Should You Take Your Shoes Off Before Entering a Home?

In many cultures, taking your shoes off before entering a home is customary. The practice is part respect and part cleanliness since some cultures also sit on the floor to eat. And while most people don’t dine at low tables in the US, there are still plenty of reasons why you might want to adopt this tradition.

When was the last time you paid attention to a city sidewalk? They’re filthy! We track all sorts of gross things in our homes on the bottoms of our shoes without realizing it. And it’s not just grass clippings from the garden; you can easily track drug-resistant pathogens, cancer-causing toxins from asphalt road residue, and hospital-associated infectious germs by wearing shoes indoors.

Even if you live in a rural area or take care to only step on clean surfaces, there’s still pollen and other irritants. These irritants can cause problems for people with allergies or asthma.

Taking your shoes off before entering a home is not difficult to get used to, especially with these easy tips.

Create a designated place to put your shoes when you enter the home. This could be a specific corner near the front door, a decorative storage basket, or just a simple mat. Having a designated spot will help you remember to take your shoes off and make it easier to find them when you’re ready to leave.

If you don’t like walking barefoot, keep a pair of slippers or comfortable shoes near the door that you only wear indoors. You should also consider having spare slip-resistant socks or flip-flops for your guests to use while they’re in your home.

If you’re a guest in someone’s home, you may want to err on the side of caution and take your off your shoes. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and your hosts will appreciate your consideration.

Of course, floors will inevitably get dirty, even in the cleanest of homes. So, give Rugsies a call and schedule a professional cleaning today. A clean floor is always the best way to go!