Shoe deodorizer quick picks
Shoe odor can be embarrassing —?after all, no one wants to be known as the person with the smelly shoes. So when your favorite boots or running sneakers start to stink, which shoe deodorizers are the right ones for the job?
Cleaning your shoes regularly will help keep odors at bay; sometimes preventing shoes from smelling is as simple as doing a load of laundry. But between washes, you should reach for a shoe deodorizer that targets odor-causing bacteria and leaves your shoes smelling fresh.
Ahead, with the help of experts, including odor scientists and podiatrists, we’ve rounded up the best odor eliminators for shoes, as well as general tips for keeping shoes smelling their best.
What causes shoe odor?
“Shoe odor is primarily caused by the accumulation of sweat and bacteria inside the shoes,” says Dr. Suzanne Fuchs, a board-certified podiatrist in Palm Beach, Florida. “When your feet sweat, the moisture gets trapped in the shoes, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. As the bacteria break down the sweat, they release foul-smelling gasses, resulting in shoe odor.”
In addition to sweat and odor-causing bacteria, “certain materials and lack of ventilation in shoes can exacerbate this problem by trapping moisture and heat,” says Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist who hosts the “Derm Club” podcast. If shoe odor is a persistent issue for you, she recommends thinking about the material and breathability of your footwear. “Opting for shoes made from natural, breathable materials can help prevent moisture buildup in the first place,” she says.
Practicing good foot hygiene, keeping feet dry and wearing clean socks can help reduce or prevent shoe odor from developing. “Using antibacterial spray during cleaning can reduce microbial growth,” says Laura Haupert, who has a doctorate in physical chemistry and is the chief scientific officer for Fresh Wave, a manufacturer of odor-control products. “Additionally, washing your feet and keeping your toenails trimmed minimizes food sources for the bacteria in your shoes.”
“Remember, prevention is key to managing shoe odor,” Fuchs says. “Allow your shoes to dry completely between uses, wear moisture-wicking socks and consider rotating your shoes to give them time to air out.”
Best shoe deodorizer sprays
"One common mistake is choosing products that only mask the odor rather than eliminating the root cause," Kopelman says. She recommends products that address the bacterial and fungal growth that causes foot and shoe odor. This powder spray from Dr. Scholl's is designed to be applied directly on your feet to absorb sweat and eliminate smells.
"Shoe deodorizing sprays are quick and convenient to use," Fuchs says. "They typically contain ingredients like alcohol or essential oils that help kill bacteria and neutralize odors." To use them, "simply spray the deodorizer inside the shoes and let it dry," she says. The Sole-Pourri spray — from the makers of Poo-Pourri — has a Citrus Mint scent that will leave your shoes smelling fresh.
This Arm & Hammer spray can be used on shoes, as well as on sports gear like helmets, protective pads and equipment bags. Always read the instructions to ensure the product is safe for the material of your shoes —?especially if you're dealing with fabrics like leather or suede.
Best shoe deodorizer powders
"Shoe deodorizing powders are great for absorbing moisture and reducing odor," Fuchs says. "They often contain ingredients like baking soda or talcum powder. Sprinkle the powder inside the shoes and let it sit overnight before shaking or vacuuming it out." This one from Foot Sense uses arrowroot powder and zinc oxide, and it has a lemon and lavender scent.
Here's another deodorizing powder from trusted brand Dr. Scholl's. Just note that Fuchs warns that product overuse can be a problem with shoe deodorizing powders. "Follow the instructions provided with the product and avoid overapplication," she says, "as it may lead to product buildup and potential damage to the shoes."
Best unscented shoe deodorizers
Fragrance will only mask odors, and scented products aren't 100% necessary for fixing smelly shoes. There are plenty of good choices for people who prefer unscented products, such as Hollister's highly effective M9 Odor Eliminator Spray.
Hex's fragrance-free deodorizing spray is another unscented option. It's designed to be used not just on sneakers and shoes that have developed a foul odor but on gear like yoga mats that tend to smell due to exposure to sweat.
Best shoe deodorizer inserts
"Inserts are specially designed deodorizers that you can place inside your shoes," Fuchs says. "They are infused with odor-neutralizing agents or substances, which helps absorb moisture and eliminate odors." These shoe deodorizer inserts contain removable bags to absorb moisture and eliminate odor —?simply replace the bags every three to four months.
Kopelman recommends using deodorizers that contain antimicrobial agents, like activated charcoal. They "help neutralize odors by absorbing moisture and killing the bacteria and fungi responsible for the smell," she says. These small deodorizer bags filled with activated charcoal can be inserted into stinky shoes to control odor.
"People often overlook the importance of rotating their shoes and allowing them to air out between uses," Kopelman says, "which can significantly reduce odor." While you're letting your kicks air out, pop one of these sneaker balls in each shoe to control odor before the next time you wear them.
"Moisture is a significant contributor to shoe odor," Fuchs explains. "Simply deodorizing the shoes without tackling the moisture issue may not provide long-term results. Consider products that absorb moisture or allow your shoes to dry properly between uses." Boot Bananas do just that. They're designed to soak up all the moisture from winter shoes, but they can be used in other types of footwear too. Plus, they're reusable!
Best shoe deodorizing insoles
Deodorizing insoles work similarly to odor-eliminating inserts. They are placed in shoes to provide continuous odor-neutralization, helping to control moisture and bacteria as they form. Bonus: They also provide an extra layer of cushioning for comfort.
Deodorizing insoles come in different shapes and sizes to fit a variety of footwear, from dress shoes to sneakers to work boots. These Arm & Hammer insoles are big enough for men's work boots, but they can be trimmed to fit smaller shoes too.
