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Remedies for Smelly Feet for Kids

On feet, the mixture of sweat and bacteria coupled with the enclosed space of shoes causes feet to smell. This can especially be a problem for children, as they often lead active lifestyles and are not aware of proper upkeep of the feet to prevent smells. Additionally, that same bacteria causing the smell can also cause athlete's foot and other infections. However, there are remedies to keep foot odors from occurring.

  1. Deodorants and Antiperspirants

    • Using deodorants on the feet, particularly the kind that contains zinc oxide will alleviate the odors. Antiperspirant sprays, both foot-specific and underarm deodorant, will decrease moisture in the feet and potentially reduce any unwanted smells coming from the feet. However, antiperspirants also have the potential to cause the skin to become irritated.

    Powders

    • Because baking soda absorbs both moisture and smells, parents can put a small amount of baking soda inside the child's shoes in order to decrease the odors. Parents can also use talcum powder, corn starch and even laundry detergent as an alternative to baking soda.

    Soaking

    • There are some home remedies to reduce foot odor. Soaking feet in warm water mixed with apple cider vinegar can help the smell. Alternatives to vinegar include lemon juice, alum, sodium bicarbonate and kosher salt. Additionally, boiled water with five tea bags steeping in it may help as the tannins in the tea reduce sweating in the feet. However, the tea must be allowed to cool before soaking the child's feet.

    Washing

    • Parents can use antibacterial soap to clean the child's feet and get rid of any dirt, bacteria and dead skin that can cause bacteria to grow. However, the feet must be washed thoroughly for the best results. It is also a good method of upkeep in order to reduce the amount of bacteria and thus decrease the potential of foot odor.

    Other Methods

    • Zinc supplements of at least 15mg can also assist in fighting foot odor, as the zinc increases the body's susceptibility to the bacteria. Parents can also purchase shoe inserts that specifically fight odors and put them in the child's shoes.

    Preventative Measures

    • In addition to regular washing, there are other measures to take to prevent smelly feet. Clean cotton socks can reduce the moisture and smelliness provided the child changes frequently, especially if the feet become sweaty. If possible, allowing the child to go barefoot at home allows the feet the breathe and thus reduces moisture caused by constant wearing of shoes and socks, though this method would still require foot washing. Additionally, alternating between shoes each day may reduce the smells as it allows the shoes to dry between wearing.

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