How to Remove Creases from Shoes: 7 Proven Methods for Leather Shoes & Trainers

Are your favourite pair of shoes developing creases and wrinkles? Whether it’s a relatively new pair of leather loafers or your go-to everyday trainers, creases can make your shoes look worn out long before their time. But don’t worry—there are ways to restore them and keep them looking fresh for longer!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best methods to remove creases from your shoes and help prevent them from coming back. With just a few simple techniques, you can smooth out those wrinkles and have your shoes looking as good as new.

7 Best Ways to Remove Creases from Shoes (Leather Shoes, Trainers & More)

1. Use a Shoe Tree

One of the easiest and most effective ways to remove and prevent creases is by using a shoe tree. These handy tools help shoes maintain their shape, reducing wrinkles and preventing new ones from forming. Simply insert a shoe tree into your shoes when you’re not wearing them, and over time, you’ll notice the creases becoming less pronounced.

Also available for specific men's sizes, shoe trees are fantastic for breaking in new shoes and stretching tight footwear. If you don’t already have one, investing in a quality shoe tree is an easy way to care for your shoes properly.

2. Remove Shoe Creases with an Iron (Safe Method)

Yes, you read that right—you can use an iron to remove creases from leather or synthetic shoes! However, this method requires extra care to avoid damaging your shoes.

Here’s how to do it:

• Stuff your shoes with a towel or a shoe tree to help maintain their shape.
• Place a damp cloth or towel over the creased area—this acts as a protective layer.
• Set the iron to a low heat (never use high heat, as it can ruin the material).
• Gently press the iron over the cloth for a few seconds at a time.
• Allow the shoes to cool before removing the stuffing.

Please Note: This method works best on leather shoes and should be avoided on delicate materials like suede or mesh.

3. How to Use Steam to Get Rid of Shoe Wrinkles

Steam is a gentle and effective way to remove creases without applying direct heat. It works well on leather, fabric, and synthetic shoes.

Here’s how to do it:

• Boil a pot of water and hold your shoes above the steam for about 30 seconds.
• Be careful not to get the shoes too wet—just let the steam soften the material.
• Once warm, stuff the shoes with a shoe tree or towel to hold their shape.
• Let them cool down naturally.

This method softens the shoe material, reducing creases naturally.

4. Using Heat to Remove Creases With the Hairdryer Method

A hairdryer can be a great tool for getting rid of wrinkles in leather or synthetic shoes.

Here’s how to do it:

• Insert a shoe tree or stuff the shoes with socks to stretch out the creased area.
• Set your hairdryer to medium heat and hold it 6 inches away from the shoe.
• Gently massage the creased area while applying heat.
• Allow the shoes to cool before wearing them.

This technique is especially useful for loosening up tight leather shoes while also removing creases.

5. The Conditioning Method (For Leather Shoes)

Leather shoes need regular care to stay smooth and crease-free. Applying a leather conditioner can soften the material, making it easier to remove creases.

Here’s how to do it:

• Clean your shoes with a dry cloth to remove any dirt.
• Apply a small amount of leather conditioner to the creased areas.
• Use your fingers or a soft cloth to massage the conditioner in circular motions.
• Let the shoes sit overnight and buff them in the morning for a polished finish.

Regular conditioning keeps your leather shoes supple and free from deep-set wrinkles.

6. The Wet Towel Method (Effective and Simple)

For deep creases, the wet towel method can work wonders.

Here’s how to do it:

• Dampen a small towel with warm water and wring out any excess moisture.
• Place the towel over the creased area of the shoe.
• Let it sit for a few hours or overnight to allow the material to absorb moisture.
• Once softened, use your fingers or a shoe tree to reshape the shoe.

This method is ideal for softening leather and fabric shoes without exposing them to direct heat.

7. Can You Really Remove Creases in the Freezer?

This one might sound unusual, but it works well for trainers and casual shoes!

How to do it:

• Fill a resealable plastic bag with water and place it inside the shoe.
• Make sure the bag is securely closed to prevent leaks.
• Put the shoes in the freezer overnight.
• As the water freezes, it expands, gently stretching out the creased areas.
• Remove the shoes and let them return to room temperature before wearing.

This method is a great way to stretch out tight shoes while also reducing wrinkles.

Preventing Creases in the Future

Now that you know how to remove creases, here are some simple tips to prevent them from happening in the first place:

• Use a shoe tree when storing your shoes to maintain their shape.
• Avoid bending your shoes excessively when walking.
• Rotate your shoes regularly to prevent overuse of one pair.
• Store shoes properly in a cool, dry place to avoid unnecessary wear.
• Keep leather shoes conditioned to keep them soft and less prone to creasing.

Final Thoughts

Creases and wrinkles on your shoes can be frustrating, but with the right care, they don’t have to be permanent! Whether you choose heat, steam, conditioning, or a trusty shoe tree, there are plenty of ways to keep your footwear looking fresh and crease-free.

To help prevent creases from happening in the first place, breaking in your new pair of shoes is an important step to take. As for boots that are creasing because they’re too tight, stretching them properly is a great method to avoid creases that tire them out early.

With the right care, your shoes will stay stylish, comfortable, and crease-free for years to come! We hope this article has been of help to you; however, do reach out to our customer service team should you need further help.