How Do You Get the Smell Out of Shoes? 6 Ways to Freshen Them – First Walkers Answers

How Do You Get the Smell Out of Shoes? 6 Ways to Freshen Them

Learn effective remedies for banishing stubborn odours from kids' shoes

By Babafemi Adebajo

Edited by Lucia Gcingca

Published January 30, 2024.

Each of our feet is home to over 250,000 sweat glands. They produce about a cup of moisture daily, and your little one's feet? 
Well, they double that, so it is no surprise that dynamite smells may come from those tiny packages. This article explores six effective home remedies to keep shoes smelling fresh.
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6 Ways to Removing Shoe Odor and Restoring Freshness1. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodoriser, so sprinkle a generous amount inside your shoes, leave it overnight, and vacuum it out in the morning.
2. White Vinegar and Water 
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the inside of their shoes, then air dry them completely before wearing them.
3. Sunlight and Fresh Air
Place smelly shoes in direct sunlight for a few hours. The natural UV rays kill bacteria, while fresh air helps dry out moisture.
» Check out how to wash different types of kids' shoes﻿
4. Newspaper Stuffing
Crumple old newspapers and stuff them inside their shoes overnight. It'll absorb all moisture and odour in your shoe.
5. Activated Charcoal
Fill small cloth pouches with activated charcoal and place them inside your shoes overnight or for a few hours.
6. Essential Oils
Tea tree oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil have natural antibacterial properties. Add a few drops to a cotton ball and place it inside the shoes for a few hours.
Healthy Feet Fight Stinky ShoesAs your little ones embark on their first steps, pamper their tiny feet with First Walkers – soft, breathable shoes designed to prevent odours and offer orthopaedic support for proper foot development.
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