At Christmas, the house fills up: parents, cousins, friends staying the night. And every year the same question comes back: should you ask guests to take their shoes off? Having slippers for your Christmas guests solves it gracefully: floors stay clean, feet stay warm and everyone feels genuinely welcome. Here's how to do it without making anyone uncomfortable.
The essentials
- Letting guests know in advance avoids any awkwardness on the day.
- Offer, don't insist: some people will want to keep their shoes on with their party outfit.
- Have a few pairs in mid-range sizes plus one or two larger sizes.
- A basket by the door, spare socks and name-labelled pegs are all you need to get organised.
- Giving everyone their own pair under the tree turns a practical idea into a real present.
Why have slippers ready for your Christmas guests?
Christmas lunch often lasts all afternoon, if not all evening. Six hours in smart shoes or heels is hardly relaxing. Slippers let everyone properly settle in: people unwind, play with the children on the rug and linger longer in the living room.
It's practical too. In December, shoes bring in rain, mud and grit. If you have pale floorboards or a rug you love, the hallway quickly becomes the weak spot of the day. That's one of the good reasons for taking your shoes off at the door, Christmas or not.
Is it rude to ask guests to take their shoes off?
Not if you do it tactfully. The golden rule: give people a heads-up. One line in your invitation is enough, for example: "We're a slippers household, so we'll lend you a pair. Just bring your favourite socks!" Your guests won't be caught off guard and can plan their outfit accordingly.
On the day, offer rather than insist. Some people prefer to keep their shoes on, because they finish off a party outfit or simply because they feel more comfortable. That's fine: what matters is that everyone has a lovely day. Lead by example by wearing your own slippers, and the atmosphere will do the rest.
How many pairs, and in which sizes?
Allow one pair per adult guest staying for several hours, and think first of those sleeping over. Children usually prefer running around in socks, so a few pairs of grippy socks will do.
As for sizes, you don't need every one. A small, well-chosen stock covers most feet:
- Two or three pairs in mid-range sizes (around EU 38-40), the most requested.
- One or two larger pairs (EU 43 and up) for the bigger feet in the family.
- An adjustable style: a clog with a buckle adapts to the foot and suits more foot shapes.
Our styles are true to size: if you're between two sizes, take the larger one. For a guest whose size you don't know, a slightly roomy slipper is better than one that's too tight. All our advice is in our guide to choosing the right slipper size.
Disposable slippers, a basket to lend or a pair to give?
Disposable slippers: handy but not very warm
Thin, one size fits all, often towelling: they do the job, but they don't keep you warm and they end up in the bin. On a festive evening, the hotel feel takes the edge off the atmosphere.
A basket of slippers to lend: the lasting option
A few good pairs, washed and put away between visits, will last for years. Keep them in a big basket by the door: it looks lovely, and everyone can help themselves without having to ask.
A pair to give: the idea everyone loves
What if every guest found their own slippers under the tree? They wear them all afternoon, then take them home. It's a useful present, and one they get to try on straight away. To kit out several people, our Build your own bundle offer lets you pick 2 pairs for €59.98 or 3 pairs for €79.98, mixing styles and colours.
How to get organised on the day
- A clear shoe area: a bench or stool to sit on, an absorbent mat, and a cabinet or crates to store shoes.
- A visible basket of slippers, sorted by size, with a little label.
- Name-labelled pegs so everyone can find their pair again after pudding.
- A few pairs of clean socks for anyone who turns up barefoot in their shoes.
- A welcome note on the door to get things going with a smile.
Hygiene: how do you look after slippers you lend?
This is often what holds people back. The answer is simple: offer the slippers with socks, let each pair air overnight after use, then brush it gently. Between big gatherings, a more thorough clean makes everything look like new: the method is explained step by step in our article on how to wash and care for your slippers.
Which slippers are best for hosting?
Our Merano cosy sherpa slippers are made for it: a wide faux-fur cuff, a plush lining, and a material that stretches slightly to mould to the foot. They come in sizes 36 to 45, in black, pink, beige, taupe, brown, grey and light grey, so you can give each guest their own colour. For larger sizes, the Sienna clog goes up to 47 and its adjustable metal buckle suits slim and wider feet alike.
All our styles are made from vegan suede, a microfibre with a peach-skin feel and no animal materials. Delivery is free, size exchanges are free too, and you have 60 days to change your mind.
Frequently asked questions
Should you provide slippers for guests?
You don't have to, but it's a thoughtful touch as soon as you ask people to take their shoes off. Nobody enjoys spending an evening in socks on a cold floor.
What size slippers should you buy for guests?
Go for mid-range sizes (EU 38-40) plus one or two larger pairs. An adjustable style, or one that stretches slightly, will suit the most people.
Are slippers a good Christmas present?
Yes, they're one of the most-worn presents of the winter. Choose a beautiful pair in a soft material and pop it under the tree: it'll be on their feet that very evening.
Read next
- Cosy Christmas gift ideas under €50
- Christmas gifts for grandparents: comfort first
- Why take your shoes off at the door?
Want to spoil your guests? Discover our Christmas gift ideas.
