5 easy hacks to completely remove odour from your smelly shoes
By William Muthama, December 21, 2025Smelly shoes are an annoying problem that everyone faces at some point. Whether it’s from long days of walking, gym sessions, or sweaty feet, unpleasant shoe odour can make even your favourite pair unbearable to wear, especially during this festive season when you are travelling to people’s houses or on long trips, as the smell from your shoes can be embarrassing.
The good news is, there are simple hacks you can try at home to completely remove odour and keep your shoes fresh.
Freeze your shoes
One surprising yet effective trick is to put your shoes in a plastic bag and place them in the freezer overnight. Freezing kills the bacteria that cause odour, leaving your shoes smelling cleaner.
Make sure the shoes are dry before freezing to avoid damage. This method works well for sneakers, trainers, and casual shoes.
Use baking soda
Baking soda is a classic odour absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount inside your shoes, shake them around so it spreads evenly, and leave them overnight.
In the morning, dump out the powder and enjoy shoes that smell fresh.
Baking soda neutralises odours naturally and can be used regularly to prevent unpleasant smells from building up.
Try dryer sheets
Place dryer sheets inside your shoes when you’re not wearing them. They mask unpleasant smells and help absorb moisture that encourages bacterial growth.
This hack is quick, easy, and perfect for shoes you wear frequently or when you need a fast fix before visiting family or friends.
Sunlight and air
Sunlight naturally kills bacteria and removes moisture, making it a great way to freshen shoes. Leave your shoes outside in direct sunlight for a few hours. Rotate them so every part gets exposure.
This method is especially effective for canvas, fabric, and sneakers, and gives them a natural freshness.
Essential oils
Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus have antibacterial properties and leave a pleasant scent. Add a few drops to cotton balls or directly into your shoes and let them sit overnight.
By morning, your shoes will smell fresh and clean, perfect for wearing confidently during holiday visits or long journeys.
Always rotate your shoes to allow each pair to air out between uses. Wearing the same pair every day traps moisture and bacteria, increasing odour.
With these five hacks, you can completely remove odour from your smelly shoes and keep them fresh, especially during festive trips and family visits.