How to Cover Up Stinky Feet Smell at Work

Whether you dashed off for an afternoon workout or you're nervous about an upcoming meeting with the boss--whatever the cause of your sweaty feet--foot odor can be both embarrassing and repulsive. While there are some people who are simply more predisposed to having riper smelling feet than others, there is no dispute that having any rank odor coming from your lower extremities is less than welcome. So what can you do to reduce or stop that unpleasant smell from your little piggies?

Things You'll Need

• Breathable shoes
• Cotton socks
• Odor neutralizers
• Soap
• Vinegar
• Antiperspirant

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Instructions

• 1

  Wear shoes that are ventilated. The bacteria that causes foot odor thrives in dark, moist environments that can be found in shoes that don't breathe. When your feet are contained in a pair of tightly sealed shoes for hours on end, this can lead to pungent foot odor. Leather shoes in particular are good for ventilation, as are the many styles of athletic shoes that are made with meshing. If you must wear a pair of shoes unlike these, at least do your best to air them out periodically through the day.

• 2

  Wash your feet regularly. Aside from your regular shower and bathing routine, wash your feet at least once every day. Soak them in a bath or bowl of warm water mixed with soap. Keep your feet in the bath for five to ten minutes, and then let them dry thoroughly before putting on any socks or shoes.

• 3

  Mix 1/2 cup white vinegar with a bowl of warm water and keep your feet submerged in the solution for 30 minutes if regular washing doesn't work. Dry your feet thoroughly afterward.

• 4

  Change socks often. By switching your socks frequently and making sure that they are cotton, you can reduce the chances that your feet will perspire enough to invite odor-causing bacteria.

• 5

  Put odor neutralizers in your shoes. For shoes that have picked up a foul odor or any you regularly work out in, use an odor-eliminating powder or insert that will neutralize the odor. These products can be bought at grocery and drug stores, or you can sprinkle baking soda into your socks or shoes, either alone or combined with commercial neutralizers.

• 6

  Apply antiperspirant. The unpleasant smell stems from the sweat that accumulates in your shoes and socks. By putting antiperspirant or deodorant on the soles of your feet, you can reduce the amount of sweat they produce and in turn the foot odor.