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How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking – Reliable Fixes

By: Author Dan Concord

You’re all dressed up for a fancy occasion, and heads turn as you walk down the hall. Is it because of how great you look? No, it’s because your new leather shoes are squeaking. How do you stop leather shoes from squeaking? I will cover some reliable fixes that should get turning heads for the right reasons.

How to stop leather shoes from squeaking is using various techniques to prevent leather footwear from making high-pitched noises while walking. Squeaks in leather shoes are caused by friction, flexion, or wet surfaces and can be prevented using simple techniques or a professional cobbler.

Do you have a new pair of leather shoes or boots that are squeaking and want to make them stop? Are you bothered by older leather shoes that have started squeaking but don’t know how to fix them? Let’s explore some reliable fixes for how to stop leather shoes from squeaking.

What Is Stopping Leather Shoes From Squeaking?

Stopping leather shoes from squeaking is preventing leather footwear from making loud, high-pitched noises using various methods. Leather shoes squeak due to many reasons including:

  1. Friction from shoelaces on the tongue
  2. New leather flexing
  3. Wet floors
  4. How the shoes are made
  5. Rubber soles wearing down
  6. Thick insoles stretching and moving
  7. Tight leather stitching

What We’ll Explore

  • Clearing up Myths & Misconceptions
  • Reasons You Might Choose to Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking
  • Variations or Styles of How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking
  • How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking Overview Table
  • Skill Level of How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking
  • Tools and Supplies Needed To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking
  • How to Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking Step by Step
  • How to Get Better at Stopping Leather Shoes From Squeaking
  • My Personal Research on How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking
  • Helpful Insights on How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking
  • Key Takeaways
Applying Conditioner to a Black Leather Shoe - How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking - Liberty Leather Goods
Applying Conditioner to a Black Leather Shoe

Clearing Up Myths & Misconceptions

Some may believe that leather shoes only squeak when they are brand new. However, this is a misconception because leather can squeak if there is a point of friction or motion. It’s also been said that leather shoes squeak because they need to break in. This may be true in some cases, but usually, it’s because there’s friction or articulation that needs to be addressed. 

Reasons You Might Choose To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking

Leather shoes and boots are great for fashion and function, but sometimes they squeak, and frankly, it’s annoying. One might choose to make the squeaking stop for several reasons, including:

  1. Leather shoes are loud or disruptive
  2. Leather shoes are wet or dirty 
  3. To wear them for a special occasion 

Variations or Styles of How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking

There are several variations of getting leather shoes to stop squeaking, and all are pretty easy. The method one chooses usually depends on the type of shoe squeaking. Here are the most common ways of stopping leather shoes from squeaking:

  1. Talcum powder (baby powder)
  2. Saddle soap
  3. Leather conditioner
  4. Cleaning and conditioning
  5. Sandpaper (120 grit)
  6. Professional cobbler

How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking Overview Table

Area of PreparationDetails
TechniqueStopping Leather Shoes From Squeaking
Overall Level of Skill (1–5)2
Time to Complete (minutes/hours)15 minutes–1 hour
Workspace NeededMinimal
Skills NeededBasic leather skills
Tools and Supplies NeededTalcum powder, saddle soap, leather conditioner, 120-grit sandpaper, leather cleaner, microfiber towels, or old t-shirts
Key Helpful TipUse moderation with supplies.
How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking

Skill Level of How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking

Stopping leather shoes from squeaking may not be the most challenging, but it does take some time and investigation. It is also helpful to have some knowledge regarding basic leather care. Different factors can contribute to squeaks, so finding the culprit can take a little skill. 

Then it comes down to which method one uses and doing it right while keeping the leather and shoes in good shape. One is likely to avoid damaging leather shoes with any method, but using too much of a product to silence squeaks is possible. No harm, just a bit more cleanup.

Any leather shoes can squeak, old and new, sneakers and sandals, even boots and clogs.

Tools and Supplies Needed To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking

The great thing is that most of the variations of stopping leather shoes from squeaking the supplies are probably already in the home. Depending on the route chosen, here’s what one needs to fix any leather squeak:

  1. Talcum powder (baby powder)
  2. Saddle soap
  3. Leather conditioner
  4. 120 grit sandpaper
  5. Leather cleaner
  6. Microfiber towels or old T-shirts

Always use any supplies in moderation to prevent a mess. However, none of these methods should damage the leather, and a little excess can be cleaned up fairly easily.

How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking Step by Step

Many locations within leather shoes can cause squeaking, so there are several ways to make them stop. The first step is to investigate the leather shoe or boot to see if the location of the squeak can be pinpointed. Once established, a targeted treatment method can be used, but if it’s not located, a thorough treatment can be done. Here’s how to stop leather shoes from squeaking step by step using talcum powder:

  1. Remove the shoelaces and insoles, if they’re not attached
  2. Sprinkle a couple of tablespoons of talcum powder into the shoe
  3. Shake the powder around the inside of the leather shoe to coat all surfaces and shake out the excess
  4. Use a proper leather cleaner to clean the leather shoes
  5. Allow the shoes to air dry
  6. Apply leather conditioner to all areas of the shoes, including the tongue where it meets the inside of the leather upper (under the eyelets).

Check out this helpful video from Soundproof Guide demonstrating nine ways to stop leather shoes from squeaking.

How To Get Better at Stopping Leather Shoes From Squeaking

Although a great deal of detailed work and testing goes into processing leather and making leather shoes, flex resistance only tests for cracks and deterioration rather than squeaks, according to Maina, Ollengo, and Nthiga, published in the International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications. So getting better at stopping leather shoes from squeaking comes with repetition. 

Any leather shoes can squeak, old and new, sneakers and sandals, even boots and clogs. With every new pair, there’s the possibility of a squeak, and with every old pair, there’s the possibility a squeak could develop over time. So keep wearing those leather shoes and try different methods for stopping squeaks, and it will get easier.

My Personal Research on How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking

It can be frustrating to try and figure out where (and why) some leather shoes squeak, and some don’t, or why one shoe will squeak, and the other doesn’t. These are the most common reasons that cause leather shoes to squeak and what usually causes the problem:

Leather Shoe TypeReason for Squeaking
Leather shoes and boots with lacesMotion between the tongue and the eyelets to prevent rubbing the top of the foot
Leather shoes and boots with overlapping piecesLeather pieces are usually sewn together and may overlap in some cases. These pieces can articulate or rub, leaving the potential for a squeak.
Leather shoes with an insole that isn’t sewn in properlyMotion and friction
Wet leather shoesWet surfaces and rubber soles 
Leather shoes that flex and stretchMay resolve once broken in
Why Leather Shoes Squeak

Helpful Insights On How To Stop Leather Shoes From Squeaking

How do I stop my shoes from squeaking when I walk?

There are a few ways to stop squeaky shoes while walking. One method is sprinkling baby powder or talcum powder inside the shoes and spreading it throughout or washing them with saddle soap. Also, cleaning with a leather cleaner and then conditioning the material well after it has thoroughly dried is another way to stop leather shoes from squeaking while walking.

What is the best product to stop leather from squeaking?

Baby powder or talcum powder is the best method for stopping leather from squeaking. Sprinkling this on the insides of shoes, around seams of leather jackets, or anywhere leather overlaps or touches will stop squeaking. All it takes is a light sprinkling of baby powder to prevent friction.

Does WD-40 stop leather shoes from squeaking?

Although WD-40 is a product that may be able to stop leather shoes from squeaking (and many other things), it is not recommended for use on leather. Petroleum-based greases and oils like WD-40 can cause gradual unseen leather damage and should not be used to stop leather shoes from squeaking.

Key Takeaways

  1. Squeaks in leather shoes can usually be resolved with everyday supplies around the home.
  2. Use moderation with any substance used to resolve squeaks in leather shoes.
  3. When in doubt, consult with a leather cobbler to locate and fix any squeaks in leather shoes.

In Closing

Squeaks can come from many places in leather shoes and boots; sometimes, all it takes is some leather conditioner or a good cleaning. Keep in mind squeaks come from friction, so investigate those locations first. Once the squeak has been located and treated with simple remedies, one can walk in quiet peace. 

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