Unfortunately, hairspray isn’t the best solution to waterproof your shoes.
While it can keep water away from some materials, it isn’t an effective way of waterproofing your shoes (thankfully there are plenty of other effective ways to waterproof shoes).
However, hairspray can be an effective alternative to protect and preserve the shine of your shoes.
Does Hairspray Protect Shoes?
Believe it or not, hairspray can work as a protection for your shoes.
However, it isn’t just hairspray alone that protects your shoes.
You need to use a shoe polish before and then use hairspray on it to keep the shine longer.
But this preservation technique doesn’t last long and should be reapplied when needed.
In addition to protection, it can lock in shine and brightness to your shoes, especially if you’re aiming for the brand new look for your favorite pair.
All you have to do is lightly spray it with hairspray after cleaning and polishing it.
With hair spray, the shoe polish won’t rub off easily as the hairspray acts as a coat of prediction from external elements, such as water and dust.
However, hairspray is only recommended if you don’t have the proper solution to protect your shoes.
For example, you have a presentation, and your go-to shoe protector spray has run out.
Using hairspray as an alternative will work.
But if you plan on using it for a more extended period, it may cause more harm than good to your shoes.
So only use hairspray when necessary and in small amounts.
How Long Will Hairspray Last On Shoes?
Hairspray is a temporary fix and won’t last long on your shoes.
If you use hairspray as an alternative shoe protector, you may need to reapply it more often.
Apart from that, hairsprays aren’t made for shoes; that’s why they won’t stay longer compared to solutions crafted for various shoe materials.
Shoe protector sprays, such as waterproof sprays, only require you to use them on your shoes every one to two weeks.
However, hair sprays can easily come off your shoes, depending on their material and the environment you’ll be in.
That’s why it’s only recommended to wear shoes if you’re not planning to go outdoors or to locations where there would be a lot of dust and grime.
This is because hairspray can attract more dirt to your favorite in some situations.
If you plan on using hairspray on your shoes, be prepared to reapply it again if you want the protection and waterproofing to last.
Also Read:
Can You Waterproof Suede Shoes With Hairspray?
Unfortunately, hairspray can’t waterproof your suede shoes.
While it can temporarily help protect some materials, like leather, it won’t be strong enough to keep water away from your shoes.
Using it can harm your suede shoes and may ruin them entirely.
Using wax, waterproof spray, vaseline or olive oil are all effective alternative methods you can use to waterproof suede boots or shoes.
If you need to waterproof your shoes, it’s best to buy the appropriate solution rather than use any DIY alternatives.
However, if your suede shoes are suffering from stains and no other solutions can remove them for you, you can try hairspray as a remedy.
In some cases, letting the hairspray sit in the stain can help it clean away.
To do this, spray a generous amount on the stain and let it stay for 10-20 seconds.
Then, use a clean cloth and rub it in a circular motion to remove the stain.
Will Hairspray Damage Shoes?
Yes, hairspray can damage your shoes if used over extended periods of time.
Hairspray contains alcohol and lacquer that can be damaging to some materials like expensive basketball shoes and leather.
This is because alcohol can dry out the materials, which can introduce crack to them.
That’s why it’s recommended to use the appropriate solution for your shoes rather than other home supplies.
However, if you only plan on using it temporarily, the effects may not be as damaging.
How To Use Hairspray To Waterproof Shoes:
If you have no other choice but to use hairspray on your shoes, here’s what you need to do:
- Clean your shoes.
Hairspray would work best if the shoes are free from any dirt, stain, or mud before using it. Let the shoes dry in a cool, dry place before applying hairspray. - Once the shoes are dry, hold them at least 6 inches away and apply the hairspray.
Make sure that you only use it thinly and cover everything, including the seam. If you want to ensure that the pair is fully protected, apply another layer of hairspray. - After you’re done spraying, use a clean cloth to wipe any excess hairspray.
Don’t use paper towels as they shed some fibers and stick to the material. - Leave the shoes dry in a cool dark palace, preferably away from direct sunlight for at least an hour.
Since the effect of the hairspray is only temporary, you may need to repeat the whole process often if you wear the shoes frequently.
Conclusion
Hairspray works as temporary protection for your shoes by keeping them shiny for a few hours.
However, it isn’t a good solution to waterproof shoes as it may harm the material of your favorite pair.
If you need to waterproof your shoes, it’s best to use the appropriate solution rather than other alternatives.
