Socks are one of those items of clothing that always seem to drive us crazy. We wash them in every possible way—by hand, in the washing machine, with liters of detergent, fabric softener, and even the most expensive scented products on the market. We might even toss in dryer sheets or fragrance boosters, hoping to make them smell fresh and clean. Yet, despite all our efforts, socks somehow end up smelling unpleasant again, as if they were never washed at all.

Many people still have no idea how to truly clean, whiten, and deodorize their socks—even with years of experience doing laundry. The only ones who seemed to know the real secret were our grandmothers. Without access to modern detergents or powerful washing machines, they somehow managed to make socks come out spotless, soft, and wonderfully fresh-smelling.

So, what was their secret? Surprisingly, the answer lies in a simple, inexpensive, and natural ingredient that almost everyone has at home: baking soda.

The Magic of Baking Soda

Baking soda—also known as sodium bicarbonate—is often underestimated. Many people use it occasionally without realizing just how powerful and versatile it truly is. This humble white powder is a multitasking wonder that can simplify everyday chores, save money, and protect the environment at the same time.

Unlike chemical-laden cleaning products, baking soda is natural, non-toxic, and incredibly effective. It combines several useful properties in one single ingredient: degreasing, deodorizing, antiseptic, whitening, and antibacterial effects.

That’s why it’s not only used for cleaning socks, but also for countless household tasks. It can remove grime from pots and pans, polish kitchen sinks and stovetops, disinfect fruits and vegetables, and even be used for beauty and personal care treatments.

Baking soda is so indispensable that it deserves a place in every room of the house: one box in the kitchen, one in the bathroom, and one in the laundry area. It’s economical, functional, and environmentally friendly—qualities that make it one of the best cleaning allies you can have.

How to Use Baking Soda to Clean and Deodorize Socks

If you’ve tried everything to get rid of bad sock odors, baking soda might just be the miracle solution you’ve been searching for. The trick is simple: sprinkle a small amount of baking soda inside your socks before wearing them or after washing them.

Baking soda naturally absorbs and neutralizes unpleasant smells—much like it does when placed in the refrigerator, freezer, or even an ashtray to eliminate smoke odor. When applied to socks or shoes, it draws out moisture and sweat, effectively stopping bacteria from multiplying (the main cause of bad smells).

To try it out, pour a spoonful of baking soda directly into your socks or shoes in the evening. Let it sit overnight so it can fully absorb any lingering odors. The next morning, shake out the excess powder, and your socks will be refreshed and odor-free.

If you prefer, you can also sprinkle baking soda into your shoes instead of directly on your socks. Either way, it’s a simple and chemical-free way to eliminate stubborn smells and keep your feet fresh.

Boost the Effect with Lemon Juice

For an even stronger cleaning and deodorizing effect, you can combine baking soda with lemon juice. The acidity of lemon enhances the power of baking soda, helping to remove stains, kill bacteria, and add a natural citrus scent.

Here’s how to do it:

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1. Dampen your socks with warm water.

2. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on them.

3. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon directly over the fabric.

4. Let them sit for about 10 minutes.

5. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry in the sun.

After drying, your socks will look whiter, smell fresh, and feel cleaner than ever before.

This method can also be used for other clothing items that tend to develop strong odors, such as gym clothes or work uniforms.

Using Baking Soda in the Washing Machine

Baking soda is just as useful in your washing machine as it is in handwashing. Adding a spoonful of baking soda to each load can dramatically improve cleaning results. It not only helps remove odors but also prevents limescale buildup inside the machine, keeping it efficient for longer.

Simply add a tablespoon of baking soda directly into the detergent compartment before starting your regular wash cycle. Your laundry will come out cleaner, brighter, and noticeably fresher.

For white clothes, baking soda acts as a natural whitener, helping to restore brightness without damaging the fibers. For colored garments, it preserves vibrancy and prevents fading over time.

Pre-Soaking for Extra Smelly Socks

If your socks have an especially strong odor (like those caused by sweat or prolonged use), it’s best to pre-soak them before washing. Fill a large basin with about 4 liters of warm water and dissolve 200 grams of baking soda in it.

Place your socks—or any other smelly garments—into the solution and let them soak overnight if possible. The next morning, rinse them or run a normal washing cycle. The results will be outstanding: soft, clean, and completely odor-free socks without the need for expensive detergents or harsh chemicals.

The Final Verdict

Baking soda truly is one of the most underrated cleaning products out there. It’s affordable, safe for sensitive skin, gentle on fabrics, and eco-friendly. By incorporating it into your laundry routine, you can finally say goodbye to unpleasant sock odors and hello to freshness that lasts.

It’s no wonder our grandmothers swore by it. Sometimes, the simplest solutions really are the best—and in the case of smelly socks, baking soda is the tried-and-true hero that never fails.