How-To Guides
How to Fix Flip Flops: Broken Straps, Pulled-Out Plugs and Worn Soles
Push a pulled-out toe plug back through and lock it with a bread clip or washer. Re-glue snapped straps with flexible adhesive. Quick and lasting fixes.
CC Discovery Editorial Team
The CC Discovery Editorial Team researches, writes and updates every footwear guide on this site. We compare manufacturer specifications, sizing data and care instructions, and we revisit each guide when shoe models or advice change. We do not accept payment for product placement.
Casual & Formal
How to Hide Shoelaces: 5 Clean Ways to Lace Sneakers
Hide shoelaces by tying the knot under the tongue, tucking the ends down the sides, using straight bar lacing, or switching to no-tie elastic laces.
How-To Guides
How to Get Tar Off Shoes Without Ruining Them
Harden the tar with ice, scrape it off with a blunt edge, then dissolve the residue with cooking oil or WD-40 and wash with dish soap. Steps by shoe material.
How-To Guides
How to Clean UGG Slippers and Other Sheepskin Slippers
Brush the suede, clean it gently with cool water and a sheepskin cleaner, wipe the wool lining, then stuff and air dry. Never machine wash sheepskin slippers.
How-To Guides
How to Wash Slippers by Material: Cotton, Fleece, Suede, Sheepskin and Leather
Check the care label first. Cotton and fleece slippers can be machine washed cold; suede, sheepskin and leather must be cleaned by hand. Steps for each type.
Casual & Formal
How to Tie Dress Shoes So They Stay Tied and Look Neat
Tie dress shoes with a balanced reef-knot bow: left over right, then loop wrapped the opposite way so the bow sits flat across the shoe and does not come undone.
How-To Guides
How to Make Shoes Smaller: 8 Ways to Fix Shoes That Are Too Big
Insoles, heel grips, tongue pads and thicker socks can make shoes fit up to about half a size smaller. What works for each type of shoe, and what does not.
How-To Guides
How to Get Grass Stains Out of Shoes (4 Methods)
Treat grass stains quickly with dish soap, white vinegar, laundry detergent or baking soda paste. Which method to use for canvas, mesh, leather and suede.
Casual & Formal
How to Clean Suede Shoes Without Damaging Them
Let suede dry, brush it in one direction, rub marks with a suede eraser, and treat stains with white vinegar. Never soak suede. Full steps by stain type.
How-To Guides
How to Stop Shoes From Squeaking: Find the Cause, Then Fix It
Squeaky shoes are usually caused by a loose insole, trapped moisture, or a smooth sole on a hard floor. Find where the noise comes from and fix it fast.