Folk omens
Shoes on the table: why is it bad luck?
new shoes on the table · putting shoes on a table superstition
- shoes
- table
- quarrel
- superstition
In folk belief shoes on the table, especially new ones, bring bad luck, quarrels or money troubles. Grandmothers are particularly strict about this one.
What does the superstition say?
The table where the family eats is almost sacred, and putting shoes on it is said to disrespect it. The result may be quarrels at home or money lost.
Does it apply to new shoes too?
Yes, especially to them. New shoes often land straight on the table, still in their box, so the rule grew up for exactly that moment. In some countries it is considered an even more serious sign.
What is the real reason?
Here superstition and hygiene agree: shoe soles carry street dirt and germs, so putting them on the table really is a bad idea.