A smelly belly button might feel like an awkward thing to bring up, but according to doctors, it's genuinely common, and there's usually a simple, non-alarming explanation behind it.
Why belly buttons smell
Dr Abbas Kanani, a pharmacist at Chemist Click, explains that the most likely cause is a build-up of sweat, dead skin cells, natural body oils, lint, or bacteria in the area. Dr Nikki Ramskill, a GP and founder of The Female Health Doctor clinic, describes the belly button as essentially a small skin fold where debris collects easily, particularly for those with an "innie," which can be trickier to clean thoroughly. Heat, sweating, exercise, and tight clothing can all make the issue more noticeable, since the warm, moist environment allows bacteria and yeast to multiply.
When it could point to something more serious
A particularly strong or foul smell, especially alongside other symptoms, can indicate something beyond routine build-up. Dr Ramskill says to watch for redness, itching, soreness, swelling, crusting, or discharge, which could suggest a bacterial or fungal infection, including from Candida yeast, which thrives in warm, damp areas. Dr Ashrafi, a GP at Superdrug Online Doctor, notes the smell itself can vary depending on the cause, sometimes described as musty, sour, or cheesy.
One specific possibility is an omphalolith, or "navel stone," a build-up of compacted keratin and sebum that can sit unnoticed deep in the belly button. These are generally harmless but can become irritated or infected if left unaddressed. In rarer cases, an infected cyst or a developmental abnormality called a urachal remnant can cause ongoing discharge and odour, and would need proper medical assessment.
How to clean it properly
Doctors recommend keeping things simple: gently washing the area with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap, using fingertips or a soft cloth rather than scrubbing. For deeper belly buttons, it's worth gently cleaning inside rather than just around it. Drying the area thoroughly afterwards is just as important as washing it, since leaving it damp can recreate the exact conditions that cause the smell in the first place. Doctors also advise against digging in with fingernails or cotton buds, which can cause small skin abrasions and increase the risk of irritation or infection, and against using strong antiseptics or heavily fragranced products unnecessarily.
When to see a doctor
An occasional smell that clears up after washing and drying generally isn't a concern. However, doctors advise seeking medical attention if the area becomes red, swollen, painful, or hot, starts bleeding, or produces pus or persistent fluid. A fever, feeling generally unwell, or spreading redness around the belly button can indicate a more significant infection that needs prompt attention.
