The practice of placing cloves in shoes is a centuries-old tradition rooted in both botanical science and folk wisdom. Cloves are the dried flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree, and they contain a high concentration of eugenol, a powerful compound with natural antiseptic, antifungal, and aromatic properties. When placed inside footwear, they work silently to transform the environment of your shoes.
The Benefits of Cloves for Footwear
- Natural Deodorizing: Unlike synthetic sprays that merely mask odors, cloves neutralize the bacteria that cause the smell, leaving behind a clean, spicy scent.
- Antifungal Protection: Eugenol is a potent antifungal agent. Keeping cloves in your shoes helps create an environment that is hostile to the fungi responsible for athlete’s foot and nail infections.
- Moisture Absorption: While not as absorbent as silica, whole cloves help draw out minor residual moisture from the inner lining of the shoe, preventing the “damp” feeling that leads to bacterial growth.
- Aromatherapy for the Feet: The warming properties of clove oil can linger on the skin, providing a subtle, stimulating effect that helps with circulation after a long day of walking.
Clove Purifying Sachet
This simple preparation ensures that the cloves stay contained while maximizing the release of their essential oils into your footwear.
Ingredients
- 10–12 Whole Organic Cloves (ensure they are fragrant and dark brown)
- 2 Small breathable fabric pouches (muslin or cotton work best; old clean socks also work)
- 5 drops Clove Essential Oil (optional, for an extra-strength boost)
- 1 tsp Dried Lavender or Cedar Shavings (optional, for a multi-layered scent)
Instructions
- Activate the Cloves: Briefly press down on the whole cloves with the back of a spoon to slightly “bruise” them. This breaks the surface and releases the eugenol-rich oils.
- Combine Aromatics: If using lavender or cedar, mix them with the cloves in a small bowl.
- Fill the Pouches: Divide the mixture evenly between the two fabric pouches. If you are using the essential oil, drop it directly onto the dried cloves before closing the bags.
- Secure: Tie the pouches tightly with a ribbon or string.
- Application: Place one sachet deep into the toe box of each shoe immediately after taking them off.
- Set and Refresh: Leave the sachets in the shoes overnight. For best results, keep them in your shoes whenever you aren’t wearing them.
A Pro Tip: These sachets typically remain effective for about 2–4 weeks. Once the scent begins to fade, you can “reactivate” them by adding a few more drops of clove oil, or simply replace the whole cloves to maintain the antifungal benefits.
