Taking Shoes Off in Thailand: Shops, Clinics & Cultural Tips

Why Do Thais Take Their Shoes Off? Understanding the Custom

If you’ve lived or traveled in Thailand for any length of time, you’ve probably noticed piles of shoes in front of homes, temples, and even some shops or clinics. Removing your shoes before entering is a deep-seated Thai tradition, rooted in both cleanliness and respect. For first-timers, the unspoken shoe etiquette can sometimes be baffling, after all, it doesn’t just apply at home, but often at businesses and public places too.

Thailand’s tropical climate and laid-back lifestyle mean that people go barefoot or wear sandals year-round. But which places require you to leave your shoes at the door? And how can you avoid any embarrassing missteps? This guide breaks it down for expats, travelers, and long-term residents alike.

Where Do You Need to Take Your Shoes Off in Thailand?

Let’s start with the obvious: all Thai homes, temples (wats), and Buddhist shrines require you to go barefoot or wear socks inside. It’s a basic act of respect for cleanliness and for the spiritual space. But it doesn’t stop there. In day-to-day life, you might find yourself asked to do the same at other spots unexpectedly, like:

• Clinics and some hospitals
• Massage parlors and spas
• Traditional pharmacies and some beauty salons
• Certain restaurants or street food stalls
• Small shops, especially those with a raised platform or wooden floors

If you see a row or pile of slip-on shoes or sandals at the entrance, that’s your signal. This isn’t just an old-fashioned practice; modern “shophouses”, buildings with retail on the ground floor and living quarters above, often require shoe removal too, as the owner’s family may literally live just upstairs or in the rear.

Why Shops and Clinics? The Logic Behind It

Many visitors assume shoe removal is only for private homes or sacred spaces. In fact, some businesses, especially those run by Thais for a mostly local clientele, extend the same custom. This often happens where:

• The flooring is kept immaculately clean, like polished wood or tile
• Children or staff might be sitting, playing, or working on the floor
• It doubles as the family’s living space outside business hours
• Traditional medicine or massage is performed (for hygiene)

Some local clinics, for example, want to keep exam rooms spotless, so shoes are left right at the entrance (sometimes with flip-flops provided inside for you). In shops or pharmacies, it’s about showing respect to the property and not tracking in street grime. Even modern establishments may follow the tradition, so don’t be surprised if you see a “Please take your shoes off” sign or a mountain of flip-flops near the door.

The Unwritten Rules: How to Know When to Remove Your Shoes

If you’re not sure whether you should take your shoes off, look for these clues:

• A pile or neat row of shoes/sandals at the door (the biggest giveaway)
• Signs, sometimes in English too, saying “No shoes inside” or “Please remove your shoes”
• Shoes racks or shelves right at the entrance
• A raised threshold or platform (look for a step up from street level)
• The interior looks spotless, with shiny floors or customers already barefoot

When in doubt, just ask with a smile, or say in Thai: “ถอดรองเท้าไหมคะ/ครับ?” (“Thot rong-thao mai kha/khrap?” – Do I take my shoes off?). Thais appreciate the respect, and it’s always better to err on the safe side.

Tips for Shoe Etiquette in Thailand

• Wear easy-on, easy-off shoes: Flip-flops, sandals, or slip-ons are ideal and make the process quick.
• Arranging your shoes: Place your shoes neatly, toes pointing away from the entrance. Don’t just kick them off in a heap.
• Keep your feet tidy: Bare, clean feet are the norm, so don’t hesitate to get a pedicure or keep socks handy.
• No socks required: Unless you’re visiting a temple or someone’s home and want to cover up, going barefoot is perfectly fine in most situations.
• Watch for house slippers: Some businesses, especially clinics or spas, provide simple slippers to wear inside.

If you lose your shoes, you’re not alone! At busy clinics or markets, even Thais mix them up sometimes. Mark your pair or wear distinct sandals if you’re worried.

Troubleshooting Awkward Situations

Everyone makes a shoe mistake at least once in Thailand. If you forget, most Thais are forgiving, just apologize, slip off your shoes immediately, and smile. If you spot someone else’s shoes blocking your way or touching yours, don’t worry. Unlike some countries, touching shoes isn’t taboo here.

But be careful not to point your bare feet at people or Buddha images once you’re inside. Feet are considered the lowest part of the body in Thai culture and shouldn’t be used to nudge, wave, or point.

Modern Thailand: Where is Shoe Removal Less Common?

In large chain stores, malls, most offices, and air-conditioned shops in Thailand, shoe removal isn’t expected. Restaurants that cater to foreigners almost never require it. But in local markets, family-run businesses, and outside tourist districts, it’s best to be ready, especially in rural towns or on islands.

If you want to learn about more aspects of Thai daily life and etiquette, check our guide on what Thai temple rituals mean.

Respecting Local Culture as a Traveler or Expat

Practicing thoughtful shoe etiquette is a simple way to show respect and blend in. Especially as an expat or repeat visitor, these little gestures go a long way—and show Thai hosts, shopkeepers, and locals you appreciate their way of life. For more essential cultural tips and quirks, check out our coverage of how Thais really celebrate New Year and the importance of stopping for the Thai national anthem each day.

And if you’re exploring local markets, don’t miss our recommendations for where to eat at Korat night markets, where you just might spot another mountain of shoes by the best stalls!

Key takeaways

• Shoe removal in Thailand is about respect and cleanliness, not just at homes but often shops, clinics, and pharmacies.
• Look for a pile of shoes, signs, or spotless interiors as an indicator to remove your footwear.
• Wearing slip-on shoes makes the tradition easy; arrange them neatly at the door.
• Modern malls, offices, and tourist restaurants rarely require shoe removal.
• When in doubt, ask the staff or follow what locals do.