How to Get Mildew Smell Out of Shoes: Detailed Guide
More often than not, having mold smell in shoes is quite frustrating. First, it has that unbearable stench that tends to stick on your feet, and second, it causes discomfort and creates an environment for fungi to grow organisms. The mildew smell must be removed if your shoes stepped in some water or if they have been left inside the closet for quite some time. Fortunately, there are realistic ways to get rid of the stink without getting rid of your shoes. In this blog post, we learn how to get mildew smell out of shoes. We outline different solutions you can use to do away with the mildew smell in your shoes, so if one doesn't work, you can use the other.
When treating shoes affected by a bad smell of mildew, one would wish they had waterproof shoes, especially when water puddles become common, leading to the growth of the unpleasant smell-causing bacteria. Vessi offer waterproof shoes for men and women, designed to avoid any moisture entering the shoe, which will cause mildew development.Â
Now let's get started on how to get mildew smell out of shoes!
What Causes Mildew Smell in Shoes?
It is normal to have a mildew smell if you wear shoes frequently, especially if you live in a humid climate or use your boots for an extended duration. This odor results from mold and mildew spores growing within the shoes. Mildew spores are airborne and find a good home in the moisture that accumulates where it stays dark, warm, and well-ventilated, notably in footwear, particularly leather shoes.
Moisture is one of the most common causes of mildew smell in shoes, and having your shoes wet for an extended period is also a common cause. Sweaty or rain-soaked shoes are bad news for your feet and will smell awful for days. If you leave your shoes to dry in a stack or fold them, they will develop mildew and a smell.
Other things may lead to the smell of mildew in shoes, including failure to wear socks, shoes with poor ventilation, and inadequate storage conditions. Moreover, if soap residue is employed or shoe-washing directions are not followed, such a problem occurs.
Shoe care is even more crucial if you are prone to excessive sweating. Stinky shoes can become embarrassing and self-conscious when worn during social occasions without care.
Effective Home Remedies to Get Rid of Mildew Smell in Shoes
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1. Baking soda
Baking soda is a versatile and effective remedy for eliminating the unpleasant, musty odor from shoes. It works by absorbing moisture and neutralizing odors.
Steps:
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Sprinkle sufficient baking soda inside the shoes, ensuring all areas are covered.
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Leave the baking soda in the shoes overnight, allowing it to absorb the odor.
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Shake out the excess baking soda and use a soft brush to remove any residue.
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Repeat the process as needed until the smell is gone.
2. White vinegar
Due to its acidity, white distilled vinegar is an organic disinfectant and deodorizer that can help eliminate mildew shoe odor.
Steps:
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Add water and white distilled vinegar in equal amounts to a spray bottle.
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Spray the insides of the stinky shoes completely and set them aside for 15 minutes.
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To remove the vinegar solution, wipe the inside of the shoes with a clean towel.
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Dry the shoes entirely in a well-ventilated environment.
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Repeat the process if necessary.
3. Tea tree oil
This oil's antifungal and antibacterial qualities can help eliminate mildew and keep your shoes smell-free. Its intense aroma can help disguise mildew odor while removing the germs that caused it.
Steps:
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Combine a few drops of tea tree oil in a spray bottle with water.
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Shake well to combine the ingredients.
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Spray the liquid inside the shoes and allow it to air dry.
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Repeat the process regularly to prevent the recurrence of musty smells.
4. Sunlight and fresh air
Mildew thrives in damp environments, so exposing your shoes to sunlight and fresh air can help kill the odor-causing bacteria.
Steps:
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Place the shoes in direct sun for a few hours.
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Allow fresh air to circulate the smelly shoes by keeping them in a well-ventilated area.
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The combination of sunlight and fresh air helps to dry out the shoes and kill bacteria, reducing the mildew smell.
5. Charcoal
Activated charcoal is highly effective at absorbing and neutralizing odors.
Steps:
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Place a few pieces of activated charcoal inside each shoe.
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Leave the charcoal in the shoes for at least 24 hours.
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Remove the charcoal and discard it.
6. Freezing
Freezing can kill the mildew and eliminate the odor.
Steps:
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Put your shoes in a sealable plastic bag in the freezer overnight.
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Remove the shoes from the freezer the next day and let them thaw at room temperature.
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Once thawed, air them out to remove any remaining odor.
Using Commercial Products to Remove Mildew Smell in Shoes

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1. Odor-eliminating sprays
Other shoe sprays available for sale may be able to eliminate the smell of shoes. They operate by decomposing the offending bacteria that cause the smell and make your shoes smell. It is enough to spray the product into the interior of the shoes and give it several hours to dry, during which time the shoes become perfectly deodorized.
2. Moisture-absorbing products
Another efficient method of addressing the issue of mildew smell in shoes is to employ products that appear to absorb moisture, such as silica gel packs or activated charcoal. These products work by absorbing any excess moisture, and therefore, they act like discouragers of bacteria and mildew on your shoes. All you need to do is put the sachet or charcoal bag in your shoes and leave it inside overnight.
3. Odor-neutralizing insoles
Though some shoe insoles can address the issue of odors, most insoles do not produce the bacteria responsible for odor in the first place. Sometimes, these insoles are incorporated with activated carbon or some other substance to minimize the smell. They’re special for those who often wear shoes with chances of getting mildew or smelling bad.
4. Shoe deodorizers
A number of firms have products that function as shoe deodorizers or those that are inserted into shoes. These deodorizers usually contain one or another form of essential oils or other natural additives that allow them to fight against the smell effectively. They are non-toxic, which makes them the perfect solution to remove the smell of mold. Alternatively, you can put the deodorizer in your shoes with a mildew smell for a whole night, remove it, and return your shoes to their normal fresh-smelling state.
5. Commercial odor removers
Last but not least, there are a number of easily procurable commercial odor removers that can effectively neutralize the smell of mildew from your shoes. These products achieve this by eliminating smell-causing germs, which makes your shoes smell as new. However, it is advisable to comply with the manufacturer’s instructions as some products will likely harm materials like leather, suede, etc.
Mildew Prevention Tips

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To prevent the recurrence of a mildew smell in your shoes, consider implementing the following tips:
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Maintain proper shoe hygiene: It will be rather disappointing to put on shoes that stink because they have developed mildew from the dirt and dust that collects inside them. To ensure that no mildew spores are formed, you will need to wash your sneakers with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth often.
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Ensure proper drying: When you have worn the shoes, avoid putting them on directly for other use without first allowing them to dry. The pair of shoes that are not completely dry is where mildew thrives and should, therefore, be avoided. Do not put on wet shoes or keep them in plastic bags. However, to let them dry up, you should dry them in an open space or under direct sunlight.
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Use a natural moisture absorber: Moisture-absorbing materials like kitty litter or silica gel sachets can be used to remove moisture from shoes. Put them inside the shoes for a night or, at most, a few hours to soak up the moisture and avoid mildew.
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Rotate your shoes: Don’t wear the same shoes each day of the week. The rotation of shoes helps them to be aired fully before they are worn again because when you wear them the next day, they are moist with mildew formation.
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Choose breathable materials: Choose leather shoes, canvas shoes, or those with mesh fabric. Such materials let in some airflow so that it does not contact the inner walls and may cause moisture and mold to form.
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Store shoes in a dry environment: Select a well-ventilated dry storage area. Avoid storing shoes in damp basements or humid closets, as these conditions can promote mildew growth. Consider using shoe racks or shelves to keep them organized and properly aired.
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Treat shoes with antifungal sprays: Use antifungal sprays designed for shoes to help prevent the growth of mold and mildew. These sprays typically contain ingredients that can inhibit fungal growth and minimize odors.
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Essential oils: Oils, such as tea tree oil, can help kill odor-causing bacteria in shoes. Simply spritz the inside of the shoes with a spray can with water and a few drops of your preferred essential oil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) on Getting Mildew Smell Out of Shoes
1. What kills the smell of mildew?
You can use several methods to completely eliminate the smell of mildew. One of the best choices is vinegar; dilute it with water in an 11:1 ratio, apply it to the shoes, and leave it for a few hours to dry. Baking soda is also good; sprinkle it over the affected area, let it work for a day, and then vacuum it up.
2. Does the mildew smell ever go away?
Yes, the smell of mildew can be eliminated if the conditions that cause it are addressed and cured. As you get rid of the source of moisture, clean and sanitize the affected surface, and provide good air circulation, mildew, and its smell are easy to get rid of. Further development and spread of the mildew can be stopped and prevented, thus helping in the eradication of the smell, provided quick action is taken.
3. Is mildew smell in shoes a sign of a health concern?
This in particular explains why mildew smell can be as a result of Bacteria and fungi growth and may not always point to a health issue. However, constant exposure to mildew and the related elements can lead to or aggravate respiratory problems or allergies in some persons. That is why it is essential to solve the issue since a healthy and comfortable shoe environment greatly depends on its timely solving.
4. How do you get rid of bad smells in shoes fast?
Here are some steps to remove awful odors from your shoes: Pour baking soda on the inside and leave them to stay throughout the night to eliminate bad smells effectively. If you don’t have baking soda, use activated charcoal sachets or dryer sheets to help eliminate the smell. Moreover, one should also ensure good circulation and let the shoes breathe, including occasionally taking them out to the sun.