Why Are My New Shoes Smelly and How to Fix It

It's frustrating to just get new shoes and immediately notice that they smell bad. There can be several reasons behind this smell, including materials, manufacturing processes, moisture, and lack of ventilation. This article will delve into these causes and provide effective solutions to resolve the odor issue.

Causes of Smelly New Shoes

Materials: Many shoes are constructed from synthetic materials such as plastics, rubber, and adhesives. These materials can emit strong odors, especially when the shoes are new. The smell can be more pronounced due to the chemicals used in their production.

Manufacturing Process: The chemicals present in the manufacturing process, including dyes and glues, can contribute to the initial smell. These chemicals may take time to dissipate, leading to an unpleasant odor.

Moisture: If the shoes were stored in a humid environment, moisture can accumulate, which can lead to mold or mildew. This can create a musty smell that is quite unpleasant.

Lack of Ventilation: If the shoes are not allowed to air out properly after being worn, sweat and moisture can build up, causing odors to develop.

Solutions to Reduce Shoe Odor

Here are some effective tips to reduce the smell of your new shoes:

Air Them Out

Leaving the Shoes in a Well-ventilated Area: Allow your shoes to air out in a well-ventilated area for a few days. This can help dissipate the odor and allow the saturated materials to dry out.

Baking Soda Treatment

Sprinkle Baking Soda Inside the Shoes: Place a generous amount of baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight. Baking soda is effective in absorbing odors and can help deodorize your shoes. Arm Hammer offers vented boxes of baking soda that can be placed inside the shoes for extended odor absorption without spilling.

Vinegar Solution

Wipe the Inside with Vinegar: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar and use a clean cloth to wipe the inside of the shoes. This solution can help neutralize smells and provide a fresher odour.

Odor-Fighting Insoles

Consider Using Odor-Combating Insoles: There are insoles designed specifically to combat odors. These insoles can absorb moisture and bacteria and reduce the overall smell of the shoes.

Additional Tips for Preventing Odor

Using Baking Soda: You can add a small amount of baking soda to the insides of the shoes when you're not wearing them. This will help absorb any leftover odors and keep the shoes fresher for longer.

Foot Care: Did you know that the human foot sweats an average of 1 cup or 8 oz per day? This combined with bacteria can create an unpleasant odor. To prevent this:

Antiperspirant and Antibacterial Soap

Use a Strong Antiperspirant: Consider using a product like Monray Antiperspirant Foot Treatment to stop sweat. Combined with a good antibacterial soap, you can effectively kill the bacteria on your feet that cause odors. This dual approach, known as a "double whammy," can help keep your feet and shoes smelling fresh.

By understanding the causes of shoe odor and implementing these solutions, you can ensure your new shoes stay fresh and odor-free. Remember to regularly air out your shoes and use baking soda or other odor-absorbent products to keep them smelling pleasant.