As the snow melts and boots get tucked away, it’s the perfect time for a little spring cleaning—starting from the ground up. After a long Montana winter, your feet deserve some attention. While most people think of organizing closets or scrubbing floors, your feet can benefit from a seasonal refresh, too. Here are some foot hygiene tips you might be overlooking.
1. Retire Old Shoes and Insoles
Winter footwear sees a lot of wear and tear. Cracked soles, flattened cushioning, and hidden moisture can all lead to foot problems in spring. If your shoes are worn out or your orthotics have lost their support, now’s the time to replace them.
Tip:
Check your shoes for uneven wear patterns or a worn-down heel counter. If they’re over a year old and you’ve worn them regularly, they might be doing more harm than good.
2. Exfoliate and Moisturize Dry Winter Skin
Cold, dry air and thick socks can leave your feet with rough, cracked skin—especially around the heels. While it’s tempting to jump into sandals as soon as the sun shines, dry skin can split and lead to painful fissures or infections.
Tip:
Use a pumice stone or foot file once or twice a week in the shower, followed by a rich, fragrance-free foot cream. Avoid applying lotion between the toes, where excess moisture can cause fungal growth.
3. Don’t Skip Nail Maintenance
Toenails can go unnoticed during the winter, but overgrown or improperly trimmed nails can lead to ingrown toenails or fungal infections—especially when returning to snug running shoes or hiking boots.
Tip:
Trim your nails straight across and not too short. If you notice discoloration, thickening, or pain, it’s best to have it checked by a podiatrist.
4. Sanitize Your Footwear and Socks
Winter shoes and socks often harbor bacteria and fungus, especially if they’ve been damp from snow or sweat. Spring is a great time to wash, air out, or even replace socks and insoles.
Tip:
Use a UV shoe sanitizer or spray with antifungal shoe spray. Wash socks in hot water and let boots fully dry between uses.
5. Inspect Your Feet—Especially if You’re Diabetic
Warmer weather means more outdoor activity, which can lead to blisters or minor cuts that go unnoticed—especially in people with reduced sensation in their feet.
Tip:
Do a quick foot check every day: look for redness, swelling, cuts, or changes in skin color. If something looks off, don’t ignore it—early treatment prevents complications.
Ready to Step Into Spring Comfortably?
Taking a little time to care for your feet now can help prevent bigger problems down the road. Whether you’re hitting the trails, gardening, or just enjoying sandal season, healthy feet help you enjoy everything Bozeman spring has to offer. If you notice pain, skin changes, or recurring issues, our podiatry team is here to help. Book an appointment today—we’ll make sure your feet are as ready for spring as you are!