How to Get Smell Out of Soccer Cleats

Soccer cleats are an essential piece of equipment for any soccer player. However, they can quickly develop a foul odor due to sweat and bacteria buildup. If you’re struggling with smelly soccer cleats, don’t worry! We have compiled a list of effective methods to get rid of that unpleasant smell and keep your cleats fresh.

1. Properly Dry Your Cleats: After each game or practice, remove the insoles and laces from your cleats and let them air dry. This will prevent moisture buildup, which contributes to odor.

2. Use Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda inside your soccer cleats to absorb moisture and eliminate odors. Leave it overnight and shake out the excess before wearing them again.

3. Utilize Dryer Sheets: Place a dryer sheet in each cleat overnight. The sheet will help neutralize the smell and leave a fresh scent behind.

4. Freeze Your Cleats: Put your cleats in a plastic bag and place them in the freezer overnight. The freezing temperature kills bacteria and eliminates odors.

5. Tea Bags: Stuff dry tea bags inside your cleats to absorb moisture and eliminate odors. Leave them in overnight and discard in the morning.

6. Cat Litter: Fill a pair of old socks with cat litter and place them inside your cleats. The cat litter will absorb moisture and neutralize odors.

7. White Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water. Dampen a cloth with the solution and wipe the inside of your cleats. Vinegar helps kill bacteria and remove odors.

8. Rubbing Alcohol: Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol and wipe the inside of your cleats. Alcohol kills bacteria and dries out moisture, preventing odor.

9. Lemon or Orange Peels: Place fresh lemon or orange peels inside your cleats overnight. The citrus oils will naturally deodorize your cleats.

10. Essential Oils: Apply a few drops of essential oils, such as tea tree oil or lavender oil, to a cloth or cotton ball. Wipe the inside of your cleats to eliminate odors and leave a pleasant scent.

11. Newspaper: Crumple newspaper and stuff it inside your cleats. The newspaper will absorb moisture and help eliminate odors.

12. Antiperspirant Spray: Spray antiperspirant directly onto your feet before putting on your soccer socks and cleats. This will help reduce sweat production, preventing odor.

13. UV Light Sanitizer: Use a UV light sanitizer specifically designed for shoes. The UV light kills bacteria and eliminates odors.

14. Wash the Insoles: Remove the insoles from your cleats and wash them separately. Hand wash with mild detergent and let them air dry completely before placing them back in your cleats.

Common Questions about Soccer Cleat Odor:

1. Why do my soccer cleats smell so bad?
Sweat and bacteria build up inside your cleats, causing the foul odor.

2. Can I just use regular deodorant on my cleats?
Regular deodorant is not as effective in eliminating cleat odor as other methods mentioned above.

3. How often should I clean my soccer cleats?
It is recommended to clean your soccer cleats after every use to prevent odor buildup.

4. Can I machine wash my cleats?
While some cleats are machine washable, it is best to hand wash them to preserve their quality.

5. Should I wear socks with my cleats?
Wearing moisture-wicking socks can help reduce sweat and odor.

6. Can I use a hairdryer to dry my cleats?
Using a hairdryer on high heat may damage your cleats, so it is best to air dry them.

7. How long does it take for the odor to go away?
The time it takes to eliminate the odor depends on the severity of the smell and the method used. Some methods may require multiple attempts.

8. Can I use these methods on other types of shoes?
Yes, many of these methods can be used to eliminate odor in other types of athletic shoes as well.