Wear natural fibers and leather-soled shoes

Switch to cotton or linen clothing and leather-soled shoes during winter months. Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic sit high on the triboelectric series and generate far more static charge through friction, especially against carpet and upholstery.

Why It Works

Cotton and linen are closer to neutral on the triboelectric scale, meaning they exchange fewer electrons when rubbing against other surfaces. Leather soles conduct charge to the ground as you walk, unlike rubber or plastic soles that insulate you and let charge accumulate.

Tips

• Use fabric softener or dryer sheets in the laundry -- their anti-static coating reduces friction between fibers
• A light mist of water on clothing before dressing works as a quick anti-static fix
• Avoid layering multiple synthetic garments, which compounds static generation at every contact point