Foot odor, referred to medically as bromodosis, can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Fortunately, foot odor is usually treatable with some simple changes to your foot care routine. Instead of suffering in silence as traditional methods don’t take, try the five steps below, courtesy of the team at Advanced Foot Care of NJ.

Five Fresh-Foot Swaps

Instead of: Wearing the same shoes every day…

1 — Try: Rotating your shoes. Giving your shoes at least 24 hours to air out completely between wearing helps prevent the buildup of moisture and odor-causing bacteria. This is especially important for athletic shoes. Consider having at least two pairs of shoes that you wear regularly and alternate them.

Instead of: Cotton socks (when you’re active)…

2 — Try: Moisture-wicking socks. Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, or merino wool pull sweat away from your skin, keeping your feet drier and reducing bacterial growth. Cotton socks, while comfortable, tend to absorb moisture and hold it against your skin, creating a breeding ground for odor.

Bonus Tip: Change your socks during the day if your feet get sweaty, especially after exercise.
Instead of: Skipping the soap and water…

3 — Try: Thorough daily foot washing with antibacterial soap. Pay special attention to the spaces between your toes – that’s where bacteria love to hide! Make sure to dry your feet completely after washing, especially between the toes.

Instead of: Ignoring your shoes’ interior…

4 — Try: Regular shoe sanitization. Use a disinfecting spray or powder designed for shoes to kill odor-causing bacteria. Consider using shoe inserts with antimicrobial properties. Airing your shoes out in direct sunlight can also help.

Pro Tip: Rotate out your insoles, too.
Instead of: Hoping the smell will go away on its own…

5 — Try: Addressing potential underlying issues. Persistent foot odor, even with good hygiene, could be a sign of:

Hyperhidrosis: Excessive sweating.
Athlete’s Foot: A fungal infection.
Bacterial Infection: In some rare cases, a bacterial infection could be the culprit.

What If Nothing Works?

If the smell persists despite your best efforts, see a podiatrist to rule out these conditions and get appropriate treatment. Getting in touch is your first and best step toward putting this problem behind you for good, so call us or contact us online.

Don’t let foot odor slow you down; get in touch and let us help today. At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, our doctor and staff proudly serve the communities of Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!