Why do my socks smell even after I wash them?

Bacteria, fungus and sweat by-products cause foot odor. Sometimes the stench lingers on the socks, even after they’ve been laundered, and can be embarrassing. A simple ingredient in the home (or available at grocery stores) neutralizes sock odor safely and at little expense.

Is it bad to smell dirty socks?

Biologically, it’s possible for someone to develop a lung infection by inhaling fungal spores that had built up heavily in someone’s socks, Schaffner told Live Science. Indeed, lung infections from inhaling fungal spores are well-documented.

Why do my socks stink so bad?

The smell comes from the bacteria that live on those feet and in the dirty socks and shoes that cover them. Those bacteria get rid of waste just like people do. And it’s the waste that smells so rotten. When feet sweat a lot, they can play host to some extra-stinky bacteria.

What causes stinky socks?

Why feet smell Wearing shoes and socks traps sweat and bacteria, often making foot odor worse. Bacteria collect in your shoes, socks, and on your skin. The bacteria multiply, eating the dead skin cells and oil that are on your feet. As the bacteria breaks down, it releases a smelly odor.

Why do my socks always smell?

Will dirty sock syndrome go away on its own?

Just don’t ignore Dirty Sock Syndrome if it goes away on its own! When the shoulder seasons are over, the smell often lessens or goes away completely. This doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. All the junk on your coil is still there, and it will stink again when the conditions are right.

Why are socks getting bad smells?

Socks develop a bad smell if worn too long and when left unwashed. Allowing your feet to air out also diminishes odor issues. Wash socks after each wearing in hot water with laundry detergent. Dry the socks completely before putting them on, as damp socks are more likely to develop a bad odor.

What do dirty socks smell like?

A dirty sock smell in a hot tub can be caused by mold or mildew in and around the hot tub. Mold and mildew are types of fungi that grow in hot, humid and moist conditions. They can have a musty, dirty smell that is very strong, especially if the cover has been only recently removed from the hot tub.

Why do skunks give off a stinky smell?

Skunk spray smells so bad because it consists of a mixture of chemicals containing sulfur (such as thiols), which are notorious for their pungent and nauseating odor, basically like the smell that rotten eggs have.