Smelly shoes are an all-too-common issue. It can be annoying; no matter how clean your feet are, they still end up making your sneakers smell.

Shoes are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria because they trap sweat and moisture, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive. Here are a few ways to combat those smells:

Cleaning Sneakers:

• Remove the laces and inserts. Place them in a laundry bag and throw them in with your regular laundry or wash them separately by hand with detergent.
• Rinse sneakers with clean water.
• Use a gentle laundry detergent and a soft brush to scrub your shoes and remove scuff marks. Do not use bleach, solvents, harsh chemicals, or abrasives.
• Rinse entire shoe well with clean water.
• Let sneakers dry naturally. Don’t place them in direct sunlight or use the dryer.
• Stuff sneakers with white paper towels to keep the shape. Don’t use newspaper as it will transfer to most fabrics.
• Wait until sneakers are completely dry before placing liners back in and before wearing them.

Deodorizing Shoes:

• Vinegar neutralizes odors and fights bacteria in shoes. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that absorbs smells and bacteria. Sprinkle baking soda directly into the shoes and leave them for at least 24 hours.
• Mix white vinegar with water in equal parts into a spray bottle. Spray the solution inside the shoes after use and allow it to dry.

Make sure to check for care instructions inside your shoes and use those instructions if available.