Stinky feet are unpleasant and can be embarrassing. Foot odor occurs when bacteria that live on the feet mix with perspiration and give off smelly fumes. Bacteria thrive in damp, dark places, and the insides of your shoes are great breeding grounds. You can treat foot odor at home with good hygiene, shoe care and home remedies.
Good Hygiene
Good hygiene will go a long way in preventing and treating smelly feet. Wash your feet with warm water and soap frequently to reduce the number of smell-producing bacteria. Dry your feet well, especially between your toes. Leaving your feet damp may leave you prone to a fungal infection like athlete's foot.
If you do not have time to wash your feet after arriving home or if your feet are sweaty, at least change your socks during the day if you tend to have stinky feet. Cotton socks are best for allowing feet to breathe and absorbing perspiration. ePodiatry recommends using a foot powder regularly to prevent odor. Wipe off any excess powder so it does not mix with sweat and become clumpy.
Proper Shoe Care
Dr. Weil, author of "Your Health Today," stresses the importance of good shoe care in combating smelly feet. Try not to wear the same shoes each day; allow them to air out for at least a day in between uses. Since letting shoes sit will dry them out, they become less hospitable to stinky bacteria.
Wipe out your shoes occasionally with a damp cloth and allow them to dry thoroughly before wearing them again. If smell persists, Dr. Weil suggests trying deodorizing crystals or inserts. Open-toed shoes and shoes made of natural materials allow feet to breathe more than plastic or other types of synthetic shoes.
Home Remedies
Health 911 recommends some household products that can remedy your stinky feet. Soak your feet in a small amount of apple cider vinegar mixed with water a few times per week to cut down on bacteria. Baking soda sprinkled in your socks or shoes can help absorb perspiration and reduce odor.
Strong brewed tea can help prevent excessive sweating: soak five teabags in four cups of water, let cool and soak your feet for a half hour. Use a roll-on or spray antiperspirant or deodorant on the soles of your feet to reduce sweating and odor. Health 911 cautions that this method may dry out your feet and leave them irritated.
Medical Treatments
If your smelly foot problem persists despite trying good hygiene and home remedies, see your doctor. He may be able to prescribe a special antiperspirant to help control perspiration and odor. Other treatments that may help include electric devices and, in severe cases, surgery.
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