Can These Scientists Finally Put an End to Stinky Shoes?

This article explores a unique scientific study on the odour of shoes that won the Ig Nobel Prize, highlighting how foul-smelling footwear impacts user experience and leads to innovative design solutions. The research, conducted by Vikash Kumar and Sarthak Mittal from India, demonstrates that utilising UV-C light can eliminate shoe odour and proposes a new type of shoe rack that sterilises shoes while storing them.

Last updated: 09 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Odour from shoes is primarily caused by the bacterium Kytococcus sedentarius.
• A study found that UV-C light effectively eliminates shoe odour within minutes.
• The researchers designed a prototype shoe rack that integrates this sterilising technology.
• The Ig Nobel Prize recognises unusual, imaginative scientific endeavours.
• Public interest has increased in the potential for innovative solutions to everyday problems.

The Science of Smelly Shoes

Almost every household has at least one pair of shoes that emits an unbearable smell. In many cases, this odour is not just a nuisance but can affect the overall experience of using a shoe rack. Researchers Vikash Kumar and Sarthak Mittal decided to investigate how the unpleasant smell of shoes influences their design and functionality. Their findings led them to the Ig Nobel Prize, which celebrates quirky yet insightful scientific exploration.

Understanding the Problem

The initial observation of this odour problem came from Mittal's experiences in university hostels, where he noticed shoes lining the corridors. While the original intention was to design a more aesthetically pleasing shoe rack for students, the researchers soon realised that the real issue was the pervasive smell of shoes, rather than mere clutter.

According to their survey of 149 university students, a significant number reported feeling embarrassed by the smell of their own shoes or those of others. Surprisingly, most respondents stored their footwear in racks, yet few had heard of deodorising products. Traditional home remedies like tea bags or baking soda were deemed ineffective.

The Role of Bacteria

Upon further investigation, the researchers identified that Kytococcus sedentarius, a bacterium thriving in sweaty shoes, was primarily responsible for the foul smell. This bacterium thrives in moist, dark environments, making shoes an ideal breeding ground. The challenge then became finding a method to eliminate these odours without damaging the footwear.

Innovative Solutions: The UV-C Light Experiment

With a clear understanding of the problem, Kumar and Mittal turned to science for a solution. They conducted experiments using UV-C light, specifically designed to kill bacteria. Their tests showed promising results: just 2–3 minutes of UV-C exposure was sufficient to eliminate bacteria and, consequently, the associated odour.

Testing the Hypothesis

Using shoes worn by university athletes, which typically had a pronounced odour, the researchers focused their UV-C treatment on the toe area, where bacterial build-up is most intense. They meticulously measured the odour levels before and after treatment, noting the changes in smell. Initially, the odour was described as "strong, pungent, rotten-cheese-like," but after just a couple of minutes, it transformed to a mild burnt rubber scent.

Through careful experimentation, they discovered that excessive exposure to UV-C light resulted in increased heat, which could damage the rubber of the shoes. This balance of time and temperature was crucial to ensuring the effectiveness of the treatment without harming the footwear.

The Prototype Shoe Rack

The culmination of their research was the proposal of a shoe rack equipped with a UV-C tube light. This innovative design not only stores shoes but also sterilises them, providing a dual purpose that enhances user experience. The researchers noted that in India, where shoe racks are ubiquitous, a design that keeps shoes odour-free would significantly improve daily life.

Recognition and the Ig Nobel Prize

Despite their initial lack of intent to submit their research for any awards, the Ig Nobel Prize committee took notice of their work and reached out to them. The Ig Nobel Prize, awarded annually, aims to celebrate the unusual and imaginative aspects of science while encouraging people to think critically about the world around them. For Kumar and Mittal, winning this award was both unexpected and a source of joy.

"We had no idea about the prize," Kumar remarked. "It was an old 2022 paper - we never sent it anywhere. The Ig Nobel team just found us, called us up, and that in itself makes you laugh and think."

The Broader Implications of Their Research

The success of this study has broader implications beyond merely addressing smelly shoes. It emphasises the importance of considering user experience in design and how addressing everyday problems can lead to innovative solutions. The recognition from the Ig Nobel Prize has also created pressure for Kumar and Mittal to continue their research into topics that may not typically receive attention.

Celebrating Quirkiness in Science

The Ig Nobel Prize has an array of winners each year, showcasing diverse and often humorous research topics. From biologists painting cows to keep flies away to studies revealing that garlic can enhance the flavour of breast milk, the prize celebrates the lighter side of scientific inquiry. Kumar and Mittal’s research fits perfectly into this category, demonstrating that even the most mundane problems can lead to significant insights and advancements.

Conclusion: From Shoes to Science

The research on odorous shoes not only highlights a common household issue but also illustrates a unique intersection of daily life and scientific inquiry. By employing a creative approach, Kumar and Mittal have opened the door for further exploration into user-centric design while contributing to the field of microbiology. Their work serves as a reminder that even the most trivial problems can spark innovative scientific solutions that enhance our lives.

As they look to the future, Kumar and Mittal are motivated to continue their research and explore unconventional questions that could lead to groundbreaking discoveries. What will they tackle next? Only time will tell, but today's smelly sneakers could very well inspire tomorrow's scientific breakthroughs. #Science #Innovation #IgNobelPrize

FAQs

What causes shoes to smell bad?

The foul smell in shoes is primarily caused by bacteria, particularly Kytococcus sedentarius, which thrives in warm, moist conditions typically found in footwear.

How can UV-C light help eliminate shoe odour?

UV-C light has germicidal properties that can kill bacteria responsible for shoe odour. Just a few minutes of exposure can significantly reduce or eliminate the foul smell.

What is the Ig Nobel Prize?

The Ig Nobel Prize is an annual award that recognises unusual and imaginative scientific research, encouraging people to think critically while having a laugh.

How effective are home remedies for shoe odour?

Common home remedies such as tea bags and baking soda may provide temporary relief but are often not effective in completely eliminating the bacteria causing the odour.

What is the proposed design for the new shoe rack?

The proposed design is a shoe rack integrated with a UV-C light that sterilises shoes while they are stored, preventing the build-up of odour-causing bacteria.