How to Stop Shocks from Static Electricity

Most people have felt the surprising sting of a shock of electricity when touching a doorknob or other metal object. Static electricity is generated when two things rub together, and is sometimes dissipated more slowly than it builds up. Sometimes a charge can build up enough so that when a discharge point (a doorknob, etc) is touched, the charge is painfully released from your body onto the object. Electrostatic shocks happen more frequently in the winter when the air is drier. There are a few steps that you can take to minimize or eliminate the chances that you will receive a shock.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• humidifier
• cotton clothing
• leather-soled shoes
• key or pencil

1. Because static electricity is generated by rubbing things together, it is important to pick your feet up when walking. Shuffling feet across a carpet is a surefire way to generate a painful shock when those electrons are dissipated.

2. In the summer months, when humid air is more prevalent much of the electrostatic charges built up by people is dissipated into the surrounding water vapor. In the winter, humidity is much lower and the electrostatic charge cannot dissipate slowly. Placing a humidifier in your home and setting it for 30% humidity will help eliminate painful shocks.

3. There are some materials that are bigger offenders than others. Cotton fabrics do not build up charges as much as synthetic fibers or wool. Leather-soled shoes are generally better than soles made out of rubber or a synthetic material.

4. Wood floors and cotton rugs are best for eliminating or reducing shocks.

5. Holding an object such as a key or a pencil while walking, then touching it to the doorknob first will discharge the electrostatic charge you have built up without causing a shock.

Tips & Warnings

• While uncomfortable and annoying, electrostatic shocks are not dangerous.

[djackman]

on 4/21/2009 good article on how to stop staic shocks 5*

[blingaling]

on 4/21/2009 Very interesting article on a common, but annoying occurrence. Now I know how to stop shocks from static electricity! 5 stars and a recommend.

[westernmom]

on 4/10/2009 Shocking, just shocking! Interesting information. Thanks for sharing.

[unclet53]

on 4/8/2009 I hate getting shocked when getting out of the truck in the winter! I've asked dozens of people how to prevent this, with no answers. The only solution found so far is to get out very slowly which makes me look afflicted. I'll try touching the door with key before taking hold to close. Thanks so much! 5*

[theperfectfit]

on 3/5/2009 One of the most prevalent places for static electricity in in women clothing with silk linings. Bridal and prom gowns are particularly vulnerable because there are several layers of silk-like material rubbing together. One trick is to rub a light layer of hand lotion onto your legs before you get dressed. The little bit of oil in the lotion cuts the static from walking on carpeted floors. 5*