Smelly feet are a very common condition and in medical terms, it is called bromodosis. It occurs due to the build-up of sweat. Sweat causes the growth of bacteria on the skin. It is these bacteria which produce bad odors. Fungal infections can also cause bromodosis. Smelly feet can be treated very quickly and easily.
Home remedies and tips for smelly feet
- Baking soda: Add 1 cup of baking soda in a plastic tub and fill it with water. When the baking soda dissolves completely, soak your feet for approximately 10 minutes. Remove and pat dry completely. Baking soda has anti-bacterial properties and helps to absorb the smelly odor.
- Essential oils: Fill a plastic tub with water to which add 10 drops of eucalyptus, peppermint, lemongrass or orange essential oil. Mix thoroughly and soak the feet for 10 minutes. Remove and pat the feet dry. Essential oils contain anti-microbial properties. They will remove the bacteria and also provide a pleasant aroma.
- Tea soak: Fill a plastic tub with water. To 2 cups of water, add 2 tsp of tea powder. Boil it in a saucepan. Strain and allow it to cool. Add this to the water contained in the tub. Soak the feet for 10 minutes. Pat the feet dry.
- Keep your feet clean. This will help to reduce the odor. Wash with soap at least twice a day. Dry completely after washing.
- Pay special attention to the areas between the toes. This is the place where bacteria grow easily. Pat them dry.
- Keep your toenails short.
- Change your socks daily. Dirty socks can harbor bacteria which cause infections. Wear cotton socks.
- Choose open sandals in warm weather. Avoid tight-fitting shoes.
- Scrub your feet. The dead skin that accumulates causes bacteria to grow. Scrub with a foot file.
