Good foot and footwear hygiene is the best way of reducing the risk of athlete's foot by creating an environment that makes it difficult for the fungus to grow.
Put on a fresh, clean pair of socks every day. Change into a different pair of socks if you are active during the day, for example if gardening, playing sport, exercising or walking. Wear a different pair of shoes from the previous day or, if this is not possible, allow your shoes to air thoroughly over night before putting them on again the next day. Wear socks and shoes of the right size; squeezing your feet into tight fitting socks and shoes prevents the air from circulating and encourages a warm damp environment in which the fungus can thrive. Socks made from natural fibre such as cotton and shoes made from leather rather than plastics will also allow your feet to breathe and help prevent the build up of moisture.
Wash your feet regularly with cold water and dry thoroughly, especially between the toes, but avoid rubbing too vigorously as this can break the skin and increase the risk of infection. Instead, gently dab your feet and between your toes with a towel. Use a different towel if drying other parts of the body to avoid transferring the fungus.
Avoid passing the infection on to others. Wear flip flops in the shower and when walking around changing rooms or swimming pools.
If you do have athlete's foot it is best to start treatment as soon as possible as the infection is harder to treat if it spreads, particularly if it spreads to the toenails. Use all medications as instructed. It is tempting to stop treatment as soon as symptoms start to ease, but it is important to continue treatment sometimes for many weeks to prevent the fungus from reappearing. Continue with foot and footwear hygiene during and after the treatment period to prevent recurrence.