How Do I Get Rid Of Smelly Badminton Shoes?

In this article, we will explore some of the best ways to get rid of smelly badminton shoes and keep them smelling fresh and clean. Badminton shoes can develop an unpleasant odor over time due to sweat, bacteria, and other factors. The smell can be quite strong and persistent, making it uncomfortable to wear the shoes on the court. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to get rid of smelly badminton shoes and keep them fresh and clean. From washing them with baking soda to using odor-neutralizing sprays or inserts, these methods can help eliminate the odor and prevent it from coming back.

What causes smelly badminton shoes?

Here are some common causes of smelly badminton shoes:

Sweat: During intense physical activity, such as playing badminton, our feet can sweat profusely, leading to moisture buildup in shoes.
Bacteria and fungi: The moist environment inside shoes can provide a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi that produce unpleasant odors.
Poor ventilation: Shoes that are tightly sealed or lack proper ventilation can trap moisture and heat, making it difficult for them to dry out and leading to the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Wearing shoes without socks: Wearing badminton shoes without socks can increase the likelihood of sweat and bacteria buildup.
Not drying shoes properly: Failure to dry out shoes properly after use can cause moisture to remain inside, leading to the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Using shoes for activities other than badminton: Using badminton shoes for other activities, such as running or hiking, can expose them to different types of bacteria and fungi, which can cause odor buildup.

Effective ways to get rid of smelly badminton shoes:

Here are some ways to keep badminton shoes odor-free and fresh:

Proper ventilation:

After each use, remove the insoles and loosen the laces to allow air to circulate inside the shoes.
Store the shoes in a well-ventilated area to help them dry out completely.

Wash the shoes:

Use mild detergent and warm water to wash the shoes. thoroughly.
Scrub the soles, sides, and insoles of the shoes with a brush to remove any dirt and bacteria.
Allow the shoes to dry completely before wearing them again.

Use odor-neutralizing sprays or inserts:

Apply an odor-neutralizing spray to the inside of the shoes to kill bacteria and fungi.
Insert odor-neutralizing inserts inside the shoes to absorb moisture and eliminate odors.

Use baking soda:

One of the most effective and popular methods to remove bad odor from shoes is by using baking soda, which is a common household item found in most kitchens.
Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes to absorb moisture and neutralize odors.
Leave the baking soda in the shoes for several hours, then shake out the excess before wearing them again.
Another way to use this, prepare two small sachets of baking soda and place them inside your smelly shoes before wearing them.
The sachets will quickly absorb the bad odor. Alternatively, you can also wrap baking soda in a thin cloth, tie it using a rubber band, and place it inside your Yonex badminton shoes.
Leave the sachets or cloth inside the shoes until the odor disappears.
Another option is to dust baking soda inside the footbed and leave it overnight, allowing the baking soda to absorb the moisture and odor. In the morning, shake out the excess baking soda before wearing the shoes.
These methods are simple, inexpensive, and effective at keeping your badminton shoes odor-free.

Wear socks:

Wear clean socks made of breathable materials. Such as cotton or bamboo to absorb sweat and prevent bacteria buildup.

Change socks frequently during prolonged periods of physical activity.

Alternate shoes:

Avoid wearing the same pair of badminton shoes every day.

Alternate between at least two pairs of shoes to allow them to dry out completely between uses.

Alcohol:

Bacteria are a common culprit behind the bad smell in badminton shoes, and alcohol can effectively eliminate them and remove the odor. To begin, it’s important to disinfect the shoes by drying them out. You can leave them in the sun for a few hours to achieve this. Next, take rubbing alcohol and pour it into a small spray bottle. Spray enough of the alcohol inside your shoes to completely saturate the footbed. Alternatively, you can pour the rubbing alcohol into a small tub and soak your shoes in it for 5-10 minutes. Once done, take the shoes out and allow them to sit for a while until the alcohol evaporates. This process will kill the bacteria and make your shoes odorless. If your feet also smell, you can wash them thoroughly and then spray alcohol on them, allowing them to evaporate before drying your feet with a cloth or rug.

How do you get rid of smelly badminton shoes without washing them?

Use tea bags: Tea bags, especially those containing black tea, are known to absorb moisture and bad odors. Place a few tea bags inside your shoes and leave them overnight.
Use essential oils: Essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree oil, can help eliminate bad odors and kill bacteria in your shoes. Simply add a few drops of the oil onto a cotton ball and place it inside your shoes.
Use activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is an effective natural odor absorber that can help remove bad smells from your shoes. Place a small bag of activated charcoal inside your shoes and leave it overnight.
Use dryer sheets: Dryer sheets are known for their ability to freshen up laundry and can also help eliminate bad odors in your shoes. Simply place a dryer sheet inside each shoe and leave it overnight.

Remember, these methods are temporary solutions and should not replace regular cleaning of your badminton shoes.

How to take care of badminton shoes?

Here are some tips for taking care of your badminton shoes:

Wipe your shoes clean after each use to remove dirt and sweat
Avoid machine washing your shoes, as this can damage the materials
Stuff your shoes with newspaper or a shoe tree to help them retain their shape and dry out between uses
Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Use a specialized shoe cleaner and conditioner to clean and protect the shoes’ materials
Rotate between at least two pairs of shoes to give each pair time to air out and dry between uses
Avoid wearing your badminton shoes for activities other than playing badminton to prevent unnecessary wear and tear
Replace your shoes when they become worn out or lose their support and cushioning, which can lead to discomfort and injuries.