Squeaky shoes can irritate you and those around you. This squeaking sound can be caused by a manufacturing error, damage to the shoe, or moisture trapped inside the shoe. There are many home remedies that can be used to fix this shoe problem, but if the problem is in a component in the shoe, you should take the shoe to a cobbler.
Step
Method 1 of 3: First Aid
Step 1. Find out where the problem is
Try walking back and forth in your shoes, then rock your feet back and forth, then left and right. When you get a movement that makes a squeaking sound, look for the part of the shoe that bends during the movement.
If possible, have a friend crouch down and listen carefully as you walk
Step 2. Sprinkle powder
Once you know which area is making the squeaking sound, dust the area with baby powder, cornstarch or baking soda. By doing so, noisy moisture is absorbed and the squeaking sound as a result of two parts rubbing together can be reduced. Here are some of the most common problem areas and how to fix them:
- If the inside of the shoe squeaks, lift the insole and sprinkle some powder along the inner seam. If the insole can't be removed, sprinkle some powder over the edge of the sole.
- Sprinkle some powder onto the tongue under the laces if the squeaking sound is coming from there.
- If the bottom of the shoe squeaks, the problem may be with the air cushion. Massage the powder into the seams or air cushion inside these shoes.
Step 3. Wipe with WD40 or silicone spray
This product is more effective at getting rid of squeaking noises than using a leather moisturizer, but must be used with care to avoid damage. Spray one of these products onto a cotton swab or cotton swab. Apply to the outer seam of the shoe up to the squeaky area or along this seam.
Do not use an oil-based product on suede leather as this can damage it
Step 4. Apply skin moisturizer
If you wear leather shoes, keep them moist by rubbing in a leather moisturizer and then drying them with a dry cloth. Make sure you use a suede moisturizer for shoes made of this material, not a leather moisturizer in general.
Method 2 of 3: Fixing Shoes that Keep Squeaking
Step 1. Know the return policy before trying this method
If you're trying to repair new shoes, the squeaking sound could be a factory error so you can exchange or ask for a refund. If you've already tried to fix it with glue or other products, this warranty may no longer apply.
Step 2. Try saddle soap
The use of saddle soap provokes debate among owners of fine leather shoes. Some owners say that this soap causes dry skin while others say it is non-damaging. If you're willing to take the risk, try applying a small amount of this soap to the problem area then scrubbing with a dry cloth. This method can be effective for the squeaky tongue of the shoe.
Never use saddle soap on suede
Step 3. Glue the loose heel
This should "only" be done if none of the "first aid" methods above have worked, as excess glue can damage or stain the shoes. If the heel is loose, use a little superglue or rubber glue to hold it firmly. Make sure you press down on it for a few seconds until the loose part is attached.
- This method can not be done on shoes made of urethane.
- Take expensive heels to a shoe repair specialist so you avoid the risk of further damage.
Step 4. Fill the damaged sole with silicone
Purchase a silicone tube or a special silicone product for shoe repair. Insert the end of the tube into the gap between the shoe and the sole, then slowly fill it until it is full. Tie the shoe with a rubber band, overlap it with weights or clamp it with tongs and leave it overnight until the silicone dries.
Step 5. Take the shoes to a repairman
Take your shoes to a cobbler or repairman and you can ask him for advice or pay him to have your shoes repaired. About half of squeaky shoes have this problem due to a loose component in the shoe and this is best left to a professional.
Method 3 of 3: Drying Wet Shoes
Step 1. Find the cause of the squeaking sound in your wet shoes
Many shoes only squeak when wet. Sometimes, this squeaking sound is caused by the rubber sole as it passes over linoleum, wood, or other slippery surfaces. Other shoes expand or have structural problems when wet and make a squeaky sound, and these problems can be addressed in other ways in this article. How to dry shoes in this section of the article will teach you how to dry your shoes quickly and effectively without causing any damage.
Step 2. Remove the insole
If the insole is removable, remove it and dry it separately to speed up the process.
Step 3. Fill the shoe with newspaper
Clump up the dry newspaper and tuck it into the shoe. Push the first clump of newspaper all the way to the toe of the shoe for maximum absorption.
Step 4. Use shoe cedar whenever possible
A "shoe tree" is an object with multiple prongs inserted into the shoe, instead of newspaper, to keep the shoe in shape while waiting for it to dry. A shoe tree made of cedar is especially effective because it absorbs moisture from the shoes.
Step 5. Dry on an incline at room temperature
Dry the shoes on an angle or place them against the wall so that the soles are exposed to air while they are drying. Dry in a warm room, but not next to a heat source.
