How to Get Rid of Static Electricity in Cold, Dry Weather

Startling static shocks are an annoying source of stress during winter. Here, we look at what causes static electricity and how to get rid of it.

Static electricity is the buildup of electric charge on the surface of an object, such as human skin. Essentially, it involves electrons moving from one surface to another through contact.

USA Today reporter Josh Hafner said static electricity occurs frequently during the colder months because of low humidity.

When humidity is low, there is less water vapor in the air to draw static electricity away from the human body. When an object then touches a conductor, such as a piece of metal, the charge is neutralized, resulting in a sharp static shock.

Here are some ways to deal with it. Isaac Ademoluuti of SparkOnline selected several easy ways to prevent static shocks.

1. Wear cotton socks and leather shoes instead of rubber-soled shoes, which can cause static electricity to build up on the body, especially when walking on wool or nylon carpets.

2. Wear cotton sweaters instead of wool sweaters, which act as insulators like rubber and allow static electricity to build up on the body.

3. Apply lotion to your skin and hands, as more static electricity builds up when your body is dry.

4. Use a humidifier because dry air acts as an insulator in cold weather.

There are also ways to eliminate static electricity when getting in and out of a car. To avoid a static shock when leaving the car, rub a dryer sheet over the car seat or spray it with fabric softener. Also, touching your car key or a metal part of the door before getting into the car can discharge the electricity that has built up on your body.

[FamTimes = Reporter Lee Kyung-han]