A recent study by YouGovAmerica showed that almost a third of respondents always take shoes off inside their own house, and 26% report taking their shoes off most of the time. In that same study it was found that of the 31% of Americans who take their shoes off, only 26% will ask their guests to do the same…those are not good percentages.

By now I think the news has circulated about the commonness of bacteria and relatively high probability of e coli found on shoes (The University of Arizona). It might not be too much to worry about if the bacteria minded it’s manners by staying on the shoes. "Shoes are a common vehicle for bringing major contaminants into the home", says Kelly Reynolds, professor at the University of Arizona. But wait…it gets better. "Contaminants on the floor don't always just stay there," Dr. Reynolds says.

"Bacteria are like magnets—they stick to dust particles, and if a person or a pet stirs up dust on the floor, the bacteria-infused particles can be resuspended in the air, where you can ingest or inhale them and be exposed." One thing to consider is efficient air purification in your home. More to come on that in a future post.

So how can we protect this sacred place called home while keeping one’s top-tier hospitality intact? Here’s what works for us:

1. Live by example in our home and others’ - simple enough, right?

2. Have a sign at the front door - this was one of our first purchases for the new house

3. Keep commonly worn shoes in the garage - also enter the home through the garage

4. Establish a designated shoe area by the front door

5. Be consistent - yes, even with the plumber or handyman

What are the most effective ways you’ve seen the “no shoe policy” applied in the home?