How to get rid of smelly shoes
Reading time: 5 minutes | Last updated: September 17, 2025
Let’s talk about a common (but annoying!) problem: smelly shoes. Your feet go through a lot during the day—after all, you’re on them almost nonstop! Let’s be real: when you’re moving around all day, sweaty feet happen. And sweaty feet can lead to—you guessed it—stinky shoes. And nobody wants that. So, let’s get rid of that smell, shall we?
In this blog, we’ll give you easy, practical tips to deodorize your shoes and—just as important—how to keep them from getting smelly in the first place. Because as they say, prevention is better than cure!
What causes smelly shoes?
The main culprit? Bacteria. These little troublemakers love warm, damp environments—and sweaty shoes are their favorite hangout spot. As your feet sweat during the day, that moisture gets trapped in your shoes, creating a cozy breeding ground for bacteria. And that’s what causes that not-so-lovely odor. If this sounds familiar, it’s time to take action!
Household hacks to deodorize smelly shoes
Here at Wolky, we love a good DIY trick—especially when it comes to simple solutions using things you probably already have at home. So here’s how to get your shoes smelling fresh again:
Tip 1 | Let your shoes air out
One of the simplest things you can do? Air them out after wearing them! This helps moisture escape and lets them dry out.
Bonus: most Wolky shoes have removable insoles—take those out, too, so they can breathe. And if you use your own orthotics? Yup, take those out as well!
Tip 2 | Freeze the funk
Sounds weird, but it works. Pop your shoes in a plastic bag and stick them in the freezer overnight. The cold kills the odor-causing bacteria. Just don’t forget they’re in there when you go looking for the ice cream.
Tip 3 | Baking soda = your best friend
Baking soda absorbs odors like a pro. Just sprinkle a bit inside your shoes and let it sit overnight. In the morning, shake it out—and voilà! No more stink. Pro tip: repeat this if the smell starts creeping back.
Tip 4 | Vinegar spray
Sure, vinegar doesn’t exactly smell amazing either—but it’s great at neutralizing odors.
Mix equal parts vinegar and water, and spray or wipe the inside of your shoes. Important: let them dry completely (a few days is best). It’s worth a try!
Tip 5 | Coffee grounds, coffee pods or tea bags
Fun fact: perfume stores use coffee beans to neutralize strong scents. So why not use coffee grounds or pods in your shoes? Fill a sock or place a pod inside and let it sit overnight.
Not a coffee fan? Try unused tea bags—they work great too. Just don’t forget to take them out before wearing your shoes!
Tip 6 | Kitty litter isn’t just for cats
Cat litter absorbs moisture and odors like a champ. Put some in a sock, place it in your shoe overnight, and you’ll wake up to fresher kicks.
Tip 7 | Washing machine… maybe
Okay, honesty time: at Wolky, we’re not big fans of tossing shoes in the washer. Sure, it can work—but it can also ruin your shoes (think loose glue, warped soles, trapped moisture). But if you’re feeling brave, here’s how to do it: (1) brush off excess dirt, (2) put your shoes in a laundry bag or old pillowcase, (3) add some towels to soften the spin, (4) use a gentle cycle, (5) air-dry them at room temperature for a few days.
Shoes with a leather lining
These shoes have a leather lining to absorb and wick away moisture.
How to prevent smelly shoes in the first place
Used all the tips and your shoes finally smell fresh again? Great! Now let’s keep them that way:
Tip 1 | Choose quality materials
The #1 tip to avoid stinky shoes? Buy shoes made from high-quality materials—like leather. Leather is breathable and keeps your feet drier, which means less sweat and less odor.
Bonus tip: many Wolky shoes have a leather lining. Fresh feet = happy feet. Check out our leather-lined shoes now!
Tip 2 | Swap out your insoles
Did you know you can buy replacement insoles at Wolky? No need to get a whole new pair. Smelly odors often stick to the insoles, so swapping them out is a quick fix that’ll make your shoes feel (and smell) brand new again.
Tip 3 | Wear cotton socks
Natural materials like cotton help absorb sweat. Synthetic socks? Not so much—they trap moisture and create a mini greenhouse in your shoes. So, choose cotton and let your feet breathe.
Tip 4 | Wash your feet regularly
It seems obvious, but it makes a huge difference. Clean feet = fewer bacteria = less odor. Just as important? Dry them well after washing. Bacteria love damp places—like sweaty shoes.
Tip 5 | Clean your shoes too
Don’t just clean your feet—clean your shoes! Removing built-up dirt helps your shoes breathe better and keeps odors away. Check out our shoe care page for more tips on how to maintain your Wolky’s.
Tip 6 | Rotate your shoes
Got more than one pair? Switch things up! Wearing the same pair every day doesn’t give them time to dry out. Let them air out with the insoles removed. Your feet—and your shoes—will thank you.
Extra helpers: Shoe deodorant & shoe trees
Shoe deodorant can help reduce sweat and neutralize odors. Look for ones that tackle bacteria instead of just masking the smell. It’s a smart move, especially if you’re on your feet all day.
Shoe trees—especially cedar wood ones—help absorb moisture and keep your shoes fresh. Pop them in after wearing your shoes and you’ll extend their life while keeping them stink-free.
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