into the shoes.

• Prevention is best when combating shoe odor. Wash your feet thoroughly everyday.  Be sure to wash the bottoms and between the toes.
• Dryer sheets also provide a quick and easy way to freshen up smelly shoes. Simply place a sheet in each shoe and allow it to deodorize them when they’re not in use.
• If you cannot stop the odor due to excessive foot perspiration, contact a podiatrist for consultation.
• If inserts can be placed in the shoes, choose those that contain activated charcoal, such as Odor Eaters, for the best odor absorption.
• Bacteria can also be cleaned by rubbing the interior of the shoe with rubbing alcohol. Use this method sparingly as the alcohol will dry out the materials if used too often.