Image source:

Stinky feet is not just a problem. It's an embarrassing problem. Poor hygiene is the number one culprit in the development of this condition but anyone who sweats a lot on their feet can develop this condition, especially on an extra hot and humid day. Pregnant women and teens are commonly the victims of this condition because of the hormonal changes that make them sweat a lot.

Natural Remedies For Smelly Feet

Apple cider vinegar. Prepare a foot soak of 1 part apple cider vinegar and 2 parts water. Soak feet for 10 to 15 minutes. Wash and clean your feet thoroughly afterward to remove the vinegar smell.

Baking soda. Mix equal parts of baking soda and cornstarch and use it as a foot powder. You can also use baking soda as a foot soak. Just add 1 tablespoon of baking soda for every quart of warm water and soak feet for 15 to 20 minutes daily for one week.

Black tea. Boil 2 black tea bags in about 3 cups of water then add more water to lower the solution's temperature until you can comfortably soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes. Do this every day for a week.

Lavender oil. Prepare warm water. Add a few drops of lavender essential oil and soak feet for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day. Do this for a few days until the smell of your feet is gone.

Cedarwood oil. Combine 5 drops of cedarwood oil with 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil then apply on your feet. Make sure that it the solution has been thoroughly absorbed by the skin before putting on socks or walking to avoid slipping. Do this once a day for a week for better results.

Epsom salt. Fill a small foot tub with warm water then add 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt in it. Soak feet for about 10 to 15 minutes. For best results, do this before going to bed to let your feet rest from wearing socks and shoes for a few hours.

Other Things You Can Do To Prevent Smelly Feet

The above home remedies can effectively help remove the foul odor from your feet. However, if you do not practice good hygiene, all your efforts will be for naught because your smelly feet will come back to plague you--over and over again. Also, you should avoid nylon socks because it does not let your feet breathe so they're more likely to sweat. Cotton and wool socks are much better options.

If you've done everything on the list but your condition persists, you may want to change your diet. According to some studies, a diet high in refined carbs feeds the bacteria and fungus causing the stench in the feet. Try to eat a properly balanced meal with the right amount of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. You should also avoid cigarette smoking and reduce your alcohol consumption.

Sources: 1 2 3