Shoes In The Bedroom: To Keep Or Not?

There are many differing opinions on whether or not shoes should be kept in the bedroom. Some believe that shoes should be kept out of the bedroom to maintain a clean and clutter-free space. Additionally, shoes can track in dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants from outside, which can negatively impact the cleanliness and air quality of the sleeping space. From a cultural perspective, many Asian cultures consider it common practice to remove shoes before entering a home, as it is believed that low-level energies stick to shoes and can create a negative energy field in the bedroom. On the other hand, some believe that shoes are not a problem in the bedroom, especially if stored away from the bed, and that it is more important to keep shoes out of the home altogether to prevent the spread of bacteria. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to keep shoes in the bedroom comes down to personal preference and comfort.

Shoes in the bedroom and feng shui

Feng shui is a traditional Chinese practice that revolves around the belief that every environment, no matter how seemingly insignificant or mundane, affects the energy of its inhabitants.

Feng shui expert Anjie Cho advises creating a sleep-focused bedroom by including only essential items like a supportive bed and avoiding stimulating elements. While feng shui doesn't strictly prohibit keeping shoes in the bedroom, Cho recommends storing them away from the bed to maintain a clean and clutter-free space. She adds that it can be smart to keep shoes out of your home since they can track in bacteria.

According to Kriti Mawji, a feng shui expert, placing a shoe rack in your bedroom creates a negative energy field, which will consequently create a negative sleep environment and disrupt your sleep. Mawji adds that placing shoes that are dirty or damaged in plain view in an area designated for rest and renewal is incongruous. Steve Payne at Sleep and Snooze reinforces this teaching, explaining that there is a 'negative energy field around shoes', and they should be kept away from the sleep space.

Some traditional feng shui beliefs state that placing shoes in the middle or top section of a cabinet affects the household's health. The remedy is to place only brand-new shoes on the top area and old shoes on the bottom. A shoe rack with five tiers is ideal as it represents the five elements (Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, and Earth) in feng shui.

An enclosed shoe rack is recommended over an open-typed shoe rack to keep shoes hidden from view and contain any smell. The cabinet can trap bad energy when closed, but it must have openings or vents for ventilation.

In conclusion, while there are no strict feng shui guidelines regarding shoes in the bedroom, it is generally recommended to store them away from the bed or sleep space to maintain a positive energy field and a conducive environment for rest and renewal.

The impact of shoes on sleep quality

The presence of shoes in the bedroom, particularly active shoes like running shoes, can have a significant impact on sleep quality. While there are no specific guidelines in feng shui prohibiting shoes in the bedroom, creating a sleep-focused environment involves limiting stimulating elements and maintaining a clean and clutter-free space.

The Negative Effects of Shoes on Sleep

Disrupted Sleep Quality

The mere presence of shoes in the bedroom, especially active shoes, can encourage an active mind, making it challenging to wind down and achieve deep, restorative sleep. This disruption to sleep quality is further exacerbated when individuals wear shoes to bed.

Health and Hygiene Concerns

Shoes introduce contaminants such as dirt, bacteria, toxins, and other irritants into the bedroom. Research by the University of Arizona found an average of 421,000 units of bacteria on the outside of shoes. These contaminants can compromise the cleanliness of bedding and lead to potential health issues, including fungal infections and circulatory problems.

Negative Energy Field

According to the principles of feng shui, shoes can create a negative energy field in the bedroom. This belief is shared by various cultures that traditionally remove shoes before entering a home, recognizing that low-level energies tend to sink to ground level and attach to shoes as we walk.

Mitigating the Impact

If storing shoes in the bedroom is unavoidable due to limited space, there are several measures to reduce their impact on sleep quality:

• Store shoes outside the bedroom, preferably near the exterior door or in a garage.
• If bedroom storage is necessary, separate active shoes from less active ones, keeping the active shoes away from the bed.
• Utilize closed-shelf storage designs with proper ventilation to trap bad energy and prevent odors.
• Implement a no-shoes policy in the bedroom, using indoor slippers or socks to improve hygiene and comfort.
• Regularly clean and vacuum the bedroom and mattress to minimize the presence of contaminants.
• Avoid wearing shoes to bed to prevent skin irritation, blisters, and calluses, as well as to allow your feet to breathe and promote better circulation.

Bacteria and other contaminants on shoes

Shoes are a breeding ground for bacteria, and the average pair is likely to be dirtier than a toilet seat. A 2008 study by the University of Arizona found that new shoes can become contaminated with 440,000 units of bacteria within just two weeks, with 27% of that total comprising deadly E. coli. Other studies have found similar results, with Clostridium difficile (commonly known as C. diff) being a particular cause for concern. C. diff is an intestinal bacteria that can cause life-threatening inflammation of the colon and is resistant to many household cleaning products and antibiotics.

The ground we walk on is often covered in dirt and faecal matter from animals, and once contaminated, spores can live on the soles of shoes for months. A study by the University of Houston found that nearly 40% of shoe samples contained C. diff, and the transfer rate of bacteria from shoes to clean tiles was 90% to 99%.

Other bacteria found on shoes include Klebsiella pneumoniae, which can cause pneumonia, and Serratia ficaria, which can lead to infections of the respiratory tract.

While it is impossible to avoid all contact with bacteria, there are steps you can take to minimise the risk of contamination. Removing your shoes at the door can help to prevent the spread of germs throughout your home. Additionally, frequent house cleaning and the use of antibacterial products can also reduce the presence of bacteria.

From a feng shui perspective, it is generally considered inadvisable to keep shoes in the bedroom, as they are thought to create a negative energy field that can disrupt sleep. However, this is a matter of personal preference, and there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to shoe storage. If you do choose to keep shoes in your bedroom, it is recommended to store them away from your bed to maintain a clean and clutter-free space.

Shoes and foot health

Shoes play a vital role in maintaining foot health, and choosing the right pair can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. Here are some key considerations regarding shoes and foot health:

Cushioning and Support

The right shoes should provide ample cushioning and support for your feet. The midsole is the primary component responsible for cushioning, helping to distribute the force exerted on your body over a longer period, allowing your body to adapt. Additionally, proper footwear aids in aligning your foot correctly when it touches the ground.

Comfort and Fit

It is essential that your shoes feel comfortable from the moment you put them on. Ensure they have sufficient room for your toes to wiggle and allow your foot to move within the shoe as you walk or run. The shoes should also have a snug fit without being too tight. It is recommended to shop for shoes when your feet are at their largest, such as after a workout or at the end of the day.

Activity-Specific Shoes

Different physical activities require specific types of shoes. For instance, if you play a particular sport, choose shoes designed for that sport. Running shoes should offer overall shock absorption and good torsional strength to protect against injuries such as shin splints and tendonitis. On the other hand, walking shoes should be lightweight and provide extra shock absorption in the heel and under the ball of your foot.

Foot and Ankle Problems

If you have foot or ankle issues, you may need to change your shoes or make modifications. Heel cups, arch supports, and metatarsal pads are some options to alleviate pain and provide support. For complex or long-term issues, specialised assessment and treatments may be necessary.

Shoe Storage and Sleep Hygiene

While not directly related to foot health, it is worth noting that the presence of shoes in the bedroom has been a topic of discussion in terms of sleep hygiene and feng shui. According to feng shui educator Anjie Cho, while there are no strict guidelines, it is generally advised to store shoes away from the bed to maintain a clean and clutter-free space. Sleep experts also suggest that keeping shoes in the bedroom, especially in plain view, can create a negative sleep environment and disrupt your rest. Therefore, it is recommended to store shoes outside the bedroom or, at least, in a closed-shelf cabinet with proper ventilation.

Storage solutions for shoes

Keeping shoes in the bedroom is a matter of personal preference, but there are some storage solutions that can help keep things neat and tidy. Here are some ideas:

Closed-Shelf Design

According to feng shui, a system of traditional Chinese practices that encourages good energy, a shoe rack in the bedroom creates a negative energy field and disrupts sleep. As an alternative, Kriti Mawji, a feng shui expert, recommends investing in furniture with a closed-shelf design and proper ventilation to prevent bad odours.

Stackable Plastic Shoe Containers

These containers are designed to be stacked, saving space and providing easy access to your shoes. They typically have vents for good air circulation and can be placed on a shelf, in your closet, or under the bed.

Hanging Storage

If your closet is tight on space, consider utilising the back of the door. Hanging shoe organisers are inexpensive, versatile, and can hold multiple pairs of shoes. They are also great for storing other items like accessories, jewellery, or toiletries.

Floating Shelves

Floating shelves offer flexibility and can be positioned to your liking. They can be installed in your closet or bedroom to store lighter, less frequently used shoes.

Shoe Benches

Combine storage and seating with a shoe bench. These are perfect for entryways, providing a spot to sit and put on shoes, with storage space underneath for frequently worn pairs.

Customisable Racks

Customisable shoe racks are a great option for those with a large shoe collection. They can be configured to fit your space and hold multiple pairs of shoes.

Under-the-Bed Storage

Make use of the space under your bed with a shoe organiser designed to fit in this often-overlooked area. This is a great solution for those with a shoe obsession or families with lots of kids' shoes lying around.

Frequently asked questions