We all wear shoes. It's one thing we have in common. And we all know that wearing shoes creates certain difficulties. From foot fatigue to pongy pumps, issues with your footwear can get on your nerves. But these problems don't have to take over your life. We've put together a list of simple tricks you can try at home to breathe new life in to your favourite shoes.  

1. Banish the smell

If you're a flat pumps kinda gal, you'll know that they can get a bit whiffy after a few days worn with bare feet. But did you know that you can absorb the odour by packing them with tea bags at the end of the day. This also works with wet shoes, and we've heard that pouring cat litter in to old tights and placing them in your shoes will do the same thing. Now there's no excuse not to have fresh smelling shoes all summer long.  

2. Refresh your Converse

We've all bought a pair of white soled trainers, only to find that they are less than glowing after a few wears. All it takes to restore them is a wipe over with some nail varnish remover. Who knew?  

3. Stand up straight

Simply place a swimming pool noodle in to your long boots to stop them creasing when you're not wearing them.  

4. Breathe new life in to your boots

When your boots start to look a little scuffed and dull, try rubbing them all over with a banana peel and watch them come back to life.  

5. Brush up your suede

Another foodie trick alert. If your suede shoes are looking a little worse for wear, rub them over with a slice of bread, yes, a slice of bread, and watch the stains disappear. An emery board should also do the trick if you actually use your bread to make sandwiches.  

6. Wrap up your flip flops

Whilst we don't usually encourage you to hide your new shoes away, if you're one of those people who finds flip flop plastic too uncomfortable, try wrapping it in fabric. No more rubbing, and a unique pair of summer shoes.  Alternatively, save yourself the trouble and buy a pair of sliders.  

7. Revive your tired feet

We all know the healing effects of a good brew, but did you know that your cuppa could also help your feet recover after a day in high heels. All you need to do is pop your feet in to a bowl of green tea (we're assuming they won't fit in to your cup) and the anti-inflammatory properties will soothe your blisters and rejuvenate your feet.   Of course, after a while you will have to accept that your shoes are beyond saving and it's time to pop in and see us at Jake Shoes (in store and online) so we can sort you out with a new pair.