If real sheepskin slippers after a long day are your forte, then we have some cool hacks for you. Of course, we know how soft and warm these slippers are! But sometimes, new slippers can feel a little snug. Sometimes, they can be tight if you’ve gone for that perfect “true to size” fit. The good news is that sheepskin is a natural material. It is a beautiful material that softens and moulds over time. And with the right tricks, you can speed up that break-in process.
Probably you’ve treated yourself to a fresh pair of sheepskin slippers or received them as a gift, here are five tried-and-tested methods to stretch them comfortably, without damaging their luxurious feel.
1. The Thick Sock Method
This is the oldest trick in the book, yet it works like a charm!
- Slip on a pair (or two) of thick socks.
- Wear your real sheepskin slippers around the house.
- The natural heat from your feet will gently loosen the fibres.
The bonus is that you’re not just stretching them. You’re also shaping them to your unique foot. Since genuine shearling slippers adapt naturally, they’ll soon feel tailor-made for you.
2. Use a Shoe Stretcher
If you don’t have the patience for the sock method, a shoe stretcher can do the heavy lifting.
- Place a wooden or plastic shoe stretcher inside your slippers.
- Adjust the width to gently push against the sheepskin.
- Keep it overnight or for 24 hours.
This method is handy if you only need to stretch certain areas, like the toe box or instep. Another great thing about this hack is that the authentic sheepskin slippers will keep their shape, and you won’t risk overstretching them.
3. Try the Damp Cloth Trick
Water and sheepskin don’t always mix, so this one needs a little care.
- Take a clean, damp (not wet!) cloth.
- Lightly rub it inside the slippers where they feel tight.
- Put them on with socks and walk around for 30 minutes.
The moisture softens the fibres just enough to let your feet naturally expand the material. This method is quick and works best if your real sheepskin slippers only feel snug in certain spots.
4. Warm Air Magic
Heat can help, but it needs to be gentle. Don’t use the shortcut of hairdryers on full blast, as too much heat can ruin the sheepskin. Instead, try this:
- Wear thick socks and slip into your slippers.
- Use a hairdryer on a low setting to warm the snug areas.
- Flex your feet and walk around as the sheepskin warms up.
The gentle heat relaxes the fibres, and the movement helps stretch them evenly. Soon, your natural sheepskin slippers will feel cosy instead of constricting.
5. The Professional Stretch
If you’re worried about damaging your slippers or they’re a high-value pair, leave it to the pros.
- Many cobbler and shoe repair shops offer stretching services.
- They use specialised machines to expand leather and sheepskin safely.
While this might cost a small fee, it’s worth it to protect your investment. After all, real sheepskin slippers are more than just footwear and lean more towards an experience.
Why Stretching Works So Well with Sheepskin
Unlike synthetic fabrics, genuine sheepskin slippers are made from natural fibres. This means they:
- Respond to heat and moisture
- Soften over time with wear
- Adapt to the contours of your feet
- Stay durable while becoming more comfortable
Tips to Keep in Mind While Stretching
Before you get started, a few golden rules for sheepskin stretching:
- Don’t soak your slippers, as moisture should be minimal.
- Always stretch gradually, never forcefully.
- Avoid direct, harsh heat like radiators or ovens (yes, some people try!).
- Be patient cause natural stretching takes time, but it’s worth it.
The Bottom Line
If your new real sheepskin slippers feel tight, don’t panic! You just need to be smart and try out the right methods, like the quick ones above. Be assured, you’ll soon have slippers that fit like a dream. We are so confident because it is the beauty of genuine sheepskin slippers to mould to the feet, making them comfier with every step. So go ahead, and give a try to these methods. Best of luck!
