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How to Unshrink Rubber Shoes

Are your favorite pair of rubber shoes feeling too tight? Has the material shrunk from washing, or lack thereof? Have you tried everything to get them back to their original size and shape but had no luck so far? You are not alone! Many people have found themselves in similar situations, desperately searching for a way to unshrink rubber shoes. Well don’t worry – we are here with step-by-step instructions that will help restore your beloved footwear back to its original glory. So if you’re ready, let’s learn how to unshrink rubber shoes!

How to Unshrink Rubber Shoes

If you’ve ever had the misfortune of shrinking your rubber shoes in the washing machine, you may have felt defeated and convinced that there is no way to get them back to their former glory. But fear not! It is possible with a bit of elbow grease and patience—to unshrink those rubber shoes so they fit comfortably again. Read on for our step-by-step guide on it, so you can put those shrunken monstrosities back in use with ease.

Why Do You Need to Unshrink Rubber Shoes?

There are many reasons why you may need to unshrink rubber shoes. Such as:

1. To Avoid Stretching Out

One of the reasons why you may need to unshrink rubber shoes is because they can become stretched out over time and it can be difficult to walk in them. So if you want to avoid the pain and hassle of having to buy a new pair, it is important that you learn about unshrinking rubber shoes.

2. To Remove Odor

Another reason why you may need to unshrink rubber shoes is that they can develop an odor over time and no matter how much you clean them, the odor will not go away. So if you want to remove the odor, then you must have to unshrink your shoes.

3. To Prevent Cracks and Water Damage

If you do not unshrink your rubber shoes, then they can start to develop cracks or even begin to get water damage over time. So if you want to prevent this type of damage from happening, you should unshrink your shoes.

Unshrink Your Rubber Shoes

9 Ideas on How to Unshrink Rubber Shoes

1. Soak Your Rubber Shoes in Warm Water

If your rubber shoes have shrunk due to exposure to extreme heat or cold, the best way to unshrink them is by soaking them in warm water. Simply fill a large basin or bucket with lukewarm water, and then submerge your rubber shoes in the water for at least 30 minutes. The warmth of the water will help relax the rubber, allowing it to return to its original size.

2. Scrub Your Rubber Shoes with a Soft Cloth

Once your rubber shoes have been soaked in warm water, you can gently scrub them with a soft cloth or sponge to help break up any remaining gunk or debris that may be causing the shrinkage. This will also help prevent water spots or stains on the rubber.

3. Apply Shoe Stretch Sprays to Your Rubber Shoes

If you don’t have time to soak your rubber shoes in warm water, another option is to apply a shoe stretch spray directly onto their surface. These sprays contain chemicals that temporarily expand and soften materials, so they can be a great way to unshrink any rubber shoes. Simply spray the surface of your rubber shoes, and let them dry completely before you wear them again.

4. Place Your Rubber Shoes in an Oven

Another method that many people use to unshrink their rubber shoes is by placing them inside an oven set at a low temperature. This extra heat will help to soften the rubber, making it easier for you to stretch and mold it back into its original shape. Simply place your rubber shoes inside a baking dish, and then put them in the oven for about 30 minutes at 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius).

Rubber Shoes Inside a Baking Dish

5. Put Your Rubber Shoes on Your Feet

One of the easiest ways to help unshrink rubber shoes is simply to wear them. This will allow your body heat to soften and loosen the material, which can make it much easier for you to stretch and manipulate it back into its original shape. So put on your rubber shoes, and try walking around in them a bit—you may be surprised at how much they’ll start to stretch out!

6. Fill Your Rubber Shoes with Newspaper

Another trick that you can use to unshrink your rubber shoes is by filling them with newspaper or other lightweight materials. This will help to expand and loosen the material, making it easier for you to stretch and shape it back into its original form. Simply pack your rubber shoes full of newspaper or other materials, and then wear them around until they gradually start to stretch out.

7. Use a Hair Dryer to Melt Your Rubber Shoes

If you have access to a hair dryer, you can also use it to help unshrink and soften your rubber shoes. Simply hold the dryer a few inches away from your shoes, and aim it at their surface to gently melt and soften the material. This is a quick and easy way to help stretch out your rubber shoes, but you do need to be careful not to damage them by overheating them too much.

8. Apply Heat with an Iron to Your Rubber Shoes

If you don’t have access to a hair dryer or other heat source, you can also try using an iron to unshrink your rubber shoes. Simply place a towel between the surface of your rubber shoes and the iron, then hold the iron directly against them as it is heating up. This will help expand and loosen the material, making it much easier for you to stretch and shape your shoes back into their original form.

9. Wear Your Rubber Shoes in the Rain

Another simple trick that you can use to unshrink your rubber shoes is simply to wear them outdoors in the rain. The moisture from the rain will help soften and loosen the material, allowing you to stretch and shape it back into its original form more easily. So if you have a chance, slip on your rubber shoes and head out into the rain for a few minutes to help them stretch back to their original size!

Wear Them Outdoors
in the Rain

Frequently Asked Questions

What Precautions Should be Taken When Unshrinking Rubber Shoes?

There are a few important precautions that you should take when unshrinking rubber shoes. First, make sure to use gentle heat instead of high heat, as this can damage the rubber material and cause your shoes to become warped or discolored. 

Second, be sure to work in a well-ventilated area, as the chemicals used in the unshrinking process can be toxic if inhaled. Finally, it’s important to take your time when unshrinking rubber shoes to ensure that you get optimal results. By following these tips, you can successfully unshrink your rubber shoes and enjoy them for many years to come!

Should I Use High or Low Heat to Unshrink Rubber Shoes?

The best way to unshrink rubber shoes is to use low heat, as high heat can damage the material and cause the shoes to warp or become discolored. Low heat also helps prevent any unpleasant odors from forming during the unshrinking process. 

If you’re worried about damaging your shoes with low heat, you can also try soaking them in a solution of warm water and vinegar before placing them in the dryer. This will help loosen up the rubber material and make it easier to unshrink your shoes without overheating them.

How Can I Make Sure My Rubber Shoes Don’t Develop Unpleasant Odors?

There are a few simple steps that you can take to help prevent odors from forming when unshrinking rubber shoes. First, be sure to work in a well-ventilated area, as the chemicals used in this process can be toxic if inhaled. 

Additionally, try using mild detergent and cold water when washing your shoes before placing them in the dryer, as this can help remove any odors that have already formed. Finally, if you notice any unpleasant odors while unshrinking your shoes, be sure to let them air out thoroughly before wearing them again. By taking these precautions, you can successfully unshrink your rubber shoes and enjoy them for many years to come!

Unshrink Your Rubber Shoes and Enjoy Them

Conclusion

If your shoes are too tight and you don’t have time to stretch them out, there’s an easy way to get some extra wiggle room. boiling them for a few minutes will do the trick! Just be careful not to leave them in the water for too long, or you’ll end up with some well-done rubber shoes. Now that you know how to unshrink rubber shoes, you can go ahead and buy that pair that’s been taunting you in the store window.

If your shoes are looking a little too small, don’t despair! With this easy process, you can unshrink them back to their original size. All you need is some water and baby powder. So the next time your shoes are feeling a little tight, try this quick fix and get them fitting like new again.