Editor’s Note: This post has been updated and revised for accuracy on April 2022 and reflects up-to-date information on how to stop shoes from squeaking.
Do your kids’ shoes keep making a weird sound every time they walk? Are you planning on buying another pair of shoes for your child because they keep making a squeaky sound? Let me show you how to solve this issue before you jump the gun and decide to replace your kids’ shoes.
Squeaky shoes can be annoying and create embarrassment for both children and adults. Fortunately, there is a way to get rid of that annoying squeaky sound and this method works for adult shoes as well. Never get rid of a pair of shoes because they squeak!
While there can be several reasons for your kids’ shoes squeaking, one of the main reasons a shoe squeaks is because the shoe is either too long or too wide, and you can get rid of the annoying sounds by simply providing your child with the correct shoe size. However, if you recently purchased a pair of shoes that make a squeaky sound, there are ways you can get rid of the annoying sound.
My Experience Fitting Children’s Shoes
I know this because I have been fitting children’s shoes and orthotics for the last 10 years, working for a specialized children’s shoe store that focuses on children with foot and leg problems, but we provide regular shoe fittings as well. Over the years I became familiar with the best shoe hacks.
Let me get into more detail about the reasons behind squeaky shoes and the most effective and proven methods on how to stop shoes from squeaking.
Are Your Kids’ Shoes Squeaking? – The 4 Most Common Reasons
✅ The primary cause of squeaky shoes is wearing shoes that are too long or too wide. As mentioned before, shoes that are too long or too wide are a direct cause of squeaky shoes. You must always make sure that you provide your child with the correct shoe size, since in addition to the shoes making a noise, wearing the wrong shoe size can lead to all sorts of foot issues such as blisters, calluses, and corns.
If you are unsure of what your child’s foot size is, start by reading an article I wrote where I describe the simplest, yet most effective way to figure out your child’s foot size from home:
How to Measure Your Kids’ Foot – 2 Simple Steps to Determine Foot Length and Foot Width
In that article I help parents determine their child’s exact foot size and whether the child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet. I also will be able to tell you whether your child has a high instep or not.
✅ The second cause of squeaky shoes is created by the friction between the original insoles and the outsole of the shoe. Did you know that the type of floor your child walks on is another reason why shoes squeak? Make sure you have your child wear the shoes around different surfaces to soften the shoe and reduce the squeak.
✅ The third reason why shoes squeak is from getting wet. If the shoes have gotten wet recently, make sure you dry them out and apply some powder to the shoes to absorb any leftover moisture.
✅ The fourth reason is not wearing socks with shoes. I know many children don’t like wearing socks with their shoes, but this could be the cause of your kids’ shoes making noises. Socks play a key role in keeping your kids’ feet healthy.
Socks help absorb moisture and they act as a barrier between your kids’ feet and the shoes to prevent all sorts of foot issues including foot infections. The moisture caused by sweaty feet might be one of the reasons why your kids’ shoes might be squeaking.
I actually wrote an article where I describe the best socks for children who don’t like to wear socks with their shoes. The type of socks that I describe in that article are seamless, breathable, and made from high-quality materials, which make them perfect for those children who feel every bump and lump. Go to the link below:
Seamless Socks for Kids – Stop the Struggle of Putting Socks On!
How Can You Stop Your Kids’ Shoes from Squeaking? – 2 Proven Methods!
Before you try the methods I recommend below please make sure that your child is wearing the correct shoe size and is also wearing socks with the shoes.
First Method ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Your first attempt should be to put baby powder inside your kids’ shoes. You will have to remove the original insoles and then spread it evenly throughout the shoe. Put the original insoles back and have your child test them out.
The powder works on reducing moisture which leads to less motion between the liner and the shoe. Baby powder has been proven to work for a lot of people, but if it doesn’t, try my second recommendation.
I always recommend this method first since it has proven to be one of the most effective methods. Also, a lot of parents might have this product at home already, so they won’t have to invest in a new product. If you decide to try this method, let me know how it works in the comments section below.
Second Method ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Try the product WD-40 which will displace moisture and lubricates almost anything. You can get this anywhere: a hardware store, Target, Home Depot, or if you like the convenience of shopping from home; you can get it at the lowest price from Amazon.
Before you apply this product to the shoe make sure you shake the bottle several times. Spray it inside the shoe where the heel is and around the toe area. Make sure you remove the original insole before you apply the spray! Wait 5 minutes for the product to soak in through the material. Put the insole back in and have your kids’ test the shoes out!
This will definitely work, and you will be surprised at the amazing results!
Certain shoes might squeak from being poorly made, such as a manufacturer defect. If you have tried both of my methods and the shoes still squeak, consider taking them to a shoe repair shop to get a professional opinion.
Before you leave, I am going to provide you with a selection of the best children’s shoes that I have fitted before in terms of how much support they provide, how well-made they are, and how they fit.
Shoes play a key role in keeping your kids’ feet healthy. If your kids are not wearing the correct pair of shoes, it will lead to several foot issues.
The Best Kids’ Shoes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Below you can find a selection of the best shoes for children in terms of durability and support. They also come in different widths such as medium (M), wide (W), and extra wide (XW) widths. Disclosure: Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases.
Toddler Shoe Sizes (0 to 10)
- Available in medium, wide and extra wide widths
- Oversized opening for easy on and off
- Lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole provides lightweight cushioning
- Hook and loop closure
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
- Available in medium, wide and extra wide widths
- Oversized opening for easy on and off
- Lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole provides lightweight cushioning
- Hook and loop closure
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Velcro closure
- Leather and mesh upper
- Non-marking traction pods to help improve stability
- APMA approved
- Toe cap for extra durability
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Velcro closure
- Leather and mesh upper for durability and breathability
- APMA Certified
- Traction pods on the outsole for serious grip
- EVA midsole for lightweight feel
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
- Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Velcro closure
- Heel stabilizer provides lateral stability
- Removable insoles
- The insoles are Infused with natural Green Tea extract (no chemicals)
- Machine washable
- Order this shoe the same size as your toddler’s current foot size (shoe fits long)
- Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Hook-and-loop closure
- Removable insoles
- Lightweight and flexible
- Extra wide toe box allows natural splaying of toes for better balance, comfort, and foot health
- Long heel counter provides stability
- Machine washable
- Order this shoe the same size as your toddler’s current foot size (shoe fits long)
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths (fits high insteps)
- Hook and loop closure system for easy on and off
- Synthetic and engineered mesh upper
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths (fits high insteps)
- Hook and loop closure system for easy on and off
- Synthetic and engineered mesh upper
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Ortholite memory foam footbeds
- Opens super wide which makes in and out easy
- Recycled material linings to help reduce odor
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Toe cap reinforcement and bumptoe protection against stumbles
- Opens super wide which makes in and out easy
- Step-stabilizing design with comfy Ortholite memory foam footbeds
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Canvas upper
- Toe cap is durable for early steps
- Double velcro straps
- Oversized opening for easy on and off
- APMA approved
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole
- Double velcro straps for easy on and off adjustability
- Padded tongue and collar for added comfort
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Hook and loop closure system for easy on and off
- Synthetic and engineered mesh upper
- Stitched-on toe cap for extra durability
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Hook and loop closure system for easy on and off
- Synthetic and engineered mesh upper
- Stitched-on toe cap for extra durability
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Velcro closure
- ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance
- Mesh upper for durability and comfort
- Extra deep
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Velcro closure
- ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance
- Mesh upper for durability and comfort
- Extra deep
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Velcro closure
- Generous toe box and instep to accommodate and support your toddler walker’s needs
- Rubber outsole pods designed to stand up to daily wear and tear
- Extra deep
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Leather and mesh upper for durability and breathability
- Hook-and-loop strap closure with elastic lace panel
- Anti-stink lining helps reduce odors
- Machine washable for quick and easy clean
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
Little and Big Kid Shoe Sizes (10.5 to 7)
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Hook and loop closure system for easy on and off
- Synthetic and engineered mesh upper
- Stitched-on toe cap for extra durability
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Hook and loop closure system for easy on and off
- Synthetic and engineered mesh upper
- Stitched-on toe cap for extra durability
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Dual hook-and-loop straps allow for a secure fit and custom adjustability
- Removable, contoured, leather-lined footbed for breathability and comfort
- Lightweight and flexible
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Velcro closure
- Removable insoles
- The insoles are Infused with natural Green Tea extract (no chemicals)
- Machine washable
- Order this shoe the same size as your child’s current foot size (shoe fits long)
- Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Velcro closure
- Heel stabilizer provides stability
- Removable insoles
- The insoles are Infused with natural Green Tea extract (no chemicals)
- Machine washable
- Order this shoe the same size as your child’s current foot size (shoe fits long)
- Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Velcro closure
- Removable insoles
- The insoles are Infused with natural Green Tea extract (no chemicals)
- Machine washable
- Order this shoe the same size as your child’s current foot size (shoe fits long)
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Hook and loop closure system for easy on and off
- Leather upper
- Lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel increases comfort
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Hook and loop closure system for easy on and off
- Synthetic and engineered mesh upper
- Durable rubber outsole designed to withstand wear-and-tear
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- ENCAP midsole cushioning provides good arch and heel support
- Leather and suede upper
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- Strong rubber outsole and cushioned midsoles
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- EVA midsole provides increased shock attenuation, responsive cushioning and lasting durability
- Cushioned footbed
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- EVA midsole provides increased shock attenuation, responsive cushioning and lasting durability
- Padded tongue and collar
- Cushioned footbed
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- Dual-layer midsole construction featuring top-bed foam cushioning and underfoot Fresh Foam X
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- Leather and mesh upper for durability & breathability
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel increases comfort
- Firm heel counter
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and padded heel increases comfort
- Firm heel counter
- Supportive heel for active kids
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- FuelCell foam delivers a propulsive feel to help drive you forward
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- Dual-layer midsole construction featuring top-bed foam cushioning and underfoot Fresh Foam X
- Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance
- Leather/mesh upper
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance
- Leather/mesh upper
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- NDurance rubber outsole technology provides superior durability in high-wear areas to help get more out of the shoes
- Lace-Up closure
- Non-marking outsole
- Order this shoe a whole larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- ENCAP midsole cushioning provides good arch and heel support
- Leather and suede upper
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- ENCAP midsole cushioning provides good arch and heel support
- Leather and suede upper
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel increases comfort
- Firm heel counter
- Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and padded heel increases comfort
- Firm heel counter
- Supportive heel for active kids
- Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
Is your child wearing a pair of shoes that keeps squeaking? Are you ready to throw them out? Have you tried any of these methods before? I will love to hear about your experiences with squeaky shoes and if you know another method that works please let me know in the comment section below so other parents can benefit from your experiences!
Nice! I’ve never read an article on squeaky shoes. I would advise you to keep up the good work here. I always like reading about strange and odd things that pop into my head. Seriously! Today I was just sitting down at work bored and started thinking about what the benefits of eating sunflower seeds are. Or, the Health benefits of a Granny smith apple. Or, Why are crows so annoying? Through this I was able to discover the history of crows and come to find out they are some of the smartest creatures on the planet!
But I digress. I’ve had squeaky shoes before. Usually I just ignore it but it is a bit embarrassing. I have no idea why though. Thanks for the tips and keep ’em comin! 🙂
-Stu
Stu,
I am glad that you found the information valuable! I actually believe is a problem that most people don’t know the solution to, that is the reason why I created the post! I will keep them coming!
Wow,thanks for these great tips to stop shoes from squeaking. I never really thought about why they squeak or how to stop it but when my kids are running around squeaking all over as they go… well I just make sure when they take those shoes off they go into the pile of things to donate to charity.
Thank you, this will save me a big chunk of money.
Lynne,
I agree with you on the saving money part! Now you won’t have to throw them away or donate them!
I never really put much thought into why shoes squeak, but the moisture from sweat and water makes perfect sense! Baby powder is something I always have around my house these days, so I will have to give it a try! WD40 is another great option, but is it okay to spray that chemical into a child’s shoe?
Tiffany,
Yes, it is okay to spray WD40 into a kids shoe. However, If you don’t feel comfortable doing this, try baby powder first, since you already have it in the house anyways! Let me know how it works out!
Shoes squeak because of friction between the inner sole and the sole of the shoe. Even the type of flooring can determine if the shoe will squeak or not. You can always apply powder inside the shoe to absorb any excess moisture. Take out the inner sole, spray the heel and the toe with WD40 and let it sit for 5 minutes then put the inner sole back in. Of course the shoes might just be faulty and in need of repair.
That is great advise and information! I am glad those methods have worked for you too! Thank you for sharing.
Very interesting. My son’s shoes are always squeaking and I guess I really didn’t think there was anything that could be done. He doesn’t like to wear socks though so I am not sure if the fixes will work. It is worth a try though as I do have baby powder and WD40 on hand. Heck, WD40 works on a lot of other things to stop squeaks, I found it very interesting that it would work on shoes 🙂
Matt’s Mom,
WD40 will make your child shoes stop from squeaking! Remember that it is important for children to wear socks, since they act as a barrier between the feet and the shoes. I created a post where I explain why it is important to wear socks: The Importance Of Wearing Socks – Grippers Or No Grippers?
Thank you so much for this article! I had stopped wearing two pairs of shoes because they squeaked loudly when I walked. I used baby powder as you directed and the squeak is gone!
Kristin,
I am glad it worked out! Squeaky shoes are truly annoying, now you know how to STOP shoes from squeaking!