Socks get smelly because of the bacteria that thrive on your feet! Here's why:
SWEAT
Your feet have sweat glands that produce moisture, and socks trap that sweat, creating a warm, damp environment. The sweat itself is mostly odorless, but it's the bacteria that feed on it that cause the smell.
BACTERIA
The bacteria on your skin break down the sweat into acids, and it's these acids that produce the funky odor we associate with smelly socks. The more you sweat, the more bacteria there are to feast on it, leading to stronger odors.
POOR VENTILATION
If your socks are too tight or made of materials that don't allow air to circulate, the moisture doesn't evaporate, which makes it easier for bacteria to grow.
FUNGAL GROWTH
Sometimes, fungi like athlete's foot can also contribute to the smell, further adding to the odor.
To fight the smell, you can try washing your feet regularly, changing socks often, and wearing breathable shoes or socks made of moisture-wicking materials!
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Zeina's Book of Whys
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