Summer usually means more time in and around swimming pools, beaches and other communal spaces. Whether you're heading to the local pool, taking the kids swimming or spending the day at the beach, going barefoot can feel like the most natural thing to do.

But warm, damp environments such as public pools and change rooms can also create the right conditions for certain foot problems. Two of the most common concerns are fungal infections and plantar warts, both of which can be picked up when walking barefoot in communal wet areas.

Fortunately, protecting your feet doesn't require much effort. A few simple habits can help reduce your exposure while keeping your feet healthy throughout summer. And don’t forget your feet when applying sunscreen, especially when you’re wearing open shoes or spending time outdoors. What to look for when choosing a sunscreen, including Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

Why do foot infections become more common in summer?

Fungus thrives in warm, damp environments, which makes places such as public swimming pools, communal showers and change rooms ideal conditions for fungal growth.

Walking barefoot through these areas increases the amount of contact your feet have with potentially contaminated surfaces. While you can't control what other people may have walked through before you, you can control how you protect your own feet.

One of the simplest precautions is to wear thongs or water shoes when walking around communal wet areas. Instead of placing your bare feet directly on the floor, footwear creates a barrier between your skin and the surface.

This is particularly important around swimming pools, public showers and change rooms where moisture can linger.

Keep your feet dry after swimming

Wearing footwear in communal areas is only part of the equation. What you do once you leave the pool can also make a difference.

After swimming or showering, take the time to dry your feet thoroughly. Pay particular attention to the spaces between your toes, where moisture can easily become trapped.

It can be tempting to quickly towel off and put your socks or shoes straight back on, especially when you're in a hurry. However, taking an extra moment to properly dry your feet can help prevent them from staying damp for long periods.

If you've been swimming or spending time around water, make drying your feet part of your usual routine.

What about plantar warts?

Plantar warts are another foot problem that can be picked up when walking barefoot in communal areas such as public pools and change rooms.

They are caused by the Human Papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV.

The virus can enter through tiny breaks or imperfections in the skin, meaning your feet don't necessarily need to have an obvious wound for transmission to occur.

Again, wearing thongs or water shoes in communal wet areas can help reduce direct contact between your feet and the surrounding surfaces.

If you or someone in your family already has a plantar wart, there are also steps you can take to reduce the risk of spreading it. Before swimming, cover the wart with a waterproof bandage. This can help reduce the chance of the virus spreading to other people or to another area of your own foot.

It's also important not to pick at or deliberately scratch a wart, as this can potentially contribute to spreading the virus. Learn more about Plantar warts

Don't forget the rest of your summer foot routine

Pool safety is only one part of keeping your feet healthy during summer. Your feet are also exposed to increased moisture, heat, outdoor activity and periods of going barefoot, so it's worth paying attention to any changes.

If you notice a new or persistent skin concern, an area that isn't healing properly or something on your foot that you're unsure about, getting it checked can help you understand what you're dealing with.

This is particularly useful when it comes to warts and suspected fungal infections, as several different foot conditions can look similar at first. A podiatrist can assess the area and help determine the most appropriate treatment.

Make foot protection part of your summer routine

Looking after your feet around pools and communal wet areas doesn't mean you need to avoid going barefoot altogether. It's simply about knowing where your feet are most exposed and taking a few sensible precautions.

Keep a pair of thongs or water shoes handy for pool areas and communal showers, dry your feet thoroughly after swimming and cover any existing plantar warts with a waterproof bandage before getting in the water.

These small habits can make a big difference to your summer foot health, helping you spend less time worrying about your feet and more time enjoying the warmer weather.

If you're concerned about a plantar wart, suspected fungal infection or another change to the skin of your feet, the team at Merewether & New Lambton Podiatry can assess the issue and help you understand your treatment options.