How to Make Toe Inserts for Shoes That Are Too Big: DIY Fix

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Dealing with shoes that are slightly too big? Don’t let loose-fitting footwear cause discomfort or ruin your plans! In this post, we’ll show you how to make DIY toe inserts for shoes that are too big using simple materials you probably already have at home. This quick fix is perfect for emergencies or preventing pesky blisters while you’re on the go.

A pair of yellow pointed-toe heels on a mint-green background with the title “How to Fix Shoes That Are Too Big” written above, promoting a DIY solution on fynesdesigns.com.

I recently went on a girl’s weekend. I grabbed a pair of budget-friendly shoes to wear around the hotel, never having tried them on first—big mistake! After about half an hour, I realized they were a tad too big, and to make matters worse, my backup shoes? A lovely pair of clunky winter boots. I was in serious need of emergency shoe inserts!

What Can You Put in Shoes if They Are Too Big?

As I wracked my brain for a quick fix, it hit me—Eureka! A panty liner from my makeup bag to the rescue! I know I know… not the most glamorous solution, but trust me, these clever tricks for fixing loose shoes are something you won’t want to forget!

How to Fix Shoes that are Too Big: DIY Shoe Inserts tutorial featured by top US DIY blog, Fynes Designs

Materials Needed

Grab your weapon of choice for cutting—scissors, nail clippers, a nail file (if you’re feeling ambitious), your trusty jackknife, or even the steak knife you sneakily borrowed from breakfast. In addition to your cutting tool of choice, you will also need a sanitary napkin. Depending on how much extra space you have will determine the size of your DIY shoe filler. Since adhesive pads are available in different sizes and thicknesses you can get a better fit by choosing the right one. 

What to Do When Shoes Are Slightly Too Big

If your shoes are slightly too big, you can quickly make them more comfortable with a simple DIY heel inserts hack. For casual shoes or high heels, start by trimming a sanitary napkin to match the height of the heel area. Cut the pad in half, as most have an adhesive that doesn’t run to the edges. Place the rounded end securely near the sole of the shoe for a snug and comfortable fit. If you just have panty liners rather than a pad you may want to double them up to give you a little extra cushion. Once stuck to the heel trim excess from the top, and give your DIY heel grips a try!

Inside view of a shoe with a sanitary napkin folded and placed in the heel area, demonstrating a DIY solution to make shoes fit better.

How To Fix Shoes That Are Too Big in the Toe

For pointed-toe shoes, cut the pad in half, then roll it up with the adhesive side facing in to create a loose roll. This roll can be placed in the front of your shoes to prevent your feet from sliding forward.

Brown leather loafers on a marble surface with a sanitary napkin inserted into the heel of one shoe as a DIY fix for oversized footwear. A hand is holding a folded sanitary napkin for demonstration.

Unlike toilet paper, which compacts easily and loses shape, sanitary napkins are sturdier and won’t shift around with movement. Plus, they offer the added benefit of absorbing any sweat, helping to reduce friction that can cause blisters. For a snug fit in the back of your shoe, use the adhesive side of the liner to stick it into the heel area as a makeshift heel insert. Whether you’re wearing casual shoes, high heels, or pointed-toe styles, this quick fix ensures better support and all-day comfort.

Inside view of a shoe with a sanitary napkin folded and placed in the heel area, demonstrating a DIY solution to make shoes fit better.

Alternative Methods for Shoes Too Big

Looking for an alternative to DIY toe inserts for too-big shoes? Consider using gel toe caps or high density foam toe inserts made from various materials that will provide extra comfort and shock absorption for your feet. Whether you’re dealing with casual shoes, high heels, or pointed-toe styles, gel toe caps offer a simple solution to keep your feet blister-free provide extra support and be comfortable all day long.

Recommendations for Toe and Heel Inserts for Shoes Too Big

How can I make my open-toe shoes tighter?

To make your open-toe shoes tighter, you can use a pad or cushion for the ball of your foot. This will create a snug fit and prevent your foot from slipping forward in the shoe. I suggest you purchase these Ball Of The Foot Cushions.

How to tighten shoes that are loose?

To tighten loose shoes, if they have straps, you can punch an additional hole. Otherwise, try the suggestions in this post for DIY toe inserts to provide extra support and comfort.

How to Fix Shoes that are Too Big: DIY Shoe Inserts tutorial featured by top US DIY blog, Fynes Designs

In conclusion, finding yourself with shoes that are too big doesn’t have to be a disaster. With a little creativity and some common household items, you can create DIY toe inserts to provide the extra support and comfort you need. Whether it’s using a sanitary napkin for a quick fix or opting for gel toe caps, there are options to help you make the best out of a situation where the size of the shoes isn’t quite right. And if all else fails, thicker socks are always a good choice to fill in the extra space. So next time you find yourself with big shoes, remember that there’s a simple solution to keep your feet blister-free and comfortable all day long.

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11 Comments

  1. Great idea to fix a common problem. Thanks, Virginia!

  2. Great idea!
    I’m visiting you today from lilluna. I’m co-hosting a Link Up today and would LOVE for you to link this! I hope you get a chance to stop by, Link Up and comment, too!
    ~ Megin of VMG206
    My Mom Frame ~ Printables

  3. This was brilliant! You just saved me for my 15 pair of shoes that are too big! I got them as a gift, and had no idea what I would do… Thank you!

    1. So glad you can make you use of shoes now! Glad to hear you liked this simple solution!

  4. I just came across this as i was googling for ways to make my new shoes fit . I did order online a size up cos a size up is better than a size down if one doesnt know how the shoes would fit. So in my case instead of the heel portion i used it for the entire inner sole. And it works. God forbid if i should need to take off my shoes and its totally visble ;-(. Thanks again for the brilliant idea