Article brought to use by: Brand House Direct website
Footwear expert reveals simple tricks to save parents hundreds on replacement shoes
Key Points:
- Footwear expert shares six practical hacks that will help children’s school shoes last the entire academic year
- Simple methods like rotating pairs and proper storage can double the lifespan of school shoes
- Expert explains why teaching kids to unlace properly and using household items like newspaper can prevent costly replacements
The school run can be tough on shoes. Between puddle-jumping, playground football, and the daily dash to class, it’s no wonder parents find themselves buying replacement pairs by the time half term arrives.
But according to Leanna Spektor, Co-Founder and Style Expert at Brand House Direct, a leading Australian online footwear retailer, most school shoes fail early due to preventable wear and tear rather than poor quality.
“Parents often think they need to spend more money on ‘indestructible’ shoes, but the truth is that a few simple maintenance habits can make any decent pair last the whole school year,” says Leanna, who brings over 20 years of footwear industry experience. “And they take next to no time at all, just small changes that make a big difference.”
Below, Leanna shares six tried-and-tested hacks that will help parents protect their investment and keep kids comfortable all year long.
6 Easy Hacks to Stop Your Kid’s School Shoes from Falling Apart
1. Rotate Between Two Pairs
If you can stretch the budget, buying two pairs at the start of the term is one of the smartest investments you can make. Alternating between them gives each pair time to dry out completely between wears, which prevents the breakdown of materials and reduces odor.
“Shoes need at least 24 hours to fully dry and recover their shape,” explains Leanna. “When kids wear the same pair every day, moisture gets trapped inside, which weakens the glue, damages the insole, and creates the perfect environment for bacteria.”
2. Apply Waterproof Spray Before The First Wear
Before your child even steps out in their new shoes, give them a protective coating with a waterproof spray. This creates a barrier against rain, mud, and spills that would otherwise soak into the material.
“This is especially important for leather and suede shoes,” says Leanna. “Water damage is one of the main reasons school shoes deteriorate quickly. A quick spray every few weeks keeps them looking newer for longer.”
3. Teach Kids To Unlace Properly
It might seem minor, but the way children remove their shoes has a massive impact on how long they last. Kicking shoes off without unlacing them stretches the heel counter and loosens the structure.
“Show your kids how to loosen the laces properly before sliding their feet out. It takes an extra five seconds but can add months to the shoe’s life,” Leanna advises.
4. Stuff Shoes With Newspaper Overnight
After a rainy day or PE lesson, stuff damp shoes with crumpled newspaper. The paper absorbs moisture and odors while helping the shoes keep their shape.
“Never put wet shoes near a radiator or heater, as the heat can crack leather and melt adhesives,” warns Leanna. “Newspaper is a simple, effective solution that parents have used for generations because it works.”
5. Store Shoes In A Dry, Ventilated Space
Where you keep school shoes matters more than you might think. Damp areas like porches or garages encourage mold growth and cause materials to break down faster.
“A shoe rack in a hallway or bedroom is ideal. Good airflow prevents moisture buildup and keeps shoes fresh,” says Leanna.
6. Clean Scuffs And Mud Regularly
A quick wipe-down after school prevents dirt from becoming ingrained. For leather shoes, use a damp cloth and occasionally apply leather conditioner. For fabric shoes, a soft brush works wonders.
“You want to be cleaning them a little, but often. Leaving mud to dry and harden makes it much harder to remove and can permanently stain or damage the material,” Leanna notes.
Leanna Spektor, Co-Founder and Style Expert at Brand House Direct, commented:
“These hacks work because they address the main reasons school shoes fail: moisture damage, structural stress, and neglect. When shoes are given time to dry and recover between wears, when they’re protected from the elements, and when small maintenance tasks become routine, they can easily last an entire school year.
“Getting kids involved in shoe care is also valuable. Teaching them to unlace properly or wipe their shoes after school instills good habits that will serve them well into adulthood. Plus, when children understand why these steps matter, they’re more likely to take ownership of looking after their belongings.”
About Brand House Direct
Brand House Direct is a leading Australian online retailer specializing in footwear, apparel, and accessories. With over 5,000 products from more than 80 international brands, the company delivers great value through competitive pricing, fast shipping, and customer-first support. Leanna Spektor, Co-Founder of Brand House Direct, brings over 20 years of experience in the footwear industry. As the company’s resident style expert, she oversees product selection and curation, providing trend insights that shape Brand House Direct’s collections.
Article brought to use by: Brand House Direct website
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