3 Simple Ways To Remove Odor From Leather Shoes

If you don’t have tea tree oil, you can just use the white vinegar and water as a spray. Don’t use apple cider vinegar, which can stain or discolor of the leather.

If it’s possible, avoid using a cloth that’s been dyed. Some of the color may transfer to your leather shoes, discoloring them.

It may help to remove the laces and lift up the tongue of the shoe to wipe the inside.

Make sure the new cloth you use is clean and dry. You can use a dry paper towel to wipe the inside of the shoes.

If the baking soda doesn’t cover the insides of the shoes, add another 1 teaspoon (4. 9 mL) and shake them again. Baking soda absorbs unpleasant odors. [6] X Expert Source Marc SigalShoe Care Specialist Expert Interview. 15 January 2020.

Set a timer for 8 hours if you don’t plan to leave them overnight. The vinegar will have completely evaporated and dried, so you don’t need to wipe the leather shoes before you wear them. Use a vacuum to remove any leftover baking soda before you wear your shoes. [8] X Expert Source Marc SigalShoe Care Specialist Expert Interview. 15 January 2020.

Use 1 teabag for each leather shoe. Set a timer for 5 minutes. The black tea needs to be steeped in order to activate the tannins that work as natural disinfectants.

Many black tea bags have strings on them that allow you to remove them without burning yourself in the hot water. Use a fork or a pair of tongs to remove the tea bags from the water if they don’t have strings on them.

Set a timer for 2 hours so you don’t have to worry about checking on them.

If the odor persists, try repeating the process again to further disinfect the leather shoes and remove the smell.

You can find spray disinfectant designed to clean leather shoes at drug stores, department stores, and online. If the product is safe to use on leather boots, then it’s safe to use on leather shoes.

Spray for about 3-4 seconds to fully coat the leather shoes.

You can repeat the process as many times as necessary, but be sure to allow the leather shoes to fully dry between applications. That way, the leather won’t soak up the moisture, which could cause it to warp.