How To Make Doc Martens Stop Squeaking: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’ve just bought a shiny new pair of Doc Martens only to be irritated by the loud squeaking sounds they make, you’re not alone. This is a common issue with new Doc Martens boots and shoes, but thankfully, it’s easy to fix.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to stop the squeaking: Rub a thin layer of beeswax or petroleum jelly on the soles. This will lubricate the rubber and stop the friction that causes the squeaking.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go over several easy DIY solutions for stopping squeaky Doc Martens, from homemade remedies you can whip up at home to commercial products made specifically for this purpose.
We’ll also cover when to apply these solutions for maximum effectiveness and provide tips to prevent squeaking from coming back.
Understand What Causes Squeaking in Doc Martens
Doc Martens are known for their durability and iconic style, but one common issue that wearers often encounter is squeaking. Understanding the causes of this squeaking can help you find effective solutions to eliminate the noise and enjoy your shoes in peace.
Here are two key factors that contribute to the squeaking in Doc Martens:
The Rigid Rubber Soles
One of the primary reasons why Doc Martens may squeak is due to the nature of their rigid rubber soles. While these soles offer excellent traction and durability, they can produce friction and noise when they come into contact with certain surfaces.
This is especially true when walking on smooth or polished floors. The squeaking sound is a result of the rubber sole gripping the surface and creating vibrations.
To alleviate this issue, you can try applying a small amount of talcum powder or cornstarch to the soles of your shoes. This helps to reduce friction and absorb moisture, which can contribute to the squeaking.
Another option is to use a specialized rubber sole conditioner, which can soften the rubber and minimize the noise.
Breaking in New Docs
Another common cause of squeaking in Doc Martens is the breaking-in process. As with any new pair of shoes, it takes time for the leather and other materials to mold to the shape of your feet and become more flexible.
During this period, friction can occur between different components of the shoe, resulting in squeaking sounds.
To speed up the breaking-in process and reduce squeaking, there are a few techniques you can try. First, wear thick socks when initially breaking in your Doc Martens to provide extra cushioning and reduce friction.
You can also try bending and flexing the shoe with your hands to help loosen the materials. Additionally, applying a leather conditioner or moisturizer can soften the leather and make it more pliable.
Remember, patience is key when breaking in new Doc Martens. With time and consistent wear, the squeaking should diminish as the shoes become more comfortable and conform to your feet’s shape.
For more information on caring for your Doc Martens, you can visit the official Doc Martens website here.
Home Remedies to Stop the Squeak
Use Beeswax or Petroleum Jelly
If you’re tired of the annoying squeak coming from your beloved Doc Martens, fret not! There are several home remedies that can help silence those squeaky shoes. One effective method is to use beeswax or petroleum jelly.
These substances work by lubricating the areas where the sole meets the upper part of the shoe, reducing friction and eliminating the squeak. Simply apply a small amount of beeswax or petroleum jelly to the affected areas and gently rub it in.
Not only will this remedy stop the squeak, but it will also help to condition the leather, keeping your shoes in excellent shape for years to come.
Try Baby Powder
If you’re looking for a quick and easy solution to silence your squeaky Doc Martens, baby powder may be the answer. Baby powder is known for its absorbent properties, which can help reduce friction and eliminate squeaking sounds.
Simply sprinkle a small amount of baby powder into your shoes, focusing on the areas where the squeak is coming from. Then, give your shoes a good shake to distribute the powder evenly. The baby powder will absorb moisture and reduce friction, effectively stopping the annoying squeak.
Plus, your shoes will smell fresh and clean!
Rub With Bar Soap
Another simple yet effective home remedy to stop the squeak in your Doc Martens is to use bar soap. Rubbing a bar of soap on the areas where the shoe is squeaking can help lubricate the leather and reduce friction, eliminating the noise.
Take a dry bar of soap and rub it directly onto the affected areas, making sure to cover the entire surface. Allow the soap to penetrate the leather for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.
Not only will this remedy silence the squeak, but it will also leave your shoes smelling fresh and clean.
Apply Vegetable Oil
If you’re in a pinch and don’t have any of the above remedies on hand, you can try using vegetable oil to stop the squeak in your Doc Martens. Vegetable oil is a natural lubricant that can help reduce friction and eliminate the annoying noise.
Apply a small amount of vegetable oil to a clean cloth and gently rub it onto the squeaky areas of your shoes. Be sure to wipe off any excess oil to avoid leaving stains on your shoes. This quick fix will help silence the squeak and get you back to enjoying your comfortable and stylish Doc Martens.
Remember, these home remedies are great temporary fixes for squeaky Doc Martens. If the squeak persists or worsens, it may be a sign of a more serious issue with your shoes, and it’s best to consult a professional shoe repair specialist.
Commercial Anti-Squeak Products
Doc Martens Wonder Balsam
One popular commercial product that can help eliminate squeaking in Doc Martens is the Doc Martens Wonder Balsam. This specially formulated balsam is designed to condition and protect leather footwear, including Doc Martens.
Not only does it nourish the leather, but it also helps to reduce friction and eliminate squeaking. Simply apply a small amount of the balsam to a clean cloth and gently massage it into the leather. Allow it to dry overnight, and you’ll notice a significant reduction in squeaking.
Plus, the Wonder Balsam also helps to maintain the durability and longevity of your shoes, making it a great investment for any Doc Martens owner.
Shoe Goo
Another product that can be effective in stopping squeaks in Doc Martens is Shoe Goo. This adhesive and sealant is commonly used for repairing and protecting shoes, including Doc Martens. Its strong bonding abilities can help to secure loose parts of the shoe that may be causing the squeaking.
To use Shoe Goo, simply apply a small amount to the area where the squeaking is coming from and let it dry completely. The adhesive properties of Shoe Goo will help to eliminate the squeak and provide a long-lasting fix.
However, it’s important to note that Shoe Goo may alter the appearance of your shoes, so use it with caution.
Silicone Sprays
Silicone sprays are another option to consider when trying to eliminate squeaking in Doc Martens. These sprays are designed to lubricate and reduce friction on various surfaces, including leather. By applying a thin layer of silicone spray to the inner and outer parts of your Doc Martens, you can significantly reduce squeaking caused by friction between different materials.
Silicone sprays are easy to use and can provide quick relief from annoying squeaks. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the product label and apply the spray in a well-ventilated area.
When using any commercial anti-squeak product on your Doc Martens, it’s always a good idea to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage or discolor the leather. Additionally, it’s important to remember that these products may not completely eliminate all squeaking, especially if the issue is caused by structural problems or excessive wear and tear.
In such cases, it may be necessary to seek professional shoe repair or consider replacing your shoes.
When to Apply Squeak Solutions
If you’ve recently purchased a pair of Doc Martens, you may experience a common issue: squeaky shoes. The iconic leather boots are known for their durability and style, but the squeaking can be quite annoying.
Fortunately, there are solutions available to help you eliminate the squeak and enjoy your boots in peace.
1. New Shoes:
If you’ve just bought a brand new pair of Doc Martens, it’s not uncommon for them to squeak a bit at first. This is usually because the leather needs to be broken in and the sole may need some time to settle.
Give your new shoes a chance to mold to your feet and the squeaking should gradually subside over time. In the meantime, you can try some quick fixes to minimize the noise.
2. Wet Conditions:
Wearing your Doc Martens in wet conditions can sometimes lead to squeaking. Moisture can get trapped in the soles or other parts of the shoe, causing friction and squeaking. If you’ve been walking in the rain or through puddles, it’s a good idea to dry your shoes thoroughly before wearing them again.
You can use a towel or newspaper to absorb the moisture and leave them in a well-ventilated area to air-dry. This should help alleviate the squeaking.
3. Loosened Components:
Over time, certain components of your Doc Martens may become slightly loose, leading to squeaking. Check the laces, eyelets, and any other fasteners on your boots to make sure they are securely tightened. If you notice any loose parts, try tightening them to see if it resolves the issue.
If necessary, you can also apply a small amount of shoe glue or adhesive to secure any loose components.
4. Insoles and Socks:
Sometimes, the squeaking may be caused by the interaction between your shoes and the insoles or socks you’re wearing. If you’re using removable insoles, try removing them and walking around in your Doc Martens without them. This can help determine if the insoles are the source of the squeak.
Additionally, wearing thicker socks or using anti-friction products like talcum powder or baby powder can help reduce the squeaking noise.
Remember, every pair of shoes is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Don’t be discouraged if the first solution you try doesn’t eliminate the squeak completely. Keep experimenting with different methods until you find what works best for you.
And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional shoe repair shop for further assistance.
Tips to Prevent Squeaking from Coming Back
After successfully fixing the squeaking issue in your Doc Martens, you want to make sure it doesn’t return. Here are some tips to prevent the squeaking from coming back:
Apply Regularly
One of the best ways to prevent your Doc Martens from squeaking again is to apply a good quality shoe conditioner or leather oil regularly. This helps to keep the leather soft and supple, reducing friction and preventing squeaking.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and frequency.
Store Properly
Proper storage is crucial in preventing your Doc Martens from squeaking. Avoid leaving them in damp or humid areas, as moisture can cause the leather to swell and create noise when walking. Store your boots in a cool, dry place, preferably in a shoe box or a shoe bag to protect them from dust and potential damage.
This will help maintain the condition of the leather and prevent squeaking.
Wear Thick Socks
If you find that your Doc Martens tend to squeak more when you’re wearing thin socks or no socks at all, try wearing thicker socks. The extra layer of padding can help absorb the friction and reduce squeaking.
Plus, thick socks can provide additional comfort and cushioning for your feet, making your Doc Martens even more enjoyable to wear.
By following these tips, you can keep your Doc Martens squeak-free and enjoy the comfort and style they provide. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to squeaky shoes!
Conclusion
Squeaky Doc Martens can be annoying, but thankfully the solution is simple. With regular applications of beeswax, petroleum jelly or other household items, you can safely lubricate the soles and stop the squeaking for good.
Pay special attention after the break-in period and before/after wearing your Docs in wet weather. Follow these tips, and you can enjoy your Doc Martens in peace and quiet.
