Shoes that creak can be quite annoying and create some embarrassment. There are some simple ways to keep your shoes from making noise, but remember that if you don't get the desired results, you will need to take them to a shoemaker to have them repaired.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Stop the Crunch
Step 1. Reduce friction
If your shoes tend to make noise when you walk on parquet but not on carpet, then friction could be the source of the problem. If you think that the creaking is due to the grip of the sole on the floor, know that there are many ways to solve the problem. You can use oil, baby powder, or corn starch.
- If your shoes have a removable insole, remove it and sprinkle the base with cornstarch, talcum powder or baby powder. Then, put the insole back in place and make sure it fits more firmly. These powders reduce humidity levels and, consequently, also the "play" between the insole and the shoe.
- If the footwear is made of leather, remember that this material can shrink or stretch depending on the weather. Try sprinkling them along the seams with specific shoe oil or seed oil. Be careful not to use too much oil, as this could stain the material.
- Sometimes there is nothing you can do to prevent footwear from creaking on the floor without compromising its integrity. The friction between the sole and the floor prevents you from slipping; if you smooth the tread too much with the intent to reduce this friction, be aware that it could become dangerous to even take a walk.
Step 2. Repair all damage
If the heel or sole has come loose, then you can reduce the noise by fixing these problems. You can use glue, as long as it is a product with high adhesive power. Common glues or those for crafts can be effective. Just glue the loose areas together and test to see if you've got any good results.
Step 3. Put on some socks
If you wear shoes without socks, the cause of the noise could be the humidity generated by the sweat of your feet. Try wearing the socks for a few days to reduce the creaking and see the result.
Step 4. Get help from a professional
Sometimes it is not possible to solve the problem with home methods. Often the source of the noise is the steel elements inside the footwear. Unless you are an experienced shoemaker, it is somewhat unlikely that you will be able to put an end to the creak on your own. If you're not getting the desired results with the methods described so far, seek out a skilled professional in the area.
Method 2 of 2: Dry the Soles
Step 1. Remove the insoles or orthotics
If your footwear tends to creak when you sweat or don't wear socks, then moisture could be the cause. in this case it could be decisive to dry the shoes. Before proceeding, however, you need to remove the insoles or orthotics. Hang them up to dry in a warm, dry room.
Step 2. Test the newspaper
Once the insoles are out, slip some crumpled newspaper inside the shoes. Old newspapers are able to absorb some of the moisture - no more than a couple of sheets should be needed. If the shoes are really soggy, you will need to replace the paper every couple of hours.
Step 3. Put a shoe tree in the shoes
If you want to dry them quickly, you should use this tool that allows them to keep the right shape, especially if they are made of leather, as this material tends to shrink or stretch when wet.
Advice
- Act quickly when drying your shoes. Very wet shoes develop problems that go far beyond the creak, for example they can become covered with mold, which is almost impossible to get rid of.
- Assess what noise level is bothering you. If you like your shoes more than the noise bothers you, wear them without needing to apologize for the creak they produce.
