Stinky Feet?

Stinky Feet?

Feet have a reputation for being staggeringly stinky.  Your feet can produce up to one pint of sweat per day, per foot!  Although feet sweat a lot , sweat is not the cause of the stench. The reason for the obnoxious odor is actually caused by bacteria.  The bacteria eats the sweat and excretes a waste with a very strong odor.  It is natural feet sweat a lot because they are in shoes and socks all day and contain the most sweat glands of anywhere in the body. 

Reducing common foot odor does not have to be a hassle, first, try these simple hygiene tips.

• Wash your feet daily with soap and water.  Dry them thoroughly, paying special attention to between the toes to reduce moisture.
• Wear thicker socks, as they will absorb moisture, and be sure to change them daily.
• Sprinkle a foot powder over feet and in between toes daily.  This will help reduce the moisture.
• Rotate shoes frequently so they have time to dry out before you wear them again.

 If you continue to experience foul smelling feet, see you podiatrist so he or she can address any underlying issues that may be causing the smell.

Dance Bag Dilemma

Dance bags are home to lots of smelly items, including several pairs of shoes.  To avoid having the stinkiest bag in the class, be sure to purchase quality shoes.  Chances are you will sweat a lot when dancing and quality shoes will hold up better and not hold on to odor.  Also, powder your shoes weekly and let me sit outside. This process will keep your dance bag from smelling as well as helping your shoes last longer, especially pointe shoes. 

To keep your shoes continually fresh you can also try using baking soda.  Pour some baking soda onto a dry paper towel, then rubber band the top together so it creates a bag.  Place the baking soda filled towel in the toes of your shoes after class. This should keep them fresh and dry.  If the towel rips, simply tap the baking soda out of your shoe.

For continued freshness, empty out your dance bag occasionally and wash all of the contents such as tights, leotards, and socks.  Spray a deodorizer into the bag and leave it open overnight. 

When you are dancing more than usual, around recital time or at an intensive, throw a new dryer sheet into your bag for a freshness boost.  If you still are experiencing intense stench every time you open your bag, purchase a bag deodorizer.