How to Keep your non-marking badminton shoes fresh, odor-free and bacteria-free
Keeping your non-marking badminton shoes fresh, odor-free, and bacteria-free is essential for comfort, performance, and shoe life—especially in India’s humid conditions. Here are practical, proven tips that players and coaches swear by
1. Air Dry After Every Game (Most Important)
Never keep your shoes inside a closed bag after playing.
Do this instead:
- Remove shoes immediately after play
- Loosen the laces and open the tongue
- Air-dry in a shaded, ventilated area
Avoid direct sunlight—it can harden soles and damage glue.
2. Use Shoe Deodorizers or Antibacterial Sprays
A good antibacterial shoe spray kills odor-causing bacteria, not just masks the smell.
Best practice:
- Spray inside the shoe after every session
- Let it dry completely before storing
Look for sprays with tea tree oil, silver ions, or menthol.
3. Change Socks Every Session
Sweaty socks are a major cause of foul smell.
✔ Use dry-fit or cotton-blend sports socks
✔ Never reuse damp socks
✔ Wash socks separately if they smell strongly
Pro tip: Keep an extra pair in your kit bag.
4. Use Shoe Trees or Newspaper
Moisture trapped inside the shoe breeds bacteria.
Options:
- Cedar wood shoe trees (best)
- Crumpled newspaper (budget option)
They:
- Absorb moisture
- Reduce odor
- Maintain shoe shape
5. Rotate Your Shoes
If you play regularly (3–4 times a week):
Use two pairs of shoes and rotate them
This gives each pair 24–48 hours to dry completely.
6. Clean Insoles Regularly
Insoles absorb the most sweat.
Once a week:
- Remove insoles
- Wash gently with mild soap
- Dry fully before reinserting
You can also use antibacterial replacement insoles.
7. Keep Your Feet Clean & Dry
Foot hygiene directly affects shoe odor.
- Wash feet after play
- Dry thoroughly between toes
- Use antifungal or foot powder if you sweat a lot
8. Store Shoes Properly
Correct storage matters more than people think.
❌ Don’t store in airtight boxes or zipped kit bags
✔ Store in a breathable shoe bag or open shelf
✔ Add silica gel or charcoal pouches for moisture control
9. Occasional Deep Cleaning (Monthly)
For heavy users:
- Wipe inside with a damp cloth + mild disinfectant
- Never machine wash non-marking badminton shoes
- Let them air-dry naturally
Quick Do’s & Don’ts Summary
DO ✔
- Air dry after every game
- Use antibacterial spray
- Rotate shoes
- Wear clean socks
DON’T ❌
- Keep shoes wet in bags
- Dry under harsh sunlight
- Ignore insole hygiene
Final Tip
Smell is caused by bacteria, not sweat.
Control moisture, and you control odor.