How to Prevent Shoe Odor

Learning how to prevent shoe odor is fast and easy. Just follow the few simple steps listed below, and stinky feet are sure to smell sweet in no time.

1. First: Clean and dry

   Shoe odor is most commonly caused by bacteria that feed and grow on your feet and in your shoes. Bacteria flourishes in moist environments. To prevent perspiration and odor, your shoes, socks and feet must remain as clean and dry as possible.

2. Second: Before dressing

   Make sure you shower or wash your feet once a day. You can use an antibacterial or anti-fungal soap only on your feet if it tends to dry out or irritate the rest of your skin. Make sure to clean very thoroughly between your toes, and use a soft nail brush on your toenails. After washing your feet, dry them thoroughly with a towel, fan or hair dryer on a low setting. Before putting on your socks, sprinkle your feet with powder, corn starch or anti-fungal powder. If your feet sweat in excess, you can even spray them with deodorant.

3. Third: Getting dressed

   Try to always wear 100 percent cotton socks, and never wear the same socks for more than one day at a time. If you feel that your socks become moist during the day, carry an extra pair or two to change them as needed. Whenever possible, wash your shoes as well and set them in the sun to dry. If shoes are made of leather, patent leather or some other material that cannot wash in the machine, spray the insides with deodorant and let them air dry. Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day.