Bromodosis, or smelly feet, is a very common medical condition. It’s due to a buildup of sweat, which results bacteria growth on the skin. These bacteria cause bad odors. Fungal infections like athlete’s foot can also lead to bromodosis.
Home treatments for smelly feet and how to keep your feet clean and neat...
- Use a mild soap and scrub brush to wash your feet at least once a day. The best time to do this is during your morning or evening shower. It’s important to dry your feet completely after washing. Pay special attention between your toes, where any wetness can easily cause bacteria to grow.
- Clip your toenails often so they’re short, and make sure to clean them regularly.
- Remove the hard, dead skin from your feet with a foot file. Hard skin gets soggy and soft when it’s wet, creating a place where bacteria like to live.
- Change your socks at least once a day. If you’re in a hot environment, exercising, or in any other situation where your feet may become sweaty, you should change your socks more often.
- Have two pairs of shoes that you alternate wearing every other day. This allows each pair to thoroughly dry out from sweat or moisture for a full day before being worn again. You can remove the insoles in your shoes to help them dry again. Wet shoes allow bacteria to grow on your feet more quickly.
- Choose socks that absorb moisture rather than keep it on your feet. These include thick, soft socks made out of natural fibers or sports socks.
- Wear open-toed sandals in warm weather, and go barefoot indoors when appropriate to allow your feet to stay dry.
- Avoid shoes that are tight or may retain moisture.
- Use a cotton ball to apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to your feet every night. This will help to dry out your feet. Avoid applying it to any cracks in your skin.
- Apply an antifungal foot spray or medicated foot powder on your feet once daily.
- Insert medicated deodorant insoles into your shoes.
- If you need to quickly cut down on your foot odor, it’s safe to apply antiperspirant or deodorant spray to your feet.
- Try various types of antifungal and antibacterial soaps until you find one that works best for you.
- Make your own foot soak using Listerine or vinegar.