How to Get Rid Of Static?
When it affects our clothing we sometimes refer to this problem as static cling. But static can be a problem in other areas too, such as when we walk across a carpet then touch a metal object. Shock! You don’t have to live with this, though static electricity may build up from time to time in spite of all your precautions.
One way to start getting rid of static is to keep the air in your home a bit more moist than usual. If you can use a humidifier to add some moisture to the air you should be able to reduce the amount of static in clothes and carpets. It is also important to keep your body moist. You can use body lotions to moisten the skin. This simple step may keep clothing from clinging to your body for at least a short amount of time.
Other Tips and Tricks
If you feel that there may be static electricity in the air or if static builds up when you walk across the room, try touching some metal object to the door knob rather than getting the shock directly with your hand. You can even put a key in the door lock. You can also reduce or eliminate static build-up by using anti-static mats or rubber-back rugs on floors that might be the source.
You may have noticed that clothing made from synthetic fibers contribute to static conditions more than natural fibers such as cotton, for example. This applies to pajamas, sheets on the bed and so on. Dryer sheets that you buy at the store can help take some of the static out of clothing. You can even use this method to take the static from your television screen. Be especially careful of static when putting gasoline into your car.
What is it?
Static electricity is electrical current. Dry air and certain objects rubbing together create this low-level current that can give us a mild shock. Friction is the culprit. The mild shock may be surprising but it isn’t generally dangerous. However, if you are surprised by the sudden spark and the tingle and happen to be carrying a heavy object or a hot liquid and drop what you are carrying, there could be physical repercussions.
Focus on keeping the home warm and moist, rather than dry and cool. Carpets and clothing are more likely to produce static electricity in dry conditions. As mentioned earlier natural-fiber clothes are much less prone to static than synthetic fibers. Leather-soled shoes will help prevent friction and static when walking on carpet. Use those dryer sheets mentioned earlier and try some anti-static sprays if necessary.
Category: Science