Smelly feet (bromodosis) are common and often caused by a build-up of sweat and bacteria. You can usually treat them yourself.

How to treat and prevent smelly feet yourself

Always keep 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)
• remove hard skin with a foot file and keep toenails short and clean
• use foot powder or an antiperspirant
• wear breathable or natural fabrics on your feet, like cotton or leather
• let shoes dry out before wearing them again

• avoid alcohol and spicy foods if you have hyperhidrosis (a condition that causes excess sweating)

Don’t

• 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:

• antibacterial soaps, powders, and creams
• foot deodorant
• medicated insoles for your shoes
• antibacterial socks

Find a Pharmacy

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 them 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 local health board NHS podiatry service – find your local health board