How to Get Rid of Cat Urine Smell from Your Running Shoes

Cats are usually fastidious creatures, but when accidents happen, especially on your favorite running shoes, the resulting odor can be both overwhelming and difficult to eliminate. The unique composition of cat urine makes it especially pungent and persistent if not treated properly. Fortunately, there are effective ways to neutralize the smell and refresh your shoes without damaging them.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to restoring your sneakers, using proven methods that go beyond a quick rinse or a basic air-out.

Isolate the Shoes First

The moment you realize your shoes have been marked by a cat, remove them from other items to prevent the smell from spreading. Avoid placing them in closed spaces like gym bags or closets, as the odor may intensify in confined areas. Ideally, place the shoes in an open area with good airflow until you can begin cleaning.

Neutralize the Odor with a Natural Absorbent

To start removing the smell, use a natural deodorizer like baking soda. This simple household item is excellent at absorbing both moisture and odors. Pour a generous amount into a plastic bag large enough to contain your shoes. Once the shoes are placed inside the bag, seal it tightly and shake it to distribute the powder. Let the shoes remain in the sealed bag for at least several days, allowing the baking soda to penetrate the material and pull out the odor.

If baking soda isn’t available, activated charcoal or unscented cat litter can be a great alternative, especially for strong, lingering smells. These materials trap the ammonia-like compounds in cat urine more effectively than air fresheners or perfume sprays.

Use Sunlight to Your Advantage

Once the baking soda treatment is complete, remove the shoes and shake off any residue outside. Then place them directly in the sun for a full day. Ultraviolet rays from the sun naturally kill bacteria and help evaporate any remaining moisture within the fabric. If it’s a rainy or cold day, placing them on a sunny windowsill indoors can also work, although it might take longer.

Sun exposure not only aids in odor removal but also prevents the growth of mold or mildew, which can thrive in damp environments left behind by urine.

Clean Gently with a Vinegar Solution

If a noticeable stain or smell persists after sun-drying, make a mild cleaning solution using equal parts white vinegar and water. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the mixture and gently scrub the affected areas inside and out. Vinegar neutralizes alkaline substances like urine without damaging most athletic shoe materials.

After cleaning, blot the shoes with a clean towel to absorb excess liquid and allow them to dry thoroughly in a well-ventilated area.

Wash if Material Permits

For shoes made of mesh, canvas, or synthetic fabric, a washing machine may be a safe option—provided the label confirms it. Before washing, remove the insoles and laces, place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase, and use a gentle, cold-water cycle with a mild detergent. Never use bleach, as it can break down fabrics and worsen any stains.

Air dry the shoes in natural light afterward. Avoid placing them in a dryer, as heat can warp their shape or damage glue that holds parts of the shoe together.

Address the Insoles Separately

In many cases, the insoles absorb the most odor. If they’re removable, clean them separately using the vinegar solution or soak them in warm water mixed with baking soda. Rinse thoroughly and air dry. If they still smell after treatment, it may be time to replace them. Inexpensive replacement insoles are widely available and can give your shoes a new lease on life.

Prevent Future Accidents

After reclaiming your shoes from the smell, consider preventive steps. Store running shoes in sealed bins or elevated spaces to avoid future mishaps. If your cat repeatedly urinates outside the litter box, it may be time to address potential behavioral or medical concerns with a vet.

By acting quickly and using the right methods, you can completely remove cat urine odor from your shoes—no matter how stubborn it seems at first.