Cleaning trainers: remove bad odours

Trainers or running shoes are usually left with a bad odour after playing sport. Find out how to clean trainers properly.

Why do trainers smell bad?

It’s a fact that when we do sport, we sweat. That’s why, when the sweat comes into contact with the bacterial flora of the foot, this breaks down and causes the feet to smell as the organic acids decompose.  Although sweat itself doesn’t smell, the decomposition of this bacteria does. Given that trainers retain the dampness, they become the ideal habitat for bacteria that lives on the foot to keep reproducing.

How to clean trainers so they don’t get ruined

One of the best ways of getting rid of bad odours in trainers is to put them in the washing machine. Indeed, some trainers do not allow for machine washing, so we recommend you follow the washing instructions hidden behind the tongue. If your trainers are allowed to be machine washed, we recommend following a series of tips, make a note of them!

• Remove the laces and take out the insoles. One of the hazards of machine washing is that the insoles of your trainers may unstick or disintegrate in the process. If possible, hand-wash them with water and soap.
• Use a short washing cycle with cold water.
• Don’t use the dryer: it’s best to air them in a ventilated space and, where possible, in the sun.
   

Trainers: tips for after wearing them to prevent bad odours

Bicarbonate of soda

Bicarbonate of soda is a fantastic ally against bad odours, so it’s of no surprise that it’s an excellent home remedy for ensuring trainers (and footwear in general) don’t smell bad. Insert a large tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda in each trainer so it fully covers the insoles. Leave the bicarbonate of soda to activate all night and then dispose of it.

Vinegar

Like bicarbonate of soda, vinegar is a great ally against bad odours. It is an antiseptic so it takes care of neutralising bad odours and getting rid of bacteria. That’s why, to get rid of the bad odour in trainers, fill half a spray bottle with water and the other half with white vinegar. Mix it thoroughly and spray the insoles of your trainers after use. Watch out! Ventilate them properly and leave the insoles to dry before using them again.