By
Published: July 14, 2012

Just about everybody has at least occasional problems with foot odor—just ask ten people in a crowded room to take off their shoes and see, or smell, what happens.

The breakdown of bacteria on your skin typically cases foot odor. And bacteria love sweat, so if your feet perspire a lot, you can expect foot odor to be worse.

Here are some quick and easy ways to eliminate and prevent foot odor.

Wash your feet daily. This is a good first step, so to speak, but you probably do that already.

Change your socks and shoes. Frequent changes don’t take much time and don’t cost anything. It’s a good way to reduce perspiration.

Wash walking or running shoes. If footwear is washable, wash it.

Line your shoes with Odor-Eaters insoles. These inexpensive devices are another easy way to fight the foul foot. Also, replace old insoles.

Roll on some deodorant. The best thing is to use the same antiperspirant you use under your arms on your feet. After all, sweat ducts are sweat ducts. If you want to minimize the risk of skin irritation, use a roll on.

Give your feet some tea time. Soak your feet in a strong solution of tea for 15 minutes twice a day. This is another good way to reduce perspiration.

Or bathe your feet in vinegar. For chronic foot odor, wash your feet three or four times a week in warm water and vinegar. About a half-cup of the latter will do.

Again, these are “quick and easy” ways to fight foot odor and prevent it in the future. While some of the ways presented here sounds like a joke, don’t laugh, just do it. They’re more effective than you thought.