Introduction

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has earned a reputation as a natural remedy for everything from skin irritation to digestive issues—but I was curious about its effect on tired, overworked feet. After hearing countless claims about its ability to soften skin, neutralize odor, and soothe soreness, I decided to test it myself. I soaked my feet in a simple ACV mixture for 15 minutes, and the results were more noticeable than I expected. Here’s what happened, plus a simple guide so you can try the foot soak safely at home.

Ingredients

1 cup raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar

2–3 cups warm water (enough to comfortably submerge your feet)

1 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for added exfoliation)

2–3 drops lavender or tea tree essential oil (optional, for scent and antibacterial benefits)

A basin or foot tub

Instructions

Prepare the soak: Fill a foot basin with warm water. Add the apple cider vinegar and stir to combine.

Enhance the mixture (optional): Add sea salt and essential oils if desired.

Soak your feet: Place your feet into the mixture and relax for 15 minutes.

Rinse and dry: Once finished, rinse your feet with clean water to remove any lingering vinegar scent. Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.

Moisturize: Apply your favorite lotion or foot cream to seal in hydration.

What Happened After the Soak

Within minutes, my feet felt noticeably more relaxed. By the end of the 15 minutes, the skin on my heels seemed softer, mild rough patches felt less pronounced, and any lingering foot odor had completely disappeared. The vinegar didn’t irritate my skin—instead, it left a clean, refreshed sensation that lasted well into the evening.

Serving and Storage Tips

(Think of this as “using and storing” the soak mixture.)

Do not reuse the foot soak mixture—always discard it after one use for hygiene reasons.

Store your ACV in a cool, dark place to keep it potent.

Repeat the soak 1–2 times per week for ongoing odor control or skin softening.

If you added essential oils or salt, store them separately in sealed containers to preserve freshness.

Variations