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Squeaky shoes can make you feel embarrassed and annoyed. However, it’s nothing that can’t be solved with ease. Usually, squeaking noises can be caused by various reasons. In fact there are quite a few different ways on how to stop sneakers from squeaking.
For instance, your shoes might release noises because of their insoles, bottoms, outer, moisture, state of the shoes, different types of floors, and other reasons. Fortunately, regardless of where these terrifying noises come from, you can usually solve the issue yourself right at home.
If you’re searching for solutions on how to stop sneakers from squeaking, you’ve clicked the right article! The following solutions can help you solve this issue, so let’s get started.
How To Stop Sneakers From Squeaking?
Your sneakers might make squeaking noises because they’re brand new or very old. Other reasons why your sneakers might be squeaking include water in your sneakers, wearing your sneakers barefoot, poor shoelaces, the sole is too smooth, wrong size, different types of floors, etc.
These reasons can cause squeaking in different parts of the sneaker such as the bottoms, the outer part of the sneaker, and the insoles. Therefore, before trying any of the following methods, please make sure to check whether trying to solve squeaky sneakers yourself will void your warranty.
Additionally, before applying any of the methods and solutions below, you should determine the source of the squeaking. You can do that by wearing your sneakers as well as walking on different patterns and floors. This can help you find the actual problem and take a specific approach.
1. Dry Sneakers Naturally
If your sneakers squeak because there’s moisture inside, let them dry naturally. It’s the easiest method. To speed up the drying, you can remove detachable parts such as the sole and dry separately.
Put your sneakers upside down, sole up, against a firm surface, and let stand for multiple hours. Please, don’t put your shoes directly against a heat source. Otherwise, you will cause greater damage.
2. Utilize a Fan
If you’re impatient, instead of letting your sneakers dry naturally, utilize a fan. Set your fan to maximum power and aim the inside of your damp sneakers with it for as long as necessary.
You can also hang your sneakers directly on the fan to take all the airpower. Watch out for your fingers so you don’t get hurt and make sure the laces don’t interfere with the propellers.
3. Aspirate the Moisture
You can also utilize some substances that absorb water instead of utilizing a fan, or letting your sneakers dry naturally. Have you heard of the magical properties of rice?
Leave your sneakers overnight in a box filled with some rice. Close the box and expect a miracle the next day. Baby powder can also absorb moisture and improve the smell of your sneakers. Some people utilize newspaper balls as well because newspapers also absorb water.
4. Utilize the Dryer
Another excellent solution for removing moisture is your dryer. It’s a fast and effective method. Tie your sneakers together by the laces. Remove the parts of the sneakers that can be removed. Place everything in the dryer with some fabric softener. Then, leave them for about 10 minutes.
5. Rub your Sneakers with Sandpaper
If your sneakers have a very smooth sole, you can rub them with sandpaper and prevent squeaking. Just don’t scrub the underside too much! Go slow! Otherwise, you will cause damage.
6. Add a layer Between the Sole and Sneaker
If the issue isn’t moisture or a smooth sole, then perhaps you need to add a layer in the insole and your sneaker. I’m not joking when I say that you can try a layer of toilet paper. It will restrict the movement of your sneaker that will inevitably decrease squeaking. You can utilize WD40 as well.
7. Utilize Petroleum Jelly
If the squeaking comes from the sole, you can easily cover them with WD40 or petroleum jelly for quick results. It will provide a coating between the parts rubbing against each other that will decrease friction and prevent noises. Keep in mind that this isn’t a permanent but temporary solution.
8. Repair Your Old Sneakers
The squeaking of older sneakers could also be a result of some components coming off. Therefore, if you see that the heel or sole is coming off the sneakers, just obtain some super glue and glue down the parts that come off together. This should keep them tight until you purchase new sneakers.
9. Add Rubber Cement Adhesive
Also known as cow gum, rubber cement is a glue made of elastic polymers. It’s created in such a manner that it can be added and peeled off afterward. Don’t worry. It won’t cause any damage so it’s perfect for repairs in the front part of your sneakers.
I also want to mention that sometimes instead of your sneakers being at fault, it’s the type of floor. And no matter what type of shoes you wear, they will eventually squeak if you walk on this floor.
Therefore, if you have to walk on this floor every day, then you can add some rubber cement in the front part of your sneakers to prevent squeaking.
10. Replace Your Sneakers
Last but not least, if the issue comes from the fact that your new sneakers have a manufacturing defect before you try to fix the squeaking by applying some of the solutions listed above, check to see if they’re still under warranty. And if possible, replace them with a new pair of sneakers.
Additionally, if they’re a new pair of sneakers, perhaps they need a good walk. If you have any other tips and tricks on how to prevent squeaking noises, please drop a comment below!
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Final Tips on How To Stop Sneakers From Squeaking
Squeaking in sneakers can be caused by many different reasons. However, I have provided solutions for most of those reasons in hopes to help you solve your issue. If you try any of the solutions mentioned in today’s article, please drop a comment and share your results!
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