Smart tips to stop shoes from smelling

WHAT’S THAT SMELL?
It happens, we get stuck on a favourite pair of shoes and wear them day in and day out. The result? A build-up of sweat, dirt, bacteria and skin shedding – and before you know it your shoes are suddenly a breeding ground for bad odours. But all is not lost! Use these tips to stop smelly shoes (and toes) in their tracks.

Store shoes in a cool, dry place
Warmth + damp = fungi happiness. After a long day or night out, store your shoes in a room that has good airflow to allow for proper aeration. Tossing them into a dark, warm cupboard, along with other stinky shoes will only make the problem worse.

Baking soda will do the trick
Did you know that baking soda will absorb bad odours while you sleep? All you need to do is sprinkle a little baking soda inside your shoes, let it settle overnight and voilà! Your shoes will be fresh as daisies when you need them in the morning. Just remember to shake out the baking powder before you wear your shoes again.

Wash shoes and insoles regularly
This may sound like an obvious solution, but simply tossing shoes in a washing machine isn’t always the best solution. Handwashing with cool water is best as heat and harsh detergents may damage the material and glue in your shoes.

Use a medicated foot powder
These types of powders slurp up moisture and contain properties similar to deodorants that will hide any unpleasant smells. They’re also great at preventing fungi from settling in and making your insoles their new home.

BUT, CAN SHOE ODOURS BE PREVENTED?
Of course, they can! Once shoes are smelly, it could be far more work getting out the stench. Follow these quick tips to prevent embarrassing, smelling shoes.

Use deodorant on your feet
Remember, the moisture in your shoes is from the sweat on your feet. Stop your feet from sweating and you’d have solved the problem. Start by applying deodorant on a small patch of your foot. If there is no rash after a day, you’re good to go. The deodorant should stop your feet from producing odour-inducing bacteria and fungi that ultimately cause stinky shoes.

Choose socks wisely
Cotton socks tend to absorb moisture. Rather choose woollen or bamboo socks that wick away moisture and odour-producing bacteria.

Give your shoes a break
Alternate between your shoes to give your favourites some downtime. This will also allow them to air out and dry. You could even remove the insoles and insert dry paper towels into each shoe to speed things up.