BUCKHORN CLIFFSA preparedness field manual

Hygiene and Sanitation · Formula

Deodorize and Sanitize Shoes Without Washing

A two-step method using a vinegar mist, sun drying, and baking soda to cut odor and bacteria in shoes or boots when washing is not possible.

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Inside this article

What you'll need
How to use it
Warnings
Storage and shelf life
When to use it

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What is in this article

  • The exact numbers: spray, drying, baking soda, sit time, shelf life, mixed
  • The full materials list (5 items, with grades and substitutes)
  • The hazard box and the caution notes: what never to mix it with and when to stop
  • Storage and shelf life for the raw compound and the finished mix
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Questions this answers

Tap a question for the short answer.

How do I get the smell out of boots without washing them?

A light vinegar mist with sun drying reduces odor-causing bacteria and moisture, and baking soda in fully dry boots handles the remaining smell. Never soak them.

Members get the exact amounts and every step.

Can I spray vinegar inside my shoes?

Yes, a light mist of white vinegar inside the shoe reduces odor-causing bacteria, as long as you avoid soaking and let the shoes dry fully. Keep it off untreated leather or suede interiors.

Members get the exact amounts and every step.

How much baking soda do I put in shoes?

A modest sprinkle inside each shoe is enough. Use it only in fully dry shoes so it does not clump, and remove the excess powder before wearing.

Members get the exact amounts and every step.

How do I sanitize shoes in the field?

Vinegar mist plus sunlight or warm airflow reduces bacteria and moisture when you cannot wash footwear, and baking soda deodorizes afterward. Always let shoes dry fully before reuse to prevent mold or mildew.

Members get the exact amounts and every step.

Can I use vinegar on leather boots?

Avoid putting vinegar directly on untreated leather or suede interiors, and never soak leather or insulated boots. Let boots dry fully before reuse to prevent mold or mildew.

Members get the exact amounts and every step.

Keep going

Read nextHygiene and Sanitation When the Water Is OffWhat to do when the water goes off: bucket toilet, hand washing, waste, body, teeth, laundry, dishes, disinfecting, and pests, with the shelf item and recipe page for every job.Hygiene and Sanitation · Guide

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Compounds and Cleaning · Compound Vinegar Shelf life: Indefinite. Storage: Sealed glass or HDPE. INDEFINITEMULTI-USE Hygiene and Sanitation · Formula Foot Powder for Moisture and Friction (Baking Soda, Cornstarch) Used to reduce foot moisture, friction, and odor in situations where hygiene is limited and foot care is essential, such as during long hikes, shelter stays, or off-grid living. Handle with care Hygiene and Sanitation · Formula Baking Soda Foot Soak for Odor, Itch and Athlete's Foot Foot problems are common in extended outdoor or survival situations. This warm soak eases foot odor, itching, and the discomfort of athlete's foot. Handle with care Hygiene and Sanitation · Formula Freshen Bedding and Sleeping Pads Without Washing (Vinegar, Sun) Foam pads, sleeping bags, and boots harbor bacteria in places you cannot easily wash with soap and water. Handle with care
Everything in Hygiene and SanitationNever-mix checkerShelf life tableFind a recipe by needWalk-around auditStart here

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Hygiene and Sanitation · FormulaLast reviewed 2025-04-30

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