Should I take my shoes off indoors?
Neutral Polite
What it really means
Britain is genuinely mixed on this: many homes keep shoes on, many (especially with carpets or small children) take them off. The safe move as a guest: look at the doorway — a pile of shoes means take yours off — or simply ask "Shall I take my shoes off?" Hosts appreciate being asked.
Chinese explanation
英国在这件事上真的很分裂：很多家庭在室内穿鞋，也有很多（尤其铺地毯或有小孩的）进门脱鞋。做客时的稳妥做法：看看门口——有一堆鞋就脱鞋——或者直接问一句"要脱鞋吗？"主人会很欣赏你问了。
Example conversation
A: Hi! Come in, come in.
B: Thanks! Should I take my shoes off?
A: Oh, whatever you prefer — we're not fussy.
A：你好！快进来快进来。
B：谢谢！要脱鞋吗？
A：哦，随你——我们不讲究这个。
What you could say back
Related phrases
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All Customs & Etiquette
Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team
· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake