Have you ever worn a pair of boat shoes and wondered why they seem to have an unpleasant odor? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Many people experience this issue and are not sure how to address it.
Whether you’re an avid sailor or just a casual boat shoe wearer, this guide to the best solutions for keeping boat shoes from smelling is for you.
We’ll start by taking a look at what boat shoes are and why it’s important to keep them from smelling.
Then, we’ll explore the best solutions for removing dirt and debris, cleaning the outside of the shoes, and addressing odor-causing bacteria.
Finally, we’ll look at how to spray the inside of the shoes with a water and vinegar mixture and sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes.
Short Answer
The best way to keep boat shoes from smelling is to make sure they are completely dry before you store them away.
If your shoes have been wet, take the time to dry them out with a towel and let them air-dry completely.
Secondly, use a shoe deodorizer or spray with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar.
This will help to neutralize any odors.
Lastly, regularly clean your boat shoes with a damp cloth or soft brush to remove any dirt or debris that could be contributing to odor.
What Are Boat Shoes?
Boat shoes are a type of footwear that originated in the mid-20th century, specifically designed for use on boats.
The shoes are usually characterized by their low profile, non-marking soles, and lacing system that wraps around the foot to provide a secure fit.
The materials used in boat shoes are typically waterproof, making them well-suited for wet and slippery decks.
They are also designed to provide comfort and protection for their wearer, with cushioned insoles, breathable upper materials, and shock-absorbing midsoles.
Today, boat shoes are popular not only on boats, but in casual and leisure settings as well.
They provide a classic, timeless style that looks great with jeans, shorts, and khakis.
But while boat shoes are a fashionable choice, they can quickly become smelly if not taken care of properly.
Thats why its important to know the best ways to keep boat shoes from smelling.
Why Is It Important to Keep Boat Shoes from Smelling?
Boat shoes are a popular and stylish choice for both men and women, but if they are not taken care of properly, they can quickly become smelly and unappealing.
Not only can this be embarrassing when you’re wearing them, but it can also lead to health problems if the odors are caused by bacteria.
To keep your boat shoes from smelling, it’s essential to take the proper steps to clean them regularly and address any odor-causing bacteria.
Doing so will ensure that your shoes stay fresh and odor-free for years.
Boat shoes are made with leather and fabric, which can make them more susceptible to dirt and bacteria build-up.
This buildup can cause odors to form, and if left untreated, it can also lead to skin irritation and other health problems.
By regularly cleaning and deodorizing your boat shoes, you can make sure that they stay fresh and odor-free.
In addition to being an unpleasant experience, smelly boat shoes can also be detrimental to your health.
Bacteria can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even respiratory issues if not addressed properly.
By taking the steps to keep your boat shoes from smelling, you can make sure that your shoes don’t pose a health risk.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can make sure that your boat shoes stay fresh and odor-free for years.
Cleaning your boat shoes regularly and addressing any odor-causing bacteria will help you avoid any embarrassing situations and keep you healthy.
Removing Dirt and Debris
Keeping boat shoes from smelling is an important part of maintaining their appearance and longevity.
One of the first steps in this process is to remove dirt and debris from the shoes.
This can be done by removing the laces and then using a dry brush to lightly remove any dirt or debris from the outside of the shoes.
For more stubborn dirt, a damp cloth can be used to scrub the shoes.
It’s important to ensure that all dirt and debris is removed before going to the next step.
This will help prevent any remaining dirt and debris from causing odors or damaging the material of the shoes.
After this step, the shoes should be ready for the next step in the cleaning process.
Cleaning the Outside of the Shoes
When it comes to keeping your boat shoes from smelling, it’s important to start by cleaning the outside of the shoes.
This helps remove any dirt or debris that may be harboring odor-causing bacteria.
To do this, begin by removing the laces and brushing off the surface.
Next, use a mild soap and warm water to scrub the outside of the shoes.
If you need to, you can also use a soft-bristled brush to help get into any harder-to-reach areas.
Once you’ve finished scrubbing the outside of the shoe, rinse off the soap with clean water and allow the shoes to air-dry.
This will help to remove any stubborn dirt or dirt particles that may have been left behind.
With regular cleaning, you can help keep your boat shoes looking and smelling fresh.
Addressing Odor-Causing Bacteria
When it comes to keeping your boat shoes from smelling, one of the most important steps is to address any odor-causing bacteria.
Bacteria are a major source of bad smells and can quickly take over your shoes if not taken care of properly.
To tackle this problem, there are several things you can do.
First, make sure to remove the laces and brush off any dirt or debris.
This will help to get rid of any bacteria that have taken up residence on the outside of the shoe.
Next, use a mild soap and warm water to scrub the outside of the shoes.
This will help to kill any bacteria that may be hiding in the grooves or crevices of the material.
You can also tackle the bacteria on the inside of the shoes by spraying a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar inside the shoes.
The vinegar will help to kill any bacteria that may be present.
After spraying, let the shoes dry in direct sunlight which will help to kill any remaining bacteria.
Finally, sprinkle a bit of baking soda inside each shoe and leave overnight to absorb any remaining odors.
Baking soda is a great natural deodorizer and will help to keep your boat shoes smelling fresh for years.
By following these steps, you can keep your boat shoes from smelling and ensure that they stay fresh for years to come.
Spraying the Inside of the Shoes with a Water and Vinegar Mixture
Spraying the inside of your boat shoes with a mixture of water and white vinegar is one of the best ways to tackle any odors.
Once you have removed the laces and brushed off any dirt or debris, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and liberally douse the inside of each shoe.
The vinegar will help to break down and remove any odors that may be present.
Let the shoes dry in direct sunlight, or use a fan or hair dryer to speed up the process.
This will help to ensure that any remaining odors are completely gone and that your boat shoes stay fresh and odor-free for years to come.
Sprinkling Baking Soda Inside the Shoes
Sprinkling baking soda inside your boat shoes is an effective way to keep them smelling fresh and odor-free.
Baking soda is highly absorbent and can help eliminate any lingering odors caused by bacteria or fungi.
Adding a generous amount of baking soda to the inside of your boat shoes overnight can help to neutralize any bad smells.
It is important to make sure the baking soda is completely dry before putting your shoes on.
If it is not completely dry, the baking soda may clump and cause an unpleasant odor.
Additionally, you should remove the baking soda from your shoes after each use and reapply if needed.
This will help keep your boat shoes smelling fresh and free of any nasty odors.
Final Thoughts
By following the steps outlined above, you can keep your boat shoes smelling fresh and looking great for years to come.
You can also use these tips to tackle any smelly shoes in your closet.
Now that you know how to prevent and remove odors from your boat shoes, you can confidently enjoy wearing them any time of the year!