Having smelly feet can be an embarrassing and frustrating problem, especially when it lingers in your shoes. As Podiatrists, we understand the common causes of foot odour and the best ways to tackle it. Smelly feet are typically the result of bacteria mixing with sweat. But don’t worry—there are simple and effective strategies to keep your feet and shoes fresh!
What Causes Foot Odour?
Foot odour is often caused by sweat. Your feet contain over 250,000 sweat glands, and when sweat builds up, it creates a moist environment where bacteria thrive. The breakdown of this bacteria produces an unpleasant smell. Other contributing factors include:
- Poor hygiene
- Wearing the same shoes daily without airing them out
- Tight, non-breathable footwear
- Foot conditions like athlete’s foot
Tips for Keeping Feet Fresh
- Wash Your Feet Daily: Use warm water and antibacterial soap to thoroughly clean your feet. Pay special attention to the areas between your toes. Make sure to dry your feet completely afterwards, as moisture encourages bacterial growth.
- Keep Feet Dry: Apply foot powder or talcum powder to absorb excess moisture. If you prefer natural remedies, cornstarch can also help keep your feet dry. You can even consider using an antiperspirant on your feet to reduce sweating.
- Wear Moisture-Wicking Socks: Cotton socks absorb sweat but don’t wick it away, which can trap moisture against your skin. Opt for moisture-wicking socks made of synthetic fibres or wool blends, which allow moisture to evaporate and keep your feet dry.
- Rotate Your Shoes: Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes two days in a row. Give your shoes time to air out between wears, ideally for at least 24 hours. If possible, remove the insoles to speed up the drying process.
- Choose Breathable Footwear: Shoes made of breathable materials like leather or mesh allow air to circulate, helping to keep your feet cool and dry. Avoid wearing plastic or rubber shoes for extended periods as they trap heat and moisture.
How to Freshen Up Smelly Shoes
Shoes can absorb sweat and bacteria over time, which leads to unpleasant odours. Here are some tips to keep them smelling fresh:
- Air Out Shoes After Wearing: After removing your shoes, give them a chance to air out by leaving them in a well-ventilated area. Avoid keeping them in closed or dark spaces like gym bags or closets immediately after wearing them.
- Wash Your Shoes: If your shoes are machine-washable, toss them in with a mild detergent. Use cold water and air-dry them thoroughly afterwards. For non-washable shoes, you can wipe them down with a damp cloth and let them dry completely.
- Consider Freezing Your Shoes: Yes, freezing can actually kill odour-causing bacteria. Place your shoes in a plastic bag and leave them in the freezer overnight. Be sure to let them thaw before wearing them again.
- Replace Worn-Out Shoes: Sometimes, shoes become too worn or saturated with bacteria to salvage. If your shoes still smell after thorough cleaning, it might be time for a new pair. Regularly replacing heavily used footwear is key to keeping feet and shoes smelling fresh.
When to See a Podiatrist
If you’ve tried the above tips and are still struggling with foot odour, it may be time to see a Podiatrist. Persistent foot odour can sometimes be a sign of an underlying issue, such as fungal infections (like athlete’s foot) or hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). A Podiatrist can help diagnose the problem and recommend targeted treatments.
Final Thoughts
Managing smelly feet and shoes doesn’t have to be difficult. With good hygiene practices, proper footwear, and regular maintenance, you can keep your feet and shoes smelling fresh. For chronic issues or additional advice, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with one of our Podiatrists in Thornbury. You can Book Online or Call Us on 9480 4935. We look forward to helping you tackle this completely normal and easy to fix issue of smelly feet!