Basketball shoes often develop an intense smell after being worn for a while, especially if they’re not properly ventilated.

One simple way to remove odor from basketball shoes is to sprinkle some baking soda inside them and let them sit overnight. In the morning, just vacuum up the baking soda, and the odor should be gone. You can also try putting your shoes in the freezer for a few hours, which will kill any bacteria that are causing the smell.

Why Do My Basketball Shoes Smell So Bad?

Sweaty feet are the main reason why your basketball shoes might smell bad. When you wear socks, they absorb some of the sweat, but when you’re not wearing socks, the sweat can build up and make your shoes smell.

Different Methods To Remove Odor From Basketball Shoes:

A few other methods can be used to remove the smell.

1. Use Baking Soda:

Baking soda is one of the most effective ways to remove odor from basketball shoes. Simply sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let them sit overnight. In the morning, brush off the baking soda, and your shoes should be odor-free.

If your shoes are particularly stinky, you may want to try this method: fill a small bowl with baking soda and place it inside the shoe overnight. In the morning, empty out the bowl of baking soda, and your shoes should be much fresher. 

2. Wash Your Shoes With Surgical Disinfectant:

Another option is to wash them with surgical disinfectant. This can be effective in killing bacteria and removing odors. However, it’s important to carefully follow the instructions on the disinfectant label, as some products may damage shoes if used incorrectly. 

3. Freeze Your Basketball Shoes:

One unique method is to freeze them. This might seem counterintuitive, but freezing can actually help kill the bacteria that cause the bad smell. Simply place your shoes in a plastic bag and leave them in the freezer overnight. In the morning, take them out and allow them to thaw and air out before wearing them again. You may need to repeat this process a few times to eliminate the odor completely. 

4. Apply Hand Sanitizer:

One way to remove odor from your basketball shoes is to apply alcohol gel hand sanitizer. Simply squirt a generous amount of sanitizer into each shoe and let it sit for a few minutes. The alcohol will kill the bacteria that cause the bad smell. You can also use rubbing alcohol, which can be found at most drugstores.

5. Stuck Your Shoes With Newspaper:

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to remove odor from your basketball shoes, try sticking them with newspaper. This cheap and easy hack will help absorb any lingering bad smells, leaving your shoes smelling fresh and clean. Simply stuff a few sheets of newspaper into each shoe, and let them sit overnight. In the morning, remove the newspapers and enjoy refreshed sneakers. 

6. Use Baby Powder:

You can use baby powder to remove odor from basketball shoes. Simply sprinkle some baby powder into your shoes before you put them on, and then let them sit for a few minutes before putting your socks on. You can also put some baby powder in your socks before putting them on. 

7. Wear Socks:

Wearing socks is one of the best ways to remove odor from your basketball shoes. Socks absorb sweat and help keep your feet dry, which prevents the growth of bacteria that causes odors. 

8. Get A New Pair Of Insoles:

If everything else fails, get a new pair of insoles. The old insoles may be the source of the odor, and a new pair will help to freshen up your shoes. 

Conclusion:

Baking soda can be used as an effective and natural remedy to remove odor from basketball shoes. Baking soda will absorb the odor and leave the shoes smelling fresh. For best results, sprinkle baking soda on the shoes and let them sit overnight. In the morning, vacuum up the baking soda, and the odor will be gone!