No, you can not use hairspray to waterproof shoes. Hairspray is made from alcohol, which can’t waterproof your shoes effectively.
As alcohol dissolves in water, it also causes the hairspray to be less effective at repelling water.
If you want to protect your shoes from water damage, there are much better alternatives than hair spray.
Products like spray-on sealants or waxes can help make your shoes repel water and prevent them from becoming soaked when exposed to wet conditions.
But talking about hair spray, you can use it to protect your shoes from dirt and scuffs. It can also help to restore the color of a shoe that has faded due to wear and age.
Read on to learn how to use hairspray on your shoes for anything other than waterproofing them.
Advantages of Using Hairspray on Your Shoes:
Hairspray can create a protective layer on the upper part of your shoes, helping prevent them from acquiring dirt and scuffs.
Here we have shared some advantages when using hairspray on your shoes.
Can Add Some Shine.
Not only can hairspray protect your shoes from dirt and scuffs, but it can also help to add a nice shine. Applying hairspray in light layers on the leather or fabric of your shoes can make them look brand new.
Cost-Effective.
Hairspray is generally inexpensive compared to other waterproofing products, making it an ideal choice for those on a budget. It is also widely available, so you don’t have to worry about trying to find it in stores or online.
Restore Color.
If your shoes start to lose their color, you can use hairspray to help bring the colors back. This is especially useful if you have a pair of white canvas sneakers that look dull and gray due to dirt accumulation. A light layer of hairspray will help restore their original color and make them look good as new again.
Easy to Apply.
Applying hairspray is easy. Just spray it onto the upper part of your shoes and let it dry. Also, hairspray won’t leave a sticky or greasy residue on your shoes, so you can be sure that the application won’t ruin them.
Instructions: How to Use Hairspray to Waterproof Shoes
#1. Clean your leather shoes.
Before applying hairspray, it’s important to ensure your shoes are cleaned and free of dirt and debris. This will ensure the hairspray will bond properly with the material and provide the most effective protection possible.
#2. Let them dry.
Once the shoes are cleaned, let them air dry completely before applying any hairspray. This will ensure that any excess water on the surface of your shoes won’t dilute the product.
#3. Use any waterproofing sealant.
Before spraying the hairspray, apply a coat of waterproofing sealant on your shoes. This will provide an extra layer of protection and ensure that the hairspray will be more effective at protecting your shoes from dirt and scuffs and making them look shinier.
#4. Applying wax or polish.
Once the sealant is dry, apply a thin layer of wax or polish onto the surface of your shoes. This will help to fill in any cracks or crevices on your shoes and make it easier for the hairspray to stick. You can also use a brush to buff the wax or polish onto your shoes.
#5. Apply hairspray in thin layers.
Using the nozzle of the hairspray, apply it in thin layers to the surface of your leather shoes. Make sure that you don’t overdo it. You can always add more layers if necessary, but too much can make your shoes look greasy or sticky.
#6. Use heat to set the hairspray.
After applying a few layers of hairspray, use a hairdryer or other heat source to set the product into your shoes. This will help it bond better with the material and provide better protection and shine.
You can now enjoy your waterproof leather shoes and the shine that came with them. With these simple steps, you can protect your shoes from dirt and enjoy their original colors and shine.
How Long Will Hairspray Last On Shoes?
Hairspray can usually last up to six months on your shoes, but this depends on how often you wear them and the conditions they are exposed to.
The protection may only last for a short time if you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow. It can also be affected by the type of hairspray you use, as most are designed to protect against humidity and sweat rather than rain.
It’s important to reapply your hairspray regularly if you want them to stay protected. Additionally, using a sealant like beeswax or petroleum jelly can help increase the longevity of the hairspray.
Remember that you should never spray hairspray directly onto the leather of your shoes, as it can damage them. Instead, spray it onto a cloth and then apply it gently to the surface of your shoes.
Regular maintenance and reapplication allow you to use hairspray to waterproof shoes effectively for up to six months.
Will Hairspray Damage Shoes?
Hairspray can be a great alternative to expensive, chemical-based shoe care products. However, it is important to remember that the chemicals found in hairspray can damage certain materials over time.
If you are considering using hairspray on shoes made of leather or suede, think twice before spraying them. These materials have delicate fibers exposed to the chemicals found in hairspray. Which can become brittle and break down over time.
Synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester are generally better for hairspray waterproofing.
Synthetic fibers are much tougher than leather or suede, making them more resistant to harsh chemical agents.
No matter what material you use, testing a small area before applying the hairspray all over the shoe is always a good idea.
Test it on an inconspicuous part of your shoe and wait 24 hours to see if any discoloration or damage occurs. That way, you can ensure your shoes are safe and waterproof.
To Conclude
Hairspray can be an effective way to protect your shoes from dirt and scuffs and restore the color of a shoe that has faded due to age or wear.
However, it would be best not to use hairspray to waterproof shoes. Use spray-on sealants or waxes to protect your shoes from water damage.
Following these steps, you can use hairspray on your shoes effectively and safely.
Happy Waterproofing!
