You may want to deep clean the insides of your CSA approved steel-toe boots once in a while, but deodorizing them after each wear is the best method to keep them smelling (relatively) fresh.

Tips to keep odour at bay

Cleaning the insides of boots might be a bit risky. Many cleaning agents will damage them or cause them to stretch out. If your CSA approved work boots are only somewhat odorous, you may wish to avoid cleaning and instead deodorize. However, if the insides of your work boots are particularly filthy, a thorough cleaning may be required.

You can clean the insides of CSA approved steel-toe boots in the same way you would clean the insides of non-steel-toed boots. The protective substance in the boot's toe should have no bearing on how you clean the leather. To open the boots as much as possible, start by removing the laces. Take out the removable insoles and scrub them with soap and water by hand.

Next, in a bowl, mix a little amount of mild, low-pH shampoo with water and scrub the soapy water throughout the inside of each CSA approved work boot with a soft brush. To absorb as much shampoo or cleanser residue as possible, use clean, wet cloths. Submerging your work boots in water to remove the suds is typically not recommended. Allow the boots to air dry for at least one night.

Baking soda is the go-to deodorizer for smelly shoes since it absorbs moisture and odours while still being gentle on the material. Sprinkle baking soda inside the CSA approved work boots at night and shake it out the next morning. Alternatively, get a couple of deodorizer bags, which resemble bean bags but are loaded with activated charcoal to absorb moisture and odours. As soon as you take your boots off, stuff one or more bags into each boot. Another alternative is to use deodorizing sprays. Use deodorizing spray sparingly; you don't want the interior of the CSA approved steel toe boots to become soaked with liquid.

There's no magic trick to keeping your steel-toe boots odour-free. The more you wear them, the more perspiration your feet produce and the more odours they produce. Changing your socks during the day, on the other hand, maybe beneficial. Allowing your boots to air out between wearings may also aid with odour control. If you can afford it, alternate your CSA approved steel-toe boots so that each pair has at least a full day to dry out.

If you have the time and the right mindset, you can simply clean your stinky work boots. Clean your work boots on a regular basis, regardless of the method you employ. To get a new pair, visit mooselog.com.