Diabetic Foot Care: A Daily Routine That Actually Prevents Problems
Foot problems in people with diabetes are very common and can lead to more serious complications. People with diabetes are also less likely to feel a foot injury and are at higher risk of having foot injuries that are difficult to heal. The reality for patients with diabetes is feet that stay damp, athlete’s foot that keeps returning, dry cracked heels and small cuts noticed days late.
A simple daily diabetic foot care routine helps prevent most problems that send people to the foot doctor, and takes just a few minutes and good planning to execute. This guide will help you understand your foot risks with diabetes and give each step of how to create your own foot care routine that you can start using today.
Why Feet Carry the Most Risk
Nerve damage and poor blood flow is a complication of diabetes that is most common in the feet. The feet have the highest risk because they have many tiny and delicate nerve fibers and small blood vessels which makes them easier and more likely to cause damage. Nerve changes in the feet can make it hard to feel small injuries. Having elevated blood sugar over a long amount of time can affect and change your skin by creating reduced circulation, dryness and microbial or fungi build-up.
Being well informed on other common skin problems in diabetes, why they happen and what helps can help you be more informed and protect your skin now and in the future. To learn more about how diabetes affects your skin, view our guide on diabetes and skin problems..
How often should I check my feet if I have diabetes?
It is important you check your feet every single day! Make it part of your daily diabetes routine to inspect your feet at the same time each day.
The Daily Foot Check: What to Look at, and How to See the Bottoms
A daily foot check is an important part of your everyday diabetes care routine. Doing a daily foot check can help you catch any problems early and before they turn into major diabetic foot problems. You should check the bottoms, sides, tops and between your toes everyday.
What to Look For:
Redness, swelling, or changes in skin colour
Cuts, scrapes or scratches
Dry, cracked or peeling skin
Drainage, dampness or moisture between the toes
Calluses, corns, or ingrown toenails
Any other changes to the skin or nails
How to Check Your Feet
If you have trouble bending down or seeing the bottoms of your feet you can try these simple solutions:
Use a hand mirror: Place a small mirror on the floor or in your hand to easily view the bottoms of your feet.
Use a phone camera: Take a video or photo of the bottom of your feet using your phone camera and inspect the image or video.
Ask for help: Ask a family member or caregiver to help check the bottoms of your feet for you.
Washing and Drying — the Between-the-Toes Step Almost Everyone Skips
Washing and drying your feet completely is an important step to having healthy feet. Washing your feet helps remove sweat and surface bacteria.
Some tips for daily washing and drying:
Use warm (not hot) water: Test the water with your wrist to prevent accidental burns.
Wash gently: Use a gentle soap and wash with your hands or a soft washcloth rather than scrubbing roughly.
Don’t soak your feet: Keep washes brief.
Dry your feet completely: Gently dry your feet, especially between the toes.
Moisturize properly: Apply moisturizer to the tops and bottoms of the feet, do not apply moisturizer between your toes.
Moisturizing: Where to Apply (and the One Place Not to)
Moisturizing your feet is a good practice to reduce dry skin which can be caused by damage to nerves that control the sweat and oil glands in your feet. In your daily foot care routine apply a thin layer of moisture to your heels, soles and tops of your feet. Wipe off any excess lotion.
Never put lotion between your toes. Extra moisture trapped between the toes allows for fungal and bacterial growth which could lead to infection.
Why are my feet so dry with Diabetes?
When your blood sugar is elevated your body tries to get rid of the excess sugar through your urine by pulling water out of your body. This can cause your skin to lose moisture which leads to skin dryness and itching.
Managing Moisture and Odor Through the Day
Making sure to also manage moisture and diabetic foot odor throughout the day is an important step for diabetic foot care. It is common for your feet to build moisture and sweat as you complete your day but letting sweat sit on the skin increases irritation and risk of athlete’s foot and diabetes related fungal issues. If you struggle with sweat buildup in other areas of your body, learn how to care for damp creases in our guide on managing loose skin and skin folds.
Here are our tips and tricks to help you keep your feet dry and odor-free all day long:
The best socks for diabetes are made of a synthetic fabric or wool to help wick away moisture.
Change your socks throughout the day, especially if you are sweating or feel that your feet may be damp.
Don’t put on your shoes without socks as it can cause extra foot rubbing and friction as well as make you more prone to fungal infections.
Rotate your shoes daily to allow them to dry fully and air out for 24 hours before you wear them again.
In addition to these tips and tricks, a fast-drying spray like glucaBAN Skin Microbial Control can be used for added hygiene during the day. GlucaBAN Skin Microbial Control can fit easily into your daily routine and dries fast without leaving a greasy or sticky residue which helps control odor-causing bacteria, yeast, and fungi on the skin and may help reduce odor and skin itchiness.
What Shoes and Socks are Best for Diabetic Feet?
Choosing the right shoe and sock is a vital part of your diabetic foot routine.
The best shoes for diabetic feet are closed-toe shoes that offer foot support and have a wide toe box to avoid toes rubbing or pinching. It is a good idea to have at least two pairs of shoes that you can alternate daily.
The best socks for diabetic feet are made from moisture-wicking materials like wool or synthetic blends. Socks should not be too tight so they will not restrict circulation. Having multiple pairs of socks that can be changed throughout the day helps reduce moisture.
Nails and Calluses: What to Do Yourself and What to Leave to a Professional
Keep nail clippers in your home and trim your toenails regularly as part of your foot care routine. Trim your toenails straight across, making sure not to cut the nails too short and file any sharp edges. You can have your foot doctor or a trusted family member trim your toenails if you cannot see or reach your feet.
What to Leave to a Professional:
Never use razors or scissors to trim calluses or corns yourself.
Don’t try to treat calluses, corns or ingrown toenails without speaking to your healthcare professional first. This includes using over-the-counter corn or wart removers.
Don’t use a nail file or harsh object to try to file away corns or calluses.
Can I Soak My Feet if I Have Diabetes?
No, people with diabetes should avoid soaking their feet.
Soaking your feet can break down your skin which can cause cracking, softness and increased dryness. There is also an increased burn risk from soaking feet due to reduced sensation in the feet with diabetes. It is recommended to wash your feet quickly with warm water and a mild soap and then thoroughly dry them.
Red Flags: When to Call Your Provider the Same Day
A daily foot routine can help you take care of your feet but some foot issues require immediate medical attention. You should contact your healthcare provider the same day if you have any of these symptoms:
Loss of sense touch or the ability to feel cold vs hot very well in your feet
Any open sore, blister, cut or break in the skin that is not healing
Spreading redness, warmth or swelling of part or all of the foot
Drainage or foul smell from skin or nails
Any black or purple skin discoloration
Foot irritation with a fever or chills
Note: GlucaBAN Skin Microbial Control is designed to support daily hygiene and is not a treatment for skin wounds, ulcers or infections. Always consult your medical provider for treatment.
Questions? Talk to a Marley Drug Pharmacist
Worrying about diabetic foot care on top of your regular diabetes management can feel like a lot, but we are here to help if you have any questions or concerns about your daily foot routine, the use of glucaBAN Skin Microbial Control or any ongoing foot problems.
You can call Marley Drug today for a free consultation to speak directly with one of our pharmacists. Additionally, you may find it helpful to explore some of our other resources including our Type 2 Diabetes condition overview and our main Diabetes Category to find more ways to protect your health.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare professional or pharmacist regarding any specific health concerns or before starting a new care routine.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diabetes and your feet. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published May 15, 2024.
American Diabetes Association. 8 tips to protect your feet with diabetes. American Diabetes Association. Accessed August 25, 2026.
Diabetes Canada. Foot care: A step toward good health. Diabetes Canada. Accessed August 25, 2026.
