6 Homemade Foot Soaks

An at-home foot soak is a simple method to unwind and rejuvenate after a busy day. It also gives you a chance to care for your frequently overlooked feet, which endure a lot throughout the day.

These do-it-yourself foot soak formulas are easy enough to prepare on short notice, yet indulgent enough to feel like a restorative spa experience.

Basic supplies

To make use of the soak ideas below, have these essentials on hand:

• Tub. For each session, use a bathtub, a large shallow basin, or a foot bath tub.
• Towel. Keep a towel, bath mat, or drying cloth within reach.
• Time. Soak your feet for 15 to 60 minutes.
• Warm water. Keep extra hot water ready to top up the soak if you’re not using a bathtub.
• Cool water. Finish each soak with a cool water rinse.

For achy feet

This Epsom salt soak is an excellent choice when your feet feel sore and need relief. The magnesium in Epsom salt can be absorbed through the skin to encourage relaxation and ease tension, pain, and swelling.

Sore feet foot soak ingredients

• 1/2 cup Epsom salt
• 5–20 drops essential oil of choice, such as peppermint, lavender, or rosemary (optional)
• 6 tsp. carrier oil (optional)

What to do

1. Dissolve the Epsom salt in a tub of hot water.
2. Mix the essential oil with the carrier oil.
3. Add that blend to the foot bath.

For exfoliation

Loosen dry, rough skin with this recipe. Epsom salt doubles as a mild exfoliant and may help address fungal issues and reduce foot odor.

Exfoliating foot soak ingredients

• 1–3 fresh lemons
• 1–3 cups vinegar (white or apple cider)
• 3 cups Epsom salt

What to do

1. Pour the vinegar into a basin of warm water.
2. Squeeze in the lemon juice.
3. Use the inside of the peels to gently scrub toes and soles.
4. Before adding salt to the tub, rub some directly on your feet using light circular movements.
5. After soaking, use a pumice stone, exfoliating brush, or washcloth to carefully remove remaining dead skin.

For better circulation

Boost circulation, ease stagnation, and help restore balance with this stimulating foot soak.

Research indicates that essential oils can enhance blood flow, ease tension, and lift mood, while warm water may help reduce inflammation.

Invigorating foot soak ingredients

• 1/2 cup ground or freshly grated ginger
• 5–20 drops essential oil of choice, such as lemon, lemongrass, or clary sage
• 6 tsp. carrier oil

What to do

1. Add the ginger to a pot of boiling water.
2. Carefully pour that into the foot tub of warm water.
3. Combine the essential oil with the carrier oil, then add to the bath.

To moisturize

Soft, supple feet are attainable. The hydrating qualities of honey and coconut milk make this soak a delightful, nourishing treat.

Moisturizing foot soak ingredients

• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tsp. cinnamon powder

What to do

1. Dissolve the honey and coconut milk in a small bowl of boiling water.
2. Slowly add that mixture to the tub of warm water.
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon into the soak.

Detox foot soak

Beyond personal anecdotes, there’s limited scientific evidence supporting many detox foot soak claims, even when purported detoxifying ingredients are used.

Still, if you want to try a cleansing soak, it’s unlikely to cause harm. Stick with simple, natural components and avoid costly products that promise dramatic outcomes.

Because metal can interfere with bentonite clay’s properties, don’t use metal utensils to measure or mix the paste.

Detox foot soak ingredients

• 2 tbsp. bentonite clay
• 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup Epsom salt

Steps for foot soak

1. Combine the clay and apple cider vinegar into a slightly thick paste.
2. Adjust with more liquid or clay until you reach the desired texture.
3. Spread the paste onto your feet for at least 10 minutes or until fully dry.
4. Dissolve the Epsom salt in the tub of hot water.
5. As you soak, let the clay loosen and wash off naturally.
6. Use an exfoliating brush, pumice, or washcloth to gently remove any residue.

For relaxation and aromatherapy

If your main aim is calm and relaxation, this blend is ideal. A 2018 study suggests that adding essential oils to a soak may reduce stress and anxiety and promote a more positive mood.

Aromatherapy ingredients

• 2 tbsp. carrier oil
• 5–20 drops of essential oils of choice
• 2 cups Epsom salt
• 1/4 cup dried flowers, such as rose, chamomile, and lavender

Steps for foot soak

1. Mix the carrier oil and essential oils together in a bowl.
2. Combine with the remaining ingredients to form a mixture.
3. Slowly dissolve the blend into a tub of hot water.
4. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

The after-party

When you’re finished, follow up with your preferred moisturizer.

1. To ease soreness, apply gentle thumb pressure while spreading a thick layer of lotion, petroleum jelly, or oil.
2. Wear socks overnight to lock in moisture.
3. Prop your feet up for at least 20 minutes before you sleep.

Safety tips

Keep these safety pointers in mind:

• Check the water temperature before placing your feet in the soak.
• Avoid foot soaks if you have open wounds, cuts, or ulcers.
• Do not use a razor or scraper to remove dead skin.
• Use smaller quantities of ingredients if your skin is very dry or sensitive.
• Consult your physician if you’re on medications or have medical concerns.

The takeaway

Relax and recharge at home with these DIY foot soaks. They offer a pleasant, uncomplicated way to pause, step away from the daily rush, and give your feet— and yourself—the care you deserve.