Skip to content

Dance shoes stink - causes, tips & quick help

The last beat of the salsa session fades away, you take a deep breath - and then it hits you, that one, unpleasant smell: your Dance shoes stink! You love dancing, but your feet are sending a completely different signal. Does this sound familiar? Then read on - because smelly dance shoes don't have to be!

Why do dance shoes stink at all?

You dance with passion - and your body joins in. Sweat is simply part of it when you move to salsa, kizomba or discofox rhythms. Unfortunately, however, physical activity not only produces endorphins, but sometimes also unpleasant odors. The reason is not the sweat itself, but what happens afterwards: Bacteria love the warm and humid environment in the best dance shoes and decompose the sweat - creating the notorious odor molecules.

An overview of a few typical causes: 

Bacteria as odor triggers:
They break down sweat components and produce foul-smelling substances.
Closed construction & synthetic:
Many dance shoes for women have a closed construction and are made of materials that are not very breathable - ideal for moisture build-up.
Incorrect storage:
Putting shoes in airtight bags after training is like inviting odors to build up.
Care errors:
Cleaned too infrequently, treated incorrectly or simply ignored - all this promotes unpleasant side effects.

But don't worry: with a few clever tricks you can quickly get the smell under control again.

What to do about smelly dance shoes?

Don't worry - you don't have to dispose of your favorite shoes right away. Here's some quick help:

Dance shoes stink: what to do?

These home remedies will immediately help to neutralize the smell in your shoes:

  • Baking powder or baking soda: sprinkle some in your shoes overnight. The fine powders neutralize odours and absorb moisture. Shake out in the morning - done.
  • Vinegar solution: Mix water and vinegar in a ratio of 2:1, apply the solution to the inside of the shoes with a cloth and allow them to dry thoroughly. Caution with leather - test on an inconspicuous area first!
  • Lavender cushion: Antibacterial & fragrant: A small lavender cushion works wonders - simply place it in your shoe overnight.


Tip: Combine home remedies with ventilation for maximum effect!

Get odors out of shoes with the shock method: freeze shoes

Sounds crazy, but it works: pack your Jazz- or Latin dance shoes in a zip bag and freeze them overnight. The cold kills odor-causing bacteria. Then leave to dry well and they will smell neutral again.

Special case: Washing dance sneakers

Dance sneakers can not only smell unpleasant over time, they can also get really dirty. If they look really bad, you can try the following: Preparation: Remove the inner soles and put the sneakers in a shoe wash bag. Alternatively, you can pad the washing machine with some bedding to protect the shoes. Washing cycle: Wash at a maximum of 30 °C on a gentle cycle.


Important note: We have had good experiences with this ourselves, but cannot offer any guarantee. And very important - please do not tumble dry!

What does not belong in the shoes when combating odors?

  • Deodorant sprays or perfumes - they only cover up, but do not combat the cause.
  • Moist cleaning cloths - they leave your shoes clammy.
  • Scented balls from the supermarket - OK in the short term, not a solution in the long term.

Extra tips from a longtime dancer

Elvira is one of our loyal customers and has been on the dance floor for many years. She has given us a few valuable tips that we are happy to share:


  • Protect rhinestones: Rhinestones will stay beautiful for longer if you spray the shoes lightly with hairspray before wearing them for the first time.
  • Adjust the straps: Simply shorten excessively long straps slightly and carefully seal the ends with a lighter - this way they lie elegantly on the heel and are easier to pull through the eyelets.
  • Combat odor: A little trick on site: briefly rub the inside with a little disinfectant before putting on the shoes. And if the odor is already there - the tips with vinegar and freezing (as described above) actually work very well.

    We say thank you for these practical everyday tips - a great example of how experience and passion for dance shoes go hand in hand.

Proper care of dance shoes: for lasting freshness without having to remove odors from shoes

The best strategy against unpleasant odors? Regular care. And it's easier than you might think. With smart Dance accessories and care habits, you'll give your favorite shoes freshness, longevity - and yourself a better feeling on the dance floor.

Air out well after each wear:

Put your shoes in a dry, airy place. Avoid stuffing them into bags, gym bags or damp bathrooms immediately after dancing.

Insoles & shoe trees - small helpers with a big effect:

Removable soles can be washed or replaced if necessary. Particularly practical: shoe trees made from cedar wood. They absorb moisture, have an antibacterial effect - and also give off a subtle, pleasant fragrance.

Cleaning depending on the material:

Every outer material has its own characteristics - and deserves the right care:

  • - Leather: Clean gently with special leather soap and then polish dry.
  • - Satin: Only wipe with a slightly damp cloth - aggressive cleaning agents are taboo.
  • - Synthetics: Clean with mild soapy water and allow to dry thoroughly. Do not expose to direct sunlight!
Antibacterial shoe deodorants - useful or not?

Definitely - if you use them consciously. Make sure you choose alcohol-free products with a disinfectant effect. They not only work against existing bacteria, but also prevent new odors. Used regularly, they become a strong partner in the fight against stink. If you use your Dance shoes like your passion - regularly, lovingly and with the right timing - they will not only stay beautiful for longer, but also stay fresh for longer.

Frau in schwarzem Rock und hellbraunen Turnschuhen auf dem Bürgersteig einer Stadt.

Prevention is better - how to keep dance shoes odor-free

To prevent your shoes from stinking in the first place, adopt smart habits before they start to smell:

  • Always dance with fresh socks or stockings: Even with open styles, socks protect your shoes from direct perspiration.
  • Use a second pair of shoes for frequent training: more rotation = more time for airing. Your shoes will thank you with freshness.
  • Drying & storage in an airy place: Ventilation is the be-all and end-all. Never store in plastic bags!
  • Special products against sweaty feet: Foot powder, deodorant creams or natural solutions with sage help to reduce perspiration from the outset.

Do your dance shoes still stink? When is it worth buying new ones?

Sometimes it's time to let go - even if you're hanging on to your dancing shoes:

  • If odor remains despite care: Deep stench can penetrate the inner lining and soles. Then only a replacement will help.
  • Worn soles & inner lining as a source of bacteria: Porous materials are difficult to clean. This is where bacteria like to nest.
  • Hygiene argument when changing: Clean footwear is an absolute must, especially for frequent trips and festival visits!

No need for smelly dance shoes

Dancing is passion, lightness, joie de vivre and that's exactly what your shoes should be, regardless of whether it's salsa, standard, hip-hop or Ballet shoes are reflected. With a few simple tricks, you can give your favorite pairs a second life and yourself a liberated dance feeling. Grab some baking soda, a lavender cushion or an airy storage space - you now have everything in your hands.
So: clean them regularly, take good care of them - and dance carefree! Your shoes will thank you for it.


Do you have any more tips to combat smelly dance shoes? Share them with us in the comments!

Search

Shopping cart

Your shopping cart is empty.

Sorry, we could not find any products in your shopping cart.

Continue shopping