The best ways to stretch shoes at home

When buying shoes, people often find that they are narrow or tight. In the store it may seem like the boots are the right size. However, when worn later, they may turn out to be narrow. As a result, the person feels discomfort. You can find a way out of this situation - return the purchase to the shoe store or try stretching the shoes.

Is it possible to stretch shoes and how much?

There are many simple and not so simple ways to stretch shoes, using folk remedies, chemical influence or mechanical pressure.

At home, you can use whatever is at hand - products based on various chemical compounds.

Important condition! When using them, you should not expect to immediately get a significant increase in size. You need to act gradually, combining known options for influence, repeating attempts in case of failure the first time.

There is an opinion among shoemakers that it is possible to change the size of shoe products only in width, and increasing the length is impossible due to the reinforced toe and tight heel, which cannot be stretched. Some masters manage to achieve success on this front.

There are many ways to break in shoes.

Rubber shoe stretching

Real rubber cannot be expanded. It can be stretched, but it will return to its original shape or tear. Currently, products called rubber are made of polyvinyl chloride, and they can be slightly increased in size. You can check what material the boot is made of using a hot needle. The needle is heated on gas and the boot is pierced in an inconspicuous place. If the material melts, then it is PVC.

How to stretch leather shoes to length

To strengthen the heel and toe, in most cases, artificial materials are used, which, after appropriate thermal and chemical treatment, are capable of stretching at least a little. A household hair dryer is usually used to warm up the hard heel and reinforced toe. After heat treatment of these parts, mechanical stretchers are used to provide additional space for the big toe.

If you don’t want to do it yourself, you can turn to professionals.

Each shoe material has its own individual characteristics.

Shoes made of genuine leather stretch well, but you need to act very carefully so as not to damage the product.

The varnish layer on the skin may not withstand intense loads, so it is better not to use mechanical stretching for it.

With the correct use of special means and devices, shoes in the instep can be increased by 2 sizes.

It is better to wear velor and suede items on your feet using mechanical means; chemical compounds can leave difficult-to-remove stains on the material.

For models made of artificial leather, stretching sprays and creams are well suited; mechanical stress can lead to cracks or rupture of the material.

Suede, velor, fabric do not tolerate low and high temperatures.

As shoe sizes increase in length, things get a little more complicated.

To stretch fur boots, products in the form of shoe cream or castor oil are used, which are applied only from the outside. To break them in, you can take a few socks or woolen knee socks, moisten them with hot water, wring them out, and walk around in your boots for several hours.

Rubber shoes cannot be stretched or worn out.

You cannot stretch rubber shoes at home.

Using sprays to stretch boots

When there is a need for serious intervention, for example, it is necessary to stretch boots several sizes, it is better to contact a specialist

You can use various sprays to stretch your shoes. It should be used if the boots are a little too tight. In this case, using a spray, you can slightly stretch tight shoes.

However, don’t rely too much on it and buy smaller shoes in the store. Otherwise, no spray will help.

It is recommended to use sprays if shoes have dried out from long-term storage. In such a case, it is necessary to treat the skin, and the rubbing area will quickly disappear. The spray can be used for shoes made of any leather.

It often happens that the shoes are the right size, but they are a little tight and a person develops calluses. When you need to stretch your shoes a little, use sprays. However, when there is a need for serious intervention, for example, it is necessary to stretch boots several sizes, it is better to contact a specialist. After all, they have the necessary device for stretching boots.

When using the spray, adhere to the following safety precautions because it is a toxic liquid:

1. Do not give the spray to children or inhale its vapors;
2. Also, do not store the can in a warm place so that it does not heat up;
3. Do not spray the spray on the fire.

It’s easy to use a spray to stretch your boots:

• inside the boots properly
• Before doing this, do not forget to shake the can;
• After spraying your shoes, put them on so that stretching occurs faster;
• If it doesn't work the first time , repeat the procedure;
• You can spray the spray in any position, however, it is not effective on artificial leather products. If the shoes are made of fake leather or have a fabric lining, stretching with a spray will not give the desired result.

However, do not overuse boot stretchers. After all, when the shoes are too loose, there will be little joy from this. It is not difficult to buy a spray for stretching shoes - it is sold in almost any shoe store. You can also buy the spray in the online store. There everyone can easily choose the appropriate option.

It is recommended to use sprays if shoes have dried out from long-term storage.

How to stretch shoes at home

The easiest way is to stretch tight boots, shoes or cleats at home - it takes time, patience and endurance. For several days you need to put on shoes and walk around the apartment in them. Or go for short walks near home. The duration of such training is determined by the degree of discomfort and pain. Genuine leather has softness, elasticity and the ability to stretch with certain efforts. Time and loads will gradually do their job: small shoes will stretch and become comfortable and convenient.

To stretch the product, it is recommended to use effective folk recipes.

Warm or hot water will help speed up the process described above. Thick socks are soaked in hot water, wrung out well and put on your feet. Using a horn, put on shoes that require stretching and walk in them until the socks are dry. Under the influence of hot water, natural leather should stretch, take the shape of the foot and become loose enough.

Today there are many means that can achieve good results.

To break in tight shoes, it is recommended to use an aqueous solution of alcohol in a 1:1 ratio or vodka. The following procedure should be followed. The inside of the shoes is moistened with an alcohol solution using a spray bottle and then worn in thick socks until completely dry.

The product is put on and worn until the liquid evaporates.

Attention! This method has a drawback. Alcohol is a good solvent for fats and can remove fats and some tannins from the leather, worsening its quality and shortening the wear time.

Folk remedies include castor oil or Vaseline. The insoles are removed from the shoes, the inner and outer surfaces are lubricated with oil, the shoes are put on the socks and left in place for several hours.

This product can make shoes made of dark leatherette look bigger.

For those who do not want to experience the inconvenience of walking in tight shoes, you can use old newspapers as pads for stretching tight shoes or winter boots. Hold the tight shoes over hot steam for several minutes to make the leather more elastic. Sheets of newspaper soaked in warm water are squeezed into balls, which are tightly stuffed into the toes of shoes. After the newspapers have dried, they are taken out and the test results are checked.

This method can still be used today.

What is a shoe stretcher

A stretcher means a special product produced in the form of:

• gel;
• foam;
• spray.

It is not possible to adjust the size using a chemical preparation for every pair of shoes!

What kind of shoes is the spray suitable for?

You can try to adjust the size of products made from genuine leather, suede or eco-leather . Leatherette of medium and low quality will be hopelessly damaged from such experiments.

By the way, “folk remedies” like pouring vodka or boiling water into shoes will not help either. Or stuffing it with newspapers and putting it in the refrigerator with bubbles of water.

How does the spray work?

The miraculous properties of the stretcher are due to its composition. It contains special substances: alcohols and propellants . They soften the material and, using microbubbles, penetrate deep into its structure.

Once soft and flexible, the leather molds to the foot, stretching into tight spaces while still maintaining its softness. Thanks to the fragrance, the product also has a deodorizing effect.

Article on the topic: How to choose the color of tights to match your shoes

However, the limitations of the stretcher's capabilities are obvious: its main task is to increase the width of the space . In length, the maximum of its capabilities is limited to half the size.

There is also a danger of ruining the appearance of shoes or boots! The color may change or become blurry and mottled. Light skin is especially vulnerable.

All products need testing, and stretch foam is no exception. An inconspicuous area (the inner side of the tongue, the edge near the sole) is suitable for the experiment.

How to quickly break in shoes that are too tight

There are even more radical ways to stretch leather shoes using water. The insoles are removed from boots or shoes, boiling water is poured inside for a few seconds, and then the shoes are worn in for several hours.

This method is used for shoes made from natural or synthetic material.

The next method is based on the physical property of water to expand when frozen. If necessary, unlace tight shoes. Place two sealed plastic bags inside, straighten them, press them against the inner walls of the shoes so that there are no creases or emptiness. Cold water is carefully poured into an improvised container and the bags are tightly tied. The shoes in another bag are placed in the freezer of the refrigerator overnight. Frozen water turns into solid ice, and, having increased in volume, puts pressure on the leather of the shoe, stretching it.

This is a safe method that does not cause deformation of the shoes.

Additional Information. After removing the shoes from the freezer, you should wait for the water to melt a little and only then carefully remove the ice packs.

Manufacturers

Today on sale you can find universal stretchers from a variety of manufacturers that can be used for all types of shoes, with the exception of fur boots. Among them are:

• Salamander;
• Damavik;
• Silver;
• Salton;
• Pregrada.

Some products, according to consumers, are considered the most effective.

• Shoe Stretch. This spray is designed to stretch shoes. To carry out the treatment, you should spray the inner surface of the pair with the composition and pull it on with thick socks. You should walk like this for 35-40 minutes - you will notice the result immediately.

We draw special attention to the fact that when using the spray on shoes made of expensive materials, you need to be careful. Do not forget to protect your eyes from contact with the composition during processing.

• Salton. The spray is suitable for stretching the material and softening it. Optimal for shoes made of a wide variety of materials. To achieve the effect, a pair of shoes should be sprayed every time before putting them on; as a rule, after 3-4 treatments it takes a shape that is comfortable for the foot. Try to avoid inhaling aerosol particles.

• Kiwi. This composition is intended for stretching all types of shoes; the aerosol is sprayed only in the place where shoes, shoes or boots press. After this, you should wear the shoes for 30-40 minutes, and repeat the treatment if necessary. The spray has a pungent and rather unpleasant smell, so try to avoid inhaling its vapors.

Related article: Why wearing tight shoes and wearing belts is harmful

Shoe stretchers

Chemical specialists working in the shoe industry have developed many effective products for softening and stretching leather in the form of sprays, aerosols and foams.

In shoe stores you can find chemical compounds for all types of shoes: genuine leather or leatherette, suede, fabric, nubuck. The exception is boots or boots made of fur.

The German product SALTON perfectly stretches shoes and boot tops by 1 size.

One of the most popular products is the colorless Shoe Stretch spray from the German company Salamander. Sold in cans of different capacities. Minimum volume 75 ml. Suitable for all types of natural leather: smooth, patent leather, nubuck, suede. The can must be shaken before use. Before wearing, spray a stream of aerosol on the outside of the shoe; if necessary, you can also spray the inside surface. Using the spray, you can stretch the leather of the product, adjust its shape, and make wearing shoes more comfortable.

Apply strictly according to the instructions, then you need to put on and walk around in shoes until completely dry.

Shoe Stretch TARRAGO shoe stretcher - aerosol, made in Spain. Suitable for shoes made of any leather. Helps the leather of footwear to stretch when exposed to heat from the feet. A fine jet of product penetrates the pores of the material, impregnates it, softens it, facilitating stretching. After the shoes dry, the created shape of the shoe remains unchanged, and discomfort when walking disappears. Before use, shake the bottle and treat the leather surface from a distance of ten cm from the outside and inside, which will ensure uniform stretching. After treatment with a softening agent, wear shoes or use special pads for stretching.

There are no streaks left on shoes, shoes and boots, the spray is well absorbed.

SALTON spray foam is a stretcher for shoes made of leather, suede, and nubuck. A stream of spray, hitting the surface of the shoe inside and outside, turns into thick white foam. The foamy substance, absorbed into the pores of the skin, softens it and the material takes on the configuration of the foot without squeezing the leg. You should not hope that the product will work the first time, especially on rough, thick skin stitched with harsh threads. To achieve the required result, you will have to repeat the experiment several times. Thick foam does not create a feeling of strong wetting and guarantees comfortable wearing or stretching. For good results, shoes treated with SALTON spray should be worn with thick socks.

Sometimes once is not enough, the procedure must be repeated.

Important! Before using any of the drugs listed above, you need to conduct a trial test on an inconspicuous area of ​​skin. When using sprays and aerosols, you must be careful, strictly follow the instructions on the packaging, avoid getting the solution in your eyes, wear gloves, and carry out the treatment outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

The aerosol can be applied to all types of skin. It is also used to adjust shoes to the foot.

Features of breaking in different parts of shoes

To stretch the back, it is recommended to use castor oil or Vaseline, carefully lubricating the problem area. Then put on shoes or boots with thick socks and walk for half an hour. If we are talking about the bow, then the best way is to use newspaper. Sequencing:

1. The newspaper must be crumpled up thoroughly.
2. The narrow part of the shoes should be moistened with a sponge.
3. Push the resulting lumps of newspaper into the sock as tightly as possible.
4. Leave for 3-4 hours and then try on the shoes.

The same method is suitable for stretching the boot. Another method is to steam the boots. If the shoes cannot be fastened at the top, then you need to hold the pair over boiling water for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly and put it on immediately.

The narrow shaft of the suede boots is easy to stretch

If shoes are made of nubuck or suede, then oil mixtures should never be used. Otherwise, unaesthetic greasy stains will remain on your favorite pair of shoes or boots.

Types of mechanical shoe stretchers

To increase the size of tight shoes, you can use mechanical stretchers in combination with chemical agents. The device consists of two parts: a toe block and a heel stretch block. Both parts are mounted on one axis with a screw adjuster for the overall length. The toe block has a device for adjusting the shoe size according to width. Wood, metal, and plastic are used to make pads.

If the effect is not observed the first time or it is small, repeat the procedure.

In addition to devices that follow the contour of the foot, there are spacers for stretching the width of shoes and special devices for increasing the instep height of shoes with high tops. Mechanical stretchers differ in purpose: for women's shoes or for men's. Women's lasts use smaller sizes and take into account the presence of heels on many shoe models. Men's stretchers are distinguished by more solid sizes in length and width and the absence of a high heel.

Do not use stretching methods on materials for which they are not recommended.

Mechanical stretchers are often sold complete with various attachments for problematic parts of the foot and means for softening and stretching the skin. There are spare holes in the blocks for installing attachments.

How to stretch some parts

Unpleasant sensations of tightness and chafing usually occur in the heel or toe. Sometimes the thumb suffers. Then methods of stretching the problem part are used.

Back too hard or narrow

The shoes are tight in the heel area. Then it is recommended to freeze the problematic part. The sock is filled with dry newsprint. Place a bag of water in the heel area. Once placed in the freezer, only the back part expands. This area is also treated with oil and Vaseline, and then they walk and break in the shoes. A solid deodorant, which is used to treat the heel before wearing, also allows you to stretch the required part.

Too narrow toe

How to quickly break in new shoes when there is pressure in the toes? The anterior zone is covered with Vaseline or cream. The shoes are put on socks and walked for a couple of hours. Also acceptable is the freezing method, when a bag of water is placed only in the nose. If the shoes are too tight in the toes, use the hot water method.

Boot top

Pressure on your shins can break the clasp in your boots. The problem is eliminated with wet newspapers, which are tightly filled with boots. Packets of water placed inside and frozen in the refrigerator also help.

On the rise

An effective method is to use cereal. Bags with cereal poured inside are placed in the back and front parts and a little water is added. Then the shoes should lie in the freezer, after which they are taken out. Wait until it melts a little and take out all the contents.

Mode of application

Treat shoes outside and inside with a chemical stretcher in the form of a spray or foam. Insert a mechanical last inside the shoe and use a screw to firmly press the back part to the heel, and create pressure on the front part on the toe. To avoid damaging your shoes, you should not try to get the maximum effect at once. It is recommended to act gradually in several approaches.

When using store-bought stretchers, read the instructions carefully.

It is important to know that mechanical lasts will not be able to significantly expand the volume of shoes, but they can reduce the pressure on the foot and make walking comfortable.

After ensuring the necessary pressure on the surface of the shoe, it is left alone for several hours. After this, the spacers are removed, a fitting is made and, if necessary, the process is repeated.

Before placing the last in the shoe, it should be adjusted. Otherwise, there is a risk of increased stress and seam divergence.

They work in a similar way for stretching other problem parts: the tops and insteps of boots for winter, boots, increasing the transverse dimensions of the nose.

Using stretchers and blocks to stretch boots

To stretch tight shoes, you can use special auxiliary devices - stretchers. They are pads that are the size of human feet. It is enough to insert such a device inside the shoes that need to be stretched. This is how you can achieve the desired result.

Often such pads are used after wet cleaning of boots. This is necessary to prevent deformation of the material after drying. If you can’t find a stretcher in a regular store, you can purchase it from an online store.

It is worth mentioning separately about the different pad options:

• A plastic block is the most inexpensive option. They can be bought not only at a multi-brand store, but also at any kiosk. The average cost of such pads is about one hundred rubles.
• A good option is a wooden block. Wood is able to perfectly absorb liquid and destroy unpleasant odors. However, this material also has disadvantages - for example, if you insert such a last into boots without tucking the end, the bends will not straighten out.
• You can also use economy class pads. Their main difference from spacers is that they can be completely inserted into the shoe. In this case, the spring will not stick out, and the back parts of the last will be completely immersed in the shoes. At the back of such a pad there is a special rubber band.
• The different types of wooden lasts are united by the fact that they follow the shape of the feet. These lasts are voluminous and completely fill the space of the shoe. They also help rid your boots of creases. Thanks to them, high-quality drying is guaranteed. But wooden blocks are not cheap, because they take a lot of wood to make.

Useful tips for choosing a stretching product

The mechanical method is more suitable for stretching shoes for wide feet with side bumps. Chemical agents are optimal for minor compression of the foot by shoes.

At home, you can successfully stretch shoes only in width; lengthwise stretching is best left to professionals.

To achieve good results, you need to choose the right stretching method.

It is not recommended to stretch expensive shoes made of genuine leather with mechanical devices; it is better to trust specialists in shoemaking.

Any chemical composition should first be tested experimentally in an inconspicuous place. A good product does not change the color of the model and does not leave marks on the surface of the skin.

Now you know how to stretch leather and other shoes a size larger at home.

Any chemical effect has a negative effect on the body, so after any stretching, the skin should be regularly lubricated with emollient compounds.

Has anyone stretched their shoes? it makes sense?

the answer to the first question is yes

better give it to the community

I already bought a second pair of shoes one size smaller. It seemed normal in the store, it was a little cramped, I thought that my foot was swollen in the evening and the shoes were still new, but then it turned out that they were too small!

And I stretched both pairs. Both are made of suede, good quality, I just got them a little wet and wore them wet, they got caught in the rain a couple of times. They haven’t deteriorated, in fact they have stretched, I don’t know in length or width, but it’s comfortable now.

I did it with suede ballet shoes. The view hasn't been lost.

how much did it stretch? And How?

how much did it stretch? And How?

True to size. I bought a stretcher (liquid) and stretchers (like springs), sprayed it generously, wore it, and inserted the stretchers at night. A week later the problem was resolved. I understand you, I was on the verge of hysteria myself, I bought expensive ballet shoes and couldn’t walk. Now everything is all right.

how much did it stretch? And How?

True to size. I bought a stretcher (liquid) and stretchers (like springs), sprayed it generously, wore it, and inserted the stretchers at night. A week later the problem was resolved. I understand you, I was on the verge of hysteria myself, I bought expensive ballet shoes and couldn’t walk. Now everything is all right.

Basic methods 

There are different ways to stretch shoes at home. If used correctly, the boots will become a little larger without losing their appearance and quality.

Mechanical

At a shoe repair shop or specialty store, you can purchase special wooden or plastic shoe stretchers that are adjustable with screws. They will widen narrow shoes or boots by 2-4 mm, and increase the length by one size if necessary. The kit includes small rubberized inserts that allow you to influence specific areas. This makes life much easier for people with non-standard feet, such as hallux valgus or calluses.

Stretching a shoe with a screw block by 1 cm will require 3-4 hours; to increase the width by 2-4 mm, the length by 1-1.5 cm, the process should be divided into several stages. Otherwise, the material may be damaged by sudden force. A pair of shoes is stretched as follows:

1. Shoes should be treated with a shoe stretching spray at home.
2. Insert the block inside, if necessary, first attaching anatomical inserts.
3. Using a screw mechanism, expand the device to the desired size.
4. Leave the last in the shoe for several hours (usually from 2 to 4).
5. Carefully remove the stretch marks and try on a pair. If the boots or shoes are still too tight or you feel discomfort in specific places, the procedure should be repeated, adding orthopedic elements for the desired areas.

Using a device for stretching shoes requires extreme care. Be especially careful when tightening the screws to avoid damaging the skin. Before using this method, you need to treat the inner surface of the pair with a product suitable for the lining material: this will allow it to become more elastic and pliable.

Apply shoe stretching spray Insert the last inside Expand the last to the desired size After 2-4 hours, remove the lasts and try on a pair

Chemical

In any store you can buy products for stretching leather shoes. This can be foam or spray. Before using them, you must check the reaction of the material to chemical components. Apply a little composition to an inconspicuous area, for example, a tongue, and observe for 1-2 hours. If the leather or suede has not changed color or turned white, and the light pair has not acquired a greenish or gray tint, the product can be used over the entire surface.

Chemical stretching for shoes is produced by the brands Salton, Twist, Tarrago, Dividik. The forms and compositions vary, but the principle of working with them is always the same. Typically, the instructions recommend the following sequence of actions:

1. Shake the can thoroughly, holding it at a distance of 10-15 cm from the shoes, apply the product to the inner and outer surfaces.
2. Distribute the liquid or foam evenly over the insole and sides of the product.
3. Put on a pair and walk in it until the substance dries completely.

Products developed taking into account the characteristics of the material are gentle on leather or its substitute, suede or nubuck. The shoes not only remain intact, but also acquire a well-groomed appearance due to the components contained in the stretchers. There is no need to remove any remaining liquid, since it is completely absorbed and leaves no traces.

Apply the product to shoes inside and outside. Distribute evenly over the entire surface of the shoe.

Put on a pair and walk around

Thermal

For hot stretching of shoes, exposure to high temperatures is used. At home, you can use a hairdryer for this:

1. Wear thick socks and a tight pair.
2. Direct a hot stream of air from a hair dryer to those areas that are pinching for 5-7 minutes. It is important to avoid exposing the taped seams to heat and not to bring the device too close to the product, otherwise it will unstick or dry out.
3. Wear shoes for 30-40 minutes, then lubricate them with a special cream or glycerin to restore the necessary moisture.

Put a pair on a thick sock and warm it up with a hairdryer for 5-7 minutes.

Treat shoes with glycerin
Another way to stretch shoes at home is with boiling water:

1. Boil water and remove the insoles from the shoes.
2. Carefully, avoiding contact with the outer surface, pour boiling water inside.
3. Wait a few seconds, pour boiling water out of the shoes, let them cool for 1-2 minutes and put them on, after putting on socks.
4. Walk until the boots cool completely.

This method will allow the softened skin to take the shape of a leg as it cools. Natural material under the influence of boiling water can stretch one size. The boots should be dried naturally, away from heating devices, otherwise the pair may become deformed.

Boil water Remove the insoles Pour in boiling water and let stand. Then pour out the water, put on a pair and walk until it cools completely

Professional help

If stretching at home causes concern, you should contact a professional. Almost all repair specialists provide this service. The process is mechanized, the products used are selected to match the material from which the pair is made, and are safe even for sensitive leather or suede. The specialist will tell you how much the shoes can be stretched, and how this can threaten the product.

The master's main tool is blocks. They can be plastic or wooden with a special screw mechanism that allows them to be expanded to the required size.

There are only two ways to stretch shoes: dry and wet. In the first case, the effect is achieved within several days only by mechanical action on the product. A faster method is the additional use of liquid products to soften the material, which not only speeds up the process, but also avoids aggressive effects on the structure of leather or suede.

A professional can stretch shoes made of genuine leather up to 1.5 sizes, increase the fullness up to 1 cm. In this case, the master will treat the product with special means that will preserve its integrity and protect it from cracking.

The advantage of the method is the accuracy of the result: the shoes are stretched in the workshop without subsequent deformation. The downside is the cost. Sometimes the work of a master is expensive.

Is it possible to return hard shoes to the store?

If you nevertheless purchased shoes or sneakers and after a walk you find that they are rubbing your feet, is it possible to return such shoes to the seller? Make no mistake, they will not be accepted back with such a claim. If no manufacturing defects are found on the shoes, which are revealed through examination, it is impossible to return them to the store after wearing them.

Factory defects in shoes can only be detected through a special examination.

Another case is also possible: you have not had time to wear the boots and the warranty period (14 days from the date of purchase) has not yet expired. The boots have not lost their consumer appearance, but you have already realized that they are made of rough leather and will rub your feet. Then try contacting the seller, present your unworn shoes, receipt, packaging, all labels and say that this product did not suit you in its shape, size, color, style, dimensions. There is a high probability that you will defend your rights and you will get your money back or be offered another product.

What not to do

If you want to trample your shoes at any cost, you can cause irreparable harm to them.

1. Do not heat products with plastic decor. At high temperatures they will simply melt;
2. You shouldn’t immediately use chemicals if your new boots are too small – it’s better to wear them with thick socks. After 2 days the leg will be freer.
3. It is prohibited to dry boots on an electric fireplace or radiator.

The main task is to stretch leather shoes gradually. You shouldn't torture your feet all day, otherwise you'll get bloody calluses on your heels or toes.

Important! To stretch winter boots with fur inside, do not use aggressive aerosols or impregnations. Fur will absorb chemicals faster than nubuck or leather.

You should also avoid forcefully stretching with your hands, pushing in steel spacers, etc. The material will most likely tear at the seams or where parts are glued together.

Special Moments

The best solution to the problem is to go to a shoe repair shop.
A specialist will be able to eliminate the problem within a few hours. However, this possibility is not always available. If it is still not there, then it is advisable to use various professional methods, but at home. There is a large selection of different chemicals on the market that can effectively soften the leather of shoes. They can be found at the market, in shoe centers or standard hardware stores. Many shoe shops offer their customers a wide range of similar products.

There are cases when, to soften their shoes, consumers use creams designed to moisturize human skin. Of course, leather production uses skin that has some similarities with human skin, but the effect of using such creams will be very weak.

Softening with glycerin

Glycerin is a universal agent that is used in various formulations.
As a rule, it is used in the process of caring for genuine leather products. It is worth noting that in terms of its chemical composition, glycerin is an alcohol compound, but it is non-aggressive, which is its main feature. The use of glycerin for leather shoes is indispensable, since it can make them soft and quite comfortable

The effect of glycerin is significantly stronger compared to professional shoe creams. The product is easy to use: a fairly small amount of the substance should be applied to the areas of the shoe that have begun to cause discomfort, and left to be absorbed. With its help you can get rid of extensive hardening on leather products.

After most of the substance has been absorbed into the leather structure, the excess is removed, and the shoes themselves are thoroughly polished. As a result of such manipulations, it is possible to return the shoes to their former comfort and softness.

Using wax

An excellent and cheap softener for leather shoes is ordinary wax left over from a candle.
The treatment method is very simple: you need to melt the candle stub and apply a small amount of wax to problem areas. When using wax, you must be careful and careful: hot wax should not be applied to the skin, as this can seriously damage it.

To soften shoes, wax must be applied together with paraffin a few minutes after it has melted. After the boots have been treated, they are left to stand for a few minutes, the remaining substance is removed, and the surface of the shoe is polished.

Pork lard to soften skin

This way to renew old leather shoes is the most harmless and environmentally friendly for humans.
Lard contains natural fats that are not capable of harm, but will only bring benefits. The main rule is to use unsalted lard. The technology for using lard is as follows: cut off a small piece and carefully rub it into the area that has become hardened.

In principle, in this way you can lubricate the entire surface of the shoes, which will allow you to avoid polishing them for a long time. Natural animal fat reliably protects shoes from the harmful effects of temperature and moisture changes.

Video

Each of us at least once in our lives has encountered the problem of tight shoes. How does it happen: it seems like you come to the store, try it on, and everything fits great, but when you return home it’s tight, uncomfortable, oppressive. What to do in this case?

First of all, let's talk about how to avoid such unpleasant moments:

If possible, give preference to a leather one. It is stronger and fits quite quickly on the leg. In addition, if necessary, you can carry out some procedures to increase comfort (but more on that at home later).

Go shopping in the afternoon or at the end of the work day. Your feet tend to swell a little after a hard day at work and therefore wider shoes are needed.

Carefully examine the model you like, be sure to try on both shoes and walk or, if necessary, run.

However, if trouble does occur, and you like the shoes so much that returning them is out of the question, then human ingenuity comes to the rescue.

My advice - go to a professional! Almost every shoe repair specialist has a special device for stretching shoes and will be happy to help you.

But if there is no desire or opportunity to contact a specialist, you can try to cope on your own.

There are many different tips on how to stretch shoes at home. I will only talk about those that really work.

Important! If your shoes are made of suede or velor, do not under any circumstances use alcohol, cream, vinegar or any other means (except those specifically intended) on their surface.

How to stretch shoes at home

1. There is a small stretcher for shoes on sale, which you can buy in special departments or on the market. The thing is very useful and inexpensive.

2. Use a solution of alcohol and water (1:1). Spray on the surface and inside, put on shoes with thick socks and walk around until dry.

Attention! For patent leather, it is necessary to use a solution of alcohol and water in proportions of 2:1. 3

For smooth skin, you can use rich cream, castor oil, glycerin, petroleum jelly or vegetable oil. Apply to the surface and problem areas inside, let stand for about 2 hours, clean and then put on a thick sock. Under the influence of fatty acids, the skin will become more elastic and fit easily on the leg.

3. For smooth skin, you can use fatty cream, castor oil, glycerin, petroleum jelly or vegetable oil. Apply to the surface and problem areas inside, let stand for about 2 hours, clean and then put on a thick sock. Under the influence of fatty acids, the skin will become more elastic and fit easily to the leg.

4. Hold your shoes over steam, put them on thick socks and walk for several hours.

5. Place plastic bags filled with water inside the shoes and leave in the freezer overnight. Under the influence of low temperatures, water expands and stretches the walls of the shoe. In the morning, remove the shoes from the freezer and let sit until the ice begins to melt. Then remove the bags and you can safely put on your shoes.

6. Lubricate problem areas on the model with paraffin and put on tight socks.

7. Spread a 3% vinegar solution over the surface of problem areas, put on a thick sock and walk until dry.

If you don't have the time or desire to break in tight shoes, you can always stuff the models with damp newspapers and leave them to dry.

Now you know how to stretch shoes at home. However, be careful when purchasing. Do not forget that stretching shoes in length is only possible by half a size. If you try to fit shoes that are too small for you, you risk ruining either them or your feet.

Why were the new shoes tight? Perhaps her feet were swollen, or the woman decided that the shoes would wear out quickly and the slight discomfort would disappear, and therefore bought a pair that was too narrow. However, going outside becomes a painful ordeal and every day your feet suffer more and more from calluses and corns. How to fix the situation?

Methods depending on the material

Before stretching uncomfortable tight shoes at home, you should determine what they are made of. Smooth leather stretches much better than patent leather, while suede and velor require careful handling, otherwise the capricious material can be ruined. Faux leather does not expand in size well, so you should not expect great results.

Genuine Leather

Shoes made of leather lend themselves best to stretching without forming cracks or creases. For her, there are most ways to slightly increase the width and size and make wearing more comfortable. It should be borne in mind that natural material wears out naturally over time.

An important nuance when stretching winter shoes made of genuine leather is the presence of a fur or wool lining. This imposes restrictions on the stretching of insulated models: while chemical agents are ideal for demi-season boots, they will only ruin a pair for cold weather. A warm fur layer will cease to perform its functions after getting wet or treated with aggressive substances. Therefore, sprays or foams can only be applied to the outer surface, but the result is unlikely to be impressive.

Gentle way

The easiest and safest way to stretch leather shoes is to break them in. To do this, put on wet socks and shoes and walk until the first ones dry completely. Then fill the pair with rags or newspapers to remove excess moisture. You can repeat this procedure for several days in a row until the products become more comfortable.

If the new shoes are  too tight, you can put them on dry woolen socks and do household chores; 2-3 hours will be enough to stretch the leather a little in width. This method is also suitable for open shoes; it will help you break in uncomfortable sandals. It is worth considering that the shoe size will not increase in length with this method, it will only take the shape of the foot.

Winter boots with fur insoles can be broken in by wearing several pairs of wool socks and wearing them. It is necessary to take into account that warm material takes the shape of the foot over time. Therefore, boots that pinch, for example, in the area of ​​the hallux valgus, will become more comfortable while wearing. It will not be possible to significantly stretch a pair with fur or wool inside.

Put your shoes on wet socks and walk around

To wear just a little, you need to wear wool socks

To wear winter shoes, you need to wear several pairs of socks at once.

hot

A hair dryer will help you stretch your shoes at home and adapt them to the characteristics of your feet. To give your boots the perfect shape, you can dry them on a damp pair, wearing thick socks. This procedure will additionally add softness to the material. You should:

1. Put on wool socks, then a tight pair of shoes.
2. Direct a stream of hot air from a hair dryer to narrow areas and warm up for 7-10 minutes.
3. Wear the shoes for at least half an hour until they cool completely. If the result is insufficient, the procedure can be repeated several times.

If you don’t have a hairdryer at hand, you can use a fan heater. It is necessary to keep the pair at a distance of 15-30 cm from the device. Other heating devices can cause irreparable damage to shoes: from unsticking seams to deforming the material.

Only demi-season shoes without fur or wool inside can be stretched with wet socks. Winter boots will only deteriorate from moisture and lose their ability to retain heat. It’s all because of the lining - natural insulation is afraid of water, cakes under its influence, and if it doesn’t dry well, it can even become moldy.

Put a tight pair on a thick sock, heat it with a hairdryer and walk until it cools down completely.

Using alcohol

Shoes made of genuine leather can be expanded using alcohol. This method has been known for a long time and has received many positive reviews. You should:

1. Prepare a solution containing alcohol and water in equal proportions and place it in a spray bottle.
2. Distribute the liquid over the inner surface of the boots, trying to avoid getting on the outside.
3. Put on shoes and wear for at least 20 minutes.

Another option for stretching your shoes is to put them on socks soaked in alcohol and leave them on until they are completely dry. However, this method will greatly dry out the skin of the feet, so after stretching you should lubricate your feet with a rich cream.

Alcohol can be replaced with any liquid containing it, for example, cologne, lotion or vodka. It is worth considering that the aromatic substances contained in perfumes will be absorbed into the material, and it will be difficult to get rid of this smell.

A winter pair can only be stretched with alcohol if it is made of smooth, undyed leather. The prepared solution should be applied to the outside of the shoes. Treatment of the inner surface will not lead to the desired result, since it is necessary to act on a material that can stretch. In this case, a slight stretch is felt immediately after the pair is put on.

Prepare a solution of alcohol and water

Spray the solution inside the shoes. Put on and wear for at least 20 minutes. Winter pairs should be treated with an alcohol solution on the outside.

Freezing

Shoes made of genuine leather that are tight can be stretched by keeping them in the freezer for some time. This method is especially good for stretching winter boots or boots, since they are designed for use at low temperatures. But shoes or summer sandals can be seriously damaged after such a freeze. You should:

1. Fill two plastic bags with water depending on the area of ​​the boots that needs to be stretched. To expand the toe, you will need to fill 1/4 of the bag, the toe and instep - half, if the shoes are high and put pressure in the ankle area - up to 2/3 of the bag. Before tying a knot, you need to release excess air.
2. Place the filled bags into the shoes, trying to push them as far as possible towards the toe.
3. Place the shoes in the freezer for 4-10 hours until the liquid freezes completely.
4. Remove the boots and leave at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Take out the bags and try on the shoes, they will become much more comfortable.

Before placing your boots in the cold, you need to lubricate them with colorless shoe polish or glycerin, this will protect the natural material from drying out and maintain an attractive appearance. The pair should fit freely into the freezer without coming into contact with its contents. A prerequisite is that the shoes must stand on the sole, otherwise it will be deformed.

Winter boots with fur or wool inside can be frozen to size 1. It is important to thoroughly dry the inside of your shoes after removing them from the freezer. When placing a warm pair in the cold, you should make sure that there are no leatherette elements on it, since low temperatures cause them to crack.

Nutrition

If leather shoes are slightly  tight, you need to soak them in order to return softness to the natural material and slightly stretch it. You can use several simple remedies that will help stretch leather shoes at home:

1. Castor or vegetable oil. You should soak the outer and inner surfaces, put on thick socks and boots, and wear for at least 2 hours. This method may leave greasy stains on the shoes, which should be removed as quickly as possible.
2. The inner surface of the boots should be thoroughly rubbed with a candle or Vaseline, avoiding contact with the outside. Then put on a pair and walk for 2-3 hours, after which remove the remaining products with soapy water. This way you can stretch leather shoes in the toe or instep area. For hard heels, pre-treatment with alcohol will be required. If the necessary substances are not at hand, a rich cosmetic cream will replace them.
3. If leather shoes are made of thin material, you should wet the cloth in hot water and apply it to the shoes you are wearing for 1-2 minutes. As soon as the rag begins to cool, lower it into the water again, wring it out thoroughly and repeat the procedure.

You should not apply castor oil or Vaseline to the inner surface of winter or demi-season shoes. In the first case, this will lead to damage to the fur, since it will be extremely difficult to remove the remaining fatty substances from it. In the second, stains form that will make the appearance of the boots unaesthetic, and their removal will require exposure to aggressive detergents, which will definitely not benefit the couple.

Rub with oil inside and out. Wear for at least 2 hours

Rub the inside of the couple with a candle or Vaseline. Wear for 2-3 hours. Clean with soapy water

Using grain

Another way to stretch shoes was invented in the West back in the days of cowboys, but it has not lost its effectiveness even now. Using this method, you can increase the size of a small pair. Answering the question of how to stretch winter shoes one size larger at home, we note that this ancient trick will work here too. You should:

1. Fill uncomfortable shoes with cereals. The better the grain swells, the more suitable it is as a stretcher for shoes. It could be rice, wheat or oatmeal. The latter increases in volume more than others, but requires effort when removing residues.
2. Pour water over the grains so that the liquid covers the grains completely, and leave to swell overnight.
3. After the contents have been removed from the shoe, you should immediately put it on a thin sock and walk for 10-15 minutes.

This method is ideal for stretching high-top boots, since the swollen grains fill it from the inside as evenly as possible. Before stretching winter fur shoes in this way, you should place the grain in a large plastic bag, otherwise the fur inside the warm pair will be damaged. If the slurry does get on the lining, you can remove its remnants with a mild soap solution, after which you must dry the boots.

Fill shoes with cereal, add water and leave overnight

Immediately after removing the grain from the shoes, put on a pair and break in

Faux leather

It is much more difficult to stretch artificial shoes, since this material is rougher than natural leather and does not respond well to external influences. In addition, leatherette becomes unusable when exposed to low temperatures, therefore, more gentle methods should be used. In addition to the most obvious - breaking in a pair with wet thick socks, you can fill it with rags or newspapers soaked in hot water and leave until completely dry. You should carefully fill your shoes so as not to deform them.

Faux leather shoes must be dried away from heating devices, otherwise they will dry out.  If the shoes rub at the heel, the inner surface can be treated with alcohol, then lubricated with paraffin or Vaseline. It should be remembered that stretching shoes made of non-natural material to length will not lead to the desired result, but will only damage it.

Experts know exactly how to stretch narrow, uncomfortable shoes. A product that can be purchased at a specialized store can do this. It is applied to the entire inner surface or to problem areas, then the pair is worn in for half an hour. The procedure is repeated until the desired result is achieved.

Apply a special product

Wear for 30 minutes. If necessary, repeat the procedure

Varnished

Patent leather shoes or boots look impressive, but wearing them if they are too tight is a real pain. The material is capricious and requires careful handling, so it is important to know how to stretch new patent leather shoes without harming them. Gentle methods should be used, but remember that increasing the size is almost impossible due to the structure of the coating.

The easiest and safest way to make your shoes comfortable is to break them in with damp woolen socks. This method will not allow the shoe to stretch in length, but will make it 1-2 mm wider and help it take the shape of the foot.

A reliable method to adapt shoes for comfortable wearing is to stretch tight shoes in a workshop: a professional will definitely not harm the delicate material.

For self-extension, it is best to purchase shoe lasts or one of the shoe stretching sprays. You can also use a folk remedy: take alcohol, cologne or table vinegar and dilute it with water in a ratio of 1:2. Lubricate the inner surface with this liquid, avoiding getting it on the front side, otherwise matte dark spots will appear on it. After applying the composition, you should put on woolen shoes and walk for 1-2 hours. If certain areas of the pair cause discomfort, for example, the instep or ankle area, they can be lubricated from the inside with Vaseline, this will make the skin softer and allow you to wear the product without pain.

A safer way to expand polished shoes is to carefully pour hot water inside, hold for a few seconds, pour out, then break in the steamed shoes. A terry towel pre-heated with a hairdryer will also help: the shoes must be wrapped in it until they cool completely, then put on and wear for at least 30 minutes.

Heating with a hairdryer or freezing water bags inside the boots will not work. The coating may crack or, conversely, begin to bubble. Stretching too aggressively will cause abrasions on the shiny material.

Wear wet wool socks

Contact the workshop

Lubricate your shoes with a water-alcohol solution, put on a sock and walk for 1-2 hours

Individual areas can be coated with Vaseline to soften patent leather

Suede

Suede shoes are capricious and do not like moisture and dust. But if a new pair feels tight or chafing, you can easily stretch it. The safest and most effective method is professional stretching from a shoe specialist. It is dangerous to use pads yourself for fleecy material, since there is a risk of tearing it when tightening the screw.

You can make the product more comfortable by using thick socks soaked in water. They may also be dry, in which case you will have to spray the suede surface of the boots with water from a spray bottle. You can achieve an increase of one size the first time. Before stretching your shoes, you should take into account that the fleecy material wears out a lot and after a while the shoes can become too big.

Hot steam is used to stretch suede shoes. To do this, place the shoes over a household steamer or large pan of boiling water. A few minutes of this treatment is enough to make the material soft and pliable, after which the boots should be put on thick socks and not removed until they cool completely.

It is important to keep shoes at a distance of 10-15 cm from the source of hot steam, otherwise there is a high risk of seams unraveling.

If specific areas are pinched, a wet cloth or newspaper will come to the rescue - you need to place them inside so that when they dry, they press on the desired areas. It is not advisable to use sheets with color printing - printing ink is transferred to the material under the influence of water, and it is extremely difficult to wash it. Drying suede near heat sources is strictly prohibited.

A simple and effective way to stretch is a special aerosol. It is important to choose a product specifically for suede; a spray for natural or artificial leather disrupts the structure of the pile and forms bald spots. The solution must be applied according to the instructions. After waiting the time indicated on the package, you need to remove any remaining liquid from the surface.

It is best to contact a specialist. Moisten the surface of the shoe and put it on with a thick sock.

Stretch suede shoes using wet newspaper

Hold the shoes briefly under a stream of steam Special aerosol for suede

Nubuck

Nubuck is a leather treated with abrasive, which acquires a slightly noticeable nap and retains its natural pattern. If the shoes are tight, you can stretch them in width and length by 1-1.5 cm. It should be taken into account that natural material wears out over time, so a strong impact will cause the pair to sit loosely on your feet.

A shoe specialist can help you safely increase the size and fullness of natural nubuck boots. Most likely, he will use pads, which can also be purchased for independent use.

The store offers a wide selection of specialized stretching agents applied to the inner surface of shoes. After treatment with such substances, you should wear thick socks and walk in boots for 30-40 minutes.

Alcohol or liquids containing it can help, but it is better to use them only on certain areas, such as the heel or instep. Apply a little onto a cotton pad, wipe the desired areas, then put on the shoes and leave them on for 10-15 minutes until the material takes the shape of the foot. It is important to avoid contact with aggressive substances on the outer part of the product to avoid bald spots or discoloration.

It is impossible to use the influence of temperature to stretch the length or width of shoes at home, since nubuck is a capricious material, such methods destroy its structure. The exception is steam treatment.

Special pads Apply a special product to the inner surface of the boot. Then put on a sock and walk around

Wipe problem areas with alcohol and walk for about 15 minutes

Textile

It is much easier to stretch a product made of fabric than one made from other materials, but the force damages the structure, which leads to rapid abrasion. Therefore, the best way is to break the boots in, then they will take the shape of the foot and maintain their integrity. You can speed up the breaking-in process by wearing thick socks or lightly moistening the surface with water. After complete drying, it will become significantly wider and longer.

Steaming will help you safely and quickly make fabric boots more comfortable. Both a steam generator and a pan of boiling water will do. You should hold your shoes under a stream of hot air at a distance of 10-15 cm, then put them on and walk for 20-30 minutes.

An easy way to expand a tight textile pair is to stuff damp newspapers inside. At the same time, it is very important to place filler in shoes so as not to disturb the shape of the product. Otherwise, after the paper dries, bumps or dents will form on the surface of the fabric, and it will be extremely difficult to restore it to its original form.

Put it on a thick sock and moisten it with water. Spray it with steam, then put it on and walk for 30 minutes.

Stuff wet newspaper inside

Rubber and PVC

Many people are concerned about the question of how to stretch rubber shoes at home. Waterproof material cannot be broken down using wool socks or spray treatments. Polyvinyl chloride is much more pliable than rubber, but it also cannot be increased in size using conventional methods.

Exposure to high temperature can help make the plastic material softer and adapt it to the size and fullness of the foot. Shoes should be placed in a deep container and pour boiling water into it. If you need to stretch it in length, the water should reach the top edge of the product. To stretch the toe or ankle area, it is enough that the hot liquid is 1-2 cm above the desired area. After the boiling water has cooled, you need to repeat the procedure again, then pour out the water, put on softened boots on thick terry or woolen socks and lower your feet into the cold liquid. This will allow the rubber to harden into the desired shape based on the characteristics of the foot.

Stretching shoes made of rubber and PVC using mechanical force is not only useless, but also dangerous. Blocks or rounded wooden stretchers can rip through the material. Therefore, turning to a professional to stretch your shoes is useless: no self-respecting master will give guarantees.

Pour boiling water inside

Pour the cooled boiling water, put the boots on a thick sock and lower them into cold water

Effective special products

Based on demand studies, several of the most popular shoe stretches have been identified.

When using a break-in agent, simply apply it to a piece of fabric and work it inside the boots. Spray the spray into your shoes, put on thick socks, then shoes and walk for half an hour.