You can't completely eliminate shoe odor in just 5 minutes, but you can significantly reduce it with a few quick tricks. Here are some effective methods:
1. Baking Soda
- Sprinkle baking soda generously inside your shoes, focusing on the areas that smell the most.
- Let it sit for as long as possible, ideally overnight, but even 5 minutes will help.
- Then, shake out the excess baking soda.
2. Freeze Your Shoes
- Place your shoes in a sealed plastic bag and put them in the freezer for several hours.
- The cold temperature helps kill odor-causing bacteria.
3. Newspaper
- Stuff crumpled newspaper inside your shoes.
- The newspaper will absorb moisture and some of the odor.
4. Air Them Out
- Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, to air out.
- Sunlight can also help eliminate odors.
5. Essential Oils
- Add a few drops of essential oils, like tea tree or lavender, to a cotton ball and place it inside your shoes.
- The scent will help mask the odor.
While these methods can help reduce odor quickly, it's important to note that they won't completely eliminate the problem. For long-term odor control, consider using shoe deodorizers, washing your shoes regularly, and wearing moisture-wicking socks.