Wearing shoes inside your home might seem harmless, but experts warn it could pose life-threatening risks. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist, urges a strict "no outdoor shoes indoors" policy. Shoes can carry a cocktail of harmful bacteria, viruses, toxins, and heavy metals like lead - potentially causing gut infections, UTIs, and even cancer.

Common germs found on shoes include E. coli, MRSA, and Clostridioides difficile, all of which can lead to severe health issues. For those with seasonal allergies, shoes can also track in pollen and grass, worsening symptoms. Chemicals from fertilizers and pesticides are another concern, increasing the risk of respiratory issues and cancer.

To stay safe, leave shoes at the door, inform guests of your policy, provide indoor slippers, and regularly clean floors using HEPA vacuums and disinfectants. Don't let a simple habit turn into a health hazard - ditch the shoes at the door!