How to treat and prevent smelly feet yourself
You can treat and prevent smelly feet yourself by keeping 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
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avoid alcohol and spicy foods if you have hyperhidrosis (a condition that causes excess sweating)
Don’t
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do not wear the same socks or shoes 2 days in a row – if you have hyperhidrosis, change your socks at least twice a day
-
do not wear tight shoes
A pharmacist can help with smelly feet
You can ask a pharmacist about things that can help with smelly feet, such as:
- antibacterial soaps, powders and creams
- foot deodorant
- medicated insoles for your shoes
- antibacterial socks
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
Smelly feet are not something to be embarrassed about. It's important to see a GP so they can check if it's caused by a condition and needs treatment.
Causes of smelly feet
The main causes of smelly feet are a build-up of sweat and bacteria on your feet 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
Treatments for smelly feet
Treatment for smelly feet depends on the cause.
If it's 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.
If you have hyperhidrosis (a condition that causes excess sweating) other treatments may be available.
A GP might refer you to a foot specialist (podiatrist) if the problem does not clear up quickly.
Self-refer to a podiatrist
You might be able to refer yourself directly to a podiatrist without seeing a GP.
To find out if there are self-referral services in your area:
- ask the reception staff at your GP surgery
- check your GP surgery's website
- contact your integrated care board (ICB) – find your local ICB
- search online for NHS podiatrists near you
Page last reviewed: 16 July 2025
Next review due: 16 July 2028