Smelly feet are not only antisocial and unpleasant, it is also a sure sign of bad foot hygiene--but it can be easily eliminated by following some healthy, xpert advice and tips. Foot odor is caused by bacteria feeding on the dead skin on dirty socks or shoes. When there is moisture present, e.g. sweaty feet or wearing shoes that do not allow the feet to air, then the smell gets even worse. This article will give you some ways to reduce foot odor and to keep the smells at bay.

Things You’ll Need:

Talcum powder
Antiperspirant
Soap
Clean shoes, socks
Sodium bicarbonate
Vinegar
odor-eaters

Step1

Keep your feet dry, clean and moisture free. Use soap and water to wash and clean your feet everyday, and if possible, several times a day if you perspire often or notice frequent odor. Using talcum powder and dusting your feet after you wash them, as well as sprinkling powder into the sock, is another way to prevent or reduce foot odor.

Step2

Wash and change your socks frequently as the odor usually comes from bacteria breeding in the dead skin that has accumulated or collected in the socks or the shoes. Also wear socks or shoes that allow your feet to "breathe." For example, wear cotton socks and don't wear rubber or plastic shoes; leather shoes are better.

Step3

If you are prone to getting foot infections as well as foot odor, then try to spray your feet especially between the toes with anti-fungal spray and apply talcum powder. Sprinkling the feet or inside of the shoes with cornstarch will also help to reduce foot odor.

Step4

Buy an odor eater insert for the shoes. There are many types and sizes available at drugstores and pharmacies. These inserts usually contain active charcoal that will absorb the moisture from the feet, and thus help to reduce or prevent foot odor.

Step5

Soak your feet regularly. Some products that work to eliminate odor and reduce the condition are: sodium bicarbonate, vinegar or even the tannin found in tea bags. Dissolve 1 to 2 tablespoons of sodium bicarbonate into a foot bath container with warm water. You can also add some aroma therapy or herbs such as lavender into the water to help relax your body and mind as well as your feet.

Step6

Keep your shoes clean inside and outside. If you have sneakers that are made of fabric you can buy special foot containers or laundry shoe bags to place the sneakers in so you can wash them in the machine and not ruin the shape. Keep the shoes in a dry, cool place when not wearing them. Allow the shoes to air daily and sprinkle with odor absorbing sprays that are specifically made for this purpose. Check out the foot section in your local drugstore where there are many foot odor products available.

Step7

If the problem persists and the odor is really bad, then there could be an underlying medical problem causing the condition. You should get a checkup and consult a medical professional and/or podiatrist to get their opinions and advice. Also, take a good look at your diet and nutrition because food can also be a culprit in causing foot odor by increasing perspiration from the body and feet.