As I explore the world inside and outside of my home, I constantly think about the one habit that many must believe is too simple to worry about: wearing shoes indoors. Though this may sound innocuous enough to nip around the house in a preferred pair of sneakers or heels, I discovered that that practice can have some serious implications for our health and state of mind. In this article, I will challenge this notion and explain why we should not wear shoes in the house.
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Bringing in Dirt and Germs
The most immediately impacting reason to go shoe-free in the house has to do with the dirt, germs, and allergens we’re bringing in. Our shoes constantly collect a variety of contaminants from the ground, sidewalks, public restrooms, and yes, even our own driveways. The tires of your car will take unwanted guests into driveways. Not wearing shoes in the house will prevent unwanted guests into your home.
Allergens and Pollutants
Shoes are a breeding ground for harmful bacteria like E. coli and Staphylococcus, research suggests. According to a study conducted by the University of Arizona, 96% of shoes are covered with fecal bacteria, which can lead to health problems, especially for children and pets. The simplest solution is often the best. Dirt and germs can have a negative impact on creativity and productivity, and a clean environment promotes it. But not just dirt and bacteria, wearing shoes indoors also contributes to the accumulation of allergens. Dust, pollen, and pet dander can all attach to our shoes and be carried throughout the home. For people who have allergies or asthma, this can cause serious problems. As more and more people are becoming aware of indoor air quality, we should be aware of how our habits affect our living space, including not wearing shoes indoors.
Creating a Sense of Comfort
Not wearing shoes in the house can prevent stains and damage over time, regardless of whether it is hardwood, carpet, or tile. High heels can create unsightly dents, grime, and discoloration on carpets. A home should feel comfortable and relaxing as soon as you walk in. A no-shoes policy makes it a welcoming place to be. Just being placed one foot inside the house and taking off our shoes is already a transformation between the outside life to our own private room. As you take off your shoes, it gives us a chance to relax and be ourselves without the cares of the day.
Improved Foot Health
Taking off our shoes indoors can also be good for our feet. Shoes can limit natural mobility and lead to different foot ailments, including bunions and plantar fasciitis “heel pan”. Shoeless, our feet move naturally, encouraging blood flow and building foot strength. This is especially beneficial for any of us who sit at the desk for extended hours writing or editing. Not wearing shoes at home can ultimately improve posture and general well-being through the feet.
Increased Comfort and Relaxation
There is a certain comfort in having our bare feet brush against a plush carpet or cool tile. Different surfaces underfoot can be grounding and soothing. While some of us aim to make our homes comfortable for living, leaving out shoes at the entrance can increase our comfort levels in the house, helping our body get into the subconscious relaxation mode. Make your entrance inviting to encourage guests and family members to take their shoes off. Maybe even a nice shoe rack https://amzn.to/43u5r1M or a reminder mat https://amzn.to/4cgV8QY by the door. Not only does this keep shoes organized, but it also helps to remind visitors of the no-shoes policy. You can even offer guests a cozy pair of slippers https://amzn.to/4hSqGNX or socks to slip into so that they feel right at home.
Establish Consistency
Habits take consistency to engage in, and there is no doubt. Collectively commit to the no-shoes rule in your own home. Not wearing shoes inside is a great way to maintain cleanliness. That includes setting an example for children and persuading them to practice it. The more consistent you are, the more chance there is that this habit will stick. By keeping our space clean, welcoming, and comfortable, we support our best practice of not wearing shoes at home. It should be noted that this is a deliberate choice — being shoeless at home is healthy, comfortable, and mindful. Read more: https://www.homecleanfood.com/why-science-supports-the-fact-that-we-should-always-keep-our-homes-clean/03/