Abstract: Disclosed are boot (and other footwear) dryer insert materials that are to be used to dry out boots without the use of electric or mechanical power. Said boot insert dryer materials utilize a low bioburden, biodegradable and/or compostable moisture absorbing nonwoven structure and one or more antimicrobial and/or antifungal agents that minimize odor by mitigating the spread of odor causing pathogens. The drying process includes the ability of the outer surface of the boot dryer to allow the ingress of moisture absorbed from the boot while at the same time preventing captured moisture to escape back into the boot. Fluid absorbing or superabsorbent, capabilities may be incorporated in the devices of the present invention to control excess fluids. Also disclosed are methods of manufacture of the boot dryer inserts of the present invention.