857
Sometimes it takes a long time to find the perfect shoes. But this is not the only trouble - seemingly comfortable shoes rub terribly when you try them on for the first time. However, it is too early to throw it away or sell it - you can try to stretch the shoes with some methods.
RBC-Ukraine (Styler project) has collected methods that will help to ensure that shoes do not rub.
Wear shoes at home
One of the easiest ways to stretch your shoes is to take them apart. Wearing shoes around the house for short but regular periods of time can cause the material to stretch, creating extra space.
Wear thick socks
Want to speed up the process? Put on several pairs of thick socks on your feet - this will also help prevent the appearance of unpleasant calluses. Once your shoes are comfortable enough to wear around the house for hours at a time, they'll be ready to take on the world.
Fill with paper
Stuff the shoes with paper or rags and leave overnight. Newspapers should not be used - the dye may remain on the shoes. This method can also be used in tandem with shoe stretch spray.
Heat up
Another way to stretch shoes at home requires several pairs of thick socks and a hair dryer.
The heat from the hair dryer will help soften the shoes and give them the shape of your feet. In order to stretch the shoes from heating, it is recommended to do the following:
- wear tight socks and shoes;
- set the hair dryer to medium level;
- warm the shoes for 20-30 seconds.
Move the nozzle in a circular motion to avoid excessive heat or burns.
However, do not use this method on plastic or PVC shoes as they can release toxic fumes into the air. You should also avoid heating suede shoes, as excessive heat can cause the material to dry out.
Freeze
Freezing can be just as effective as heat for stretching tight shoes. However, this method usually works best for stretching non-leather shoes.
Here's how you can stretch your shoes with ice:
- fill a plastic bag with water and put it inside the shoes;
- put the shoes in the freezer overnight;
- leave for about 6-8 hours.
The water will turn to ice and expand, stretching the shoe.
Use a stretcher
There are several types of shoe stretchers, each designed for a specific type of shoe, from boots to high heels. In order to get the result, the mechanism must be used with a solution for stretching shoes.
The basic principle of use is the same:
- spray shoes with a solution for stretching shoes, this will help relax the fibers;
- place the stretcher in the shoe and untwist it so that the shoe expands;
- leave the shoes for 6-8 hours.
Remove the stretcher and try on the shoes. If it is not stretched enough, repeat the process. This method works best with leather or suede shoes, but can also work on canvas shoes and sneakers.
Use shoe spray
Shoe stretching liquids and sprays can also work wonders on leather shoes.
Before using the shoe stretch spray, be sure to do a trial test by spraying the stretch spray on a small area of the shoe. If your shoes change color or texture, do not use the spray.
Soak in warm water
To stretch suede shoes, it is important to avoid contact with water. Water can cause permanent damage to these materials and ruin the item.
However, the most common way to soften leather shoes is to soak them in warm water with a small drop of dishwashing liquid. Leave for 10 minutes, then remove the shoes from the water and wipe off the excess soap with a cloth.
Soak in cold water
The skin can also be softened in cold water. Simply fill the sink with cold water and leave the shoes for 10-15 minutes.
Apply Vaseline
This method is designed to soften the hard material of leather shoes. In addition, the formula of Vaseline not only softens the skin, but can also prevent it from cracking. To achieve optimal results, it is recommended to combine this method with hot air from a hair dryer.
Use the methods described above that do not involve the use of water-based solutions. It is better to take suede or nubuck shoes to a specialist so as not to damage them during the stretching process.
