Foot odor can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing, and it's particularly common in individuals who wear closed-toe shoes during most waking hours every day. Sweating can promote the growth of fungus or bacteria on the feet or in your shoes, and some types of bacteria feed on dead skin cells to produce unpleasant odors. With a few home remedies, you can keep your feet and shoes smelling fresh year round.
Step 1
Wash your feet daily with a mild antibacterial soap, which will keep the bacteria on your feet in check and reduce the chances of a foul-smelling bacterial buildup. Dry your feet thoroughly with a clean towel and remove excess moisture between your toes, where bacteria tend to thrive.
Step 2
Soak your feet daily in a solution of equal parts warm water and white vinegar or a half cup of Epsom salt in a bucket of warm water, especially if washing does not improve your foot odor. Both vinegar and Epsom salt may help kill bacteria on your feet.
Step 3
Apply cornstarch or an over-the-counter foot powder to your feet before putting on socks and shoes. Such powders are designed to absorb moisture to keep your feet dry.
Step 4
Wear cotton or wool socks whenever possible. Natural fibers tend to wick moisture away from your skin to keep bacterial growth at bay. Choose breathable shoes or sandals to keep air circulating to your feet. Spend as much time barefoot as you can. Change your socks once or twice per day during the summer or whenever you experience excessive sweating.
Step 5
Rotate your shoes so you're not wearing the same pair two days in a row. One night may not be enough to dry out the moisture from sweat in your shoes, so wearing a fresh, dry pair will allow your old pair to dry out completely.
Step 6
Apply an antiperspirant to the soles of your feet before you go to bed at night.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your doctor about alternate treatments if home remedies do not alleviate your foot odor.
Things You'll Need
- Antibacterial soap
- White vinegar
- Epsom salt
- Towel
- Cornstarch
- Foot powder
- Cotton or wool socks
- Breathable shoes
- Antiperspirant
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