Why Do My Toenails Smell? Causes, Risks, and What You Can Do

Most people expect their feet to smell after a long day in socks and shoes. But what if the odor seems to come directly from your toenails, especially right after you trim them?  This is a common concern, and in many cases, it points to changes happening beneath the nail.

In this guide, we’ll explain the most common reasons toenails smell, what causes odor under the toenail, and the best ways to treat and prevent the problem.

Why Toenails Smell

Toenail odor typically comes from microbes, fungi and bacteria, that live under or around the nail. When nails are cut, trimmed, or filed, these trapped compounds can be released, producing a stronger smell.

Here are the most common culprits:

1. Fungal Infections (Onychomycosis)

One of the leading causes of smelly toenails is a fungal nail infection. Fungi thrive in warm, dark, and moist environments, like sweaty shoes and socks.

• How it causes odor: The fungus breaks down keratin, the protein that makes up your nails, releasing byproducts with a foul smell. ‍
• Other signs: Nails may appear thickened, brittle, discolored (yellow, brown, or white), and crumbly. ‍
• Why it smells more when cut: Trimming the nail exposes fungal debris and releases trapped compounds.

2. Bacterial Overgrowth

Moisture trapped under or around toenails provides the perfect environment for bacteria to multiply.

• How it causes odor: Bacteria release volatile compounds, similar to the ones responsible for foot odor. ‍
• Other signs: Redness, swelling, or drainage may appear if there’s an active bacterial infection.

3. Debris and Nail Trauma

• Keratin debris (dead skin cells, cuticle buildup, fibers from socks) can accumulate under the nail and decompose, leading to odor.
• Small injuries or cracks in the nail create openings where fungi and bacteria enter and hide.

4. Other Skin and Nail Conditions

Less commonly, skin disorders (like psoriasis or eczema) can affect the nails, making them more susceptible to infection and odor. Rarely, a persistently smelly or discolored nail could indicate a more serious condition, so evaluation is important.

Why Toenails Smell More When You Cut Them

Many people notice odor most strongly right after trimming their nails. This happens because:

• Cutting releases trapped fungal or bacterial debris under the nail.
• Exposed surfaces of the nail bed release odor-producing compounds.
• Clippers or tools may spread microbes if not properly disinfected.

Odor Under the Toenail: When It’s a Concern

Occasional mild odor that goes away with hygiene may not be serious. But if the smell is persistent, worsening, or combined with other symptoms, it could point to an underlying infection that needs treatment.

Warning signs include:

• Thickened, brittle, or crumbling nails
• Yellow, brown, or white discoloration
• Swelling or redness around the nail
• Pain or difficulty walking in shoes
• Odor that does not improve with hygiene

If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to see a podiatrist for a full evaluation.

How to Get Rid of Toenail Odor

1. Practice Good Hygiene

• Wash feet daily with soap and water.
• Dry thoroughly, especially between toes and under nails.
• Keep nails trimmed straight across and filed smooth.
• Sanitize clippers and avoid sharing nail tools.

2. Footwear Habits

• Wear moisture-wicking socks to reduce sweat.
• Change socks at least once daily (more often if they get damp).
• Rotate shoes to allow them to dry fully between uses.
• Use antifungal sprays or powders inside shoes if you sweat heavily.

3. Over-the-Counter Options

• Antifungal nail creams or medicated lacquers can help with mild infections, though they may take months to work.
• Shoe inserts with antifungal or antibacterial properties may reduce odor buildup.

4. Professional Treatments

For persistent odor under the toenail or confirmed fungal infection, podiatrists may recommend:

• Prescription antifungals (oral or topical) ‍
• Laser therapy to target fungus under the nail ‍
• Debridement (professional trimming and cleaning of thick or infected nails)
• In severe cases, temporary removal of the nail for direct treatment

How to Prevent Toenails from Smelling

• Keep nails short and clean. Long nails can trap debris and sweat. ‍
• Disinfect clippers and nail files. Always clean tools after each use. ‍
• Don’t walk barefoot in locker rooms, pools, or communal showers where fungi thrive. ‍
• Maintain healthy feet. Treat athlete’s foot or skin infections promptly before they spread to nails.

Final Thoughts

So, why do toenails smell? In most cases, odor under the toenail comes from fungi, bacteria, or debris trapped beneath the nail plate. While good hygiene helps, persistent odor is often a sign of fungal infection or another condition that requires professional care.

At FAS The Woodlands, we treat toenail fungus and other nail conditions with advanced diagnostic tools and proven therapies. Our goal is to eliminate the infection, restore healthy nails, and keep your feet fresh and pain-free.

Don’t ignore toenail odor. Book an appointment with our specialists today to get expert care and long-lasting relief.