How to Get Mildew Smell Out of Hiking Boots | Best 13 Useful Methods

how to get mildew smell out of hiking boots

Whether you’ve been hiking in wet weather for several days or have left your boots damp from a single outing, mildew odor can develop quickly now you have a question about how to get mildew smell out of hiking boots because it’s so difficult. 

The mildew smell of hiking boots removes with baking soda and vinegar.

One of the most popular and effective methods to remove musty odors is to use baking soda and white vinegar. This natural solution works best if your boots are still damp.

First, fill two buckets with lukewarm water. Add 1/4 cup of white vinegar to one bucket and 1/4 cup of baking soda to the other. Place your boots into the respective buckets and let them soak for an hour. Fortunately, there are ways that you can keep your hiking boots smelling naturally.

In this blog post, we will discuss how to get mildew smell out of boots and how to remove smell from shoes instantly. Effectively remove its odor without harming the material or waterproofing properties. Read on to learn more about the 10 best ways to remove the mildew smell from hiking boots, one of their baking soda hiking boots. These methods you can apply these with your running shoes if they have a mildew smell.

how to get mildew smell out of hiking boots

1. Clean Outside Hiking Boots

Before you start treating the inside of your boots, it is important to clean the outside.

Remove as much dirt and debris from the surface of your boots using a simple cloth.

You can even take your shoes out in the sun for a few hours – the UV rays will help to kill off any bacteria and germs.

If there are any tough stains, you can use a mild soap or detergent.

how to get mildew smell out of hiking boots

2. Clean Inside Hiking Boots

Once you have cleaned the outside of your boots, it is time to clean the inside.

This can be a bit more challenging since you may want to waterproof liners or special insoles with cleaning products.

The best way to clean the inside of your hiking boots is by using a damp cloth and mild soap solution.

how to get mildew smell out of hiking boots

3. Cleaning With A Toothbrush

Using a toothbrush is an excellent way to scrub away dirt and mud that can get trapped in your hiking boots.

Start by preparing a mild soap solution in a bucket filled with lukewarm water.

Dip a soft-bristled toothbrush into the soapy water and gently scrub any areas of your boots that are particularly dirty.

4. Cleaning With A Soap

Cleaning your hiking boots with soap can help to get rid of dirt and grime, as well as mildew odor.

Start by preparing a soap solution in a bucket filled with lukewarm water. 

Dip a soft cloth into the soapy solution and gently rub it against the surface of your boots.

Be sure to pay close attention to any crevices where mildew can easily grow, as soap can help break through this stubborn grime.

Once you are finished, allow your hiking boots to dry completely before wearing them again.

how to get mildew smell out of hiking boots

5. Use of Baking Soda Solution

Baking soda hiking boots are an effective and natural solution that can help to remove musty odors from your hiking boots.

To prepare the baking soda solution, fill a bucket with lukewarm water and add one cup of baking soda to it.

Stir the mixture until all of the baking soda.

Soak your boots in this solution for at least 30 minutes, then remove them from the bucket and air dry.

Make sure that you repeat this process every few weeks to keep mildew at bay.

6. Use of Vinegar Solution

Vinegar is another natural deodorizing solution that can help to remove musty odors from your hiking boots.

To prepare the vinegar solution, fill a bucket with lukewarm water and add one cup of white vinegar.

Soak your boots in this solution for at least 30 minutes, then remove them from the bucket and allow them to air dry.

The vinegar will help neutralize any odors while also removing dirt and debris from your boots, you can enjoy your journey with a comfortable pair.

7. Try Out Commercial Deodorizers

Commercial deodorizers can be effective at removing mildew odor from your hiking boots.

These products are typically easy to apply and can provide the same results as more natural methods.

Our Recommendation is must use the baking soda hiking boots technique before buying any commercial deodorizers.

After buying a commercial deodorizer, read the instructions carefully and check that it is suitable for the materials of your boots.

how to get mildew smell out of hiking boots

8. Used Tea Or Coffee Bags

Used tea or coffee bags are another great way to get rid of musty odors from your hiking boots.

This is a stupid way but it’s working when you are upset about how to get mildew smell out of hiking boots.

Start by placing two tea bags or two coffee grounds inside each of your boots and seal them up in a plastic bag overnight.

The tannic acid in the tea or coffee will help to draw out any excess moisture.

In the morning, remove the bags from your boots and discard them.

This method can also be with other cleaning techniques for an extra boost.

9. Freeze The Shoes Overnight

For a long-term solution to musty odors, try freezing your hiking boots overnight.

Simply place them in a large plastic bag and store them in the freezer for at least 12 hours.

This will help to kill off any bacteria that may be causing the musty odor and also reduce moisture levels inside your shoes.

Remove all of your insoles and laces before freezing your shoes.

10. Replace Laces or Liners

If your hiking boots are particularly smelly and none of the above solutions seem to be working, it may be time to replace any worn-out laces or liners.

Old laces can sometimes hold onto odors more than newer ones, so replacing them with a fresh pair is a great way to keep your boots smelling clean and fresh.

11. Washing Machine Method

The washing machine method is a great way to give your hiking boots a deep clean, but you may ask how to wash hiking boots in washing machine.

Start by placing your boots in a laundry bag or pillowcase and then adding some laundry detergent before putting them into the washer.

Set the cycle on gently so that you don’t damage the material of your boots. Otherwise washing machine damage of your hiking boots.

Once they have been washed, remove them from the washer and allow them to the sun before wearing them again.

how to get mildew smell out of hiking boots

12. Utilize An Air Purifying Bag

An air purifying bag is an easy and effective way to get rid of musty odors from your hiking boots.

Air purifying bags contain activated charcoal, which helps to absorb odors and moisture. 

Simply place the bag inside your boots overnight and let it work its magic.

how to get mildew smell out of hiking boots

13. Defunkify Odor Remover

Defunkify Odor Remover is an all-natural, non-toxic solution that can be used to remove musty odors from your hiking boots.

This odor remover is made with ingredients such as baking soda, activated charcoal, and essential oils.

Conclusion

Getting rid of musty odors from your hiking boots can be a challenge but with the right methods, it is possible. Now you can ask how to get mildew smell out of hiking boots. Try using baking soda and vinegar solution, cleaning with soap, freezing your shoes overnight, replacing laces or liners, washing machine method, utilizing an air purifying bag, and using Defunkify Odor Remover for best results. With a bit of elbow grease and the right cleaning solutions, you can have your hiking boots smelling fresh again in no time.

FAQs

How Do You Clean the Inside of Hiking Boots?

The best way to clean the inside of your hiking boots is to use a combination of soap, baking soda, and vinegar solution. Soak your boots in lukewarm soapy water for at least 30 minutes before scrubbing the surface with a soft cloth. Then, soak them in either a baking soda or vinegar solution overnight.

What Kills Mildew Smell in Shoes?

Baking soda and vinegar solutions are great for killing the mildew smell in shoes. Soak your shoes in lukewarm water mixed with one cup of baking soda or one cup of white vinegar for at least 30 minutes, then allow them to air dry. This will help to neutralize the odor as well as remove dirt and debris from your boots.

Why Do My Boots Smell Like Mold?

Moldy odors can develop on your boots if they have been exposed to moisture for a long period. Make sure that you are allowing your boots to dry completely before storing them and avoid wearing them in wet weather. For deep cleaning, try using a combination of baking soda, vinegar solution, or commercial deodorizers.

How Do You Deodorize Stinky Boots?

Using a combination of baking soda and white vinegar is one of the most popular and effective methods to deodorize stinky boots.

Start by mixing 1 cup of baking soda with 4 cups of water, then fill each boot-up with the solution. Allow them to sit for at least 30 minutes before rinsing out with warm water.

How do you get the Mildew Smell Out of Leather Boots?

Leather boots can be particularly susceptible to mildew odors due to their porous nature. To get rid of the smell, start by wiping down the surface of your boots with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.

Then, apply a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water onto the leather and allow it to soak in for at least 30 minutes.

Once the solution has been rinsed off, you can then use a natural leather conditioner to bring back the original shine.

How Do You Get Mildew Smell Out of Rubber Boots?

Rubber boots are especially prone to trapping moisture and developing mildew odors. To get rid of the musty smell, start by wiping down the surface of your boots with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.

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