Having stinky feet can be embarrassing and frustrating. Foot odor is caused by bacteria that thrive in the warm, dark environment inside shoes. When feet sweat, these bacteria break down the sweat and produce compounds that smell unpleasant. While you can’t eliminate foot odor entirely, there are several things you can do to keep it under control. Here are 10 tips for preventing foot odor:
1. Wash Your Feet Daily
Washing your feet daily with soap and water is one of the simplest and most effective ways to fight foot odor. Make sure to scrub between toes and under toenails where bacteria tend to accumulate. Consider using an antibacterial soap or one with tea tree oil to kill odor-causing bacteria. Rinse thoroughly and dry feet completely when done.
2. Soak Feet in Vinegar Water
White vinegar is a natural antibacterial and deodorizer. Add 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts warm water and soak feet for 15 minutes daily to fight odor. The acetic acid in the vinegar kills bacteria and helps remove dead skin cells. This vinegar foot bath can also help treat foot fungus.
3. Use Antiperspirant on Feet
Applying antiperspirant to your feet can help stop sweat, which bacteria feed on to cause odor. Look for a powder formula made for feet instead of an underarm stick antiperspirant. Sprinkling a bit in shoes and socks can create a barrier against sweat and odor. Reapply halfway through the day if needed.
4. Use Antibacterial Foot Powder
Foot powder containing antibacterial ingredients like zinc oxide, aluminum chloride, or sodium bicarbonate can help absorb sweat and odor in shoes. These powders help reduce foot bacteria growth. Lightly dust them in shoes, socks, and feet daily.
5. Wear Moisture-Wicking Socks
Choose socks made from moisture-wicking fabrics like wool, polyester, or bamboo rayon. These fabrics draw sweat away from feet and let it evaporate rather than getting absorbed into shoes. Having dry feet discourages bacteria growth that causes odor. Avoid socks made of non-breathable materials like polyester blends.
6. Alternate Your Shoes
Wearing the same shoes daily increases bacteria growth inside them. Give shoes at least 24 hours rest between wears to let them thoroughly dry out and help kill odor-causing bacteria. Consider using shoe inserts or insoles that can be swapped out between shoes to absorb sweat and odor. Having 2-3 pairs of shoes in rotation is ideal for preventing odor buildup.
7. Use Odor-Fighting Insoles
Insoles designed to combat foot odor can be highly effective at absorbing sweat and neutralizing odors inside shoes. Look for those containing activated charcoal, baking soda, or antimicrobial silver. These materials trap sweat and odor before it transfers to the inner lining of shoes. Insoles should be replaced every 3-6 months.
8. Dust Feet with Talcum/Baby Powder
Sprinkling talcum powder or baby powder on feet and in shoes helps soak up moisture and prevent bacteria overgrowth. The powder also creates a dry environment where bacteria cannot thrive. Look for talc-free varieties if sensitive to talc. Reapply mid-day if needed.
9. Disinfect Shoes
Using UV shoe sanitizers or disinfectant sprays can help kill bacteria inside shoes that cause odors. A daily spritz inside shoes with either rubbing alcohol or an antibacterial spray like Lysol can work wonders. Place shoes in direct sunlight to utilize the sun’s natural UV rays as a disinfectant as well.
10. See a Podiatrist
In some cases, consistent foot odor can indicate an underlying medical condition like chronic foot fungus or hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). See a podiatrist to identify any problems and discuss prescription-strength treatments like oral medications, medical grade antiperspirants, or custom orthotics. Addressing an underlying condition may be key to resolving stubborn foot odor.
Making a daily effort to practice proper foot hygiene and wear breathable shoes is crucial for preventing odor. Pay close attention to cleaning between toes and drying feet thoroughly after bathing or sweating. With some diligence about foot care, you can keep embarrassing odors at bay. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you continue having problems controlling foot odor.
