We wont tell!!!
Most colleges use surgical spirit to clean the feet because it is cheap! There is no research to back up its use.
I practice Gentle Touch Reflexology and during training were not taught to clean the clients feet.
We also use a very light oil to carry out the treatment and this, in my opinion, makes the feet and my hands feel fabulous :).
xx
Well, if you read the blurb on a bottle of Surgical Spirit, it does say that it hardens the skin. Most people want their feet to feel soft and are at great pains to get rid of hard skin. The smell is also very overpowering and lingers for a long time - not exactly helpful for a relaxing treatment.
I only clean the feet if there is obviously a lot of dirt and grit -usually in the summer when clients wear open shoes - and then I only use an unscented wipe.
Just off on a slight tangent, we are often taught to keep things sterile, but although I know many people use dishwashers or disposable cups, it's always considered quite acceptable to wash a glass used for drinking water in hot water and washing up water. We not only do it in clinic, but in our personal lives. Cups, glasses and cutlery go from mouth to mouth, with just normal washing in between, without any problem.