While we may not think of smelling our feet as a pleasant activity, Discover Magazine says it is important to take a whiff every now and then, because a change in the odor could also indicate a change in the type of colonies that off our feet. Bacteria are considered good microbes, because they feast off dead skin cells, keep our skin soft, and act as a defense shield against pathogens who are more interested in live flesh. A smell change, particularly one that tends to be sour or bready, could indicate that an infection that triggers rashes and wounds could be just around the corner. 

Cleveland Clinic podiatrist Joy Rowland says foot infections can be headed off by soaking your feet thoroughly in warm water with half a cup of Epsom salts for 10 to 20 minutes. An alternative to a soak with Epsom salts is a warm vinegar soak with two parts water and one part vinegar; both foot baths pull moisture away from your feet, making them less hospitable to hostile microbes (vinegar, incidentally, is one heck of a handy all-purpose substance to keep around your house — you can even clean your toilet with it). 

Rowland also says it is important to dry your feet properly after a shower (get into those creases!), disinfect your shoes properly, and use a bit of corn starch or talcum powder to make sure the moisture produced by the glands on the soles of your feet is kept under control. 

So, if your feet smell like vinegar, that's not necessarily a cause for concern — it's just a natural by-product of the little creatures that hang around on your feet. It definitely could be worse, so keep sniffing your feet every now and then to see if there is a significant change so you can take care of it ASAP. And as always, if you're concerned, make an appointment with your doctor.