As parents, you know all too well how quickly your children outgrow their school shoes. It can feel like you’re constantly buying new pairs to keep up with their growing feet. While we can't stop our kids from growing, there are steps we can take to extend the lifespan of their school shoes. This not only helps save money but also promotes a sense of responsibility in our children by teaching them how to care for their belongings. In this week’s blog post, we'll share some practical tips to help you make those school shoes last a little longer.

Choose Quality Shoes

It all starts with the initial purchase. Invest in high-quality school shoes that are built to last. Quality shoes crafted from durable materials tend to withstand the daily wear and tear of school life better than cheaper alternatives. Their superior construction also ensure that they maintain their shape and integrity over an extended period, making them more cost-effective in the long run.

Rotate Between Shoes

If possible, a rotation of at least two pairs of school shoes that your child can alternate between will massively aid the lifespan of each pair. As each pair is afforded some "rest" time between wears, the overall wear and tear of any one pair is reduced.

Proper Cleaning & Storage

Teaching your child the importance of keeping their shoes clean will also help their shoes last longer. Regularly wipe off dirt and mud with a damp cloth or sponge, and clean scuff marks with a suitable shoe cleaner. For leather shoes, you can use a leather conditioner to maintain their suppleness and shine. When not in use, use a shoe rack or designated space to prevent the shoes from getting crushed or damaged in a cluttered closet.

Sole Check

Inspect the soles of the shoes regularly for signs of wear and tear. If you notice significant damage, consider having them resoled to extend their life.

Conclusion

While shoes won't last indefinitely, these tips can help you get the most out of each pair, allowing you to buy a reasonable number of shoes per academic year, whilst also teaching our children the importance of caring for their belongings.

So, let's start instilling these habits and make those school shoes go the extra mile!