In the U.S., it is very common to wear shoes at home, but have you ever considered the benefits of taking them off?
Why Take Off Your Shoes?
Footwear is designed to protect our feet but consider the costs. Shoes travel with us everywhere-through public restrooms, parks, and the outdoors- meaning they can pick up harmful toxins, germs, and chemicals along the way. Studies have shown that our shoes can carry millions of bacteria on them, germs like Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli (E. Coli) and Clostridioides difficile (C.diff).
Shoes can also track in heavy metals like lead, and hazardous chemicals such as fertilizers, insecticides, and pesticides. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you might even be dragging allergens throughout your home, aggravating your symptoms.
How to Be a No-Shoes Household
If you have made the decision to be a no-shoes household, it might feel awkward asking your guests to comply. Many people are uncomfortable showing their bare feet or socks, and in formal settings, shoes are often part of an outfit. However, if creating a healthy home is your goal, don’t feel afraid to implement a no-shoes policy. Here are a few ways to make your request easier for everyone:
- Tell Guests in Advance
If possible, inform your guests ahead of time that you have a no-shoes policy. This gives them a chance to adjust their footwear and prepares them for easy removal when they arrive.
- Put Up a Polite Sign
Consider placing a friendly sign by your door to remind guests of your request to remove their shoes. It is an easy and non-intrusive way to communicate your preference.
- Offer Washable Slippers
If you want to make your guests, feel more comfortable, offer them a pair of clean, washable slippers to wear during their visit. This can make them feel more at ease while respecting your no-shoes rule.
What if Your Guests Can’t Go Shoe-Free?
In these situations, don’t stress- just take some time after the visit to clean your floors or carpets. For carpets, use a HEPA filter vacuum, if possible. If you don’t have one, a fabric-safe disinfectant spray followed by a regular vacuuming will still help. For hard floors, use a mild disinfectant mixed with warm water, and mop instead of sweeping, as sweeping can stir up particles into the air.
What if you Need to Wear Shoes Indoors?
Consider purchasing a pair of house shoes that you only wear inside. Keep them by the door for easy access when you come home. Also, it is a good idea to clean the soles and sides of your shoes regularly. Doing so can eliminate up to 90% of bacteria picked up outside.
The Benefits of No-Shoes Policy
It may seem like a small change, but it can have a big impact on your family’s health, creating a cleaner, safer environment for everyone.
Written By: Sofia Carter, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension Champaign County
Reviewed By: Shannon Carter, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension Fairfield County