How to Clean Smelly Sneakers

What You’ll Need:

DetergentWhite vinegar

Follow These Steps:

  1. If the shoes are machine washable, launder them in warm water with a small amount of detergent and a cup of white vinegar, says Katie Berry, author of 30 Days to a Clean and Organized House. (Don’t add fabric softener, as it could harm the shoes’ moisture-wicking abilities.)
  2. After the wash, place the shoes in the sun to dry. Never put sneakers in the dryer, as it could damage the adhesive.

How to Prevent Smelly Shoes in the First Place

Help avoid shoe odor by wearing athletic socks made from a blend of synthetic fabrics (like Balega Silver Antimicrobial Running Socks, from $13.50; amazon.com), which will help keep feet dry, says Kathy Gates, owner of the Running Well Stores in the Kansas City, Missouri area. Don’t wear the same shoes day after day. If you can, alternate between shoes so each pair has a chance to air out. If you’re storing sneakers away for the season, clean them first. Then stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture or sprinkle the inside of the shoe with a deodorizing powder, such as baking soda. Vacuum up any excess powder before wearing.