TV doctor Dr Amir Khan has weighed in on the debate over whether you should take your shoes off when you get home, saying you should — to reduce the risk of bacteria, allergens, and chemicals being brought inside.
Dr Khan's advice on shoes indoors
In a TikTok clip, Dr Khan said: "Guys, if you're anything like me, you take off your shoes as soon as you get into the house. It's a sign of respect if you're in someone else's house, but also can reduce the risk of bugs and chemicals being traipsed around your home."
He acknowledged that not all dirt is bad, noting it can help train our immune systems, but added: "I don't want some of the outside stuff coming in."
Dr Khan, a familiar face on ITV's Lorraine and Good Morning Britain, explained that shoes can harbour bacteria like E. coli, which has been linked to stomach infections and urine tract infections. He also mentioned allergens such as pollen, dust, and mould, which can be a problem for people with hay fever or allergies.
Chemicals and outdoor residues
He warned that walking in parks, fields, or golf courses could leave pesticide chemicals on shoes, which, while not harmful in small doses, are best kept out of the home where food is prepared.
As his cat pawed at his shoelaces, Dr Khan concluded: "So take your shoes off, leave your cat, and put some indoor slippers on, and off you go."
Other expert views
Most experts agree that shoes should be removed indoors. According to Good Housekeeping, even clean-looking shoes can hide dirt, bacteria, and allergens that can be tread into carpets. Small stones in shoe treads could damage wooden floors, lino, tiles, and other hard surfaces, and heels or studs like football boots could cause similar issues.
The risk of spreading pests, bacteria, and viruses into the home is greater without removing shoes, and children playing on the floor — especially babies and toddlers who may put their hands in their mouths — could be particularly vulnerable.
