What Is the Best Thing to Soak Your Feet In? 6 DIY Foot Soaks

1. Warm water soak: Warm water soaks not only provide a relaxing effect but also soften calluses, especially around the heel area, which can be removed by scrubbing later. Pour warm water into a small tub and soak your feet for about 15-20 minutes. This can be followed by scrubbing with a pumice stone. Scrubbing the feet 1-2 times a week can prevent the calluses from becoming painful.
2. Epsom salt soak: Epsom salt is effective at exfoliating the dead skin of your feet and is also a great remedy for smelly feet because it pulls moisture out of your skin, thus preventing the growth of bacteria. Dissolve ½ cup of Epsom salt in a small tub of warm water. Soak your feet in the solution for 10 minutes. You can follow it up with a pumice stone scrub. However, make sure to not overdo it as it can dry out your skin.
3. Lemon juice soak: Lemon juice is antimicrobial and can help clean the skin. Squeeze juice from 1-2 lemons and dilute with warm water. Soak your feet in it for 10-15 minutes, rinse, and pat dry. Avoid using undiluted lemon juice if you have cracks or sores in your feet, as the lemon juice can cause a burning sensation.
4. Vinegar soak: The antimicrobial nature of vinegar helps kill the bacteria or fungi that contribute to foot odor. Put equal parts of vinegar and warm water in a small tub. Soak your feet in the vinegar soak for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure you clean your feet with gentle soap after soaking.
5. Baking soda soak: Baking soda soak is an effective home remedy to relieve itchy feet. Dissolve 1/4 cup baking soda in a small tub of warm water. You can also add oatmeal to the mixture. Submerge your feet and soak for about 10-5 minutes. Rinse your feet and pat them dry with a clean cloth or towel. You can apply a moisturizer or oil to your feet to prevent your skin from drying out.
6. Essential oil soak: Essential oils can help get your blood flowing and relieve tension. You can use 5-20 drops of any essential oils you like, diluting them in warm water and adding other ingredients for exfoliation or moisturization.

Although foot soaks are a great way to relax your feet or help you get rid of skin problems, keep in mind the following precautions:

• Perform a patch test because your skin may be sensitive to any ingredient in the foot soak.
• If you have sores or cuts in your skin, consult a doctor before using a foot soak.
• Dilute essential oils in a carrier oil first before putting them in water.
• If you develop skin irritation after using a foot soak, wash your feet under running water. Get medical help if the skin reaction worsens.
• Avoid hot water soaks if you have uncontrolled diabetes or diabetic nerve disease. Since your feet may not sense higher temperatures, and you may suffer burns.