Did you know that you walk around 5,000 steps every day? In our lifetime, it is 100,000 km (62,137 miles), enough to walk around the Earth almost three times.
Our feet usually show dryness, cracks, or an unpleasant odor. That’s why we often search the internet for a foot soak, and most often, there are 3-4 types of soak mentioned with the following ingredients: Epsom salt, Listerine, and Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV).
Each has its own loyal following, promising softer skin, less odor, and even a cure for fungal infections.
I will start with a detailed explanation of each ingredient, how to make a soak with those ingredients, their advantages and disadvantages, my personal experince and I will end the article with shared experiences from our followers.
P.S. Read my personal experience and what I thought about these foot soak.
P.P.S. Don’t miss reading the experiences from our followers, because there are really interesting/funny comments.
Why Foot Soaking Works
Warm Water as Therapy
It improves blood circulation and relaxes muscles and tissues. This is especially beneficial for those who spend a lot of time on their feet, as the heat and circulation can relieve stress and pain.
In addition, when your feet are soaked, the skin softens, which means it is easier to remove dead skin cells.
Epsom Salt (Magnesium Sulfate)
Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate, which has been used traditionally to relieve inflammation and pain.
Research suggests that some amounts of magnesium can penetrate the surface of the skin, especially through follicles and pores, but the evidence is limited, and it has not been clearly shown to lead to a significant effect in depth.
Scientific Evidence
A study published in the International Journal of Health Sciences and Research confirms that warm Epsom salt soak is effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with arthritis.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
ACV contains acetic acid, which has antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
Scientific Evidence
The study Antifungal and Antibacterial Activities of Apple Vinegar of Different Cultivars (Ousaaid et al., 2021) examined the antibacterial and antifungal activities of apple vinegar made from different apple varieties.
The researchers tested how the vinegar inhibited the growth of bacteria (E. coli, Salmonella typhi, Vibrio cholerae) and fungi (Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis).
The vinegar with the highest acidity and phenols showed the strongest antibacterial effect, completely inhibiting the growth of all microorganisms.
However, clinical studies clearly confirming that vinegar can treat fungal skin infections of the feet are limited or lacking.
Listerine
Dermatologists are often skeptical, with some warning that it can cause irritation, especially if used undiluted or for long periods of time.
Scientific Evidence
The Expanded and Future Uses of Mouthrinses study (Ciancio, 1994) investigated the antibacterial and antifungal activity of Listerine as an antiseptic.
However, there is no solid medical evidence that Listerine as a foot soak is an effective treatment for fungal infections or that it treats the underlying cause.
Epsom Foot Soak Recipe
If there’s one home remedy we’ve had in our cupboards for decades. It’s Epsom salt.
- Pour 3l (100 fl. oz.) of warm (but not hot) water into a basin or deep bowl.
- Add ½ cup of Epsom salt for every liter of water and stir until completely dissolved.
- For extra freshness, add 5–6 drops of lavender or tea tree essential oil.
- Soak your feet for 15–20 minutes.
ACV Foot Soak Recipe
Apple cider vinegar is more than just a salad dressing. It’s a long-standing home remedy for skin and feet.
- Heat about 3l (100 fl. oz.) of water in a basin or deep bowl, enough to completely submerge your feet.
- Add ½ cup of apple cider vinegar to each liter of water.
- Soak your feet for 15–20 minutes. This is enough time for the benefits of the vinegar and warm water to activate.
Listerine Foot Soak Recipe
For years, home remedy enthusiasts have used it as a secret weapon against tired, smelly feet.
- Pour about 3l (100 fl. oz.) of warm water into a basin or deep bowl.
- Add 1 cup of Listerine.
- Add 1/2 cup white vinegar.
- Soak your feet for 10–15 minutes, enjoying the warmth and refreshing effect.
Important To Know
- Use the soak 1–2 times a week for best results.
- If you experience any burning or irritation, rinse immediately with clean water.
- Excessive use can dry out the skin, so always apply a cream after treatment.
- If you have open wounds, a serious fungal infection, or diabetes, it is best to consult a doctor before using it.
My Personal Experience
I tried two of the three options. I soaked one foot in Listerine and the other in apple cider vinegar (ACV) in parallel.
Next week I will try the third option with Epsom salt. If you want to know the final result of all three, save the article and come back in 10 days.
Here’s how it went with the first two options:
Listerine
At first I felt a slight tingling. Then my foot started to feel cold, as if I had applied a menthol cream, probably because of the menthol in the Listerine.
When I took my foot out of the water, the skin did indeed take on a bluish tint, so the rumors that Listerine stains the skin are true.
The skin was softened, but there was still a hard part. With gentle brushing with a file, it was easily removed.
After washing and putting on socks, I felt cold for about half an hour and a slight itch.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
This treatment is completely natural and contains no synthetic additives.
Unlike Listerine, I didn’t feel any tingling or cold sensation. The skin became soft, the hard parts fell off, and the rest was easily removed when wiping with a towel.
In this duel, the winner is ACV.
The foot soaked in vinegar was smoother and softer, without blueness and unpleasant reactions. It is also worth noting that Listerine is not a natural product.
Next week will be the duel between ACV and Epsom salt, then I will find out which option is best in my opinion.
Our Followers’ Reactions
Why Some Don’t Recommend Listerine
Several followers are warning against Listerine because of its fluoride and other chemicals. They believe that “feet are sponges” and anything you put on them can be absorbed through the skin, and recommend natural alternatives like vinegar, clay, and salt.
Funny Moments
One follower shared a funny story: “Don’t use blue (Blue Listerine)! I tried this on my mom. One of my best memories. Her feet looked like a Smurf. We both laughed so hard. Otherwise it did an ok job.”
Unexpected Reactions
Most people swear by Epsom salt, but one person said it had a strong laxative effect, “like eating a bag of prunes.” After the second experience, she decided – never again.
Tips from experience
A former nurse discovered that homeless people’s feet were being washed with a mixture of shaving cream, mouthwash, and warm water – quickly and effectively.
Another reader makes a paste of apple cider vinegar and baking soda.
