Do you keep away from sandals because you're afraid of the stench reaching everyone around you? Or do you sometimes catch a whiff of them on a still day? If you've experienced either of these, you're probably struck with a case of smelly feet. It occurs because of the build-up of sweat and bacteria on the feet, which can be embarrassing to say the least. Thankfully, there are a few ways to get rid of it right at home.
1. The Vinegar Bath
To a tub filled with warm water, add 1 cup of vinegar and stir well. Soak your feet in this mixture for 30 minutes and repeat this every alternate day for 2 weeks. With its highly acidic content, vinegar curbs the growth of bacteria on the feet and stops stink in its tracks.
2. The Tea Soak
To a basin of hot water, add 3 tablespoons of black tea leaves and allow them to brew for 5 minutes. Then soak your feet in the mixture for 40 minutes or until the water goes cold. Black tea is acidic and rich in tannins, which closes the pores and prevents your feet from sweating excessively.
3. Maintaining Foot Hygiene
To prevent stinky feet from affecting your life, start taking smaller measures which have larger effects. Opt for cotton socks and change them daily, to allow breathability and keep your feet clean. Before slipping them in, dust cornstarch or talcum powder to keep moisture to a minimum. Use an antibacterial soap to wash your feet and make sure you get in the crevices between the toes as well.
4. Alum Dusting
Alum is used in many industries to draw out moisture from products so it will work wonderfully on your feet too. Dust clean feet with alum powder, making sure to get it all over, especially between your toes. Also dust the alum powder into the shoes that you are wearing. As it prevents moisture from accumulating, this will stop bacteria in its tracks too.
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