DIY STINKY SHOE SPRAY: FRESHEN WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

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With just a few simple ingredients and the power of essential oils, you can create a DIY Stinky Shoe Spray that eliminates odors naturally.

As the dog days of summer start melting into autumn, we’re left with sun-kissed memories—and some seriously smelly shoes – HA!

For some reason The Little Rascals line, “This tastes like somebody poured it through an old boot!” comes to mind. 😆

Between beach runs, backyard games, and marathon practice sessions, your sneakers have absorbed every ounce of summer adventure (and odor). But please know you don’t need harsh chemicals to freshen things up.

Just let those summer shoes air out, grab a couple ingredients, and mix up this easy stinky shoe deodorizing spray. So, no more bad smell – only fresh, clean shoes. All with a quick and easy homemade shoe spray.

WHAT CAUSES BAD ODORS IN SHOES?

So, what’s causing the smelly shoes in the first place? Whether it’s sweaty sneakers, worn-out work boots, or everyday footwear, odor buildup and unpleasant smells is a common problem. Stinky shoes are usually the result of moisture, bacteria, and fungi teaming up to create an unpleasant smell. Here’s how it happens:

• Sweat Accumulation – Your feet naturally sweat throughout the day, and closed shoes create a warm, humid environment where moisture gets trapped.
• Bacteria Growth – Sweat itself doesn’t smell much, but bacteria thrive in warm, damp places. As they break down sweat and dead skin cells, they release unpleasant odors.
• Fungi & Mold – In especially moist conditions, shoes can become a breeding ground for fungi and mildew, which contribute to unpleasant odors.
• Material Matters – Shoes made from synthetic materials tend to trap moisture more than natural materials like leather, which can allow for better ventilation.
• Lack of Airflow – Shoes that don’t breathe well cause sweat and bacteria to linger instead of drying out properly.
• Wearing Shoes Without Socks – Socks help absorb sweat and reduce direct contact between sweaty feet and shoes, limiting bacteria buildup. Bare feet in shoes often accelerates odor formation.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• 4 oz. glass spray bottle
• small funnel

NATURAL INGREDIENTS FOR DIY STINKY SHOE SPRAY

• 1/2 glass bottle witch hazel
• 1/2 glass bottle water
• 20 drops essential oils

*Note – Filtered water or distilled water works best for this recipe.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Using the funnel, combine the water and witch hazel as a 50/50 solution in the spray bottle.
2. Add in the essential oils.
3. For best results gently shake to combine before each use.
4. Spritz directly into shoes, especially after wearing.
5. Let dry before putting the shoes away or wearing again.

For an extra boost, tuck a cotton ball with a drop of your blend inside each of your shoes overnight.

ESSENTIAL OIL BLENDS

Essential oils can be an effective natural antibacterial and antifungal solution. Try these blends to create a pleasant scent in your Homemade Stinky Shoe Spray:

Purify by Revive – this blend of Rosemary, Citronella, Lemongrass, Lavandin, Tea Tree, and Myrtle essential oils is Revive’s version of Young Living’s Purification. This is my go-to and the perfect blend for eliminating odors.

DIY Shoe Odor Remover Blend

• 8 drops tea tree oil (antimicrobial and antifungal properties)
• 6 drops peppermint oil (refreshing and cooling)
• 6 drops lavender oil (calming and odor-neutralizing)
• 4 drops lemon oil or eucalyptus oil (bright & crisp)

OTHER EFFECTIVE METHODS TO HELP FRESHEN UP STINKY SHOES

• Air Them Out – Take your shoes outside or place them in a well-ventilated area to dry out.
• Baking Soda – Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside overnight to absorb moisture and odors.
• Wash If Possible – If machine-washable, run them through a warm water cycle in your washing machine with mild detergent and then air dry completely.
• Vinegar + Water – Wipe the insides down with a mix of white vinegar and water to kill bacteria.
• Freeze Your Shoes – Bag them up and pop them in the freezer overnight—cold temperatures kill odor-causing bacteria.
• Cotton Balls – tuck a cotton ball with a drop of your blend inside each of your shoes overnight.

PREVENTION TIPS

• Wear Moisture-Wicking Socks – They help absorb sweat and keep your feet dry.
• Rotate Shoes – Wearing different pairs gives each one time to fully dry.
• Opt for Breathable Materials – Leather, canvas, and mesh allow better airflow than synthetic fabrics.

So, keep your shoes smelling fresh with this simple solution! Forget about the overpowering store-bought sprays and opt for a natural and effective way to eliminate persistent odors.

This diy shoe deodorizer spray is quick to make, cost-effective, and packed with odor-fighting power. Give it a try and enjoy every step with confidence!

PIN IT FOR LATER!

With football season just starting, this natural deodorizer is also a natural way to freshen up your gym bag!

Do you have a favorite essential oil blend for fresh-smelling shoes? Share your favorite combo in the comments below!

Blessings,

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