Eliminating Odor From Boat Shoes: A Step-By-Step Guide

Boat shoes are a summer staple, but they can often be the cause of unwanted odours. The dreaded Sperry Stink is caused by sweat becoming trapped inside the shoe, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. This bacteria then excretes waste, resulting in an unpleasant smell. To prevent this, it is important to keep your shoes free of moisture and allow them to dry properly after each wear. Here are some tips to keep your boat shoes smelling fresh:

Wash your feet thoroughly

Washing your feet is an important step in preventing smelly boat shoes. Here are some tips to ensure your feet are clean and help reduce foot odour:

• Wash your feet daily, especially after wearing shoes. Pay attention to your feet when you shower and ensure they are thoroughly cleaned.
• Don't forget to scrub your feet. Use a pumice stone to give your feet a good scrub and remove any dirt or dead skin cells. This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria that can cause odour.
• Wash between your toes. Make sure to scrub between your toes, as this area can be prone to bacteria buildup.
• Dry your feet thoroughly after washing. Bacteria thrive in moist environments, so ensure your feet are completely dry before putting on shoes or socks.
• Practise good foot hygiene. Trim your toenails regularly and keep your feet clean and dry. This reduces the places where bacteria can hide and multiply.
• Use foot care products. Consider using foot soap, foot powder, or foot antiperspirant to help keep your feet fresh and odour-free.

Use foot powder

Foot powder is a great way to keep your boat shoes smelling fresh. It's an easy, effective method to combat the dreaded "Sperry Stink" that can occur due to sweat and bacteria.

Firstly, ensure your feet are clean. Wash your feet and make sure to scrub between your toes. This is important as it prevents the build-up of sweat and bacteria, which is the root cause of smelly shoes.

Next, choose a foot powder that will help to absorb moisture and keep your feet dry. There are many options available, such as Dr. Scholl's Soothing Foot Powder, Gold Bond Foot Powder, or FOOT SENSE All Natural Smelly Foot & Shoe Powder. Apply a light dusting of the powder to your feet before wearing your boat shoes. This will help to keep your feet dry and odour-free throughout the day.

Additionally, you can also apply foot powder directly into your boat shoes. A light dusting of powder inside the shoes will help to absorb any excess moisture and prevent the growth of bacteria. This is especially useful if you tend to wear your boat shoes without socks, as it will help to keep the insoles dry and fresh.

By using foot powder regularly, you can effectively prevent your boat shoes from developing an odour. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can make a big difference in keeping your shoes smelling fresh.

Freeze your shoes

Freezing your shoes is a simple and cost-effective way to tackle odours. This method works by exposing your shoes to extreme cold, which kills the bacteria that cause the odour. While freezing your shoes won't entirely eliminate the smell, it will certainly reduce it.

Steps to Freeze Your Shoes Properly:

• Place your shoes in a plastic bag. This prevents any odours from transferring to your food.
• Seal the bag tightly to keep out moisture and other odours.
• Leave the bagged shoes in the freezer for at least 12 hours. For optimal odour reduction, leave them in overnight.
• After removing your shoes from the freezer, let them thaw and air out completely before wearing them again. This ensures that any remaining moisture evaporates.

Combine Freezing with Other Methods:

For extra odour-fighting power, combine freezing with other methods, such as:

• Sprinkling baking soda inside the shoes before freezing. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that absorbs bad smells and neutralizes pH levels.
• Using a white vinegar spray after freezing. A mix of white vinegar and water can neutralize bacteria. Spray lightly and let the shoes dry.
• Inserting tea bags after freezing. Tea bags, especially black tea, contain tannins that help reduce bacteria. They also absorb moisture and leave a pleasant scent.

Wear no-show socks

No-show socks are a great way to prevent your boat shoes from smelling. They are designed to be worn with boat shoes and are made from breathable materials that help to keep your feet dry and odour-free.

• Choose the right material: Opt for no-show socks made from breathable materials such as cotton, bamboo, or wool. These materials will help keep your feet dry and prevent odour-causing bacteria from thriving.
• Ensure a proper fit: Ill-fitting socks can lead to discomfort and odour. Make sure your no-show socks fit snugly but not too tightly, as this can restrict airflow and cause your feet to sweat more.
• Keep your feet clean: Wash your feet regularly and thoroughly, especially before wearing boat shoes. This will help prevent the build-up of bacteria and odour.
• Rotate your socks: Avoid wearing the same pair of no-show socks for multiple days in a row. Rotate your socks and allow them to air dry between wears to prevent the growth of bacteria.
• Consider odour-fighting products: If you struggle with foot odour, consider using foot antiperspirant, foot powder, or odour-fighting insoles in conjunction with your no-show socks.

Soak insoles in vinegar

If your insoles are particularly smelly, vinegar is a great deodorizer and disinfectant. Vinegar will help to clean your insoles, kill the odor, and kill the bacteria lingering inside.

Step 1: Prepare the Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a large bowl or basin. Use white distilled vinegar and warm water. If you are sensitive to the smell of vinegar, you can use odorless vinegar or add a few drops of essential oils like tea tree or pine oil to the mixture.

Step 2: Soak the Insoles

Place the insoles in the vinegar and water mixture. Make sure the insoles are completely submerged and let them soak for at least three hours. The longer they soak, the more effective the cleaning and deodorizing process will be.

Step 3: Scrub the Insoles (Optional)

If your insoles still look dirty after soaking, use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub away any remaining dirt or stains. You can also add a small amount of dish soap to the brush to help with stubborn stains.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry the Insoles

After soaking and scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the insoles under cool running water to remove any remaining vinegar or soap. Then, pat the insoles dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. Finally, let the insoles air-dry overnight before placing them back into your shoes.

Tips:

• If your insoles are made of leather, do not fully submerge them in the vinegar solution. Instead, dampen a cloth with the vinegar mixture and gently dab or wipe the insoles.
• For an extra deodorizing effect, add a few drops of essential oils to the vinegar solution.
• Always make sure your insoles are completely dry before placing them back into your shoes to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
• To maintain fresh-smelling insoles, clean them regularly, at least once a month, and rotate your shoes so you don't wear the same pair every day.

Frequently asked questions