How to Stop Shocks from Static Electricity

Avoid shocks when touching doorknobs.

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.

Things You'll Need

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

Instructions

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.