How to Eliminate Static From Rugs

Install a home humidifier. A whole-house humidifier monitors the humidity level of the home and increases humidity levels as needed through water vapor. Professionals install whole-house humidifiers into the central air or heating unit. These units are expensive but are the most effective way to introduce additional moisture into the home.

Use small humidifiers. Humidifiers available at retail and drug stores are inexpensive and also work to increase the moisture in the air. However, they do not offer the monitoring that a whole-house monitor does. Since too much humidity can cause mold to grow in fibers or untreated wood, be careful not to overdo it with the use of these humidifiers.

Apply an anti-static treatment. If increasing humidity isn't an option, treat the rugs. Anti-static chemicals sprayed onto rugs decrease static electricity. These chemicals are temporary, so high-traffic areas may require retreatment as the chemical wears off.

Try a dryer sheet. As a quick and very temporary fix, wipe a dryer sheet across the rug.

Wear special shoes. Anti-static shoes, also called electro static dissipative (ESD) shoes, reduce static charge in the rug. These shoes discharge static electricity as the shoe comes into contact with the rug.