The cause of unpleasant odors in shoes is the growth of bacteria caused by sweat, sebum, and dirt. However, even if you are careful, as long as you wear shoes, odors will inevitably occur. A familiar item that can be used there is "baking soda".
This time, I will introduce why baking soda can deodorize and how to deodorize it. At work or on the go, let's get rid of the worry that "everyone will find out the smell of your shoes..."!
3 reasons why baking soda has a deodorizing effect
First, let's take a look at why baking soda has a deodorizing effect.
Decompose sebum by neutralization reaction
The main reason why baking soda can deodorize is that it is weakly alkaline and can neutralize acidic stains. One of the reasons shoes smell is human sebum. By using baking soda against sebum, which is acidic, you can reduce odors by breaking down dirt.
Suppresses the growth of various bacteria with bacteriostatic action
Baking soda has the power to suppress the growth of bacteria called bacteriostatic action. Although it is not strong enough to kill bacteria, it can suppress the growth of bacteria that cause odors. As a result, odors are prevented.
Removes moisture with a dehumidifying effect
Baking soda has a certain hygroscopic effect and can remove moisture from shoes. There are many sweat glands on the soles of the feet, and they sweat a lot, so it is common for the inside of the shoes to become damp. Bacteria love moisture, so damp shoes are more likely to produce odors. If you can dehumidify with baking soda, you can also suppress the smell.
How to get rid of shoe odor with baking soda
Now, let's actually use baking soda to remove the smell from the shoes. There are three main ways to use baking soda.
- Dissolve baking soda in water and make a spray
・Make deodorizing bag of baking soda
・ Apply baking soda directly
-Wash your shoes with baking soda
Let's take a closer look at each, as they can be used in different situations.
Dissolve baking soda in water and make a spray
You can make your own deodorant spray by dissolving baking soda in water and putting it in a commercially available spray bottle. Dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in 100ml of water. Just spray it on the shoes that smell.
Spray both the inside and outside of your shoes to remove odors. Baking soda may not dissolve completely in water, so it is recommended to shake it before using so that it does not clog the nozzle. However, the disadvantage is that baking soda remains on the shoes and that it is less effective than other methods.
Make a deodorant bag of baking soda
How to make your own deodorant bag using baking soda. Put baking soda into socks, stockings, or soup stock packs that are breathable and prevent the baking soda powder from spilling out.
If you put the deodorant bag in your shoes and leave it overnight, you can expect a sufficient deodorant effect. You can easily adjust the size by changing the bag and the amount of baking soda, so you can use it in a variety of ways, such as using it as a shoe keeper or as a small deodorant bag for carrying around. However, the deodorant effect of baking soda disappears in about 2 to 3 months, so it is necessary to remake it periodically.
Pour baking soda directly onto your shoes
For stubborn odors and stains, you can also apply baking soda directly to your shoes. By sprinkling, you can expect a more direct effect. It also has bactericidal and dehumidifying effects, so it can not only deodorize, but also prevent new odors from occurring. Be sure to spread it well not only on the outside of the shoe, but also on the inside.
However, it is recommended to use a deodorant bag or spray because baking soda gets into shoes with boa material on the inside and is difficult to remove. Also, if you have sensitive skin, you should avoid using baking soda as it may cause your feet to become rough. Use it when you want to quickly deodorize, or wear shoes such as sandals where baking soda can be easily removed.
If your shoes are very dirty or smelly, wash them with baking soda
Baking soda can break down sebum stains, so it can be used as a detergent when washing shoes. Wash shoes with baking soda to get rid of odors, especially if the shoes have stubborn stains or a strong odor.
Soak it in water with baking soda dissolved in it, and then rub it with a toothbrush to help remove stains and odors. Soak for at least 30 minutes to an hour, and if you have time, overnight is recommended. Finally, drain the water well and dry it in a well-ventilated shade.
Baking soda also helps deodorize shoe cupboards
The deodorant effect of baking soda can be used for more than just shoes. For example, a shoe cupboard where multiple shoes are stored is a spot where moisture tends to accumulate and unpleasant odors tend to accumulate. By placing a bottle or deodorant bag containing baking soda, you can expect dehumidification and deodorizing effects. Since the shoe box is larger than the shoes, it is recommended to use a container with a wide mouth or a large deodorant bag so that the baking soda can easily come into contact with the air.
Let's deodorize shoes using a familiar item "baking soda"!
Today I will show you how to deodorize shoes using baking soda. The unpleasant smell of shoes is something that sticks even if you are careful. Especially in the hot and humid summer and rainy days, it is easy to smell, so be careful. When you get home, don't just put it in the shoe cupboard.
Baking soda can also be used as a deodorant for new shoes because it has the effect of suppressing moisture and bacteria that cause odors. When you buy new shoes, use baking soda to dehumidify them and reduce the growth of bacteria before they start to smell.
