Smelly feet (bromodosis) are common and often caused by a build-up of sweat and bacteria. You can usually treat them yourself.
Always keep your feet clean and dry, including between your toes.
Do
wash your feet at least once a day (use an antibacterial soap if you can)
remove hard skin with a foot file and keep toenails short and clean
use foot powder or an antiperspirant
wear breathable or natural fabrics on your feet, like cotton or leather
let shoes dry out before wearing them again
Don't
do not wear the same socks or shoes 2 days in a row
do not wear tight shoes
do not walk around barefoot in public or communal places that are wet, like swimming pools and showers in gyms
You can ask a pharmacist about:
- antibacterial soaps, powders, and creams
- special foot deodorant
- medicated insoles for your shoes
- antibacterial socks
The main causes of smelly feet are a build-up of sweat and bacteria on them and fungal infections like athlete's foot.
The amount you sweat can be affected by:
- hot weather
- exercise
- standing all day
- being overweight
- hormonal changes, which happen during puberty, menopause and pregnancy
- some medicines, such as antidepressants
- a condition that causes excessive sweating called hyperhidrosis
See a GP if:
- your smelly feet have not got better after treating them yourself
- your smelly feet are affecting your daily life
Treatment for smelly feet depends on the cause.
If your smelly feet are caused by a fungal infection, a GP might prescribe a stronger antifungal treatment to clear it up.
If the cause is sweating, they might suggest a stronger antiperspirant or treatment to reduce sweating.
A treatment called iontophoresis may help with sweating, which involves passing a weak electrical current through the affected areas.
A GP might also suggest you see a foot specialist (podiatrist) if your footcare problems do not clear up quickly.
26 June 2023
