How Do I Treat and Prevent Athlete’s Foot or Foot Odour?

How Do I Treat and Prevent Athlete’s Foot or Foot Odour?

Athlete’s foot and foot odour are two of the most common foot issues Australians face—especially in warmer climates or among those who wear enclosed shoes for long hours. Whether you're dealing with itchy, peeling skin between your toes or embarrassing odour, both conditions are not only uncomfortable but can affect your confidence and daily life.

Fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to treat and prevent athlete’s foot and foot odour. In this post, we’ll walk you through the causes, treatment options, and practical prevention tips to keep your feet healthy, fresh, and fungus-free.

What Causes Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal infection that typically develops between the toes or on the soles of the feet. It thrives in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty socks, public showers, and locker rooms. The infection is contagious and can be spread through direct contact or by sharing towels, socks, or shoes.

Common symptoms include:

• Itching, stinging, or burning between the toes

• Cracked, peeling, or flaky skin

• Redness or small blisters

• Dry, scaly patches on the soles or sides of the feet

What Causes Foot Odour?

Foot odour, or bromhydrosis, is usually caused by sweat and bacteria. Your feet contain thousands of sweat glands. When sweat is trapped in socks or shoes, it creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria break down sweat and dead skin cells, producing the unpleasant smell.

How to Treat Athlete’s Foot

1. Antifungal creams or powders
   Over-the-counter treatments like terbinafine, clotrimazole, or miconazole are effective for most mild to moderate infections. Apply as directed, even after symptoms disappear, to prevent recurrence.

2. Keep feet dry and clean
   Wash your feet daily with soap and warm water, then dry thoroughly—especially between the toes.

3. Change socks daily
   Choose breathable materials like cotton or wool and avoid wearing damp socks.

4. Disinfect shoes
   Spray an antifungal spray inside your shoes and let them air out between wears.

5. See a podiatrist
   If symptoms persist or worsen, a professional may prescribe stronger antifungal medication or diagnose an underlying issue.

How to Treat Foot Odour

1. Daily washing and drying
   Use an antibacterial soap to cleanse the feet and dry thoroughly, paying close attention between the toes.

2. Antibacterial foot sprays or powders
   These can help kill odour-causing bacteria and reduce sweating.

3. Foot soaks
   Soaking feet in a solution of warm water and apple cider vinegar or baking soda can help neutralise odour and kill bacteria.

4. Choose breathable footwear
   Opt for shoes made from natural materials like leather or canvas. Rotate your shoes to allow them to dry out.

5. Use moisture-wicking socks
   These help reduce sweat buildup throughout the day.

How to Prevent Athlete’s Foot and Foot Odour

Prevention is key! Follow these simple foot hygiene habits:

• Wash your feet daily and dry thoroughly.

• Change socks at least once a day, more often if they become damp.

• Avoid walking barefoot in communal areas like public showers, pools, or gyms.

• Use antifungal powder if you're prone to fungal infections.

• Let your shoes breathe—don’t wear the same pair two days in a row.

• Store your shoes in a dry, well-ventilated area.

• Don’t share footwear, socks, or towels.

When to See a Podiatrist

If your symptoms don’t improve with home treatment after two weeks, or if the condition worsens, it’s best to book an appointment with a podiatrist. Persistent infections may require prescription-strength treatments or a professional diagnosis to rule out other skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

Book an Appointment with HQ Podiatry

At HQ Podiatry, we specialise in diagnosing and treating common skin conditions of the feet, including athlete’s foot and persistent foot odour. If you're dealing with ongoing discomfort, don’t wait—early treatment prevents complications and ensures long-term foot health.

Book an Appointment at HQ Podiatry

If you’re experiencing ongoing foot numbness, tingling, or burning, our team is here to help.

📍 Foot HQ Podiatry
Suite 1, 28–30 Urunga Parade, Miranda NSW 2228
📞 Call us on (02) 8520 8818 to book an appointment today.

We’re committed to helping you achieve better foot health, one step at a time.