You may want to avoid this for leather shoes — the baking soda can dry them out. [2] X Research source
You can also try sprinkling the newspaper with your favorite sweet-smelling perfume or aromatic. A few drops of vanilla extract can work especially well. [4] X Research source
Coffee grounds also work well as a general-purpose odor remover. Try setting an uncovered bowl of dry grounds in the fridge. The results should be similar to what you’d get with baking soda. [5] X Research source
Alternatively, try using vinegar along with the baking soda method above to create a fizzing foam that fills the shoe and removes odors. [6] X Research source Stick to white vinegar here. Other varieties, like apple cider vinegar and balsamic, can stain your shoes.
Note, however, that some sources dispute this method. You may want to pair it with one of the other tricks above to be safe if you need good-smelling shoes.
If you can, let the shoes air dry in the sun. Not only will this expose them to plenty of fresh air so that they can “air out” — the sun also acts as a natural disinfectant for odor-causing bacteria. [9] X Research source Note that this is not a good choice for shoes that can be damaged by water (like leather shoes).
Soak the shoes in rubbing alcohol. Let it saturate the outside and inside fabric completely for about five minutes. Let the shoes air dry in the sun. If the weather isn’t being cooperative, use a dryer set to low. Mix equal parts bleach and water. Put this mixture in a spray bottle and mist the inside and outside of each shoe carefully. Pull out the tongue, sole, and laces to make sure the spray gets everywhere. If you have an anti-fungal spray, use this like the bleach mixture. Otherwise, let the shoes air dry again before wearing.
Soak a rag in water. Rub the inside and outside of the shoe so that the material is damp all the way through, but not soaking wet. Put the shoes in the microwave. Remove the rotating plate if your microwave has one. Heat the shoes on high for 30 seconds. Stop and carefully check their temperature with the back of your hand. If they aren’t hot, heat for another 30 seconds. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until the shoes are quite hot. Use a set of tongs to remove them and let them air dry.
One way to keep your feet fresh is to use talcum powder. Sprinkling a little on your feet and in your socks once you start sweating will help absorb moisture and prevent the bacteria that cause odors from forming. See our article on foot odor for more ideas.
