Foot hygiene
Foot hygiene is the practice of keeping your feet clean and healthy to prevent infections, odours, and other foot problems. Proper foot care is essential to maintaining overall foot health, especially since your feet are exposed to sweat, dirt, and pressure from walking and standing. Here’s how to maintain good foot hygiene:
- Wash your feet daily: Use warm water and a mild soap to clean your feet, making sure to scrub between your toes. This helps remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria.
- Dry your feet thoroughly: After washing, dry your feet completely, especially between the toes, to prevent moisture buildup that can lead to fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
- Moisturise your feet: Use a foot cream or lotion to keep the skin soft and prevent dryness or cracking. Avoid putting lotion between your toes, as moisture there can promote fungal growth.
- Trim toenails regularly: Cut your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails. This also helps avoid any painful toenail problems.
- Wear clean, breathable socks: Choose socks made of materials that wick away moisture, such as cotton or bamboo, and change them daily (or more often if your feet sweat a lot).
- Choose proper footwear: Wear well-fitting shoes that provide support and allow your feet to breathe. Avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose.
- Check your feet regularly: Examine your feet for any signs of issues like cuts, blisters, calluses, or infections. If you have diabetes or other conditions that affect foot health, regular check-ups are especially important.
Visiting a podiatrist means you can get a professional foot assessment and get advice about how best to look after your feet! Book yourself an assessment with one of our podiatrists and we will be happy to help!