Why do sneakers stink and how to tackle the issue
Are your sneakers stinking up your closet or even the whole room? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many of us experience the same frustrating problem, but the good news is that it’s relatively easy to fix. By understanding the root causes of sneaker odor and taking the necessary steps to clean and deodorize your shoes, you can keep your footwear smelling fresh and clean. In this article, we’ll explore the various causes of sneaker odor and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to de-stink your sneakers effectively.Sneaker odors can be caused by a variety of things, including sweat, bacteria, dirt, and everyday wear and tear. Foul-smelling odors can be embarrassing and even make you want to avoid wearing your favorite pair of kicks. But don’t worry, there are some simple steps you can take to de-stink your sneakers and prevent odor from building up in the first place. Let’s dive into the details.
Before we delve into the ways of cleaning your sneakers, let’s take a closer look at what causes the unpleasant odor in your shoes. As we mentioned earlier, one of the most common culprits is sweat. When you wear shoes for an extended period, your feet sweat, creating a moist environment where bacteria can thrive. When the bacteria break down the proteins in sweat, they produce a foul-smelling gas that can make your sneakers stinky in no time. Everyday wear and tear, dirt, and grime can also contribute to the unpleasant odor, leaving your sneaks smelling stale and dirty. Wearing your shoes for consecutive days without letting them air out can also contribute to the problem. Sounds gross, right? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Here are some of the most effective ways to tackle the sneaker odor and keep your kicks smelling clean and fresh.Let’s continue with Section 2, where we will dig into the cleaning process to get rid of stinky smells in your shoes. To start, the first step is to clean your shoes thoroughly and remove any surface dirt or grime using a soft brush or rag. Then, use a mild soap and warm water to scrub the exterior of the shoe. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, including the sole and the tongue. If necessary, you can use an old toothbrush to get into those hard-to-reach areas. After washing the outer side, move on to the interior.
Cleaning your sneakers
The first step in de-stinking your sneakers is to clean them thoroughly. Dirt and grime that accumulate on the surface of your shoes not only look unsightly, but they also contribute to the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Use a soft brush or rag to remove any surface dirt or grime from your shoes first, and then proceed to scrub them with warm soapy water. Remember to wash the tongue and sole of your shoes as well.Cleaning the exterior of your shoes is only the first step towards de-stinking your sneakers. In order to effectively tackle the root causes of sneaker odor, it’s important to clean the inside of the shoe as well. Remove the insoles from your shoes and give them a good washing using soap and warm water. You can even soak them in a solution of water and vinegar overnight if they need deeper cleaning. Be sure to get rid of all the dirt and sweat that has accumulated in the interior of your shoes. Once you’ve washed the insoles, stuff the shoes with paper towels or newspaper to help them maintain their shape as they dry.
Drying your sneakers properly is crucial in preventing the growth of mold and mildew, which thrive in moist environments. Allow your shoes to air dry in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Placing wet shoes next to the heater or exposing them to sunlight can cause the material to crack or warp. To speed up the drying process, place paper towels or newspaper inside your shoes to help absorb excess moisture. If you’re in a hurry, you can use a hairdryer on a low heat setting. Keep the dryer moving around your shoes to avoid overheating the material, which can cause damage. Once your shoes are dry, they’ll not only look better, but they’ll also smell fresher!When de-stinking your sneakers, it’s essential to consider alternative methods if cleaning and drying don’t help. Baking soda, which is a natural deodorizer, can absorb unpleasant odors. Sprinkle a few teaspoons of baking soda inside each shoe and leave it overnight. Once the baking soda has done its job, shake out the excess powder. You can also place a few pieces of activated charcoal (available from most pet stores) inside your sneakers and let them sit overnight. Activated charcoal has strong odor and moisture-absorbing properties that will help keep your shoes fresh. Using essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree, can also be a great way to kill odor-causing bacteria. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water and spray the inside of your shoes, or use a cotton ball to soak up the oil and place it in your sneaker overnight. Do not forget to remove the cotton ball before using your shoes.
Drying your sneakers properly
Preventive measures can go a long way in keeping your sneakers smelling fresh! Here are some easy tips that will help you keep the odor at bay:
Firstly, wear breathable socks made from natural fibers like cotton or wool. Synthetic materials trap sweat while breathable fibers allow it to evaporate, keeping your feet dry.
Secondly, rotate your shoes and avoid wearing the same pair every day. This allows your shoes to air out and dry completely between uses, reducing the buildup of bacteria.
Thirdly, take out the insoles out of the shoes after wearing to enable proper ventilation and air drying of the shoes.
Fourthly, store your shoes in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid damp storage places like basements or garages as they can promote the growth of mold and mildew.
Lastly, use cedar shoe trees to absorb moisture and odors. Not only do shoe trees maintain your shoes’ original shape, but they also have antibacterial properties that keep your kicks smelling brand new. By following these tips, you can ensure your sneakers are always looking and smelling their best.
It is always essential to point out that different types of shoes require different cleaning routines. While sneakers can endure a thorough cleaning, delicate materials, like leather, require more skillful handling. It’s always wise to read your sneakers’ care label before cleaning and follow the instructions given if available. Some sneakers may even need to be dry cleaned or sent to a professional cleaner for deep cleaning. Regardless of the care routine required for your sneakers, taking preventive measures like proper ventilation and storing dry sneakers in a well-ventilated area can help to prevent odor in the first place. However, when the sneaker odor becomes unbearable despite the effort put into keeping them clean, it might be time to invest in new shoes. Sneakers can last a long time with good care, but sometimes, it makes sense to choose a replacement when they have seen their brighter days. With the correct preventative tips, cleaning routine, and knowledge of the telltale signs of worn-out sneakers, you will enjoy wearing your sneakers for years to come.Sure thing! Here’s some additional content to add to the first paragraph of Section 4:
If you want to go even further, you can create your own DIY odor-absorbing sachets by filling small bags with dried lavender, lemon peels, or coffee grounds. These natural remedies can help absorb moisture and keep your shoes smelling clean and fresh. Additionally, storing your shoes in a zip-lock bag and keeping them in the freezer overnight can also be an effective means of killing odor-causing bacteria. However, this method may not be suitable for all sneaker materials such as suede or leather, so it’s essential to read and follow your shoe’s care instruction label.Here’s some content to add to the end of Paragraph 1 of Section 1:
However, you don’t need to throw out your favorite kicks just yet! With a little bit of effort and know-how, you can successfully eliminate sneaker odor and keep your shoes fresh for longer. So, let’s dive in and learn how to de-stink your sneakers, step-by-step.
Alternative methods for de-stinking sneakers
Properly drying your sneakers is essential to prevent mold and mildew growth, which can make things even worse. As mentioned earlier, air-drying your shoes is the best option. You’ll need to place the shoes away from heat sources and expose them to a well-ventilated area. Removing and washing the insoles of your shoes as mentioned in section 2 can also increase the drying process. Let your sneakers dry overnight to ensure that they’re completely dry. The paper towels or newspapers that we stuffed inside also absorb the excess moisture and speed up the drying process.Additionally, one common mistake when it comes to drying sneakers is placing them too close to heating sources, such as radiators or dryers. This is a big no-no. Not only is it dangerous because of the risk of fire, but it can also cause the shoe’s material to warp, crack, and shrink. When in doubt, it’s better to let things dry naturally. Lastly, avoid wearing your sneakers when they’re not completely dry, as wearing them with moisture can cause damages to the insoles and odor to return.
If you need to dry your sneakers quickly, you can use a hairdryer too. However, it’s crucial to keep the dryer moving, and avoid keeping it too close to the shoe, at least six inches away. A high-heat setting might damage the material and make things worse. Instead, use the low-heat setting and hold the dryer further from the shoe to dry the sneaker more slowly. Always make sure not to overheat your shoes, or they’ll end up damaged. Lastly, don’t forget to take care of your hairdryer too. Clean the lint filter of the hair dryer after every use to maintain its efficiency and prevent accidents.While using a hairdryer is an option, it’s worth noting that air-drying is still the best method to dry your shoes and prevent damage to the material. Paper towels and newspaper stuffings help absorb moisture and speed up the drying process. Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area that’s away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Another tip to consider is to place crumpled up paper inside the sneakers. Not only does this help speed up the drying process, but it also preserves the shape of your shoes, which can be a lifesaver if you have those brand new kicks you want to keep fresh. Remember to change the paper case from time to time until your shoes are completely dry.
Preventing sneaker odor
Another way to speed up drying your shoes is to use a fan, ideally a box fan, after you remove all excess moisture using a towel. Bring your shoes to an area with good ventilation, and let the fan blow air to the shoes. Ensure every part of the shoe is exposed to the breeze. To do this, place the shoes on a table or countertop, and place the fan about three to four feet away. This method can help dry sneakers within a few hours, even in high humidity areas. However, be mindful of the noise and electricity consumption if you’re using it for a long time.Keep in mind that shoe materials such as leather and suede may have a slower drying time when exposed to high humidity, especially when they are wet. Avoid exposing these materials to direct sunlight and use the low-heat setting of a hairdryer or fan to allow them to dry slowly. You should also apply protective sprays to these materials to help prevent water damage and stains.
If you live in an area with high humidity or your sneakers consistently get wet, investing in shoe dehumidifiers could be the answer to your problems. There are both electric and non-electric dehumidifiers, but the electric models tend to be more effective. Dehumidifiers absorb moisture from the air, which can keep the inside of your sneakers dry, hence preventing the growth of bacteria, mold, and foul odors. The electric models come fitted with a rechargeable battery, allowing for extended use without the need to recharge frequently. Some are specifically made for sneakers, but others can be used for any type of shoe and are portable. The non-electric ones used as dehumidifiers come in sachet or crystal form, and can be placed inside each shoe for an affordable, no-hassle way to tackle sneaker odor. However, keep in mind that while using dehumidifiers is an effective way to prevent wet sneakers from developing odors, it won’t fix shoes that are already smelly.Consider adding details on how to use electric and non-electric dehumidifiers for sneakers. Also, you can suggest a few reliable brands that readers may consider.Shoe dehumidifiers come in both electric and non-electric types and each type has its own method of use. When using electric dehumidifiers, you’ll need to charge them and place them inside your sneaker for them to absorb moisture. The length of time they can run before needing to be recharged varies on the individuals models, so checking the product manual is highly recommended. Some electric models also come with odor-fighting compounds that can help to battle smelly shoes. However, these models are usually expensive. Some reliable brands of electric dehumidifiers in the market include Eva-Dry, PEET, and Shoe-Pod.
When using non-electric dehumidifiers, such as sachet or crystal dehumidifiers, simply place them inside the shoes when they are not in use. These dehumidifiers are typically made of natural materials, like activated charcoal or silica gel crystals, and work to absorb moisture from the air. Popular non-electric brands to consider include Dry & Dry, OLIVIA & AIDEN, and Moso Natural. It is worth noting that while non-electric models are usually more affordable, the process may take more extended hours for you to see visible results.
