How To Stop Work Boots From Stinking

Last Updated on August 9, 2023

As a hardworking individual, you rely on your work boots to protect your feet and provide comfort throughout the day. However, one major pain point that many people face with their work boots is the unpleasant odor that can develop over time. Not only is it embarrassing to have smelly boots, but it can also be a health concern for those who work in close quarters with others.

If you’re tired of dealing with stinky work boots, you’re not alone. It’s a common problem that many people struggle with, but it doesn’t have to be that way. In this article, we’ll be discussing the top tips and strategies for keeping your work boots fresh and clean. From proper cleaning techniques to odor-fighting solutions, we’ll provide you with the information you need to keep your boots smelling fresh and clean. Whether you’re on the job site or just need a reliable pair of boots for everyday wear, our expert advice will help you keep your feet and your workspace smelling great.

Eliminating Odor from Your Work Boots: 11 Proven Tips and Techniques

When it comes to cleaning work boots, there are many methods to choose from, but not all of them may be suitable for you. I personally recommend using the methods that I have tried and tested over the years. It’s important to keep in mind that before using any cleaning method, it’s important to check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. With that being said, I will be sharing some of my go-to methods for keeping work boots clean and odor-free. These methods are easy to follow and have worked well for me in the past. You can choose the one that best suits your needs and give it a try.

1. King of Natural Detergents: Baking Soda

Baking Soda is the first and foremost cleaning agent you find in nature. It’s not only cheap but the most effective cleaning agent. It’s readily available from grocery shops and works miracles on its subject. The most astonishing thing about king soda is that it deep cleans the object from the depth, extracting all dirt and grease contaminated there.

The second best thing is that it has no specific taste or smell. Henceforth leaving no residue behind as its texture is very light, so it’s easy to wash off.

Furthermore, baking soda is an antiseptic and antibacterial agent. It doesn’t have any side effects. However, excessive amounts of anything are dangerous.

Therefore I have concluded that it is the most powerful and effective cleaning agent for all kind of boots.

How to use soda to get the smell out of work boots

One method to use soda to get the smell out of work boots is to sprinkle baking soda inside the boots and leave it there for a few hours or overnight. The baking soda will help absorb any odors and freshen up the inside of the boots. Afterward, shake out or blow out any excess baking soda and you will find your boots smelling fresh again.

Another way is to fill a small tub or container with water and mix in a cup or two of baking soda. Soak the boots in this solution for a few hours, then rinse them off thoroughly. This method is great for getting rid of any odor and leaving your boots fresh and clean.

You can also use a mixture of equal parts of baking soda and corn starch, and sprinkle it inside the boots overnight, and then shake it out before using it.

Warning 

It’s important to keep in mind, before using any cleaning method, it’s important to check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Things to remember

Please don’t keep the boots under soda treatment inside your closet or somewhere congested and warm, as these factors are growing agents for bacteria.

2. Talcum Powder To make work boots smell better

Another method to make work boots smell better is to use talcum powder. Talcum powder can be used in a similar way as baking soda, by sprinkling it inside the boots and leaving it there for a few hours or overnight. The talcum powder will help absorb any odors and freshen up the inside of the boots.

To use talcum powder, sprinkle a generous amount inside each boot and leave it overnight. In the morning, shake out or blow out the talcum powder and you will find your boots smelling fresh and clean.

You can also use talcum powder in combination with other odor-fighting methods. For example, you can sprinkle talcum powder inside the boots and then also place a few fresh dryer sheets inside the boots overnight, as the dryer sheets will release a pleasant scent that will help to neutralize any bad odors.

3. Non-scented Shoe Deodorizers – Air Purifying Bags to deodorize work boots

Another method to deodorize work boots is to use non-scented shoe deodorizers or air purifying bags. These products typically contain activated charcoal or other materials that are designed to absorb and neutralize odors.

To use a non-scented shoe deodorizer or air purifying bag, simply place the bag inside the boot and leave it there for a few hours or overnight. The activated charcoal or other materials in the bag will work to absorb any odors and leave your boots smelling fresh and clean.

You can also use multiple bags for larger boots or for more severe odor issues, and place them in the boots overnight.

Things to remember

This process may be quick and easy, but it does not cleanse the long accumulated dirt inside the boots. This method is recommended for hardcore workers like worker who work on concrete all day.

4. Vinegar and Soda to get rid of foot odor in work boots

 Another very profound method for cleansing boots is to use vinegar. To use vinegar and baking soda to get rid of foot odor in work boots, you can use the following steps:

1. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and baking soda in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the solution inside the boots and allow it to sit for a few hours.
3. Wipe the boots clean with a damp cloth and let them dry completely before wearing them again.

Alternatively, you can also use a mixture of water and white vinegar and pour it into the boots, add a tablespoon of baking soda in each boot, and leave it overnight.

1. In a small container, mix equal parts of water and white vinegar.
2. Pour the solution into the boots, and add a tablespoon of baking soda to each boot.
3. Leave the boots overnight to soak
4. In the morning, rinse the boots with water and let them dry.

It’s important to keep in mind, before using any cleaning method, it’s important to check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some boots may not be suitable for cleaning with vinegar and baking soda, it could damage the material or cause discoloration.

5. Deep Cleaning Method to get rid of smelly work boots

Using detergent to get rid of foot odor in work boots is an effective method as it is able to remove dirt, grime, and bacteria that can cause odors. Detergent also helps to neutralize any bad odors, leaving your boots smelling fresh and clean. Regular cleaning with detergent can also prolong the life of your boots.

To use detergent to clean your work boots, you can follow these steps:

1. Remove the laces and insoles from the boots and set them aside.
2. Fill a tub or basin with warm water and add a small amount of mild laundry detergent. Mix it well.
3. Place the boots in the water and use a brush or cloth to gently scrub the inside and outside of the boots.
4. Clean the laces and insoles separately in the same solution.
5. Rinse the boots, laces, and insoles thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of detergent.
6. Stuff the boots with newspaper or towels to help them retain their shape and let them dry completely before wearing them again.

6. Soap Wrappers to get the stink out of work boots

Using soap wrappers to get the stink out of work boots is an effective method as the soap inside the wrapper helps neutralize odors and freshen up the inside of the boots. The soap inside the wrapper also helps remove dirt, grime and bacteria that can cause odors. Soap wrappers are easy to use, you can put them inside your boots and leave them overnight, it will do the job.

To use soap wrappers to get the stink out of work boots, you can follow these steps:

1. Take a bar of soap and wrap it in a piece of cloth or cheesecloth, or you can purchase pre-made soap wrappers.
2. Place the wrapped soap inside your boots and leave it overnight.
3. In the morning, remove the soap wrappers and your boots will smell fresh and clean.

7. Essential Oils

Using essential oils to get rid of foot odor in work boots is an effective method as essential oils have natural deodorizing properties that can neutralize bad odors and leave your boots smelling fresh and clean. Essential oils also have antimicrobial properties that can help to kill bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause odors.

To use essential oils to get rid of foot odor in work boots, you can follow these steps:

1. Fill a small spray bottle with water.
2. Add 5-10 drops of your desired essential oil, such as tea tree, peppermint, or eucalyptus oil.
3. Shake the bottle well to mix the oil and water together.
4. Spray the solution inside the boots and allow it to sit for a few hours.
5. Wipe the boots clean with a damp cloth and let them dry completely before wearing them again.

You can also use essential oils in combination with other odor-fighting methods. For example, you can place a few drops of essential oil on a cotton ball and place it inside the boots overnight, as the essential oil will release a pleasant scent that will help to neutralize any bad odors.

8. OUDH to remove odor from work boots

OUDH is made from agarwood found in forests of south Asia, India, and Bangladesh. The ancient Arabic method is used mainly by Arab Muslims. It has a strong aroma, and the fragrance is intense, pleasing with the Smokey notes of dampened woods.

Using OUDH (Agarwood oil) to get rid of foot odor in work boots is an effective method as OUDH is known for its strong, pleasing scent and natural deodorizing properties that can neutralize bad odors and leave your boots smelling fresh and clean. OUDH is also known for its antimicrobial properties that can help to kill bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause odors.

To use OUDH to get rid of foot odor in work boots, you can follow these steps:

• Burn the coal, and keep it in a metal container.
• When the smoke starts coming out of burning coal, put the oudh on top of the coal.
• Now the oudh will start emitting the most pleasant smell.
• You have to take this Smokey smell inside your closet or shoe rack so that the smell reaches every nook and corner of your wardrobe.
• The pungent smell stays longer and gets absorbed by the fabric. Henceforth the boots absorb the Oudh smell and will be kept inside the clothes or boots longer.

The process can be done weekly or once a month to be used after washing boots. The smoke also kills any bacteria or germs residing in the closet.

9. Wearing Clean Socks

Wearing clean socks is an effective method to get rid of foot odor in work boots because dirty socks can harbor bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause odors. Wearing clean socks can help to keep your feet dry and reduce the amount of bacteria that can grow in your boots. Additionally, Wearing clean socks can also prevent irritation and blisters, which can lead to foot odor.

To use Wearing Clean Socks to get rid of foot odor in work boots, you can follow these steps:

1. Make sure you have a fresh pair of socks to wear each day.
2. Choose a type of sock that is made from breathable materials, such as cotton or moisture-wicking fabric.
3. Change your socks throughout the day if you start to feel sweaty.
4. Avoid wearing the same pair of socks for more than one day in a row.
5. Wash your socks after each use, using a mild detergent.

10. Foot Care

Taking care of feet is very important for hygiene. Regular pedicures will enhance not only your feet’s beauty but also your health and personality. You don’t necessarily go to the parlor for a pedicure. Besides, you must treat yourself sometimes. Hygiene is as important for men as it is for women. Always try to keep your feet dry in work boots as this will avoid sweaty feet which can produce foul smell in boots.

Foot care is an effective method to get rid of foot odor in work boots because regular foot care can prevent the buildup of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause odors. Proper foot care can also help to keep your feet dry, which can prevent the growth of bacteria and fungus that can cause foot odor. Additionally, Foot care can also prevent irritation and blisters, which can lead to foot odor.

To perform foot care to get rid of foot odor in work boots, you can follow these steps:

1. Keep your feet clean and dry, wash them daily and dry them thoroughly, especially between toes.
2. Trim your toenails and file them to prevent ingrown toenails.
3. Use foot powders or antifungal sprays to keep your feet dry and prevent fungus growth.
4. Keep your feet moisturized to prevent dry, cracked skin.
5. Wear clean, dry socks and change them throughout the day if necessary.
6. Wear shoes and boots that fit properly, and avoid shoes that are tight or cause your feet to sweat.

11. Portable Washing Machine to get smell out of work boots

 Portable washing machine is a handy tool to wash your boots quickly.

• All you need is a baby washing machine or a portable washing machine.
• Fill the machine with water, and put in some washing detergent.
• Now put your shoes in the machine, and run it for a few minutes.
• Rinse and dry. 

The sun is dry, and your boots will thank you.

It’s effortless and quick, as well as deep cleaning your stinky boots. Please make sure that your boots material is washable. Using this method for steel toe work boots can damage not only the toe cap but also the machine.

General Things to Keep In Mind to get work boots to not stink

• Don’t keep or store your boots for an extended period in a closed area or closet.
• Avoid wearing boots without socks. 
• Avoid applying foot cream or moisturizer before wearing boots.
• Keep your boots in an airy closet.
• Give your shoe boots some air and sunshine regularly.
• Once the boots start to stink even a little bit, immediately treat them then and there, don’t wait until the odor becomes too unbearable to bear.

Finally

We will recommend you to replace your work boots if they are really worn out as nothing will work for them. We hope you liked my personal tips on how to make work boots not stink. These all are easy methods which you can easily do at home. Let us know which method will you try in the comments below. Good Day !