Smelly feet—also known as bromodosis—is a common and often embarrassing issue that affects many people, especially in the warmer months or when you’re on your feet all day. Thankfully, there are practical and effective ways to prevent foot odour and keep your feet fresh and clean.
What Causes Smelly Feet?
Foot odour is usually caused by a combination of sweat and bacteria. Your feet have over 250,000 sweat glands, and when enclosed in shoes and socks all day, they create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. These bacteria break down sweat and dead skin cells, producing an unpleasant smell.
Contributing factors include:
How to Prevent Foot Odour
Here are some tried-and-true ways to stop your feet from smelling:
1. Wash Your Feet Daily
Use warm water and antibacterial soap to wash your feet, especially between the toes. Dry them thoroughly to prevent moisture build-up.
2. Use an Antifungal Foot Powder or Spray
Products designed to fight fungi and bacteria can keep feet dry and odour-free. Look for ones with tea tree oil or zinc oxide for natural antibacterial action.
3. Choose Breathable Footwear
Wear shoes made from natural materials like leather or canvas, which allow air to circulate. Avoid plastic or vinyl shoes.
4. Rotate Your Shoes
Don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day. Allow them time to air out between uses.
5. Change Socks Daily
Wear clean, moisture-wicking socks made from cotton, wool, or bamboo. Change them more than once a day if your feet sweat a lot.
6. Soak Your Feet
A foot soak in warm water with Epsom salts, apple cider vinegar, or black tea can reduce bacteria and neutralise odour.
7. Keep Toenails Trimmed
Trimmed toenails reduce areas where bacteria and fungi can hide and multiply.
8. Use Foot Deodorants or Antiperspirants
Yes—they exist! These products work just like underarm deodorants to reduce sweating and odour.
9. Treat Any Underlying Conditions
If you have conditions like athlete’s foot or excessive sweating, it’s important to treat them early. Over-the-counter creams and sprays are widely available, but persistent issues should be reviewed by a podiatrist.
10. Visit a Podiatrist
If odour persists despite good hygiene, it may be time to consult a podiatrist. You could be dealing with a fungal infection or a condition like hyperhidrosis that requires professional care.
Stay on Your Feet with Foot HQ Podiatry
At Foot HQ Podiatry Miranda, we provide expert foot care tailored to your lifestyle. Whether it’s your first visit or a regular check-in, our experienced team is here to help you stay active and pain-free.
📍 Suite 1, 28–30 Urunga Parade, Miranda NSW 2228
📞 Call (02) 8520 8818 to book your appointment today.
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