Ten Low To No Cost Shoe Hacks

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On the JJ Barnes Blog, as a shoe lover with a low budget, I check out the best ten low to no cost shoe hacks so my shoes last longer and look better!

As a writer with a complicated love life and passion for shoes, I’ve often been compared to Carrie Bradshaw, but, unfortunately, that Carrie Bradshaw lifestyle doesn’t exactly fit my not-so-Carrie Bradshaw bank account.

You know that sinking feeling when your favourite shoes start to show signs of wear and tear? I decided to explore the world of low-to-no-cost shoe hacks; simple and cost-effective measures, you can keep your favourite shoes looking and feeling fresher for longer.  With a little creativity and these handy tips, you can extend the life of your favorite footwear and keep them looking fabulous, all without blowing your budget.

To help me out, Gabriel Miller from Gatsby Shoes sent over ten game-changing shoe hacks.

Ten Low To No Cost Shoe Hacks

1.     Extra Laces

Keep your sneakers looking fresh by having spare shoe laces on hand. Toss your dirty laces in with your regular laundry load for a quick clean-up, and swap them out with the fresh ones. It’s an easy way to elevate the look of your shoes without going through the trouble of a whole-shoe clean.

People are always surprised how much of a difference clean laces make.

-Gabriel Miller

2.     Expand Tight Shoes

Say goodbye to pinched toes with this cool trick. Fill a plastic baggie with water, seal it tightly, and place it inside your too-tight shoes. Pop them in the freezer overnight, and as the water freezes and expands, so will your shoes! 

An extra benefit to this tip is that a freezer helps neutralise odours. It’s a great two-in-one solution.

-Gabriel Miller

3.     Toothpaste Clean 

Brighten up your kicks with a little dental magic! Reach for whitening toothpaste (the same stuff that makes your smile sparkle) to clean white surfaces on your shoes. Grab an extra toothbrush and really scrub it in for maximum effect. It’s a simple yet surprisingly effective way to keep your shoes looking brand new.

White shoes are such a simple way to elevate any outfit, but if they’re dirty, they have the opposite effect.

-Gabriel Miller

4.     Pencil Eraser To Erase Stains

Are your suede shoes looking a little worse for wear? Don’t fret – the solution might be in your desk drawer! Grab a pencil eraser and gently rub away scuffs and stains on suede surfaces. Pair it with a soft brush to keep the fibres in line, and soon your shoes will look as good as new without the need for expensive cleaners.

Don’t shy away from suede because of the tricky upkeep. It only takes a little bit of effort to keep these shoes looking nice, and the classic style is so worth it.

-Gabriel Miller

5.     Break In Shoes With A Hair Dryer

New shoes, no blisters! Before stepping out in those fresh heels, give them a gentle heat treatment with a hair dryer. Slip on some socks to protect your skin, then aim the dryer at the tight spots, like the toes and heels. The heat will help the shoes expand, ensuring a comfortable fit from the first wear.

6.     Tea Time

Banish shoe odours with a simple pantry staple – tea bags! Pop one or two tea bags into your smelly shoes to absorb moisture and neutralise odours. Whether you prefer black, green, or herbal tea, you can choose a scent that suits your fancy. It’s a natural and budget-friendly way to keep your shoes smelling fresh and clean.

Don’t accept that shoes are inherently smelly. This is an easy fix that will have your shoes, your feet, and your home smelling much better.

-Gabriel Miller

7.     Baby Powder

Keep moisture at bay with a sprinkle of baby powder. This hack works wonders for shoes like ballet flats or other shoes where socks aren’t required and therefore attract moisture more easily. Just dust some baby powder inside your shoes or on your feet to absorb excess moisture and keep your feet feeling fresh all day long.

8.     Vinegar Solution For Salt Stains

Don’t let salt stains ruin your favourite leather shoes. Mix two parts water with one part white vinegar, then use a cloth or sponge to dab away those pesky stains. The vinegar helps dissolve the salt without harming the leather, leaving your shoes looking spotless.

Make sure the vinegar is properly diluted with water, since using vinegar alone can be harsh on leather and break it down over time.

-Gabriel Miller

9.     Rubber Bands For Loose Straps

If the straps on your sandals or heels are constantly slipping, grab some small rubber bands. Loop a rubber band around the buckle before securing it to add extra friction and keep the straps in place all day long.

10.   Sock Trick For Rainy Days

Keep your feet dry on rainy days with the sock trick. Before putting on your canvas sneakers or any other fabric shoes, slip on a pair of thin plastic bags over your socks. This makeshift waterproof layer will help keep your feet dry while you navigate through puddles and rain-soaked streets. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to pricey waterproof shoes, ensuring your kicks stay looking stylish no matter the weather. 

Gatsby Shoes

At Gatsby Shoes, you can purchase high-quality leather shoes crafted by professional shoemakers. They offer a range of business casual options known for their comfort and durability. Customers can enjoy benefits such as fast-tracked shipping, a 30-day guarantee, and regular discounts by subscribing to the Gatsby Shoes newsletter.

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