Do you have stinky tennis shoes? Nobody likes smelly footwear, but there’s a simple solution to get rid of the odor. In this article, we’ll be discussing how to clean tennis shoes that stink. We’ll cover techniques like removing excess dirt and using baking soda, essential oils, a mixture of vinegar and water, and deodorizing sprays. So if your tennis shoes are giving off an unpleasant smell, read on for step-by-step instructions on getting them smelling fresh again!
Remove Excess Dirt
You don’t want the dirt to ruin your favorite pair of kicks, so make sure you get rid of any excess before moving on! The first step is a deep clean. Take a damp cloth and use it to wipe away any visible dirt or debris from the surface of your shoes. Make sure that you are especially thorough when cleaning around laces and seams, as these areas can be prone to gathering dirt. Once you’ve thoroughly wiped down both shoes, let them air dry in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight until they are completely dry.
The next step is to pick up any stubborn dirt or debris that did not come off with the damp cloth. You can use a soft brush like an old toothbrush to gently scrub away bits of grime stuck in hard-to-reach places on the shoe. For tougher mud stains, try using a mixture of warm water and detergent or baking soda paste to help loosen it up before brushing it away with the soft bristled brush or cloth.
Once all excess dirt has been removed, double check for any spots you may have missed and give your shoes one final wipe down with a clean cloth if necessary. Letting them air dry once again will ensure that they’re free from moisture before wearing them again – this will also help prevent bacteria from forming which causes odors and other issues inside your shoes!
Use Baking Soda
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the smelly kicks to deodorize ’em! Baking soda is a great natural way to get rid of odors, and it’s an easy technique for cleaning tennis shoes. Sprinkle baking soda all over the inside and outside of the shoe, paying extra attention to areas that are particularly smelly or stained. Leave the powder on your shoes overnight, allowing it to soak in and absorb any odors or moisture. For added stain prevention, you can also use a damp cloth dipped in baking soda for spot-cleaning difficult stains.
When you’re finished sprinkling and scrubbing with baking soda, brush off all excess powder from both surfaces before wearing your shoes again. This will help ensure that there are no clumps of baking soda left behind after cleaning which could irritate your feet while walking. Make sure you also check inside your shoes if they’ve been soaked overnight – remove any remaining baking soda so it doesn’t stick around while wearing them later.
Afterwards, let your tennis shoes air dry completely before wearing them again to prevent any mold growth or bad smells from developing. With some regular maintenance using this soaking technique with baking soda, you’ll soon be able to enjoy fresh smelling kicks!
Use Essential Oils
Enjoy the fresh scent of your tennis shoes with a few drops of essential oils! Essential oils are an effective and natural way to air freshen and block odors from your shoes. Add several drops of oil to a cotton ball or tissue, then put it in the shoe for 24 hours. For maximum effect, leave the cotton ball or tissue inside after 24 hours. You can also use essential oils by spraying them directly onto the surface of your shoes; however, they may stain certain materials, so it is best to test this method on a small inconspicuous area first.
Essential oil sprays are very easy to make at home. You will need witch hazel, water, and essential oils. Mix one part witch hazel with two parts water in a spray bottle and add 10-15 drops of essential oil per 8 ounces of liquid. Shake the bottle thoroughly before each use and spray inside your tennis shoes regularly for ongoing odor control. Choose from many different types of fragrant essential oils such as lavender, lemongrass, tea tree oil or eucalyptus for an enjoyable aroma that neutralizes unpleasant smells.
The benefits of using essential oils for cleaning stinky tennis shoes include its antibacterial properties that help fight bacteria growth as well as its natural ability to absorb bad smells without leaving any residue behind on fabrics like leather or canvas. Plus there’s no harsh chemical smell; just enjoy clean-smelling footwear!
Use a Mixture of Vinegar and Water
Combining vinegar with water is a simple and effective way to eliminate odors from your footwear without using harsh chemicals. Start by filling a large bucket or sink with warm water and adding one cup of white vinegar for every two gallons of water. Next, submerge the shoes in the mixture and let them soak overnight. This will help break down any dirt and bacteria that may be causing bad odors. Regularly cleaning your tennis shoes with this method can keep them smelling fresh between wearings.
When removing the shoes from the solution, use a soft brush to scrub away any debris before letting them air dry completely in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. To maintain freshness, you can also stuff your shoes with newspaper after they have dried out completely to draw out excess moisture and absorb any lingering odors. Finally, sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe before wearing it again as an extra precaution against smells and bacteria buildup.
Keeping your tennis shoes clean doesn’t need to be complicated or require strong chemical cleaners; simply soaking them in vinegar and water can make all the difference! Not only does this process help remove existing bad smells but it also helps prevent new ones from developing over time, ensuring your tennis shoes stay odor free for longer periods of time.
Use a Deodorizing Spray
Keep your shoes fresh and free from bad odors with a deodorizing spray; it’s an easy way to ensure you feel confident going about your day. Deodorizing sprays are an effective air freshening solution that eliminates odor molecules in the air, giving off a pleasant scent that can be used to control any stench coming from your shoes. Depending on the type of shoe material, spraying your shoes on both the inside and outside should do the trick. Opt for sprays specifically designed for deodorizing, as they often contain antibacterial elements that help prevent future smells from forming.
When applying a deodorizing spray, make sure to keep away from fabrics or materials that could be damaged by water or chemicals like leather. To avoid damaging any delicate parts of your shoe, focus on spraying a light mist onto hard surfaces like plastic or rubber soles – this will allow for better absorption of the product without causing harm to more sensitive areas. It is important to read instructions thoroughly before using any kind of chemical-based product near delicate materials like fabric or leather.
Allow around five minutes for the deodorizing spray to absorb fully into your tennis shoes before wearing them again – this will give them time to dry out completely so you don’t end up with damp feet! For added protection against odor-causing bacteria, consider treating the insides of your shoe with an anti-bacterial powder every few weeks; this will help prevent unwanted smells before they start.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my tennis shoes?
Regular maintenance of your tennis shoes is key to keeping them fresh and odor-free. At the least, you should clean them every few weeks. This can be done with a cloth dampened with water and mild soap, or a specialized shoe cleaner. After cleaning, dry your shoes in a well-ventilated area; this helps remove odors that may have built up over time. Additionally, make sure to alternate between two pairs of shoes so they have time to air out in between wears. Following these simple steps will help keep your tennis shoes looking and smelling great!
What is the best way to prevent my tennis shoes from stinking?
To prevent your tennis shoes from stinking, start with odor-blocking materials such as bamboo charcoal insoles. In addition, practice good hygiene for your feet and always make sure to air dry them after each use. Never leave them in a damp or moist environment since this encourages bacteria growth which causes odors. Consider using shoe deodorizers as well as allowing plenty of ventilation when not wearing them. Finally, be sure to clean your tennis shoes regularly using non-toxic cleaners and antibacterial sprays. Following these steps will go a long way towards keeping your shoes fresh and free of odor.
Can I use bleach to clean my tennis shoes?
You can clean your tennis shoes with bleach, but it should be used sparingly. Bleach is effective at killing bacteria and removing odors, however it can also damage the material of the shoe if used too frequently. Natural solutions like baking soda, vinegar, or odor-absorbing products are better options for frequent cleaning because they don’t harm the fabric. If you do decide to use bleach on your shoes, make sure you rinse them thoroughly afterwards and dry them in a well-ventilated area.
Is it safe to use essential oils on my tennis shoes?
Using essential oils on your tennis shoes is an effective way to reduce odors. Not only do they naturally deodorize, but their scent can help mask any remaining bad smells. To use essential oils, simply mix a few drops into some water and spray it onto the fabric of your shoes. You can also buy odor-reducing sprays that contain essential oils for convenience. For tougher stains, you might want to try steam cleaning or placing odor absorbing balls inside the shoe for several hours to get results.
How long does it take for baking soda to work on my smelly shoes?
You can use baking soda to get rid of the odor in your smelly tennis shoes. Simply sprinkle some baking soda inside each shoe, let them sit overnight and then shake out the excess powder. This will help absorb any odors, allowing you to air dry your shoes before putting them back on. Baking soda is an effective odor absorber and it usually takes about 8-12 hours for it to work its magic and remove the smell.
Conclusion
You’re all set! With these simple steps, your smelly tennis shoes will be looking and smelling good as new. Start by removing any excess dirt, then sprinkle on some baking soda for extra freshness. If you want a more natural solution, mix up a solution of vinegar and water or add a few drops of essential oil. Finally, use a deodorizing spray to neutralize lingering odors. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes in the smell and appearance of your shoes! Now you can get back to playing with confidence that your shoes are as clean and odor-free as possible.
