They say that startles and surprises leave an impression upon the mind. People remember those with some startling traits. You sure do remember that guy from college who used to smell so differently good every morning. But one would never want to get remembered due to their stinking feet. According to a study done by Institute for Preventive Foot Health, around 16% of adults aging 21 or older suffer from stinky feet. This is why we put here the science behind what it is and what you can do about it to get those happy feet again. That Sock of the Month Club will start feeling like some blessing again.
Why do socks smell?
The very basic reason that makes your socks smell is this prolonged wear. But it is not just about socks. If you wear anything for a prolonged period then it will start becoming human-repellant. However, socks get more prone to it due to our feet.
The smell actually comes from the bacteria that thrive on your feet. This is why they say to keep washing your feet by time and change those socks. When we do not wash our feet for long, these bacteria start colonizing.
Almost all feet sweat. Some sweat more and some sweat less. Know that our feet has the most sweat glands than any other part of our body. These sweat glands help in heat regulation of our body. When we wear shoes, it creates a haven for these bacteria. Confined moisture and sweat starts feeding these bacteria and smelly feet happen. This condition is called Bromodosis.
If not treated accordingly, this Bromodosis also leads to the buildup of fungus around your feet. Thus is why they say to keep your feet clean. Here we put a few ways to keep your feet sane and help you flaunt that sock of the month club.
How to treat smelly feet?
The good news is that you can treat your stinky feet easily. To treat the condition, one has to reach the root. The smell in the feet is due to these various compounds:
- Butyric Acid. It smells like Rancid Butter.
- Dimethyl Disulphide – Onion like smell.
- 2-Heptanone, 2-Nonanone, 2-Octanone.
No wonder when these smells mix and rot, puky smell happens.
Here are a few things you can do.
Wash your feet frequently:
Whenever you feel like your feet have sweated, go wash them. It will help wash off the things that are precursors to bacteria and fungi. Dry off with a towel and let it get some air before you put those socks on again. Do not wear socks all the time.
Try soaking your feet:
If you can, separate some 20 minutes a week to soak your feet in warm water. Adding vinegar or salt to the water has been proven beneficial.
Change your socks with time:
If you do not change your socks, the buildup can re-infect your feet even if you wash them on time. This is like taking a bath and then falling over that dirty bed again. If your feet sweat a lot, change your socks often. Changing 2 times a day is recommended for sweaty feet. Take a sock subscription box, join sock of the month club, or buy in bulk to bring some ease to your pocket. According to Philosockphy, mens colorful socks (USA) are good, but make sure that the fabric is of favorable quality.
Choose the right fabric for your socks:
If you change your socks often but have the wrong fabric type, issues will happen. Those with sweaty feet should wear breathable socks. Pure cotton is often proscribed because of its ability to soak all the liquid. Go for a mix of cotton and some other fabric that comes favorable in absorbing that sweat and then releasing it in air.
Change those shoes by time:
Again, if you change your socks but not your shoes, issues will happen. Shoes are more prone to odor than socks themselves. It is advised to get them washed by time to wash off those bacteria and provide you cleanliness and comfort. About shoes types: do not go for shoes made of plastic or other material that makes it harder for your feet to breathe. Do not use perfumes on your shoes, use medicated deodorants instead.
Another option is to use medicated deodorized soles in your shoes. They help prevent the buildup of bacteria and thus reduce the chances of bad smell.
Use anti-fungal creams in case of infection:
This is the worst thing that could happen to one. When feet stay moist and odorous for long, it invites the buildup of fungus on your feet. Athlete’s Foot is one such condition. The best way is to use OTC treatments at initial stages. Let your feet taste the open air for a long. Avoid wearing too much shoes in such cases. In case the problem does not go, try visiting a doctor.
Do smelly feet suggest health issues?
Smelly feet are not unusual, but they sometimes can mean an underlying condition too. The smell in feet happens not due to the sweat but the bacteria there. They eat and they poop, and it smells. Try the methods given above and it might help. But if the condition persists, try checking your doctor. Feet odor sometimes suggests the presence of diabetes. Never take it lightly.
Feet are most prone to any sort of infection and thus it is usually recommended to practice hygiene. Keep your feet happy and alive. If you love wearing socks, go for that sock of the month club and wear those colorful socks with pride.
