How to Clean Odors Out of Stinky Climbing Shoes

It's hard not to get hot and sweaty while climbing, either on actual rock or inside the climbing gym. Even your feet might sweat, and over time your climbing shoes may give off quite a stench. A little bit of regular attention will help prevent your climbing shoes from stinking but, if they're already extra-odiferous, you should take immediate steps to reduce the stink. Your climbing buddies will thank you.

Instructions

    • 1

      Leave the shoes sitting out in a well-ventilated place until they're completely dry on the inside.

    • 2

      Sprinkle baking soda generously inside the climbing shoes--remember, it has to be dry before you do this--until the entire surface is coated. Let them sit for the rest of the day or overnight.

    • 3

      Shake the baking soda out of the shoes. You may need to bang the shoes together to make sure all of it comes out. Take a good sniff; if the shoes don't stink any more, you've successfully deodorized them. If they still smell, prepare for more treatments.

    • 4

      Spray a deodorizing spray inside the shoe. You can use a fabric deodorizer like Febreze or even a solution of peppermint essential oil.

    • 5

      Let the shoes dry out again completely before wearing.