Shoes Off!

Shoes Off at the Door, Please
In the midst of the social flurry of the holidays many people are doing a lot of entertaining at home. Having friends into your home is the ultimate compliment to them, but inflexible house rules can be off-putting and send mixed messages.

Many people employ the “shoes off at the door practice” in their homes. This, obviously protects floors and carpeting and is a great rule for the family and kids, but can be offensive to guests who are invited to a social gathering in your home. Asking them to remove their shoes when they are all dressed up may suggest you care more about the carpet than you do them. It’s a little like having guests sit on the plastic covering the white sofa.

Since the practice of removing shoes before entering someone’s home is not part of the American culture there may be some ways to preserve your floors and make your guests feel welcome. Likewise, guests can do a few things to show respect to their host’s home.

• Be prepared with door mats and rugs so guests can wipe their feet well before entering.
• In messy weather keep sidewalks and driveways as clear as possible.
• Guests wearing boots would do well to carry their shoes and be prepared to change at the door.
• Check your shoes before entering someone’s home to make sure you are not tracking in something you picked up outside.
• Take care to buff newly polished shoes well to avoid excess polish rubbing off on carpets and the skirts of furniture.
• If you have a unique situation such as, a boat or special flooring, be prepared with socks or an alternate foot covering for your guests. This says you welcome them and want them to be comfortable.
• Don’t forget to check your socks for holes in case you have to remove your shoes.

Best wishes for a very Happy Holiday season.