Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means that we may receive a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you.

You know that feeling when you slip on your favorite pair of kicks, and instead of being greeted with the fresh scent of possibility, you’re hit with a wave of funky foot odor? Yeah, not exactly the vibe we’re going for. But fear not, fellow shoe enthusiasts! I’ve got some killer tips to ensure your footwear stays smelling as fresh as a field of daisies.

1. Choose the Right Materials

Let’s start from the ground up, shall we? Opt for shoes made from breathable materials like leather, canvas, or mesh. These materials allow your feet to breathe, reducing sweat and minimizing odor buildup. Plus, they’re stylish AF. 

2. Rotate Your Shoes

Variety is the spice of life, and it’s also the key to keeping your shoes smelling fresh. Rotate your footwear regularly to give each pair time to air out and deodorize naturally.  It’s like giving your shoes a little vacation – they’ll come back smelling better than ever.This tip works wonders for me, but of course, it means that I need to buy more shoes!

3. Use Odor-Eliminating Inserts

Say goodbye to stinky shoes and hello to odor-eliminating inserts. These bad boys are like magic for your feet, absorbing moisture and neutralizing odors with ease. Pop them into your shoes when you’re not wearing them, and voila – instant freshness. Check out this top pick for Odor-Eliminating Inserts

4. Keep ‘Em Clean

This one’s a no-brainer, folks. Regularly clean your shoes to prevent odor buildup and keep them looking fly. Use a gentle cleanser and a soft brush to remove dirt and grime, then let them air dry completely before wearing them again. See our article on the new trend in sneaker care.

5. Spritz, Spritz, Spritz

When all else fails, a quick spritz of shoe deodorizer can work wonders. Look for a formula specifically designed to eliminate odors and freshen up your kicks. Just a couple of sprays and your shoes will be smelling like a field of lavender (hopefully you aren’t allergic) in no time. 

6. Use Essential Oils

Essential oils aren’t just for aromatherapy – they’re also great for banishing shoe smells. Mix water with a few drops of tea tree and lavender essential oils in a spray bottle, then spritz the solution inside and outside your gym shoes after a workout. Also, try placing a cotton ball soaked in your favorite essential oil in each shoe overnight.  Essential oils like doTERRA oils that also work well for odors include lemon, rosemary, and peppermint.

7. Air ‘Em Out

As soon as you kick off your gym shoes after a workout, give them some breathing room. Don’t traipse around your house in those sweaty kicks – let them air out in the fresh air ASAP. The longer you wait, the harder it’ll be to kick that funky odor to the curb.

8. Wash Your Gym Shoes

When your kicks are in need of a serious refresh, don’t be afraid to give them a good wash. Remove the laces and insoles, then hand wash or toss them in cold water with a neutral detergent. Some shoes, like the Skechers Go-Walk we reviewed earlier, can be washed without removing the laces and insoles. It’s like giving your shoes a spa day – they’ll come out smelling brand spanking new.

9. Freeze ‘Em

Who knew extreme cold could be the secret to fresh kicks? Pop your gym shoes in resealable plastic bags and stick them in the freezer overnight. Alternatively, if it’s chilly outside, leave them in your car overnight. The cold will zap any lingering odors, leaving your shoes smelling as fresh as a winter’s day. I haven’t tried this idea myself yet, but it is definitely intriguing. 

And there you have it – my top tips for keeping your gym shoes smelling fresh AF. With a little help from essential oils, some powder, and a bit of fresh air, you’ll never have to worry about funky foot odor again. So lace up those kicks and hit the gym with confidence, knowing that your shoes are smelling minty fresh.

Do you have any other tips for banishing shoe odor? Share them with us in the comments.