Peeling shoe lining can be very uncomfortable for the wearer. It’s also not the best sight. You may notice bits of your leather lining coming off and sticking to your feet or socks. It can be a bit irritating. Moreover, sometimes the shoe’s lining is the only damaged part and there’s no other reason to get new shoes.
So, how to fix peeling shoe lining? Well, not all shoe linings can be fixed. You have to assess if your lining is in a condition that can be repaired. If yes, you can try one of five ways. Use either a shoe repair adhesive, leather repair filler kit, a sewing kit, shoe heel repair patches, or lining material to replace the whole lining.
Keep on reading to learn the best way you can fix your shoe lining.
What Causes Shoe Lining To Peel?
Some materials peel more easily than others. For example, synthetic materials are less durable than natural fabric, leather, suede, etc.
How long your peeling will endure also depends on other factors related to usage. Here’s what causes shoes to peel faster.
Too Much Humidity:
Moisture ruins shoe lining especially when it’s made of suede or leather. The material gets too saturated and starts peeling away. If you have excessively sweaty feet or the climate you live in is humid, this can be your problem.
Dry Air & Sunlight:
Dry air or direct sunlight isn’t much better. It makes the shoe lining crack and peels away from excessive dryness.
Wear And Tear:
Rough usage or just regular wear and tear can also be why your shoe lining is peeling. Your gait can also put pressure on certain parts of your feet and shoes. That’s why a specific portion of the lining can be damaged.
Aging:
As your shoe ages, all components of your shoe may feel it. Lining is no exception. It too, starts peeling away.
Poor Quality Material:
You can’t expect much from poor-quality material. If the weather is too dry, your lining will crack easily. It will wear quicker as well.
Improper Storage:
When you aren’t wearing your shoes but kept them in a dank or dark closet, it can develop molds inside the shoe.
Your lining can peel and damage then. Moreover, after cleaning your shoes, not giving them a chance to dry and immediately shoving them into the shoe cabinet is a bad idea.
How Can You Tell If Your Shoe Lining Can Be Repaired?
There are a few things to consider before jumping in to repair your shoe lining. In certain situations, repair isn’t even an option and you have to either wear your shoe that way or buy new pairs.
Location of Damage
Your shoe lining has two portions. The upper and lower lining. The lower lining is inside the shoe and the upper is the visible part. Both these lining types connect to the base of the shoe and are sewn to it.
It’s much easier to patch up the inner lining as you don’t need to make it visually as appealing. There’s room to hide some damage. However, the visible or upper lining can’t be repaired with that much ease. You need to take extra care that all signs of damage are gone. Otherwise, your shoes will look shabby.
The extent of Damage
The extent of the damage is also an important factor. When there are bigger tears and peels on the lining, you can’t just use glue to stick it in place.
You have to stitch the material. Sometimes, stitching can become impossible if the lining is torn all jagged and pieces are missing.
You may need to cut some additional lining material and then repair your shoe. Expertly replacing lining is no easy task.
Your Skills With Repair
It also comes down to your level of skills. Out of the four methods, we’ll discuss, the best one will depend on the level of damage. But whether you can repair it in that suggested method, comes down to your skills.
So, if your artistry isn’t up to the job, you can’t expect to repair the lining properly.
How To Fix Peeling Shoe Lining? 5 Best Ways To Do It
We have five different ways that you can try fixing your shoes. The best method depends on the extent of damage caused. Some of these repair techniques are easier than others. So, it also depends on your shoe-repairing skills, and which method is best for you.
1. Best For Minor Repairs – Put On Some Shoe Repair Glue
When your lining is in the beginning stages of disrepair, using a shoe repair adhesive is the best. It simply sticks the lining back into its place. Some of these adhesives are waterproofing agents and sealants. You can apply a thin layer on the entire lining and let it dry to make your shoes last even longer.
It’s one of the best ways to prolong your shoe’s lifespan. Moreover, anyone can put on some glue and stick the lining in place. It’s the easiest and quickest solution.
Shoe Goo – Our Top Recommended Shoe Glue
Shoe Goo is a widely available shoe repair adhesive. It’s very sticky and durable. A nice coat of this will help you secure your lining completely. The formula is made for a lasting bond that will hold the repair for quite some time.
Moreover, you can seal your shoes by applying a thin layer of this stuff. It will protect your shoes from moisture, making further peeling less likely. Just make sure to dry it properly.
2. Best For Small Visible Damages – Leather Repair Filler Kit
This method works like magic, but it requires some patience and is less budget friendly than the other options. But it’s the most convincing way to fix your upper lining. It looks seamless and the damage is covered to the point it looks as good as new.
Just clean up the damaged area. Take off as much lining out as needed. Don’t unnecessarily take out bits that look fine. Then apply the filler evenly. Wait for it to dry and use sandpaper to smooth out the surface. Apply a coat of matching paint with the rest of the leather.
Angelus Leather Filler & Paint – Our Top Recommendation
It’s the best, most widely available brand out there. Angelus Leather Filler & Paint has a loyal fanbase. Shoe-repair experts love this stuff.
The leather filler looks convincing and with some practice, anyone can use it to great satisfaction. There are so many colors available. You can mix and match to get the perfect shade. Artists use these paints to customize leather sneakers as well.
This kit is definitely worth trying. It can save a lot of leather shoes from an early death.
3. Best For Small Tears – Sew The Lining
To repair small tears, you can just sew the tear and fix your lining. Start by cleaning up the lining and removing any stray bits. Align the two torn sides of your lining neatly. Make sure to use a thread that matches the color of the lining. Make careful stitches to repair the tear.
If you want, you can seal the stitch with some Shoe Goo. That will secure your handiwork and make sure the repair lasts for a good while.
12 pcs Leather Craft Tool – Our Top Recommendation:
Since you only need to sew your lining into place, a small tool set like this one is very affordable and gets the job done. You can also use it for other purposes if you are into DIYing leathercraft. But for this purpose, you have a strong thread that holds the stitches in place.
There are a few needles to choose from. The smallest one will get the job done. At less than $6, this kit is quite versatile and handy.
4. Best To Cover Bigger Tears – Use A Repair Patch
Shoe repair patches can be miracle workers. They are easy to use and yet help cover up big patches. When the tear on your shoe lining is too big or uneven to stitch together, use these patches instead.
All you have to do is cut these patches to a shape that will cover the tear properly. Stick it in place with Shoe Goo or other adhesives that work.
Self-Adhesive Inside Shoe Patches – Our Top Recommendation
These patches are constructed with microfiber leather, which makes them soft, moisture-absorbent, wear-resistant, and even non-slip, waterproof, and well-ventilated.
As there is a strong adhesive at the back that can be released by tearing up the paper, you don’t have to bother with getting an extra product. It sits well when you apply it to the shoe and molds perfectly to your shoe’s shape. Not only are they hassle-free, and durable, but also quite comfortable.
5. Best For A Badly Damaged Lining – Use A Lining Replacement Material
When the material of your lining is damaged beyond repair and the only fix is replacing it with another fresh leather lining, use this strategy. You can find self-adhesive, leather repair patch tape that can be cut in the shape of the lining.
All you need to do is secure it neatly. If you want to be extra sure, you can add a thin layer of shoe goo underneath to keep the thing secure.
KJML DIY Leather Repair Patch Tape – Our Top Recommendation
The material of this repair tape is top-notch. The pattern is classic and should blend well with most leather shoes. There are lots of color options to choose from.
The adhesive is strong and secures the leather in position. Moreover, the thickness is just right. All you need to do is clean up the area and slowly apply the piece after cutting it in the right shape. It’s quite durable too.
How To Prevent Shoe Lining From Peeling Again?
There are some actions you can take to prevent the peeling of shoe lining. Just taking a little care can prolong the life of your shoe lining by a lot. We will help you achieve just that.
Clean Often
If you leave your shoes dirty for a long time, it’s not good for your shoe lining. The dirt will build up and wear the material down much faster. Instead, after every 4-5 wear or when your shoes look dirty, give them a thorough cleaning with a dry brush or a slightly damp rag. You can also clean them with some household items.
Allow the shoe to dry before putting it away. Don’t start using damp shoes or store them away.
Store Properly
Sometimes, your lining can get ruined in storage. That’s because you didn’t choose the best environment for your shoes. You should avoid dark, dank, and damp places. Such an environment is the best incubator for molds and your material will get ruined and moldy when stored there.
Also, avoid a hot storage space with dry air and excessive direct sunlight. It makes your lining crack from excessive dryness.
Avoid Getting Them Wet
As we have already mentioned, moisture isn’t the best for your shoes. So, if you can, avoid wearing your best shoes in the rainy season. If you must wear them, make sure not to step into any puddles.
Avoid water as much as possible. In case they do get wet, take care to let them dry properly.
Apply Product To Protect Lining
You can use products like Shoe Goo that work as sealants. A thin film of Shoe Goo spread all over your shoe’s upper and inner lining can act as a protective barrier. It makes your shoes waterproof and protects against dirt. This layer can make a huge difference in the lifespan of your shoes’ lining.
Always Wear Socks
Wearing socks absorbs your sweat. That not only protects from shoes getting dirty and bacteria-ridden, but it also ensures that your shoe’s lining won’t be affected by moisture.
FAQs
Can peeling faux leather be repaired?
Yes, peeling faux leather can be repaired. You can try a leather repair filler kit or use patches or tape. All methods work great. The best solution depends on the extent of the damage.
How long do shoe liners last?
It depends on your use and the care you take towards your shoes. But a decent pair should be fine for a year at least. You can get more use out of the liners if you keep them clean and dry as much as possible.
What material is used for shoe lining?
Different types of materials are used in shoe lining. Synthetic or natural both kinds are abundantly used. For example- cotton, leather, faux leather, viscose, etc.
Can you wash the shoe liners?
Yes, you can wash your shoe liners. Remove your insoles before beginning. Use warm soapy water with a nylon brush to scrub off all dirt. Leave your shoes out to dry and make sure there’s no moisture left before storing your shoes.
Final Words
How to fix peeling shoe lining? You can try any of the following five tricks: use either a shoe repair adhesive, leather repair filler kit, a sewing kit, shoe heel repair patches, or lining material to replace the whole lining.
Some of these methods are easier than the rest. However, a very badly damaged lining may not be up for repair at all. In that case, you have to give up ad get new shoes.
You need some skills in repairing to do a good job. However, patience goes a long way to make the finished product better.
