Problem
Smelly socks
Nature:
Smelly socks are socks that have acquired a strong odour due to prolonged wearing. Their odour, which is complex and remains the object of study, is a mixture of ammonia, fatty acids (in particular, isovaleric acid), and lactic acid.
Odorous socks are a strong attractant for some animals, including dogs and mosquitos. They have proven useful in controlling the behaviour of these animals.
Although the odour of smelly socks is often associated with feet, it arises independently of contact with human feet in various foodstuffs such as dairy products, cheeses, sausages and fish sauce, and is naturally present in several plants. The smell has also been noted in building and automotive air treatment systems, where it is described as "jock socks odour" or "dirty socks syndrome".
Several technologies have been developed to incorporate materials into sock textiles which reduce or eliminate the strong smell.
Broader Problems:
Unhygienic clothing Problem Type:
G: Very specific problems Date of last update
04.10.2020 – 22:48 CEST