Hausschuh

A Hausschuh, plural Hausschuhe, is a type of indoor footwear worn inside a house to keep feet warm, provide comfort, and maintain hygiene by separating indoor floors from outdoor dirt.

The term Hausschuh derives from the German words Haus and Schuh; in German usage Hausschuh covers various slip-on or backless indoor shoes. In everyday language it is also called Slipper (borrowed from English) or Pantoffel.

Design and materials: typical Hausschuhe have soft uppers and flexible soles; interiors are often lined with fleece, wool, or shearling for insulation. Soles may be rubber or synthetic and provide some grip. Styles range from closed-heel slippers with a back to backless mules, and include moccasin-style designs.

Usage and cultural aspects: Hausschuhe are widely used in households across German-speaking countries, worn indoors year-round. Warmer varieties are common in winter, while lighter versions are preferred in milder seasons. In clinics and elder-care settings, safety-oriented slippers with non-slip or supportive features are common.

Manufacture and care: Hausschuhe are produced from textiles, leather, or synthetic materials. Care varies by material: textile slippers can often be machine-washed or spot-cleaned, leather variants require careful cleaning and conditioning, and air-drying is generally recommended to prevent odor and damage.

Related terms include slippers and pantoffeln.