Are stinky shoes a problem in your household? It’s a lot harder for us to notice our bodily scents than it is for others to notice. While you may just be realizing it today, the person that sat next to you on the bus last week might have been well aware. What even causes our shoes to reek? Carrollton Foot Center has one word: moisture. This could be from sweat, walking in the rain, anything that might get your shoes wet. When they’re not properly aerated after exposure to moisture, this leaves the moisture (sweat, water, etc.) to sit and grow the bacteria necessary to cause odors. This bacteria can even contribute to infections when exposed to broken skin or lead to developing the fungi responsible for athlete’s foot. If you’re lucky enough to catch it early, there are quick and easy ways to reduce the stink your shoes might be causing.

Step One:

Unlace your shoes and take the insoles out. Put these into the wash with other clothing items on a gentle, low cycle – often labeled as a ‘delicate’ cycle. If possible, use regular, unscented detergent and air dry them after they’re done washing. While it’s no doubt that our insoles can hold a lot of stink, you would be surprised at the capability of shoelaces to hold odor!

Step Two:

Tap the soles of your shoes together outside to loosen up debris. Get a basin of lukewarm water and add some dye-free, unscented detergent to it. Mix it thoroughly. Get a soft-bristled scrubbing brush and dip its bristles into the water. Using the scrubbing brush, gently scrub away any remaining debris.

Step Three:

Using the same cleaning solution in step two, dampen a cloth into the mixture. After wringing out your cloth, use it to dab and rub away stains and smudges. This can take some elbow grease! Once all the spots are gone, wring out the cloth and soak up excess moisture. Leave them to dry in a ventilated area overnight.

And voila! Your shoes will be rid of a considerable amount of dirt, debris, and bacteria that can cause odors to form. Your feet will thank you immediately! For other tips and foot issues, reach out to Dr. Lilly Khavari and schedule your appointment at our location in Carrollton, Texas which serves Denton, Dallas and Collin Counties. Call us today at 469-998-3668.