Squeaky shoes are annoying for you and those around you. The noise can be due to manufacturing defects, wear, or moisture trapped in the shoe. There are many home solutions to remedy this, but if the problem is caused by an internal component of the product, you need to take your shoes to a cobbler.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Try Easy Remedies
Step 1. Identify the problem
Walk back and forth in your shoes, then rock your feet back and forth, left to right. When you discern the movement causing the creak, look for the parts of the shoe that bend as it happens.
If possible, ask a friend to bend over to get closer to the shoes and listen carefully as you walk
Step 2. Sprinkle them with talcum powder
Once you understand which part of the shoe is creaking, sprinkle some baby powder, cornstarch, or baking soda on the area. This substance absorbs the moisture that causes the squeak, and also reduces the noise that occurs when friction occurs between two parts of the shoe. Here are some common problem areas and how to remedy:
- If the inside of the shoe is creaking, lift the insole and sprinkle some talcum powder along the inside seam. If the insoles cannot be removed, sprinkle talcum powder on the edge of the base of the shoe.
- Sprinkle some talcum powder on the tongue of the shoe, underneath the laces, if that's the part that creaks.
- If the base of the shoe creaks, this is probably due to air cushions. Massage the talc at the base (around the seam) or on the air bubble.
Step 3. Scrub using leather conditioner
If you use leather shoes, keep them well lubricated by massaging a leather conditioner and buffing with a dry cloth. In the case of suede, be sure to buy a suede product, not a generic leather conditioner.
Step 4. Apply WD-40 or silicone spray
These products are more effective at remedying noise than leather conditioner, but require careful application to avoid damage. Spray one of these lubricants on a Q-tip or cotton ball. Pass it over the outer seam of the shoe, working it over the creaking area or the entire contour.
Do not use oil-based products on suede, otherwise the texture of the material may be destroyed
Method 2 of 3: Fixing Shoes That Constantly Crunches
Step 1. Find out about the return policy before trying these methods
If you're trying to fix a new shoe, remember that the creak may be due to a manufacturing defect, so you have the option to request a refund or replacement. Using glue or other strong products could void the warranty.
Step 2. Try leather soap
This product is controversial among those who own quality leather shoes. Some claim that it dries leather, while others find it harmless. If you're willing to take that risk, apply small amounts of leather soap to the problem area, and polish with a dry cloth. This could be especially effective on a creaky tongue.
Never use leather soap on suede
Step 3. Apply glue to the loose heels
This remedy should only be tried if none of the simple solutions above work. In fact, an excess of glue can easily damage or stain shoes. If the heel of the shoe is loose, use a small amount of sticky or shoemaker glue to reattach it firmly, pressing on the surface for several seconds for the adhesive to start working.
- This method does not work on urethane shoes.
- Better to take expensive high-heeled shoes to a cobbler to avoid damaging them.
Step 4. Repair damaged soles with silicone sealant
Buy a silicone sealant tube with a dispenser that allows you to squeeze out the substance, otherwise look for a specific silicone product to repair shoes. Insert the nozzle of the tube in an open space between the shoe and the sole, and spray it slowly until it fills the void. Squeeze the sole tightly against the rest of the shoe using rubber bands, weights, or pliers and let it dry overnight.
Step 5. Take your shoes to a cobbler
Go to a shoemaker or a specialist shop and ask for advice, otherwise hire someone to solve the problem for you. About half of creaking shoes have loose parts inside the shoe, or another problem that should be left to a professional.
Method 3 of 3: Dry Wet Shoes
Step 1. Check for the cause of the creak for wet shoes
Many shoes only have this problem when they are wet. Sometimes, it just happens when rubber soles come in contact with linoleum, parquet, or other smooth-textured flooring. Other shoes swell or develop structural problems when wet, causing the creak; can be treated using the other methods indicated on this page. Either way, the drying remedies outlined in this section will teach you how to dry your shoes quickly and effectively, without causing damage to the footwear.
Step 2. Remove the insoles
If your shoes have removable insoles, take them off and dry them separately to speed up the process.
Step 3. Fill your shoes with newspaper
Ball up some dry paper and insert it into the shoe. Press the first piece all the way down to the tip for maximum absorbency.
Step 4. If possible, use a cedar wood shoe last
It is an object that has the same shape as a shoe. You can insert it in the shoe instead of the newspaper. It aims to hold its shape while it dries. This product is particularly effective, since the wood will keep moisture away from the shoe.
Step 5. Place the shoes on their side in a room at room temperature
Lay the shoe on its side or lean it against a wall so that the sole is exposed to the air as it dries. Do this in a warm room, but not near a heat source.
