How to stretch shoes made of natural suede. How to quickly stretch suede shoes - effective ways. Selecting and using stretch foam
5 minutes to read. Published September 20, 2018
It often happens that the purchased shoes are so uncomfortable that there is no way to wear them: the suffering caused negates all the joy from the purchase.
Why does this happen? After all, in the store they carefully measure it, paying special attention to the comfort of the foot when walking.
The fact is that indoors (in a store or at home) we walk differently. Therefore, when trying on, it is impossible to guess the degree of comfort of new shoes during normal walking on the street. What if you have to be on your feet for several hours?
Don't despair: in this case, there are many ways to stretch shoes at home. The main thing is that it matches the length of the foot, and softening it and stretching it a little so that it “sits” exactly according to the shape of the foot is not so difficult.
Traditional Stretching Methods
Breaking it in is the easiest thing you can do. We replace cozy slippers with new shoes and walk around the house in them.
It is impossible to achieve a perfect fit in one day, so the same thing is done over 2-3 days. If it still hurts to move, you can try other methods.
You can break in your shoes by wearing not very thin, wet socks. Under the influence of moisture, the material will become softer and more elastic, gradually taking the shape of the leg.
This method also requires 1-2 days, which is worth considering if the shoes were purchased for an event. You should be careful: walking around the apartment in wet socks can lead to a cold.
Freezing
Freezing is a creative way to stretch your shoes yourself. Suitable for all types of materials as it does not disturb their structure.
The essence of the method is that a well-closed plastic bag filled with water is placed in the shoes, almost a third full. You need to lay it evenly from heel to toe, and then place it in the freezer for several hours, preferably overnight.
As you know, when water freezes, it expands, stretching the shoes wider. After removing it from the refrigerator, you should not immediately begin removing the bag; it is better to let the ice thaw so as not to damage the lining.
After this, you need to put on your shoes and walk around the room. Usually, after such manipulations, the legs feel much more comfortable, but if this does not happen, the procedure is repeated.
Stretching
Stretching with thick socks and a hair dryer is a relatively new method.
After putting on socks, the foot is bent and straightened several times, directing a hot stream of air from a hair dryer to the creases.
This softens the shoes well, making them softer and more elastic, but after the stretching process is completed, treatment with a special conditioner is necessary to restore the moisture balance.
Stretching with alcohol spray. Water and alcohol are mixed in equal parts and poured into a container with a spray bottle. The spray is sprayed inside the shoes, allowed to soak in and put on, wearing them until completely dry.
The wet newspaper will also help to expand the shoes a little. The period is compacted, paying special attention to the toe part. It is important not to overdo it, otherwise deformation may occur. After complete drying, the shoes will fit your feet much more comfortably and will also become much softer.
Faux leather
Here are some ways to effectively stretch faux leather shoes.
- Use a special spray. It is sprayed inside the shoes, which are then put on and broken in.
- Potatoes will do a good job. It is cleaned and tightly inserted into the toe part of boots or shoes for several hours, for example, at night. After removing the potato, the shoes are wiped and broken in.
Suede shoes
Many stretching methods applicable to natural and artificial leather products are not suitable for
behind which is specific.
This is a rather soft and delicate material that is very easy to damage using radical stretching methods.
Nevertheless, the task is quite doable: you just need to be patient. Being a natural material, suede is elastic.
Therefore, it is enough to just walk around in suede shoes, mostly at home and not on the street, so as not to experience discomfort.
If gentle methods of influence do not bring results, you should resort to wet or dry methods:
- wet methods are similar to those used for leather shoes. The only condition is to moisturize the suede very moderately, since excess water causes it to become covered with characteristic stains;
- Dry stretching of suede shoes is done on a wooden last with a hinged structure in the shape of a foot. The desired width is achieved by adjustment, but it should be noted that dry stretching will take several days.
Here are some universal tips on how to quickly and painlessly stretch your shoes:
- Don't rush and try to achieve a perfect fit on your leg in one approach. It is better to gradually change the shape of your shoes by stretching them over several days.
- It is better to purchase shoes in a timely manner, taking into account the fact that it will take several days to break them in and stretch them.
- In some cases, it is worth turning to professionals. This applies to designer and expensive delicate shoes, which are simply scary to ruin.
This is also relevant for those who have problem feet, including the notorious “bumps” (valgus). People with such foot features require a special shape of shoes, which can only be created by a specialist.
- Home stretching is applicable only to high-quality shoes made from natural materials. Budget models may not withstand exposure to heat and moisture.
After using a hairdryer or other heat source, treatment with shoe conditioner is mandatory. If it is not there, the shoes can be treated with regular cream to restore moisture.
It happens that we buy shoes or boots we like that are a little tight for us. Improper care and storage can also cause deformation of your beloved pair. If you experience discomfort when wearing suede shoes, do not rush to give them up. Our tips will help you solve this problem.
How to stretch shoes to size, width
Suede is elastic, so you can expand it at home. True, you will have to spend a little more effort and time if the material is not natural, but artificial.
We offer a selection of the most common and proven methods:
Wet stretching
To increase the width or length of the shoes, you need to slightly wet them and walk around in them for some time. There are 4 options for this method:
1. Take socks made from natural materials, wet them with water, and put them on. Now feel free to put on your shoes and walk in your shoes until the fabric dries.
2. Moisten the inside of shoes and boots with beer. Wear cotton socks and tight shoes. Do not remove shoes or boots until the material is completely dry. The downside of this method is the persistent beer smell.
Note: take only light beer so as not to stain the suede.
3. If you moisten the inside of the shoes with alcohol on those parts of the shoes that pinch and press, you can quickly stretch the shoes on your feet. Alcohol can be diluted with water 1:2 or used pure, undiluted. So, we soaked the suede, put on socks and walked around the house for 1 hour.
4. You will need an iron with a steam function or a household steamer. Treat the inside of your boots with a stream of hot steam for 15 seconds. Repeat the procedure 2 more times, then put on your shoes and walk around the apartment for at least half an hour.
Note: the same effect can be achieved by holding any suede shoes over a saucepan of boiling water. Further actions are the same.
Paper stuffing
If your shoes or boots are too tight and it hurts to walk in them, then use this method. Stuff wet paper inside your shoes. This needs to be done as tightly as possible. After the paper dries, the shoe size will increase slightly.
Note: you should not take newspaper, although it wrinkles well. Printing ink can easily stain the insoles, and even the suede itself.
Freeze stretching
An unusual, but very effective way to increase your shoe size. Its essence is as follows: take 2 thick plastic bags or 2 balloons, fill them with water, about 1/3, and tie them securely. Important: there must be air inside.
Place the water pack inside your shoes or boots. Place the shoes in the freezer for 8 hours. When water freezes, it increases in volume and expands. The material will be under the pressure of frozen water and begin to stretch.
After this treatment, all that remains is to remove the shoes from the freezer, wait for the water to thaw in order to remove the packaging without damaging the product.
Warming up the suede
Wear thick socks and shoes that need to be stretched. Turn on the hairdryer and direct a stream of air to those places that pinch, press, and generally cause discomfort when wearing. Warm each area for 1 minute. Without removing your shoes, knead the material. Take off your shoes only after the suede has completely cooled.
Using grain to expand suede
Sprinkle cereal inside your shoes; any kind will do. Splash some water on it. Leave your shoes or boots in this condition until the morning. Overnight, the cereal will swell, put pressure on the material, and gently stretch it. All you have to do is pour out the porridge and walk around in your shoes for about an hour to finally wear them in and consolidate the effect.
Breaking in shoes naturally
In the case when you have a week left before going outside, another try to simply wear your shoes at home. To do this, put on shoes or boots and walk around the apartment in them for 1–2 hours a day, while going about your daily business.
Note: apply an adhesive plaster to problem areas of the feet where calluses and abrasions most often appear. This will protect you from unnecessary suffering.
Alternatively, ask a loved one with larger feet to put on and walk in your shoes. But in this case there are 2 disadvantages: firstly, a person who puts on small, oversized shoes will experience discomfort; secondly, there is a high probability of damage to the product and its irreversible deformation.
3 ways to stretch suede boots in the shaft
To slightly increase the volume of the boot top with a lock, do this:
- Prepare your ironing board and iron.
- Unfasten the boot and place it face down.
- Place a damp flannel cloth on the inside of the shoe.
- Gently run the hot iron over the napkin several times.
- Put on your boots, fasten the locks. Walk around the house in your shoes for a while. After hot processing, the suede softens and the product fits precisely to the shape of the foot.
Vinegar will help to slightly widen the boot tops. Prepare a weakly concentrated solution of table vinegar. Moisten the top of the product and its front side with this liquid. Gently pull the material with your hands, as if stretching, or put on boots and walk in them until the fabric dries.
You can stretch the boot tops using the freezing method described above. To prevent the package of water from sliding down, tightly stuff the bottom of the product with paper. The rest of the procedure is similar.
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Unfortunately, it often happens that when we come home with a new pair of shoes, we discover, to our great chagrin, that they are tight and almost impossible to wear without feeling discomfort. This can also happen if the pair was purchased online, since the indicated size is not always true. It also happens that shoes have been lying in the closet for several years without use, and when they are finally remembered, they have become too small or too hard. There is also a situation when, after childbirth and maternity leave, your favorite shoes with elegant stiletto heels just don’t want to fit on the already less graceful legs of their owner. Even in such a situation, do not despair! There are many effective ways to increase and stretch.
It is unlikely that you will be able to stretch your shoes by more than one size. The success of the operation depends on the materials from which it is made. Genuine leather and suede are the most pliable, which cannot be said about substitutes or rubber. Skin type also matters. After an unsuccessful attempt to increase the size, patent leather may crack or lose its shine. Leatherette may also not behave in the best way. Not only cracks, but also stains may appear on it.
Alas, not all methods are safe for shoes. After all sorts of attempts to stretch it in width or length, the sole may come off, the seams may come apart, and the wardrobe item itself may become deformed, after which its appearance will be completely ruined. Do not forget that natural suede or velor are more delicate than smooth leather; they must be stretched very carefully and accurately, using only proven methods!
You can even increase textile shoes by one or half a size, and for this you don’t have to wear them out for weeks, walking around the apartment in thick terry socks.
In most cases, even perfectly sized shoes need stretching. The fact is that the new one needs to “get used to” the shape of your feet, accept their shape. Most often it pinches in the area of the bone of the thumb, little finger or butt. The material can be stretched both in width and length. It is possible to soften a back that is too hard and correct the rise. Of course, this will require effort, knowledge and a little time.
You can also contact a specialist for help. A qualified shoemaker knows exactly how and what shoes to stretch without causing damage.
Stretching at home
Unfortunately, in most cases it will not be possible to stretch your shoes in 1-2 hours. They stretch it with alcohol, boiling water, wet newspapers, castor oil and even small grains such as barley, oatmeal or wheat. Shoes, sandals and other types are frozen, heated, worn wet with thick socks, or walked in the rain in warm weather.
Attention! Do not use greasy cream, Vaseline, castor or vegetable oil when stretching or breaking in suede or velor shoes. Fat can leave permanent stains on the skin!
Naturally, everyone wants to know about the miracle method that will help you make tight boots bigger overnight and require virtually no effort. We hasten to please you: there is such a way. You will need regular plastic bags, one large bag (to wrap your shoes), water and some free space in your freezer.
How to make shoes more comfortable using the freezer or how to increase size overnight
The essence of this method is that when water freezes, it increases in volume, stretching the shoes in all directions.
This is probably the fastest and most painless method that suits most species and does not harm their owners. The only exception would be patent leather, since the varnish may crack or lose its shine. It is also better not to use this method for sports shoes with white rubber soles - they may turn yellow.
In this way you can stretch shoes for children. Unfortunately, a child’s feet grow faster than their parents’ salaries, so it is advisable to try stretching shoes that have become a little too small. This method does not require effort, is painless and will not cause discomfort to your child.
Video: how to stretch children's shoes using water bags
For convenience, you can also use zip bags. Thanks to the convenient clasp and high strength, the bag will not tear and water will not spill out. Water can be immediately poured into the bag and then inserted into the shoes. But this method may be less effective, since in this case the liquid will not completely take shape. In addition, such bags have a clear rectangular shape.
In a similar way, you can use a plastic mineral water bottle with a volume of 0.5 liters. We do the same thing: pour water into a bottle, put it in a shoe and put it in the freezer. This method, of course, cannot be called good, since the shoes can take the shape of a bottle and stretch in height.
In the freezer you can stretch natural leather and suede, textiles and combined materials. This method should be used with caution when using shoes made from artificial materials such as leatherette and dermantine. At low temperatures they may crack.
Other ways to increase shoe size depending on materials
Each material behaves differently when interacting with different substances and temperatures. What is acceptable for natural leather is not always acceptable for leatherette. Products that do not harm suede can be harmful to patent leather. When stretching shoes or boots, you need to be sure that the chosen method and product will not spoil their appearance. The use of alcohol, including vodka and cologne, is not advisable when stretching shoes made of leatherette or varnish - stains may remain and the color may fade. The “freezing” method described above should be used with caution for shoes made of leatherette, dermantine or patent leather, both artificial and natural.
After any manipulations with increasing shoe size, be sure to apply a caring cream!
How to stretch shoes made of genuine leather and suede using medical alcohol
To do this, you need to thoroughly moisten the inside of your shoes with alcohol, then put them on a thick sock and walk around the apartment for several hours. If the shoes are too tight and cause pain, then it is better to carry out this procedure for 5–10 minutes several times a day. You will have to stretch in this way until you achieve the desired result. After the procedure is completed, the shoes should be completely dry and weathered. Of course, this method cannot be called painless, but you can be sure: the shoes will not only increase in size, but will also become sterile.
How to stretch shoes using newspapers (leather, suede, leatherette, patent leather)
A method known to our grandmothers. Shoes should be tightly stuffed with wet, crumpled newspapers, squeezing them thoroughly. The newspapers will mold to the shape of your shoe and stretch it evenly as it dries. Shoes should dry naturally, away from heat sources and direct sunlight. This must be done carefully so as not to deform the shoes or boots. When exposed to moisture, the leather will become softer and more flexible to stretch, so if you “stuff” your shoes too tightly, the appearance may deteriorate and the sole may become detached from the base.
How to stretch shoes using boiling water (natural and artificial leather)
Another “grandmother’s” method. It consists of pouring boiling water directly into the shoes and pouring it out after a few seconds. This should be done in the bathroom, washbasin, or in a large bowl. After the shoes have cooled down a little, put them on a thick sock and, after walking like this for half an hour, take them off. After the procedure, the shoes should be completely dry. Under the influence of hot water, the skin becomes soft and elastic, so it more easily takes the shape of the leg and increases in size. This method can be applied to shoes made of artificial leather, which are more susceptible to high temperatures.
This method has a number of disadvantages. Firstly, it is not advisable to get your shoes wet. If you are afraid of spoiling it, insert the bag and pour boiling water directly there. Secondly, under the influence of very hot water the insole can become deformed. If it is removed, it is better to remove it first. Thirdly: there is a risk of scalding your hands, so this manipulation must be performed extremely carefully!
How to stretch shoes using grain (leather and suede)
Any finely ground cereal, such as barley, oatmeal or wheat, will do. The cereal is poured into shoes, a little water is poured in and left overnight. During this time, the cereal will absorb moisture and swell. The shoe size should increase slightly due to the increased volume of contents. After the cereal has been poured out, the shoes should dry naturally.
It is difficult to call this method good. Firstly, it’s hard to get rid of the obsessive thought that someone in the world is starving, and I’m just transferring food like that. Secondly, it is not very easy to get wet cereals. You will have to wash the contents with water, the shoes will get wet again, and excessive moisturizing, as you know, will not bring much benefit.
We break in tight leatherette shoes with a hairdryer
More suitable for shoes made of artificial materials. This method involves putting shoes or boots on the toe and heating them with a hairdryer. Then you need to walk around in the shoes until they cool completely so that they take the shape of your feet. Leatherette, like any other synthetic material, has the property of melting, so under the influence of hot air it becomes softer, more elastic and easier to stretch.
In order to enhance the effect of the hair dryer, wear wet socks. You can also apply a special shoe stretcher to the inside of your shoes and then walk around in them for at least half an hour.
How to stretch textile shoes
It is quite difficult to stretch shoes made of textile materials. Unlike leather, suede and leatherette, the fabric is not afraid of moisture and getting wet. You can try the “freezing” method or wet the shoes well, put them on a sock and walk until they dry completely. If the fibers in the threads are quite elastic, then it is quite possible to stretch your moccasins half a size. If the shoes are made of natural textiles, the shoes can be moistened on the inside with vinegar. You should not leave your shoes to dry out after trying to stretch them, especially in the sun. It is better for it to dry on your foot, taking its shape. To speed up this procedure, you can use a hairdryer.
How to stretch rubber boots
We figured out how to stretch shoes made of natural and artificial leather. But what to do if your rubber boots are too tight? It is worth noting here that only shoes made of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC for short, can be stretched. This synthetic material, unlike rubber, has plastic properties.
Your actions are as follows:
Under the influence of boiling water, the polyvinyl chloride will become more plastic, and cold water will help it “harden” again. You can first walk around in your boots, and then take them off and put them in a basin. A thick sock performs two functions at once: it prevents your feet from burning when you put on boots, and it increases the thickness of your feet, thereby helping the PVC stretch.
In a similar way, you can stretch almost any PVC shoes, be it rubber ballet flats or beach flip-flops.
How to make it more comfortable using soap and paraffin (leather, suede, leatherette, patent leather)
You need to rub the inside of the shoes with soap or paraffin, and then wear them in until the desired result is achieved. You can use a regular paraffin candle. The fact is that in this way the inner surface of the shoe becomes “sliding”, making it easier to put on and break in. Suitable for shoes made of suede, patent leather and artificial leather.
How to stretch lacquered
Increasing the size of such shoes is the most difficult, since it is difficult to predict how the varnish will behave. The thickness of the skin and its origin play a big role. Natural thin leather is easier to stretch than hard leatherette.
Patent leather shoes can be stretched only in width, as well as in the heel area, without serious consequences.
After any stretching procedure, do not forget to apply a care product!
How to stretch the heel, instep, toe, boot at home
Sometimes it is not necessary to stretch all the shoes, but only the part that causes us the most discomfort. Most often this is a heel or toe. Lifting often causes discomfort. This problem can also be fixed. It also happens that the boots you like have tops that are too narrow and put too much pressure on your shins. We will also consider how to eliminate such inconveniences.
Too narrow or hard back
Stretching can be done using some of the methods described above. For example, the “freezing” method. You need to stuff the sock with dry, crumpled newspapers, and place a bag of water in the heel area. When frozen, the toe will remain unchanged, but the heel will expand. In a similar way, you can use the “newspaper” method, only we place dry newspapers in the sock, and “stuff” the heel tightly with wet ones.
You can also smear the heel with Vaseline, castor or sunflower oil and walk like this for several hours until the heel becomes wider.
You can also use the old “grandfather’s” method. Place a wet cloth in the heel, let it soak in moisture, and then tap the back with a hammer from the inside through the same cloth - the back will stretch a little.
A regular solid antiperspirant deodorant can help stretch the backside. They need to rub the inside of the heel, and then put the shoe on a thin toe and walk around until the heel stops rubbing. For the best effect, wrap the shoe box in a damp terry towel and leave it there for 3-4 hours. You can watch the video below to see how to do this correctly:
Video: how to stretch the heels of shoes using solid deodorant
How to stretch a sock that is too narrow
You can smear the shoe with cream or the same Vaseline in the front part and put it on the sock. You need to walk like this for several hours (the longer the better) or 5-10 minutes every hour. It is acceptable to use boiling water and newspaper, but only for the toes of shoes. You can add a bag of water and freeze it.
Another original way. Place a small bottle, preferably flat, in each sock. You can use personal care products (shampoo, tonic, lotion and others). Before doing this, shoes must be wetted (textile or leather), warmed up (leatherette or PVC), lubricated with soap or paraffin (patent leather shoes).
How to stretch the boot top
It’s absolutely not a problem if the top of the boots you like is too wide - in most cases they can be made in a shoe workshop. But what to do if the problem is just the opposite: the boots are too narrow in the shins and it’s impossible to zip up the zipper all the way. Fortunately, a solution can be found in this situation too. You can use wet newspapers, stuffing them tightly into the tops. Theoretically, the “freezing” method will also help, but it’s unlikely that you have that much space in the freezer. You can use a shoe stretcher and break in shoes according to the principle of breaking in shoes or boots, only this time putting the shoes on warm tights, or better yet, two pairs at once.
How to stretch while lifting
Newspapers, ice and cereal will help solve the problem. You need to stretch it the same way we advised stretching a sock. You can stuff your socks and heels with cellophane (it is indifferent to moisture), and between them sprinkle cereal and pour in a little water. You can stick wet newspapers or a bag of water and put the problematic shoes in the freezer.
How to break in a new one
In most cases, even shoes of the ideal size cause discomfort and they have to be worn in before “going out” until calluses appear. The fact is that new shoes should adapt to the anatomical features of your foot. To make this task easier and avoid calluses, you can use the following tips:
Shoe stretchers and how they are used
There are special stretchers for shoes made of smooth leather, suede, nubuck and velor leather. Their huge advantage is that they do not leave streaks on the leather of shoes. They are produced in cans and, after spraying, turn into foam that is quickly absorbed. This product should be applied from the outside and inside, paying more attention to those places that sting the most. You should not put on your shoes immediately, but wait 3–5 minutes. With the help of stretchers, you can not only increase the volume of your shoes, but also lengthen them (if the sole length allows), make them wider, and even stretch the tops of your boots.
How to break in shoes
In new shoes, as a rule, you have to break in the heel or toe. You can use the hot steam method. Hold a new pair over the spout of a boiling kettle so that the hot steam hits the toe or heel. The toe can then be stuffed with newspaper to expand it, and the back can be kneaded with your hands or beaten with a hammer with a smooth surface through a soft cloth. You can also put uncomfortable shoes on a thin, damp cotton sock and apply cream to your feet. The cream is needed to ensure that the foot slides in the shoe, stretching it.
What about sneakers or sneakers?
Sports shoes should be comfortable and not cause discomfort when worn. But even high-quality sneakers have to be broken in. The breaking-in methods are chosen based on the materials used to make the shoes. With leather ones, everything is simple - we fill them with damp newspapers or put them in the freezer, putting in bags of water. The same thing with textile or combined ones. If you are not sure how the leatherette will behave, then try warming it up with a hairdryer and stuffing it with dry crumpled paper.
How to stretch in workshops
If you don’t want to conduct experiments on shoes, trying to stretch them in width or length, then, of course, you should turn to professionals. The same goes for expensive shoes, as well as shoes made from reptile skin. Only a qualified specialist will be able to correctly assess the situation, determine the places that need to be stretched and, most importantly, dissuade you from stretching if it can irrevocably ruin the appearance of the shoes.
To increase the size of the problem pair, the specialist will select special stretching agents in accordance with the material of the shoes. Unlike you, he will not stuff his shoes with wet newspapers and wait for them to dry, but will use special devices that will help stretch the shoes both in width and volume. There are also devices for stretching the boot. Really good workshops have special metal lasts for different types of shoes: for children's, men's, women's, low-heeled shoes and heels. The pads can be expanded to the desired size. There are also special inserts to increase the volume of both women's and men's shoes, to stretch the instep and even too narrow socks. The selected last is attached to a special device, on which the shoes are put on, and with the help of a screw, the master stretches it. There are also special devices for stretching the boot, thanks to which you can stretch your boots by several centimeters. Craftsmen also use wooden screw blocks.
Only a master can stretch shoes correctly! Special lasts for increasing the volume of high-heeled shoes
Shoes made from natural suede always look elegant, feminine and impressive. Usually suede stretches on its own during wear, since this material is soft and pliable. Often, when trying on in a store, we do not feel any discomfort, but when it comes to everyday wear, it turns out that the shoes are pinching or rubbing. This situation can be easily corrected by using the methods discussed below. The main thing is that the suede is natural.
Selecting and using stretch foam
In order to stretch suede shoes, there are special sprays and stretching foams that can be used at home. They can be purchased at any shoe store. The technology of use may differ depending on the manufacturer, but the main steps themselves are very simple and understandable.
- Apply the required amount of product to a cotton swab and treat the area that is rubbing on the outside. The option of applying inside shoes is possible.
- Put on socks and shoes for 30-40 minutes or stuff them tightly with paper. It is not recommended to use newsprint because it will stain the inside of the shoes.
With the help of special means, suede stretches quite quickly. This method is suitable for those who want to increase the width of suede shoes.
If you need to stretch the boot top, stretching foam is also suitable:
- the boot should be unrolled;
- treat with a product;
- Cover the inside with a cloth and iron.
Can I use beer?
This method will seem strange to many, but today beer is used not only as a drink. This method can be used to stretch suede shoes.
To do this, you will need to distribute the beer over the inside of the shoe or boot (be sure to make sure that the liquid does not get on the outside, in which case the coating may deteriorate) and wear it for several days until the smell evaporates and disappears.
It is better to choose light varieties of beer, they will not leave unpleasant stains.
Leave it in the freezer
Another slightly extreme method for stretching suede shoes involves placing them in a very cold place, such as a freezer.
The processing process is as follows.
- Place the bag in the shoe and pour water into it. It is necessary that the water is distributed throughout the entire volume of the shoe.
- Leave the boots in the freezer for 8-9 hours, or overnight. Suede will stretch due to the fact that during the freezing process, water will turn into ice, increase in volume and take up more space.
- In order to remove the bag from the shoe, you need to let the ice melt a little and decrease in volume. Otherwise, the shoes will be damaged on the inside.
- Leave the boots until completely dry.
- If the effect is insufficient, you can repeat the freezing again.
other methods
Today you can use hundreds of different ways to stretch your shoes in length, width, or even make them 1 size larger. We offer you a list of the most convenient and effective methods.
- Similar to the previous option with a bag and water is the method with a bottle. The essence of the method is that instead of an unreliable bag, a half-liter bottle of water is used. It also needs to be placed in a shoe and left overnight (7-8 hours) in the freezer. If the shoes still feel too tight in your toes, you can repeat the procedure again.
- Instead of a bottle and a bag, inflatable balloons are used in the same way.
- Alcohol can also stretch suede shoes. You need to moisten the shoe with alcohol or vodka in a 1:2 ratio with water from the inside, put it on the sock and walk around the apartment for several hours. If there is severe pain, you can walk in shoes for 10-15 minutes with long breaks. When you are satisfied with the result, the shoes must be thoroughly dried and ventilated. Of course, this method cannot be called very fast, but it can be used if you do not need to stretch your shoes in a short period of time. In no case should you allow vodka or alcohol to get on the outside of the suede, because they can cause stains that are very difficult to remove. In addition, this method is not suitable for stretching pointed corners in shoes and boots.
- A fairly well-known and old method is using wet paper. To do this, you need to slightly wet the paper, squeeze it well and insert it tightly into the shoes. The main thing is to make sure there is not a lot of moisture. Because of this, suede boots may lose their presentability, and the sole may generally become unstuck. You should not dry your shoes near a hot radiator or in the sun, because the surface may deteriorate. The wet paper will stretch your boots a little in volume.
- The method of stretching shoes using cereal cannot be called the most successful, but it exists, so it’s worth talking about it. You need to pour finely ground cereal (yachka, oatmeal or wheat) into a boot or boot and add a little water. The grain absorbs moisture, swells and stretches the shoes. After several hours of stretching, you need to carefully remove the grain and leave the shoes to dry in the open air.
- Soap, paraffin or glycerin are also used to stretch suede shoes. You need to rub the inside of the boots with soap, glycerin or a piece of candle and wear them in. The essence of the method is that the shoes become “slippery”, they are easier to put on, and they rub less. After the shoes have stretched, you need to remove the remaining substance with a napkin. When using this method, you need to be prepared for the fact that tights or socks will get dirty while wearing shoes.
- You can also stretch your shoes using steam. This method is suitable for shoes of any season. To do this, you need to hold the shoes over the steam until they warm up and become slightly moistened. After this, you need to walk around in them in thick socks for several hours. Do not allow your shoes to get too wet.
- In order to stretch the boot, you can use vinegar. To do this, apply a weak vinegar solution to the inside of the boot. The material will become more pliable, and you can stretch it with your hands or simply walk around the apartment in your boots for several hours.
- If you don’t want to use overly complex methods, and your suede shoes are tight, you can simply put on a damp cotton sock and walk around the apartment in tight sneakers, shoes or boots for several hours. The suede will stretch due to moisture, and after several procedures, it may generally increase by one size.
- Another method with a sock involves stretching the suede using heat. To do this, you need to heat a thick sock with a hairdryer or iron it, put it on and shoes that are too tight, and walk around in the apartment for several hours.
- The method using special pads is the most radical. Of course, almost every shoemaker has such a machine. But you can purchase a simplified version of the lasts and stretch the shoes yourself, especially since they are reusable. The idea is that a special mechanism gradually and gently stretches the material. However, you should only use this method if you are absolutely confident in your abilities so as not to damage your new shoes.
In order for suede shoes to serve for a long time and not lose their appearance, they need to be constantly looked after.
- Suede does not like wet weather and high temperatures (above 30 degrees), so you should not wear such boots or sneakers in rainy or hot weather. Staining may appear or the suede may crack.
- It is recommended to clean suede shoes immediately after coming in from outside. To do this, use special brushes (metal and silicone), soft sponges or lint-free wipes. You cannot dry such shoes near a radiator or in the sun. You need to leave it to dry in the fresh air. After drying, the shoes are treated with a special cream or spray for this material.
- If your suede shoes are worn out or have lost their original color, it can be restored. You can use spray paint to match the color of the shoes or take a colorless one, which will mask scratches and abrasions and give the shoes a fresher look. If you don’t have special tools at hand, you can use improvised ones. For example, coffee can be used to dye suede brown, and talc to dye white. It is worth remembering that this method is not very durable, and natural dyes will not last forever.
- Suede shoes should be stored clean and dry in a cardboard box. It is not recommended to store it in a plastic bag, because suede needs to breathe, especially since it will be in it for several months until the next season.
After reviewing the presented methods of stretching suede shoes, you will certainly be able to choose at least one that suits you.
Naturally, shoe stores and workshops provide services and products for the care, repair and stretching of suede shoes. But if suddenly you do not have time for the services of masters, you can always use a convenient option for you, which can be done at home.
To learn how to stretch suede shoes at home without ruining them, watch the following video.
Suede shoes, boots - isn't this happiness for every girl? As practice shows, girls tend to choose beautiful, but less comfortable shoes, so they can buy shoes 1-2 sizes smaller. Subsequently, they either rack their brains with the question of how to stretch suede shoes at home, or they walk around in beautiful shoes, putting on a routine smile by an effort of will. Dear ladies, do not hurt yourself, but rather read this article, which will help you stretch your suede shoes quickly and efficiently.
Ways to break in suede shoes that are too tight
To begin with, start with the most important method that helps to stretch suede shoes, absolutely any - wear them regularly. In order to protect yourself from uncomfortable sensations, do it better at home. You can do this, for example, while doing household chores, putting on new shoes and showing off in front of your loved ones.
Suede is a fairly elastic material, so as a result of constant wear, it will still take the shape you need. In addition, if you wear them on the street, this will lead to rapid deterioration of new shoes, their contamination, and abrasion.
Important! If you wear shoes for a long time, but you cannot break them in, ask someone else to do it - someone whose feet are larger than yours. The main thing is not to overdo it, because suede can stretch too much and lose its shape for a long time. And then you may need to tighten it. As a result of all these constant manipulations, your suede shoes may become completely unusable.
Maceration
In order to break in suede shoes a size larger at home, in the shortest possible time, use water:
- Wet cotton socks with water, wring them thoroughly, and then put them on your feet.
- After that, put on the shoes you want to wear.
- Walk around the house in them until the socks are dry.
Important! As a rule, one or two procedures are enough to stretch the shoes to the size you need.
If your sock is tight, take some paper, wet it slightly, and then stuff it tightly into your shoes or boots. When the paper you stuffed dries, the size of your shoes or boots will increase slightly.
Important! It is not advisable to use newsprint for this purpose, even though it wrinkles easily. Ink from the inscriptions can transfer to the insoles:
- if they are light in color, the shoes will lose their attractiveness;
- if they are dark, you will then wonder why the tights and socks are stained after the shoes.
Steam
At home, steam helps stretch suede shoes to a larger size. In this case, steam has a beneficial effect on the texture of the material, but the main thing is not to overdo it with processing.
To make it happen:
- Hold suede boots over steam to warm them up and at the same time slightly moisturize them. But you should not allow it to get too wet.
- Put them on and walk around for 2-3 hours.
Important! This way you can wear absolutely any model: winter boots, summer shoes, autumn boots.
If, in addition to the lower part, it is necessary to slightly increase the volume of the boot with a lock, then proceed as follows:
- Unfasten the lock.
- Straighten the boot.
- Wet a flannel cloth with water.
- Place the napkin on the inside of the shoe.
- Iron with a hot iron.
Important! Hot steam will help make the suede more elastic and the boot can easily stretch. This is a fairly simple and effective method of increasing shoe size.
Alcohol
Alcohol or vodka are great for breaking in suede shoes:
- Dilute alcohol in half with water.
- Wet the inside of your shoes with an alcohol solution exactly those places where they press the most.
- Put it on and walk around for 2-3 hours.
Important! It is allowed to treat suede with alcohol only from the inside. If you wet the outside of it, you may change the color of the product or it may become stained.
Otherwise, the method is quite old, proven, and also widely known.
Table vinegar
You can stretch boots or shoes with vinegar. In order to make the boot a little wider, wet the outside of it with a gentle solution of table vinegar. Upon completion of this treatment, the boot will stretch better - to do this, pull the material with your hands or, again, put on shoes and walk around the house in shoes that are too small for you.
Freezing
A rather original way to stretch suede shoes a size larger at home if they are too tight for you was invented just a couple of years ago. And it's effective.
Important! You can first try using it on some old and unnecessary pair that you wouldn’t mind throwing away, and if you like the method, use it for your suede shoes.
How it's done:
When water freezes, it expands and increases in volume. As a result, very strong pressure will be exerted on suede shoes, and the material will stretch. If you place such balls in the boot, you can stretch even winter boots at home.
Important! Take only durable balls or bags so that they do not burst before the water completely freezes and your shoes made of such a delicate material do not become all wet. Remember that suede does not tolerate heavy moisture.
Special compounds for stretching suede shoes
If you don’t like any of the methods described above, purchase cans of special products at a shoe store. An aerosol sprays foam or liquid that softens the skin, thereby making it much more pliable.
Spray the suede shoes you want to stretch, put them on and walk for 1 hour.
Help from professionals
Shoe shops use lasts, which are enlarged through the use of a special mechanism. This last has a spacer that allows you to stretch the shoe both in length and width by one size, maybe even more.
More radical methods - only for natural skin
More extreme methods may only be suitable for shoes made of genuine leather. Among these methods:
Boiling water
Pour it into your shoes, but for no more than 25-30 seconds, pour it out and walk in them until they are completely dry.
Any cereal:
- Pour it into your shoes, then add a small amount of water.
- Leave the resulting porridge overnight, then pour it out, and start breaking in your shoes in the standard way.
This is what cowboys did in the distant Wild West.
Potato skins
Stuff them tightly into your shoes and leave them in your shoes for 12 hours.
- Before stretching suede shoes at home, remember that if as a result of all these manipulations they lose their attractive appearance, it will be impossible to return them to the store.
- When walking in wet socks, consider the temperature in the apartment - you should be warm and comfortable. Otherwise, there is a high risk that you will catch a serious runny nose.
- Despite the very large number of stretching methods, try to purchase shoes that fit. Very narrow shoes first cause discomfort, and then deformation of the foot, making your legs ugly.
- To prevent shoes from drying out and changing in size during storage, lubricate them with softening foam, stuff them with paper, or use pads.
Now you know everything about how to stretch suede shoes at home and we hope you were able to successfully cope with the task.