Maintaining fresh-smelling shoes begins with proper foot care and mindful routines

One of the most important steps is to make sure your feet are clean and dry before putting on your shoes

Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly especially between the toes where moisture tends to linger

Moisture is the main contributor to odor because it creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow

Wear clean socks every day, and choose materials that wick away sweat

Cotton is common but tends to hold moisture

Look for socks with advanced materials such as CoolMax, Merino wool, or bamboo viscose for superior airflow

Change your socks if you sweat heavily during the day, especially if you’re active or in hot weather

Alternate between multiple pairs to give each one time to recover

Giving your footwear time to ventilate naturally reduces lingering odors and extends their lifespan

After taking off your shoes, leave them in a well ventilated area away from direct sunlight

You can also place cedar shoe inserts or charcoal deodorizing packets inside them overnight to absorb moisture and odor

Even the most ventilated shoes can harbor odor if worn without socks

Your feet produce sweat regardless of shoe material, and without socks, that sweat and bacteria cling to the lining

To combat odor without socks, dust your soles with antifungal foot powder or spray with a clinical-grade foot antiperspirant

Clean your shoes regularly

Gently scrub the interior of canvas or autry basket mesh shoes with a mixture of water and mild dish soap

Leather shoes can be cleaned with a damp cloth and a specialized leather cleaner

Heat sources like blow dryers or radiators can warp soles and shrink materials—air drying is always the safest choice

A simple, natural solution is to use baking soda as an odor eliminator

Before bed, add a teaspoon of baking soda to each shoe, leave it overnight, and dump it out before wearing

It’s a natural odor absorber and safe for most shoe materials

If your shoes have a persistent stench, mist the insoles with a 50

Never wear shoes immediately after applying vinegar—they must be fully dry to avoid skin irritation and lingering smells

With consistent care and attention to moisture control, your shoes can stay fresh and odor-free all day long