HYROX training, sweaty push days, marathon runs, long workdays and daily walks all take their toll on your sneakers.
And if you’re reaching for the same pair day after day, there’s a good chance you’ll notice a lingering smell when you take them off.
But don’t sweat it. We’ve got a few tips to help stop your sneakers from smelling, starting with what to do as soon as you take them off.
So, what causes smelly sneakers?
We asked our in-house sneaker technician to help us put your smelly sneaker issues to bed.
“The main cause of smelly sneakers is due to the buildup of bacteria within your shoes. If worn frequently, the mixture of sweat and dead skin cells in a warm, enclosed environment causes that unwanted, lingering smell.”
Our technician also points out that some shoes have better ventilation than others. If your go-to pair still feels damp when you’re about to head out, give it more time to air and reach for another pair.
Tip 1: Ditch The Damp With The Cloth-Drying Method
Whether your trainers have got damp from the rain, an unwanted spill or a sweaty gym session, start by patting them dry with a clean microfibre cloth.
- Blot away excess moisture. Press the cloth gently against damp areas. If the inside is wet, blot around the heel lining and as far into the toe box as you can comfortably reach.
- Open up your trainers. Loosen the laces, pull the tongue forward and take out the insoles if they’re removable. Leave them to dry separately so air can reach both sides.
- Give them room to air-dry. If your sneakers are soaked, rest them opening down on a drying rack to let excess water drip away. Then turn them upright with the tongues pulled forward and leave them in a well-ventilated spot, away from direct heat.
- Check the inside before wearing them again. The outside can feel dry while the heel lining or the area under the insole is still damp. Give those areas a quick check before putting the pair back into rotation.
Tip 2: Try Bicarbonate Of Soda For Lingering Odours
If your trainers are dry and there’s still a smell hanging around, try bicarbonate of soda, also known as baking soda. A pair of clean socks keeps the powder contained and saves you from shaking it out of the toe box the next morning.
- Fill two clean, dry socks. Spoon a little bicarbonate of soda into each one and tie the tops securely.
- Place one sock inside each trainer. Leave them in overnight.
- Take them out in the morning. If the smell keeps coming back, check the insoles and follow the shoe brand’s care instructions for cleaning them.
Tip 3: Check the Label Before Using a Disinfectant
If you choose to use a disinfectant, look for one that specifically lists your sneaker's lining or insole material as suitable. Sprays can be easier to apply inside the toe box, while wipes are easier to control on an exposed surface, such as a removable insole, if the label allows it.
Patch-test in an inconspicuous area first and follow the instructions on the packaging, including how long the product needs to stay on the surface and when it’s safe to wear the shoes again.
Clean Away Visible Dirt With Crep Protect Cure
If your sneakers are looking a little worse for wear too, give them a clean with the Crep Protect Cure Travel Kit. It comes with our Cure Cleaning Solution, a brush and a microfibre cloth to lift everyday dirt and grime and get your pair looking box-fresh again.
- Brush away loose dirt. If you’re dealing with mud, let it dry before brushing it off.
- Prep your brush. Dip it in warm water, shake off the excess and add a small amount of Cure Cleaning Solution.
- Clean in small sections. Patch-test first, then work the brush in gentle circular motions on compatible areas of the upper and midsole. Go lightly around delicate materials and avoid soaking the shoe.
- Wipe away the foam. Use a clean microfibre cloth to lift the foam and loosened dirt, then leave your sneakers to air-dry fully.
Find out everything you need to know about Crep Protect Cure here
Finish Off With Crep Protect DEO
Once your shoes are dry, finish off with Crep Protect DEO for up to 24 hours of freshness. The dual-action nozzle helps cover the inside of the shoe from heel to toe.
Shake the can, place the nozzle inside the trainer and press down to spray. Follow the directions on the bottle before slipping your sneakers back on.
Tips on fighting the funk? Click here
Why Do My Sneakers Still Smell After Cleaning?
If you’ve only cleaned the outside, check the heel lining and insoles. They can still be damp even when the upper feels dry. Take the insoles out if they’re removable, air them separately and check the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning them. If you wear the same pair for every gym session or shift, try rotating it with another pair so it has time to dry between wears.
Find out how you can clean different sneaker materials
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