From enhancing your ensemble to practical reasons, Merrell Gore-Tex hiking boots are always a safe bet. Merrell has been in the business of making outdoor apparel for more than 25 years. This type of quality comes with a price, so taking care of these quality hiking boots is in the best interest of protecting your investment. If you've noticed a less than pleasant odor from your boots lately, it means little more than you're getting your money's worth out of them. Removing odor from your hiking boots is easily accomplished, leaving you more time to explore the great outdoors.
Clean the Boots to Remove the Odor
Dampen a clean cloth and wipe down the boots. A toothbrush will come in handy for removing dirt from the tread on the bottom.
Remove the laces if needed and wash them in warm soapy water. Set them aside to air dry.
Dip a clean cloth in white vinegar for removing stubborn stains.
Sprinkle baking soda inside the boots and set them someplace cool and dry. If you don't want to pour baking soda inside the boots, fill clean socks with the baking soda and set one in each boot.
Allow the baking soda to sit inside the boots overnight to absorb any odors or residual moisture.
Remove the baking soda in the morning and check to see if the odor is gone.
Several Suggestions if the Odor Persists
Set the boots out in the sunshine. Sometimes the fresh air and sunlight will help to kill off any lingering bacteria that may be causing the smell.
Wipe down the inside of the boots with a clean cloth dipped in white vinegar and allow the boots to dry someplace cool and dry. Setting the boots near a heater may only help them to accumulate mold and make the problem worse, so be careful where you put them.
Stuff fabric softener sheets into the boots and leave them there overnight to give the inside of your boots a fresh scent.
Crumple up newspaper and put it inside the boots. Leave the newspaper there for 24 to 48 hours to help absorb any odors.