6 Home Remedies That Deodorize Smelly Shoes

I despise socks. I know that sounds crazy, but since I was a kid I would fling them off my feet the first chance I got. That's if my mom could manage to put them on me at all. The problem with freeing your feet is it can easily lead to shoe odor. Yes, I know how gross that sounds, but it happens. At one point in your life you too will have a smelly pair of old shoes stinking up your closet. And if you have kids, then you may have several pairs. Luckily, there are a few home remedies to beat the stench of smelly feet.

1. Baking Soda

Just as it deodorizes your science experiment-producing refrigerator, it can deodorize your shoes. Baking soda will help eliminate bacteria and that awful smell. Sprinkle some in your shoes and let sit overnight

2. Baby Powder

If you are out of baking powder, try baby powder. If it's good enough for a baby's bum, then it's good enough for your shoes. Just sprinkle it in!

3. Essential Oils

Essential oils make everything smell great -- even your shoes. Pour some drops onto a paper towel – I recommend lavender - and place it inside your shoes. For shoes that really reek, leave the towel in overnight. 

4. Salt

If you have canvas shoes, then head to the kitchen and grab your salt. Salt is a natural antibacterial. Sprinkling salt in your shoes will kill the bacteria that cause the smell.

5. Vinegar

A combination of half water and half vinegar can get rid of smelly shoes. Careful though -- it's not the best when getting rid of the odor-causing bacteria. If your shoes are really foul, try another method.

6. Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol doesn’t only disinfect a cut -- it can also help disinfect your shoes. Pour some on a paper towel and clean the inside of your shoes. It will eliminate the odor as well as the bacteria.