There’s nothing worse than slipping your feet into what looks like a clean pair of shoes and catching that awful sweaty smell. It sneaks up on you — especially after long days or when the kids forget to air out their sneakers. I’ve had mornings where I almost sprayed perfume in mine just to survive the drive to school! But masking the smell never works for long. The trick is to remove it, not cover it.
Shoe odor happens when sweat meets bacteria inside warm, closed shoes. Those little microbes feed on moisture, leaving that sour smell behind. The good news is, you don’t need fancy sprays or new insoles to fix it. You can use simple things you already have at home — like baking soda, vinegar, or even tea bags — to freshen your shoes overnight.
In this post, I’ll show you a few easy, low-mess ways to get rid of shoe odor fast. You’ll learn how to deodorize different shoe materials, dry them safely, and keep them smelling clean all week long. These are the same tricks I use for my kids’ sneakers and my husband’s work shoes — and they really work.
Quick Science – Why Shoes Smell and Why Airflow Matters
Shoe odor isn’t just about dirt — it’s about sweat and bacteria teaming up. Every time we wear shoes, our feet sweat a little, even if we don’t notice it. That sweat gets trapped inside, especially in shoes made of materials that don’t breathe well. When the inside stays warm and damp, bacteria start to grow — and that’s what causes the bad smell.
Think of it like this: bacteria love dark, moist places. A closed shoe after a long day is the perfect home for them. They feed on the sweat and dead skin cells inside the fabric or insoles, leaving behind that sour, locker-room scent. And if shoes don’t get a chance to dry out between wears, the bacteria keep multiplying.
That’s why airflow is so important. Letting shoes air out after each wear helps stop bacteria before they start spreading. Even just removing the insoles or placing your shoes near a sunny window for a few hours can make a big difference.
The methods we’ll go over — baking soda sachets, vinegar spray, and tea bags — all work by either killing those bacteria or absorbing the moisture they feed on. Once you understand that simple bit of science, you’ll see why these natural fixes work faster (and last longer) than most store-bought sprays.
Method 1 – No-Mess Baking Soda Sachets for Overnight Odor Removal
If you want a clean fix without powder spilling everywhere, baking soda sachets are the best place to start. They’re simple, cheap, and you can reuse them many times. I first made these for my son’s soccer shoes after one muddy tournament weekend. By morning, the smell was gone, and I didn’t have white dust all over the floor.
Gather two small reusable tea bags or drawstring muslin bags, 4–6 tablespoons of baking soda, and (optional) a few drops of lemon or lavender essential oil. Fill each bag with 2–3 tablespoons of baking soda. If using essential oil, add just 1–2 drops to the outside of the bag and let it dry for a minute so the fabric isn’t wet. You want the scent, not moisture inside the shoe.
Before placing the sachets, make sure the shoes aren’t wet. If they feel damp, remove the insoles and let both the shoes and insoles air for 30–60 minutes first. Slip one sachet into each shoe and tuck it down toward the toe box where odor collects. For very smelly pairs, set a third sachet under the insole or place both sachets in the worst shoe.
Leave the sachets in overnight (8–12 hours). Baking soda naturally absorbs moisture and neutralizes the sour acids that bacteria leave behind. In the morning, remove the sachets and give the shoes a quick shake. If you still notice a hint of odor, repeat one more night, then move to our weekly prevention later in this post.
For regular use, refresh the sachets every 3–5 wears by emptying and refilling with fresh baking soda. If a bag ever gets damp, spread the contents on a plate to dry or just replace the powder. Keep a labeled jar of baking soda in your entryway or laundry shelf so refilling takes seconds.
A few tips help this work even better. Always remove or lift the insoles when possible to let air reach deeper layers. Don’t cram shoes in a closed cabinet right after wearing; let them breathe on a rack or by a window first, then insert the sachets. For kids’ sneakers after sports, I pop the sachets in the car on the ride home so they start absorbing right away.
Be mindful of materials. Sachets are safe for canvas, mesh, synthetics, and finished leather. For delicate suede, keep the sachet inside the shoe rather than rubbing the outside with powder. And if you’re sensitive to scents, skip essential oils; plain baking soda works perfectly on its own.
Used consistently, these little bags keep everyday odor from ever building up. I keep two sets—one in our shoe basket and one in the laundry room—so there’s always a dry pair ready to go.
Method 2 – Vinegar Spray Inside the Shoe and How to Dry Safely
If your shoes have strong, lingering odors — especially from sweat or wet socks — a vinegar spray is one of the fastest ways to kill the bacteria causing it. I’ve used this many times on my husband’s work shoes after long, hot days. It’s simple, quick, and works overnight when done properly.
Start by mixing a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water in a small spray bottle. Shake it lightly to combine. The vinegar neutralizes odor-causing bacteria and dissolves the sweat residue they feed on. The water helps spread it evenly without soaking the shoe.
Before spraying, remove the insoles if possible. Mist the inside of each shoe lightly — you want it damp, not dripping wet. Pay attention to the toe area and heel, where most odor builds up. For shoes that smell really bad, you can spray the insoles separately and let them dry in a sunny spot.
After spraying, place the shoes in a well-ventilated area. Near an open window or under a ceiling fan works best. If the shoes are made of canvas or fabric, you can also leave them outside in the sun for an hour or two (weather permitting). The sunlight helps kill any remaining bacteria.
Let them air-dry completely before wearing again — this step is crucial. Putting shoes on while still damp traps moisture and can bring the odor back even stronger. Once dry, the vinegar smell disappears, leaving your shoes clean and neutral.
If you have leather or suede shoes, skip direct spraying and instead mist a cloth with the vinegar mix, then gently wipe the interior. This prevents over-saturation and protects the material.
This method works great for sports shoes, flats, and even canvas sneakers. I usually give each pair a light vinegar spray every couple of weeks, and they stay fresh far longer between washes.
Method 3 – Tea Bag Tannins: A Natural Odor Fighter for Quick Freshness
When you need a fast refresh and don’t want any liquids, plain black tea bags can help. The natural tannins in tea fight odor-causing bacteria and leave a dry, neutral scent. I use this trick on school mornings when someone suddenly remembers their sneakers smell right before we leave.
What you need: 2–4 black tea bags (per pair), a mug, hot water, a plate or rack, paper towels.
Prep the tea bags (very important):
- Pour hot water into a mug and dip each tea bag for 1–2 minutes. This wakes up the tannins.
- Remove and cool completely.
- Squeeze out extra water gently, then set the bags on a plate or rack for 10–15 minutes so they’re barely damp—not wet. You want the tannins, not moisture.
Use in the shoes:
- Remove insoles if they’re loose and set them aside to air.
- Place one tea bag deep in the toe box and one at the heel of each shoe. For very smelly shoes, use two per shoe.
- Leave 2 hours to overnight. For a quick fix, 2–3 hours helps; for strong odors, overnight works best.
Afterwards:
• Remove tea bags and wipe the inside with a dry paper towel to pick up any condensation.
• Let shoes air for 15–30 minutes before wearing.
• If the insoles still smell, stand them in sunlight for 30 minutes (great natural deodorizer) or pair this method with the baking-soda sachets overnight.
Tips to avoid staining or damage:
• Use black tea (not herbal with oils) and make sure bags are only lightly damp before inserting.
• For light-colored linings or suede, place a thin paper towel between the tea bag and the fabric as a barrier.
• If you’re worried about color transfer, test on a tiny hidden spot first or choose Method 1 instead.
When tea bags are perfect:
• You need a quick deodorize with no powders.
• Shoes can’t be sprayed (delicate leather, suede).
• You want a portable fix—I keep a few bags in a zip bag in our car for post-practice sneakers.
Used right, tea bags give you a fast, dry reset without mess—great for busy days when you just need shoes to smell normal again.
Material Notes – What to Do for Canvas, Leather/Suede, and Synthetics
Every shoe material needs a slightly different approach. The wrong cleaning method can damage the surface or make smells worse, so it’s good to know what works best for each type. Over the years, I’ve tested these on everything from muddy sneakers to my favorite leather flats — and here’s what I’ve learned.
Canvas and Fabric Shoes
Canvas shoes, like sneakers or slip-ons, can handle moisture best. You can safely use vinegar spray or baking soda sachets, and even hand wash them if needed. For deeper cleans, mix a little detergent with warm water and scrub gently using a toothbrush. Rinse lightly, then let them air dry in the sun — sunlight naturally helps kill odor-causing bacteria. Just make sure to remove the insoles first so they dry faster and don’t trap moisture inside.
Leather and Suede Shoes
These need a gentler touch. Never soak leather or suede — too much moisture can stain or stiffen them. Stick with dry methods like baking soda sachets or the tea bag trick. If you need to wipe the inside, dampen a cloth with diluted vinegar (one part vinegar to two parts water), wring it out well, and gently wipe. For suede, use a soft brush once dry to restore the texture. Always air-dry away from direct sunlight or heaters to prevent cracking.
Synthetic or Sports Shoes
These are the easiest to refresh. Most synthetics handle light spraying or disinfecting wipes. Remove the insoles, spray with vinegar-water mix, then air them overnight. If they’re machine-washable (check the tag), you can wash them in cold water with a bit of detergent and let them air dry. For ongoing odor control, keep a pair of charcoal bags or baking soda sachets inside them between wears.
Understanding your shoe material helps you choose the safest and most effective cleaning method. A few small tweaks can make your shoes last longer — and smell cleaner for weeks.
Insoles & Socks – The Hidden Key to Preventing Odor Return
Even if you clean your shoes perfectly, smells can come right back if the insoles and socks aren’t cared for. That’s because these two spots hold the most sweat and bacteria. I learned this after cleaning my son’s sneakers again and again, only to realize the real culprit was the soggy insoles he never took out.
1. Air Out or Swap Insoles Regularly
After wearing shoes all day, pull out the insoles and stand them up to dry. You’ll be amazed how much moisture they hold, especially in warm weather. If they’re washable, hand wash them once a week in warm water with a few drops of dish soap, rinse well, and air dry. For synthetic insoles that can’t be washed, spray them lightly with vinegar water and let them dry fully.
If the insoles are too old or have a permanent smell, it’s time to replace them. A fresh pair can instantly revive old shoes. You can even buy charcoal or bamboo insoles — they’re made to absorb odor and moisture naturally.
2. Choose the Right Socks
Socks make a huge difference too. Cotton alone tends to trap sweat, so look for moisture-wicking fabrics like bamboo, merino wool, or athletic blends. These pull sweat away from your feet and keep the inside of your shoes drier.
If your feet tend to sweat a lot, sprinkle a bit of baking soda or cornstarch inside your socks before putting them on. It sounds simple, but it helps keep moisture down during the day.
3. Rotate Your Shoes
Try not to wear the same pair every day. Give each pair a full 24 hours to air out before wearing again. I started doing this with our everyday shoes, and the difference was night and day — no smell buildup and no damp feeling inside.
These small habits protect the work you did cleaning and keep your shoes fresh much longer. It’s not just about removing odor — it’s about stopping it before it starts.
Weekly Prevention – Easy Habits to Keep Shoes Fresh All the Time
Once your shoes are clean and smelling good, it’s all about keeping them that way. I’ve learned over the years that prevention is much easier than fixing strong odors later. With just a few weekly habits, you can stop that musty smell before it even starts — and your shoes will last longer too.
1. Let Shoes Breathe After Every Wear
As soon as you take your shoes off, don’t toss them in a closet or gym bag. Leave them somewhere airy for a few hours — near a window, on a shoe rack, or even outside in the shade. This helps moisture evaporate before bacteria have time to grow.
2. Use Charcoal or Baking Soda Bags
Keep small charcoal bags or baking soda sachets in each pair when you’re not wearing them. Both absorb moisture and neutralize odor naturally. I keep a small basket by the door where everyone drops their shoes with sachets already inside — it’s a simple routine that saves so much time later.
3. Give Shoes a “Sun Day” Once a Week
Pick one sunny day a week to let your shoes sit outside for an hour. Sunlight naturally kills bacteria and freshens the fabric. Just avoid leaving leather or suede in direct sunlight too long — bright shade is best for those.
4. Clean Lightly Every Week
A quick wipe with a damp cloth or vinegar-water mix once a week helps keep the inside clean. It’s especially good for running shoes and sneakers that see heavy use.
5. Keep Feet Clean and Dry
Odor doesn’t only come from shoes — it often starts with feet. Wash feet daily, dry them completely (especially between the toes), and use a light dusting of cornstarch or baking soda if you sweat easily.
By keeping up with these little habits, your shoes won’t just smell fresh — they’ll stay cleaner, last longer, and feel better to wear. It’s a simple, family-friendly routine that really works.
FAQs – Common Questions About Removing Shoe Odor Naturally
1. Can I use baking soda directly inside my shoes?
Yes, but use it carefully. Sprinkle a thin layer and shake it out after a few hours or overnight. For less mess, baking soda sachets work better since you don’t have to clean up powder afterward.
2. Is vinegar safe for all shoe types?
Vinegar is safe for most fabric, canvas, and synthetic shoes. For leather or suede, apply it with a damp cloth instead of spraying directly to avoid water spots or stiffness.
3. Will tea bags stain my shoes?
If the tea bags are too wet, they can. Always squeeze and air them out before putting them in. For light-colored shoes, place a thin paper towel under the tea bag as a barrier.
4. How often should I deodorize my shoes?
Once a week is usually enough for everyday shoes. For sports shoes or ones worn without socks, freshen them every few days or after heavy use.
5. Can I mix vinegar and baking soda together for faster results?
No, they cancel each other out when mixed. Use them separately — baking soda absorbs odor, while vinegar kills the bacteria causing it.
6. My shoes still smell after trying everything. What should I do?
If the odor keeps coming back, remove and wash or replace the insoles, and check if moisture is trapped under them. You can also sprinkle baking soda inside and seal the shoes in a plastic bag overnight for a deep refresh.
Also Read: Make Smelly Towels Fresh Again (Vinegar & Baking Soda Fix)
Conclusion
You don’t need expensive sprays or new shoes to get rid of bad odors — just a few simple things from your kitchen can make a huge difference. Baking soda, vinegar, and tea bags are all you need to remove shoe odor overnight. These natural fixes work because they fight bacteria, absorb moisture, and freshen the air inside your shoes without any harsh chemicals.
I still use these tricks all the time. After my kids’ soccer games or long school days, I slip baking soda sachets into their sneakers before bed, and by morning, they smell brand new again. For my leather flats, I prefer the tea bag method — it’s quick, clean, and gentle. Once you start using these little habits, your shoes will always feel and smell fresher.
Remember, the key is not just to clean, but to keep them dry and aired out. Let your shoes rest between wears, use moisture-absorbing sachets, and give them a quick vinegar or sun refresh once a week. These easy steps keep odor from ever coming back.
Give one of these methods a try tonight, and you’ll wake up to shoes that smell as good as they look. Simple, natural, and effective — just the way home remedies should be.
