Static electricity: Why do we get static shocks and how can we avoid them?

Everyone experiences static shocks every now and then. But some people experience them more than others. There could be a reason why someone will receive more static shocks than others.

What are static shocks?

First, you may not know what a static shock is exactly. Static shocks are a phenomenon where a person will pick up too many electrons—often from certain fabrics—which are negatively charged.

The shock you feel is when you touch something that is positively charged. The negatively charged electrons will jump onto the positively charged surface and the speed they travel causes the small shock you feel.

When are static shocks more common?

Static shocks can be more common in cold and dry weather. The cold and dry air contains less water vapour making it more difficult for the charge to run into the air. Instead, it builds up in our bodies.

As the charge has accumulated in our bodies, you will experience more static shocks when you touch metal objects like your car.

How to avoid static shocks

There are some very simple ways to avoid static shocks. Here are four different things you could try.

1. Increase indoor humidity

If you live in a dry climate one simple way of decreasing the chances of static shocks is to increase the humidity in your home. You can either invest in a humidifier or if you want an easier option, you could boil some water in a pot to add moisture into the air. If you have house plants, watering them can help.

2. Moisturise dry skin

Dry skin can help negatively charged electrons build up in your body. So if you keep your skin moisturised, you can lower the risk of getting static shocks. You don’t have to moisturise your whole body if you don’t want to. Simply keeping your hands and feet moisturised should be enough as that is where e experience shocks the most.

3. Favour natural over synthetic fabrics

The fabric you wear can play a part in receiving static shocks. Fabrics like polyester can create more static electricity than other fabrics. So why not try and wear more cotton and wool clothing if you experience a lot of static shocks;

4. Try different types of shoes

This one may seem odd, but the shoes you wear can increase your chances of static shocks. Shoes with synthetic soles on synthetic flooring will cause more static electricity compared to rubber and leather soles.

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