Does “how to get rid of shoes bad smell” really work?

Yes — you can eliminate odors quickly using household tricks. The best way to get rid of smell in shoes includes inserting tea bags, applying baking soda, or using dryer sheets. These methods neutralize odor-causing bacteria, refresh shoes in hours, and restore confidence in your footwear.

⏱ 6 min read

How to Get Rid of Shoes’ Bad Smell Fast Without Replacing Them

Wondering how to get rid of shoes bad smell without tossing your favorite pair? Discover the best way to get rid of smell in shoes using simple household tricks—like dryer sheets for shoe odor, baking soda, and even tea bags. These fast, proven fixes can refresh your sneakers in minutes and stop odors before they start.

Why Shoes Get Smelly (and You're Not Imagining It)

It’s frustrating: your once-fresh shoes now smell like a gym locker. But there’s a reason. Inside your shoes, moisture + sweat + bacteria = odor. Over time, that bacteria thrives, especially in warm, dark, damp environments. Aging linings, worn insoles, and residual debris only make it worse.

When you can’t just toss your favorite pair, you need quick, safe, effective fixes that restore comfort and confidence.

Quick Fixes You Can Do Tonight

If you want a fast refresh, try one (or several) of these simple hacks. Some take *just minutes*, others work overnight:

• Baking soda method: sprinkle 1–2 tsp into each shoe, let sit overnight, then shake out.
• Freeze them: seal shoes in a plastic bag and freeze for 12 hrs—low temps kill odor bacteria.
• Sunlight & airflow: place shoes in indirect sunlight, open laces, let air flow.
• Activated charcoal or odor-absorbing pouches: place them inside shoes overnight or whenever stored.

Deep Clean Methods That Really Work

For more stubborn odors, a deeper approach is needed. Follow these steps:

1. Remove insoles/laces and soak them in warm soapy water (add a little vinegar).
2. Use a soft brush + mild detergent to scrub the inner shoe lining.
3. Rinse (if material allows) and air-dry fully, inside and out.
4. After drying, insert deodorizing agents (see next section).

Be cautious: avoid over-soaking delicate materials.

how to get rid of shoes bad smell — see KentDO electric shoe dryer in action

Dryer Sheets, Tea Bags & Other Odor Hacks That Actually Work

🌀 Dryer Sheets for Shoe Odor

Ever heard “dryer sheets for shoe odor”? It works! Tuck a dryer sheet in each shoe overnight. The sheet releases fragrance and can absorb some moisture. Replacing sheets every few nights helps maintain freshness.

🍵 Do Tea Bags Remove Odor from Shoes?

Yes! Dry, unused black tea or green tea bags absorb moisture and neutralize odors thanks to tannins. Place 1–2 dry tea bags (in breathable sachets) in each shoe overnight. Within hours, mild odors often disappear.

✅ Comparison: Which Hack Is Best for You?

Preventing Odor from Coming Back

Once you’ve fixed odor, keep it gone. Use these habits:

• Rotate shoes (don’t wear same pair every day).
• Use moisture-wicking socks.
• After wear, stuff in dryer sheets, tea bags or odor pouches.
• Store shoes in well-ventilated, dry space.
• Occasionally run through the deep-clean routine.

Why a Shoe Dryer Makes a Big Difference

For a fast, no-muss solution, you may want a smart device. The **KentDO electric shoe dryer** (linked below) combines gentle heat + airflow to dry shoes thoroughly and kill odor-causing bacteria—all in hours.

Using a dryer device prevents recurring moisture, reduces odor spikes, and saves you from repeating DIY trick cycles.

best way to get rid of smell in shoes — KentDO in action

How to Use the KentDO Electric Shoe Dryer

• Insert the dryer arms into each shoe.
• Set to low or medium heat for 3–5 hours (depending on material).
• Remove and let shoes cool—repeat if needed.

This process complements tea bags, dryer sheets, or baking soda—you can layer them for extra freshness.

Fix Smelly Shoes Fast: Step-by-Step Routine

Here’s a rapid, cumulative routine combining best practices:

1. Remove insoles & laces, rinse or soak lightly.
2. Sprinkle baking soda inside and shake it out after a few hours.
3. Insert dry tea bags or dryer sheets overnight.
4. On low-moisture days, run the **KentDO electric shoe dryer** for 2–4 hours.
5. Finish with a fragrance pouch or activated charcoal pouch.

In many cases, the odor is gone by step 3 or 4. Layering methods gives you extra assurance.

fix smelly shoes fast — KentDO helping refresh your sneakers

Mini FAQ

Will vinegar or bleach damage my shoes?

Yes—strong acids or bleach can degrade materials. Use diluted white vinegar (1:4 mix) only on washable surfaces cautiously.

How often should I deodorize my shoes?

Apply baking soda or dryer sheets every few wears; deep clean once every 1–2 months; use a shoe dryer after wet days.

Is it safe to use tea bags with all shoe types?

Generally yes, with dry, unused tea bags. Avoid loose wet tea in leather or suede shoes; use sachets instead.

Can I combine deodorizing hacks?

Absolutely—layering (e.g. baking soda + tea bag + shoe dryer) often delivers better results.

Pillar Article: How to Get Rid of Stink in Shoes: Step-by-Step Guide You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner

Other Related Articles:

• Bad Smelling Shoes? Here’s How You Can Rescue Them in Minutes
• Bacteria in Shoes: The Hidden Reason Your Sneakers Keep Smelling
• Get Rid of Shoe Odor Instantly: The 3-Step Routine You Need Tonight

Explore More:

• Best Way to Clean Smelly Shoes: Inside the Proven Odor-Free Formula
• How to Get Rid of Smelly Shoe Odor Forever: Our Honest Product Test