Three Ways to Get Rid of the Bad Smell in Your Sandals

To get rid of the bad smell in your sandals, you can make some homemade products with natural ingredients. Have you tried any of them yet? We'll share some of the best options.
Three Ways to Get Rid of the Bad Smell in Your Sandals

Last update: 27 May, 2022

Sandals are comfortable shoes that let you have fresh feet in hot weather. However, although the openings help ventilate your feet, the heat can also cause excess moisture and odor. Are you looking for ways to get rid of the bad smell in your sandals?

Believe it or not, you can do this easily with some homemade products and natural ingredients.

Natural solutions to eliminate the bad smell in your sandals

The combination of certain materials in your sandals, as well as sweat and foot bacteria, can make them smell. If you don’t do anything about it, the smell doesn’t go away. Then, the smell can be obvious even when you’re barefoot.

However, some homemade solutions can help you reduce or get rid of the problem. Use one of these tips when you take off your sandals. When you wear them again, they’ll be perfect!

1. White clay and essential Oils

White clay and essential oils are great ways to get rid of the bad smell in your shoes.

White clay is a natural product with the ability to absorb toxins. This makes it a great solution to get rid of bad smells in your sandals. Also, since it’s similar to talcum powder, it’s very easy to use.

Nowadays, you can find white clay in pharmacies, herbalist shops, and natural product stores. Also, you can add some essential oils to give it a specific aroma. For example, we recommend lavender, rosemary or lemon.

Here’s how to use it:

  • Just apply a little bit of this mixture to the sole of the sandals when you take them off at night.
  • Also, you can apply the clay to the sole just when you’re about to wear them.
  • You can also use this clay for foot treatments, just like what you would use on your face. This way, you can eliminate toxins in your skin and fight bad odors.

Also read: How to make and use lavender oil

2. Teabags with mint

Do you drink peppermint tea? You should know that if you let your used tea bags dry, you’ll have a simple and cheap natural deodorant. These little bags work great in the fridge, cupboard, car, or even sandals.

Here’s how:

  • After drinking your tea, let the tea bag dry.
  • To make it smell even better, add a few drops of peppermint essential oilAs they lose their smell, you can add more.

3. Baking soda with essential oils and citrus peels

Baking soda has antibacterial properties to get rid of the bad smell in your shoes

One of the oldest remedies to get rid of the bad smell in your sandals and any footwear is baking soda. This absorbent, fungicidal, and alkalizing product helps solve many situations at home.

In this case, we’re going to use it with other products you might not think of: citrus peels. These are rich in natural essences. Also, they have a delicious smell that we relate to cleanliness and freshness.

Here’s how:

  • Peel different citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, tangerines or grapefruits into thin strips. Then, put them in a jar with baking soda. We recommend not chopping them too much to be easier to work with.
  • Let the baking soda soak for a few days.
  • Finally, put a little on the sole of your sandals overnight to absorb the bad smell.

Check this out: Six Alternative Uses for Citrus Peel

Other tips to eliminate the bad smell in your sandals

  • Try to leave your shoes in an airy and dry area, especially the shoes that tend to smell bad.
  • Choose sandals made of natural, breathable materials.
  • If you think you have a foot infection, visit a podiatrist.
  • Your diet also influences the smell of your body. Eat more raw fruits and vegetables, and drink at least two liters of water throughout the day.

As you can see in this article, it’s possible to get rid of the bad smell in your sandals. You just need to use some of these tips. Try it out, and watch the bad odors go away!


All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.


  • Moosavi, M. (2017). Bentonite clay as a natural remedy: A brief review. Iranian Journal of Public Health.
  • Kalemba, D., & Kunicka, A. (2005). Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties of Essential Oils. Current Medicinal Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.2174/0929867033457719
  • Kuepper, G., & Thomas, R. (2001). Use of Baking Soda as a Fungicide. Organic Gardening.

This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.