Smelly feet (bromodosis) are common and often caused by a build-up of sweat and bacteria. You can usually treat them yourself.
How to treat and prevent smelly feet 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)
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remove hard skin with a foot file and keep toenails short and clean
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use foot powder or an antiperspirant
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wear breathable or natural fabrics on your feet, like cotton or leather
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let shoes dry out before wearing them again
Don’t
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do not wear the same socks or shoes 2 days in a row
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do not wear tight shoes
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do not walk around barefoot in public or communal places that are wet, like swimming pools and showers in gyms
A pharmacist can help with smelly feet
You can ask a pharmacist about:
- antibacterial soaps, powders, and creams
- special foot deodorant
- medicated insoles for your shoes
- antibacterial socks
Causes of smelly feet
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
Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:
- your smelly feet have not got better after treating them yourself
- your smelly feet are affecting your daily life
Medical treatments for smelly feet
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.
Page last reviewed: 01 February 2022
Next review due: 01 February 2025
