Do you cringe every time you remove your sneakers when you get home from working out? If you’ve got Vessi footwear, then probably not, but if you find that your sneakers leave a nasty smell and look disgusting, then you might want to do something about it.
If you’re worried about the odor from your shoes bothering others after you take them off, rest easy. There are a few simple techniques you can do to get the stink out of your shoes for good.
Getting Started Cleaning Stinky Shoes
The first way to clean stinky sneakers is simple. Remove the laces (If your laces are especially dirty you can soak them in a mixture of detergent and water overnight and then rinse them by hand) and place your shoes inside a pillowcase and wash them with a gentle detergent in your washing machine.
It is important that you wash them on a cycle that will spin, as it will help remove the majority of the water from the shoes. Once the wash cycle is complete you should promptly dry your shoes using a hair dryer or by setting them outside in the sun.
Leaving your shoes wet for prolonged periods of time can actually be the cause of a stinky odor, since bacteria and mold (which often smell) like to grow in dark damp places. Do not dry your shoes in your clothes dryer however, since it can change their shape and diminish the way they support your feet.
Putting Powder In Your Shoes
If the stinky odor remains in your shoes after you have washed and dried them, try sprinkling the inside of each shoe with baking soda or a foot powder made to control odor. Leave a generous amount of the powder in your shoes overnight. Remove the powder the next day by shaking out your shoes. If any stubborn powder remains in small corners of the sneakers you can remove it using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
Natural Shoe Cleaners To Get Rid Of Odor
Another method known to kill odor causing bacteria in shoes is by spraying them with a solution of water mixed rubbing alcohol (the kind found in drug stores in the first aid section). In a spray bottle combine one cup of water and one cup of the alcohol. Thoroughly spray your shoes with the solution both inside and out. Then place your shoes in well ventilated area to dry. The alcohol will kill any odor causing bacteria that is in your sneakers and should prevent the stinky smell from returning.
You can also soak your sneakers overnight in a tub filled with vinegar and water. Use two cups of vinegar for every three gallons of water you add to your soaking tub. Again, once the sneakers are finished soaking it is critical that you allow them to dry promptly and completely to ensure that no new bacteria has a chance to begin growing within the shoe.
If you believe that odor is coming mainly from the insole of your shoe (the part that sits directly under your foot as a cushion) you can purchase new ones at the store and replace them. There are even certain types of insoles that are made to prevent odors in your sneakers from the start.
Now you know how to clean stinky shoes!
