Smelly feet are an embarrassing problem, but you can reduce the odor they produce. Your feet have more sweat glands than any other part of your body except your hands. Both have about 3,000 glands per square inch, according to the Fox Mill Foot and Ankle Center in Reston, Virginia. Smelly feet are caused by perspiration and footwear. The interaction between your sweat and bacteria that thrive in socks and shoes is responsible. Wearing shoes and socks made of natural materials, and changing these daily, will help. A foot soak is another simple solution.
Benefits
One of the best foot soaks to combat odor is strong black tea. The tannic acid in the tea serves two purposes. It kills bacteria on your feet. It also closes the pores, which keeps your feet dry longer, according to the Fox Mill Foot and Ankle Center. Another alternative is vinegar and water.
Prepare Your Tea
To create your black tea foot bath, boil two tea bags in a pint of water. Steep it for 15 minutes. Dilute the brew with 2 quarts of water. Let the mix cool if needed, according to the Reader's Digest book "1,801 Home Remedies."
Vinegar Bath
To make a vinegar foot bath, create a solution that is one part vinegar and two parts water. Add a couple of drops of thyme essential oil to boost its effectiveness, because thyme has an antiseptic that targets odor-causing bacteria, according to "Reader's Digest."
Time Soaking
Soak your feet for 30 minutes per day if you are using the black tea bath. Utilize your foot soak for 15 to 20 minutes daily if you are using a vinegar bath. Do not use this soak if you have broken skin or open sores.
Considerations
Foot soaks should be used in conjunction with other measures including daily washing of your feet, using socks made of cotton or other breathable materials and dusting your feet with powder before donning your socks. If you have persistent foot odor, this may indicate a case of hereditary sweating or low-grade infection. In these cases, foot bath will not be effective. Obtain a prescription ointment to treat your problem. Also check your feet for fungal infections. These are most likely to appear between your toes or on the bottom of your foot. If you have dry, patchy skin or redness, seek treatment.
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