Ah, the fragrant symphony of your shoes after a day of running errands – a scent that could rival the locker rooms after the Super Bowl. Unpleasant odors can quickly turn a favorite pair of shoes into an unwelcome experience for you and, sometimes, for others. Whether it’s the result of active workouts, long hours on your feet, or simply the passage of time, shoe odors can become an issue…to say the least.
Fortunately, the market is flooded with various solutions claiming to banish those unwanted smells. To help you navigate through the myriad options, we’ve enlisted the guidance of experts to curate a list of the best shoe deodorizers.
In this article, we’ll explore the science behind smelly shoes, discuss what experts recommend, and unveil the top-rated products designed to keep your footwear fresh and odor-free. Fear not — if you’re on the market for a shoe deodorizing solution, we’ve got your answers right here.
We spoke with celebrity trainer and former IronMan triathlete Lucas Paul about what makes shoes malodorous. “Shoes get funky generally when people just forget to take them out of their gym bag — they need air!” Paul said. “Don’t let them stay anywhere wet, dark, or humid.” In terms of what the best solutions are if you do? Read on for Paul’s top shoe deodorizer picks.
Click to go straight to our FAQs or our winning shoe deodorizers by category:
- Best overall
- Best deodorizer balls
- Best charcoal deodorizer
- Best sanitizing deodorizer
- Best deodorizing insole
- Best UV deodorizer
Best overall: 10 Seconds Household Disinfectant Spray & Deodorizer
Meet the MVP of shoe freshness – the 10 Seconds Household Disinfectant Spray & Deodorizer. It not only tackles odors with a vengeance but also doubles as a disinfectant superhero, ensuring your shoes are not just pleasant but downright germ-free.
“Not only does it take care of odors, but is effective at eliminating bacteria that can cause athlete’s foot,” Paul noted of his top pick.
Pros
- Effective as both a deodorizer and disinfectant
- Kills bacteria, including those causing athlete’s foot
- Easy spray-on application
Cons
- May contain chemicals that some users prefer to avoid
Best deodorizer balls: Sof Sole Sneaker Balls
For a burst of freshness in every step, the Sof Sole Sneaker Balls take the crown. “They’re small, easy to use, and come in fun designs,” Paul raved. “It’s a simple solution and fits in all shoes.”
These compact deodorizer balls may be small, but they pack a powerful punch, effortlessly neutralizing odors and leaving your shoes smelling as crisp as a mountain breeze.
Pros
- Small and easy to use
- Come in attractive designs
Cons
- Might not be as effective for severe odors
- Limited lifespan compared to other deodorizers
Best charcoal deodorizers: 12 Pack Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags
Nature’s deodorant comes in the form of the 12 Pack Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags. A “natural deodorant without any fragrances or chemicals,” Paul said, these purifying bags are “safe for your pets,” as well as “easy and natural.”
Harnessing the natural power of charcoal, these bags elegantly absorb and eliminate odors, leaving your shoes refreshed and your environmental conscience happy.
Pros
- Natural and fragrance-free
- Safe for pets and the environment
- Easy to recharge periodically using sunlight
Cons
- Might take longer to notice the effects compared to chemical-based deodorizers
Best sanitizing deodorizer: Microban Disinfectant Spray
When it comes to combining sanitation and odor eradication, the Microban Disinfectant Spray takes center stage. “Effective at killing any harmful bacteria for the entire day,” Paul stated, this disinfectant spray “eliminates bacteria on top of odor.”
It’s a powerhouse that not only kicks odors to the curb but also ensures that your shoes are a no-go zone for any unwanted germs, making it the perfect ally in the battle against both smell and microbes.
Pros
- Kills harmful bacteria effectively
- Combines sanitization with odor elimination
Cons
- Strong chemical odor might be off-putting to some users
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin or respiratory issues
Best deodorizing insole: Dr. Scholl’s Stay Odor-Free & Dry Comfort Insoles with Odor-X
Step into a world of comfort and freshness with Dr. Scholl’s Stay Odor-Free & Dry Comfort Insoles featuring Odor-X technology. These “keep your foot comfortable on top of removing odor,” according to Paul.
These insoles don’t just make your shoes more comfortable; they wage a war on odors, leaving your feet feeling pampered and your shoes smelling like they just came out of the spa.
Pros
- Provides comfort along with odor control
- Uses Odor-X technology for enhanced effectiveness
Cons
- Requires replacing insoles periodically for ongoing effectiveness
- May not fit all shoe types perfectly
Best UV deodorizer: ShoeZap UV Shoe Sanitizer
“We generally trust Pedifix as a brand, and can recommend this high-tech option,” said Dr. Kristina Janson, a doctor of podiatric medicine with 35 years of experience in clinics and hospitals. The ShoeZap UV Shoe Sanitizer is a cutting-edge solution for eliminating odors and bacteria from your footwear.
Using powerful ultraviolet light, it efficiently sanitizes shoes, leaving them fresh and odor-free, making it a top choice for those seeking a high-tech and effective deodorizing solution.
Pros
- High-tech solution using UV light for sanitation
- Trusted brand recommended by a podiatric doctor
Cons
- Expensive compared to traditional deodorizers
FAQs
What causes shoe odor?
“People think that fungus is the cause of shoe odor, and that’s true to some extent,” Dr. Janson said. “However, serious odor is actually caused by bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa.”
“Another misconception about shoe odor is that it’s caused by sweaty feet,” Dr. Janson went on. “That is also true to some extent, but usually the shoe has gotten drenched in rainy weather. When the shoe has been completely soaked, bacteria can start to grow. Pseudomonas is readily found in our city environment, and a soggy shoe is a great place for it to get cozy and set up shop. Even after the shoe is dry, it’s very hard to get rid of the odor associated with an established bacterial colony. Years ago people used to wear galoshes or rainboots to cover and protect their shoes in the rain, but now it’s common to see people outside on a rainy day with shoes that aren’t waterproof.”
What materials are prone to holding onto odor?
“Synthetic materials retain water and allow fungus and bacteria to thrive,” Dr. Janson noted. “Natural materials such as leather or woolen shoes such as Allbirds can be more breathable, which allows them to resist the growth of fungus and bacteria.”
How do you avoid shoe odor altogether?
Dr. Janson advised to “have waterproof boots and dress for the weather so you’re not caught in a rainstorm with permeable shoes! If you are, try not to wear the shoes for a week and let them fully air dry.” As far as day-to-day maintenance goes, Dr. Janson said to “change socks every day and wear socks with natural materials, such as wool or cotton.”
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