6 Myths About Foot Odor

Foot odor is a frustrating problem; it goes to show that non-painful foot conditions can be as life altering as painful ones. There are many foot odour myths floating around the internet. In this article, we’ll break down some of the most common foot odour myths, and give you the facts about foot odour causes and how to prevent it.

6 Myths About Foot Odour:

1. Only People With Sweaty Feet Have Foot Odour
2. Foot Odour Always Means You Have a Serious Health Condition
3. All Foot Odour Smells the Same
4. Going Barefoot Helps Eliminate Odour
5. If You Have Foot Odour, you Aren’t Showering or Bathing
6. Foot Odour Only Happens in Hot Weather

Myth 1: Only People With Sweaty Feet Have Foot Odour

Foot odour, also known as bromodosis, is the unpleasant smell that comes from the feet due to a combination of sweat and bacteria. The feet have numerous sweat glands, which produce moisture to regulate temperature and prevent skin from drying out. Plantar hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessively sweaty feet. Sweat is a major contributor to foot odour and provides the moisture needed for it to thrive, however, other factors are also at play.

The Main Causes of Foot Odour

• General bacterial buildup and everyday life! (wearing shoes all day long, etc). 

• Fungal infections: Conditions like athlete’s foot can lead to odour as fungi produce waste products during growth.
• Diet: Certain foods, like garlic and onions, can affect sweat composition and lead to a noticeable foot odour.
• Health conditions: Conditions other than plantar hyperhidrosis can cause foot odour, including diabetes, particularly when ulcers and wounds omit a strong smell. Other conditions include thyroid disorders (they may cause excessive sweating) or kidney and liver issues. 
• Footwear material: Shoes made from non-breathable materials trap even normal sweat production, increasing moisture and bacterial growth. Preventing foot odour often means choosing breathable, waterproof shoes. 
• Hormonal changes: Puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can contribute to foot odour.

Foot Odour Myth # 2: Foot Odour Always Means You Have a Serious Health Condition

It’s true that one of the causes of foot odour can be an underlying health condition, but that doesn’t mean it’s serious. The most common cause of foot odour is a general build up of sweat and bacteria that you can tackle yourself.  

Foot odour is often caused by everyday factors like wearing shoes made from non-breathable materials or not changing socks frequently enough. In most cases, simple steps like improving hygiene, airing out shoes, or using foot deodorants (sprays, powders or creams) can help control the smell. 

While it’s important to be mindful of persistent odour or other accompanying symptoms, the vast majority of foot odour issues are easily managed with at-home care and do not indicate a serious health condition.

Foot Odour Myth # 3: All Foot Odour Smells the Same 

Foot odour can vary significantly based on several factors, including the underlying cause, personal hygiene, diet, and the type of bacteria or fungi present. For example, open wounds and sores will smell different than smelly, sweaty shoes. Here are some common smells:

• Sour: Often caused by bacteria breaking down sweat, resulting in lactic acid production.
• Musty: May be associated with fungal infections or warm, moist environments.
• Vinegar-like: Often linked to sweat and potentially neglectful hygiene. 
• Ammonia: May indicate dehydration or a dietary imbalance.
• Rotten: This odour can be a sign of a more serious infection.

Foot Odour Myth 4: Going Barefoot Helps Eliminate Odour

While going barefoot might seem like a good idea for reducing foot odour, it can actually have the opposite effect in some cases. While it’s always good to air out your feet, going barefoot outside exposes your feet to various surfaces that may harbour bacteria and fungi. Walking on dirty or damp surfaces can lead to the accumulation of these microorganisms, potentially worsening foot odour. In fact, foot fungus (one of the most common causes of foot odour) is often caused by walking barefoot in public places.

Additionally, sweat can still pool in the crevices of your feet without socks and shoes, allowing bacteria to thrive. Instead of eliminating odour, going barefoot may introduce new sources of smell. Wearing breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks and changing them regularly is a much better idea.

Myth 5: If You Have Foot Odour, You Aren’t Showering or Bathing

This is completely untrue since foot odour is often linked to other conditions like plantar hyperhidrosis and fungal infections. Therefore, foot odour is is a symptom rather than a cause. It also often develops throughout the day, so you can shower every morning and still experience smelly feet when you get home at night. 

That said, you should pay more attention to foot-specific hygiene and clean your feet frequently. Check out this blog article on foot hygiene tips to learn what to do.

Myth 6: Foot Odour Only Happens in Hot Weather

Foot odour is commonly associated with hot weather, but it can occur year-round, regardless of the temperature. While warm conditions can exacerbate sweating and create a breeding ground for bacteria, factors such as personal hygiene, footwear choice, and lifestyle also play significant roles in foot odour. 

For example, wearing insulated shoes in fall or winter weather can trap moisture and heat, leading to odour even when temperatures are low. Additionally, individuals who sweat excessively—regardless of the season—are more likely to experience foot odour. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain proper foot care and hygiene practices throughout the year to prevent odour, not just during the warmer months.