Why not taking off your shoes could be a danger to your children’s health

In some families, it’s not very common to take off your shoes when entering a home. However, this practice is quite typical in other countries, especially in Asian nations. For many people, this can be uncomfortable, particularly if they feel obliged to do so in the homes of family or friends. Yet, this simple action can bring significant health benefits.

Héctor Alonso, a podiatrist and surgeon, creates social media content on various topics such as the most suitable types of footwear, how to combat certain foot diseases, and debunking common myths related to his field. In one of his Instagram posts (@hectoralonso.podologo), he explains why it’s important to remove your shoes when entering your home.

“Did you know that not taking off your shoes when you come home is a hazard?” This is how the podiatrist begins his reel. He bases his statement on a scientific study from New York, where samples were taken from streets that appeared clean to the naked eye. This research identified more than 30,000 fecal bacteria, which were later also found in the carpets of many homes.

“In 15 days, more than 420,000 bacteria can accumulate”

“Viruses can thrive better on shoes than on toilets, and in 15 days, more than 420,000 bacteria can accumulate on the floor,” says Héctor Alonso. This large number of bacteria is particularly harmful in homes with small children or babies, as they often play on the floor and frequently put their hands in their mouths.

This post has garnered a lot of interactions in recent days, especially in terms of comments. Many internet users have shared their opinions on the matter. While some see this action as ‘exaggerated,’ others consider it a basic hygiene practice that they have been doing for years: “I think taking off shoes is basic. As soon as I get home, slippers!”

Removing shoes is a characteristic practice of Japanese and Chinese cultures, whose streets in the past were not paved, and houses were made of wood, which made them prone to getting dirty. In fact, these homes have a specific area called a genkan, designed especially for leaving shoes, with flooring made of a different material from the rest of the house.

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Original article written by Arianna Villaescusa, translated with the assistance of AI and edited by Joe Brennan