Use a tub that is large enough to accommodate your feet with a little extra room. You can also use a bar of soap as an alternative to liquid soap. If you have diabetes or another similar health condition, make sure you check the temperature of the water using your wrist and not any part of your lower extremities. [1] X Research source
If you have built-up dirt on your feet, let them soak for at least 5 minutes. Wipe up any water that splashes out of the tub to prevent injury from slips.
Soak your wash cloth, flannel, loofah, or sponge in the water and wring it out so it’s moist, but not soaked. Rinse whatever your using between cleaning each foot. If you notice the water is very dirty, discard it and use fresh water to rinse off the soap. Gently rub a pumice stone over the bottom of your feet to remove dead skin and leave your feet feeling smooth. [2] X Research source Catherine Cheung, DPM. Podiatrist. Personal interview. 12 May 2020.
Pat your feet dry with a clean towel instead of rubbing, especially if you have a medical condition such as diabetes. [4] X Research source Be sure to dry between your toes because that is a common place for fungal and bacterial growth. [5] X Research source
Pour the contents of the tub down the drain or outside in the yard. To prevent injury, make sure the floor is dry when you are finished.
Be sure to use toenail clippers, not scissors. Trim the nail straight across so it is just over the toe. Cutting nails too short can lead to the development of ingrown toenails. [7] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source You could also accidentally cut too far and cut into your skin. [8] X Research source Catherine Cheung, DPM. Podiatrist. Personal interview. 12 May 2020. File down any pointed edges with an emery board.
Get your washcloth/loofah wet in the water and wring it out so it’s moist, but not soaked. Use a bar of soap or pour some body wash onto the moistened washcloth/loofah. Rub together until bubbles start to form.
With your washcloth/loofah, gently scrub each foot focusing your attention on the arch of your foot, in between toes, and under toenails. Rinse the towel, loofah, or sponge between cleaning each foot. Add more soap if necessary. Remove any soapy bubbles or residue by thoroughly rinsing your feet. Turn the water off and step out of the shower.
Remove your feet from the tub and pat dry (don’t rub) them with a clean towel. This is especially important if you have a medical condition like diabetes. [10] X Research source Be sure to dry between your toes because that is a common place for fungal and bacterial growth. [11] X Research source If you are diabetic, apply skin moisturizer to feet to prevent calluses and cracks, but avoid applying between the toes. [12] X Research source
Be sure to use toenail clippers, not scissors. Trim the nail straight across so it is just over the toe. Cutting nails too short can lead to the development of ingrown toenails. [13] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source File down any pointed edges with an emery board.
