Rubber is a powerful insulator. If you have carpeted floors, or work in a carpeted office, wearing rubber soled shoes greatly increases your chance of experiencing static shock. Opt for leather-soled shoes instead. [2] X Research source Wool is also a good conductor, and can rub against fabrics to generate static charge. Try going for cotton socks over wool socks. [3] X Research source

Layering in general, even with similar materials, can increase the likelihood of static shock as materials with different electron charges can interact to produce static shock. [4] X Research source Synthetic fabrics, like polyester, conduct electricity well. Limiting the use of such materials in your personal wardrobe can reduce risk of static shock. [5] X Research source Wool sweaters and wool clothing in general, tend to produce a more static shock. Opt for cotton when possible. [6] X Research source

Static shock bracelets work using a process called passive ionization. The conductive fibers found in the bracelet will flow off the strings and into your wrist, reducing the voltage in your body, and therefore, the intensity of static shocks. [7] X Research source Static shock bracelets are relatively inexpensive. They usually cost under $10.

Ideally, your home should be above 30% rh, or relative humidity. You can measure the humidity of your home by purchasing a humidity thermometer online or at a hardware or grocery store. [8] X Research source Raising the air humidity to 40 or 50% rh can help reduce static shock. You should aim for this range. [9] X Research source Humidifiers range in price. Large humidifiers, designed to work in a large space, can cost over $100. However, a humidifier for a single room might only be $10 or $20.

Rubbing fabric softener sheets over the carpet can prevent the buildup of static electricity but such methods do not have a permanent effect. Try repeating the process once a week. [10] X Research source You can also place cotton rugs on areas of the carpet that you walk across frequently as cotton is less likely than certain fabrics to conduct electricity and cause static shock. [11] X Research source

Opt for materials like cotton over synthetic fabrics or wool. [12] X Research source Try not to layer sheets, as fabrics rubbing together can cause static buildup. If your bedroom is warm enough, you may be able to ditch your top sheet or blanket.

If you wear panty hoes or silk lining, make sure you moisturize your legs before getting dressed to go out. [13] X Research source Keep a travel sized bottle of lotion in your purse or backpack in case your skin gets dry at work or school. Be especially careful to remember lotion during months, where dry skin is a common ailment.

When pushing a cart, hold onto to something metal like your house keys. This discharges any energy you build up walking before you touch anything with your bare hands. [14] X Research source Wear leather soled shoes over rubber soled shoes when shopping, as the former are less likely to conduct electricity. [15] X Research source

Sitting in the car generates electrostatic charges because of the constant friction and motion caused by the movement of the car itself. When you leave the seat of your car, you take some of this charge with you. Your body voltage ends up rising when you exit a car. [16] X Research source The voltage discharges when you touch the car door, causing a painful static shock. You can prevent this by holding onto a metal part of the door frame as you leave your seat. The voltage will dissipate into the metal painlessly. [17] X Research source You can also hold your keys before touching the car door, allowing the voltage to move to the metal in your keys without causing you any pain. [18] X Research source