There’s nothing worse than buying a brand new pair of shoes only to slip them on and within hours, have one of the most painful blisters of your life! Yes, new pair of shoes can be super exciting and sometimes painful. So, how do you stretch tight shoes? Just break them in! Although breaking in shoes can take a lot of time, don’t fall for potentially shoe-damaging tricks like throwing your new purchase in the washing machine or the microwave (yes, that’s a thing). These tips may have had some success in the DIY world, but they definitely aren’t the best option if you’re looking to make your new pair last. No need to let your new shoes collect dust because you’re afraid of the time it takes to break them in. Just get a bit crafty in your approach. Here are a few simple ways to break in and stretch your new shoes without harming your feet or your bank account.

Take It Slow And Steady

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Any new shoe affects the position of the joints of the foot along with your ankles, knees, hips, and back. Anytime you get a new pair of shoes, give yourself at least three days to break them in little by little. On the first day, wear them for 30 minutes around the house. This will allow your foot to adjust to the shoe and allow the joints of your body to properly align. The second day, 60 minutes inside or outside the house out and about. On the third day, wear them for at least two hours. By the third day, you will know if the shoes are fully broken in.

Apply Heat

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Science tells us that heat tends to expand some materials. So if your shoes are very tight in certain spots, a quick heat can help. Wear your new shoe along with multiple pairs of socks. Then, hold a hairdryer up to the parts of the shoe that are tightest whilst flexing or moving your feet. This will help stretch them. Just be sure to let the shoes cool with your feet still in them.

Invest In Shoe Stretchers

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Shoe stretchers are less useful for heels, but flats can easily be stretched using metal or wooden stretchers. Some shoe stretchers will even come with a shoe stretch spray that can help the process along. Just be prepared to put the stretchers in and let them sit tight for a while.

Get Professional Help

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The Queen never gets to break in her shoes herself. She employs someone to do just that! So take a cue from the Queen and enlist a professional. If they’re feeling a bit tight, have your shoes stretched at a shoe repair shop or even a fancy shoe store. Just be sure to allow at least three days for them to work their magic.

Featured image: Christian Louboutin / Instagram