Can I use dryer sheets for smelly shoes?

Author: Philip Harris PhD  |  Last update: Sunday, July 6, 2025

For closed shoes, just tuck an unused dryer sheet down into each shoe and leave it overnight. If you need to remove smells from sandals, flip flops, or other open shoes, wrap the dryer sheet around the part of the shoe that touches your foot and tuck it underneath the bottom.

Are dryer sheets good for shoe odor?

2. Dryer Sheets or a Bar of Soap Place a dryer sheet (or two) or a bar of soap inside each shoe. This helps absorb the sweat and freshen up the shoes at the same time.

What is the best thing to put in your shoes for odor?

Baking soda is a game-changer for shoes with unpleasant odors. Simply sprinkle a bit of baking soda inside each shoe and let it sit overnight. The baking soda absorbs moisture and neutralizes smells, leaving your shoes fresh and ready to wear.

How do you get bad smell out of shoes?

1. Place your shoes outside or in a well-ventilated area to air them out. 2. Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe and let it sit overnight to absorb moisture and odor. 3. Make a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar and use a spray bottle to spray it inside your shoes.

Do dryer sheets absorb odors?

Yes, dryer sheets can help reduce odors in clothing and laundry. They contain fragrances and softening agents that can mask or neutralize smells. When used in the dryer, they can impart a fresh scent to clothes and linens. However, they may not completely eliminate strong odors, such as those from smoke or mildew.

Do dryer sheets help smelly shoes?

What is the best thing to absorb odors?

There are plenty of things you probably already have in your home that can naturally clear odors from the air. Some of the best odor eliminators are coffee grounds, tea, vinegar, oats, and baking soda.

How to stop feet from smelling in shoes?

Do
  1. wash your feet at least once a day (use an antibacterial soap if you can)
  2. remove hard skin with a foot file and keep toenails short and clean.
  3. use foot powder or an antiperspirant.
  4. wear breathable or natural fabrics on your feet, like cotton or leather.
  5. let shoes dry out before wearing them again.

How long does it take baking soda to deodorize shoes?

Tilt and shake the shoe to evenly distribute the powder. Let It Sit Overnight: Leave the baking soda in the shoes for a few hours, ideally overnight. For extra-stinky shoes, leave it for 24 hours.

How to get rid of musty smell in shoes?

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.

Does freezing shoes remove odor?

Freezing your shoes can help reduce the odor by killing some bacteria that cause the smell, but it won't eliminate all of it. Here's why: Bacteria thrive in moist, warm environments.

How to stop running shoes from smelling?

You can use baking soda, which can help absorb smells and bacteria. Hardy says to sprinkle a generous amount inside each shoe and let it sit for several hours, ideally overnight.

Can you put shoes in the dryer?

Because most shoes are put together by glue that won't withstand the high temperatures of a dryer, air drying is the safest option. Stuff your shoes with rags or balls of crumpled newspaper to help them keep their shape and keep away from direct sunlight.

How long do you leave dryer sheets in shoes?

Leave the dryer sheets and baking soda in your shoes for 4-8 hours.

What's the best shoe deodorizer?

The Best Shoe Deodorizers
  • Best Overall: 10 Seconds Shoe Disinfectant and Deodorizer.
  • Best Budget: Dr. Scholl's Odor-X Odor-Fighting Spray Powder for Shoes.
  • Most Versatile: Hex Performance Deodorizing Spray.
  • Best Pod: GearHalo Sports Deodorizer Pods.
  • Best All-Natural Spray: Rocket Pure Natural Foot & Shoe Deodorizer Spray.

Can smelly shoes be saved?

If your shoes still smell after washing, sprinkle baking soda inside of them and let it sit overnight. You can also try the white vinegar method by combining it with water in a spray bottle and spraying it on the shoes.

How do you get rid of shoe odor asap?

Fresh Lime or Lemon Peel

To get rid of the bad odor, try leaving a fresh lime or lemon peel in the shoes overnight. This can freshen up the footwear. If you don't have fresh products, feel free to use essential oils instead. Just, make sure to let the shoes dry before you wear them.

How fast does baking soda remove odor?

Baking soda typically take at least 24 hours to absorb odors, says Kathy Cohoon, the director of franchise operations of Two Maids. For stubborn smells, however, it can take several days to soak up the odor.

How to get pee smell out of shoes?

Vinegar or Baking Soda: Add ¼ cup of white vinegar or baking soda to neutralize the odor. Vinegar kills bacteria, while baking soda absorbs odors. Air Dry: Instead of using a dryer, air dry your shoes.

What is the best foot wash for smelly feet?

Use a surgical-grade antibacterial soap found at your pharmacy. We recommend Betadine Skin Cleanser, pHisoderm® or Hibiclens. Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes.

Why does it smell when I open my legs?

Sweat is a combination of water, salt, and other chemicals. When it comes into contact with bacteria on the skin, it produces an odor. fungal infections: Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist areas, such as the groin area and inner thighs. They can cause a red, itchy rash and produce an unpleasant odor.

How to get rid of hard skin on feet permanently?

Do
  1. wear thick, cushioned socks.
  2. wear wide, comfortable shoes with a low heel and soft sole that do not rub.
  3. use soft insoles or heel pads in your shoes.
  4. soak corns and calluses in warm water to soften them.
  5. regularly use a pumice stone or foot file to remove hard skin.
  6. moisturise to help keep skin soft.

Why you should stop using dryer sheets immediately?

As mentioned, dryer sheets can lead to residue buildup in the interior and vents of your dryer over time, which may pose issues like: Reduced airflow and ventilation. Overheating. Longer drying times.

Why use a dryer sheet on the toilet?

Pick up dust and hair

All you need is a normal dryer sheet. Run it over any part of your toilet that has unwanted dust, hair or debris. The sheet picks up all that loose stuff in a flash. No more having to go back two or three times while your towel or cloth just pushes it around.

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