Sandals are the shoes of summer and a sure sign of a good time - they are easy to put on, very comfortable and look great with any outfit. However, one little thing can spoil all these positive qualities - the unpleasant smell of sweat and dirt. If your summer shoes have fallen victim to unpleasant odors, don't worry! It is possible to eliminate them without much difficulty. In this article, we will tell you some tried and tested methods on how to clean smelly sandals, whether they are rubber or leather shoes, Birkenstocks, etc.
Possible reasons for sandal smell
Why do sandals stink? The answer to this question is simple. Feet stink, so shoes stink. That's the main reason! But let's look at a few more causes that can lead to unpleasant odors.
- Sweaty feet: Excessive foot sweating combined with poor hygiene can cause your sandals to smell bad. It's important to keep your feet clean by washing them daily with soap - preferably an antibacterial soap if your feet tend to sweat. If necessary, apply foot powder or antiperspirant to control odors.
- Storage and moisture: Store your sandals in a cool, dry room to prevent bacteria, mold and mildew from forming on them. Since the sandals will get damp on your daily walks, especially if you wear them on the beach, you will want to make sure they are allowed to air out and dry well between wears.
- Product deposits: Sunscreens, lotions, powders, and body washes can build up on your sandals. If you don't clean them often enough, your shoes will get very dirty and smells will build up.
- The material: Some materials, such as rubber, are not as porous, allowing odors to remain on the shoe. The good thing about it is that it's easier to deodorize!
How can you clean smelly sandals
Are you ready to learn how to clean smelly sandals? We will now present some of them to youeffective methodsbefore, and if you cannot completely remove the smell with one method, you can try another.
With baking soda and vinegar
This is an easy and non-toxic method for cleaning sandals. We love it for Birkenstocks, but it also works for rubbers, jelly shoes, loafers, slippers, and more.
- Remove dirt by wiping the sandals with a cloth.
- Mix a 1:2 solution of baking soda and distilled white vinegar to make a soluble paste. Adjust quantities if necessary.
- Apply the solution to the sandals using a soft-bristled brush and gently scrub in a circular motion.
- Allow the solution to sit on the sandals overnight to eliminate odors.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe the paste off the shoes.
- Allow the shoes to air dry, away from direct heat and sunlight. This may take 24 hours or longer depending on the shoe material.
With essential oils
Essential oils have the natural ability to deodorize. Here's how to use them to clean smelly sandals:
- Mix essential oils. Note that eucalyptus, clove, peppermint, tea tree, lavender, and lemongrass deodorize best. We recommend a combination of at least three of these oils, but if you have them all on hand, you can simply use them all together.
- Mix about 50 drops total (about 8-10 of each oil).
- Then, dip a cotton ball into the essential oil mixture and rub it on your sandals.
- Allow the oil to dry in the shoes overnight. You don't need to rinse it off.
- Notice: Essential oils can cause skin irritation, especially when undiluted. Wear gloves when applying the solution to avoid discomfort.
With air and sunlight
If you still need a method to remove odors from your sandals and the above measures are not enough, just try using air and sunlight. Leave the smelly shoes outside in a well-ventilated area on a dry day.
However, avoid placing leather or suede shoes in direct sunlight as this can cause the material to crack and dry out. You can put them in a shady and well-ventilated place.
Clean smelly sandals with dryer sheets
When you're done using the dryer sheet, don't throw it away. You can use it to combat odors in your sandals. Follow these simple steps:
- First, rub the entire shoes with a dryer sheet to absorb odors.
- Then leave another one in the sandals overnight to leave a fresh scent.
Place them in the freezer for 12 hours
This is more of a trick than anything scientific. However, the irony is that this trick works. How to use it:
- Place the sandals in a plastic bag.
- Freeze them in the freezer for 12 hours.
- Remove the shoes from the bag and let them dry well in a well-ventilated place.
Notice: You already know this – If your sandals are made of jelly or rubber, let them dry in direct sunlight. If they are made of leather or suede, let them dry in a shady place.
How to Clean Sandals Footbed - Methods to Make Your Summer Shoes Like Newcan be found here!
