As any eager hiker or nature enthusiast knows, a good pair of hiking sandals is essential for a successful and comfortable outdoor excursion. Unfortunately, as it stands, these sandals are also prime targets for unwanted odors. It’s unpleasant for the wearer and their fellow adventurers, and can quickly derail your journey when your steps start to take on an unwelcome scent.
Fortunately, there are several measures you can take to keep your sandals smelling as fresh as the outdoors you explore in them. In this article, we’ll discuss what causes odor in hiking sandals, provide tips for proper cleaning and maintenance, highlight natural solutions, go over the benefits of specialized odor-eliminating products, suggest how to store them to reduce odor and wear, and troubleshoot common issues.
What Causes Odor in Hiking Sandals?
There are a few different factors that contribute to odor-causing bacteria in your sandals. Firstly, sweat or moisture can accumulate in the materials of your sandals, which can create a breeding ground for bacteria. On top of this, sand and other dirt particles can become trapped between the sole and upper of your sandal, leading to an unpleasant smell. If these issues are not properly addressed, you could be left with a stubborn odor that’s difficult to eliminate.
Tips for Properly Cleaning and Maintaining Hiking Sandals
To help prevent the buildup of odor-causing bacteria in the first place, it’s important that you properly clean and maintain your sandals. Depending on the materials of your sandals, start by scrubbing away any dirt and debris with a brush or soft cloth. As an alternative, you can also soak your sandals in cold water and mild soap if they are made from synthetic materials. For leather-based materials, you’ll want to use special leather cleaning solutions.
Once finished cleaning, be sure to rinse off any soapy residue and allow your sandals to air dry fully before storing them away. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to treat your sandals to a waterproofing spray prior to use for added protection and defense against moisture-related odor.
Natural Solutions for Odor Prevention
Another way to help prevent the buildup of bacteria in your sandals is to add natural solutions like baking soda and essential oils. Baking soda absorbs odors from fabrics and helps pull excess moisture from surfaces, while essential oils like tea tree, bergamot, and lemon have natural anti-bacterial properties. To use these ingredients, simply sprinkle baking soda on all surfaces of your sandals or spray them with a mixture of essential oil and water.
Benefits of Using Specialized Odor-Eliminating Products
When it comes to combating strong odors caused by sweat and overuse of hiking sandals, you may want to opt for specialized odor-eliminating products. These products are specifically designed to eradicate bacteria and odors from surfaces like footwear with natural ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and citric acid. Some of these products also contain fragrances like lavender or rosemary for added aromatherapy benefits.
Tips for Selecting the Right Hiking Sandal
When looking for new hiking sandals, it’s important to select a pair that is breathable and made from antimicrobial materials like leather or mesh. By doing this, your sandals will be protected from unwanted odors caused by sweat and moisture buildup. Additionally, try to shop for sandals with removable cushioning that can be easily washed in hot water and mild detergent.
Advantages of Choosing Breathable, Antimicrobial Materials
Breathable materials are essential for keeping feet cool and comfortable in warmer climates while also wicking away any excess perspiration that can cause odors. Furthermore, antimicrobial materials help inhibit the growth of bacteria due to the presence of microscopic silver particles woven into the material. This combination of breathability and antimicrobial properties serves to optimize your comfort while maintaining odor control.
How to Store Hiking Sandals to Reduce Odor and Wear
As awesome as hiking sandals are when you’re trekking through the great outdoors, it’s important to store them properly when not in use. Make sure to keep your sandals away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading of the material and further promote the growth of bacteria. Additionally, store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from excess moisture and humidity, as this can also contribute to odor buildup over time.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Hiking Sandals
If you have a stubborn odor in your sandal after several treatments we recommend taking a few special measures. First, remove any cushioning in the sandal and either wash it with hot water and mild detergent or replace it completely. Then use a toothbrush or soft cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol to target the problematic areas of your sandal. Lastly, make sure to replace any insoles or soles that have worn down over time.
By following the tips outlined above, you will now be able to prevent those pesky odors from lingering in your hiking sandals. With this knowledge you can feel confident knowing that your sandals will be odor-free for your next outdoor adventure!
