First Walkers

My Account
How to Make Velcro Stick Again | Fix Kids' Shoes Fast

In this article

How to Make Shoe Velcro Stick Again: A Parent's Guide

Use these clever tricks to extend the life of your kid's shoes and reduce those frustrating loose straps.

Jasrah Javed - Writer for First Walkers
By Jasrah Javed
Jovan Mijailović
Edited by Jovan Mijailović

Updated September 23, 2025

A child fastening a Velcro strap on her shoe.

Remember that satisfying "crunch" of Velcro fastening securely on your kid's sneakers? It’s a small victory for parents, ensuring active little feet stay snug and safe. But what happens when that familiar "rip" becomes a disappointing "flop"?

Tired of your kids' shoes coming undone? To make shoe Velcro stick again, the most effective first step is to clean both the hook and loop sides. Lint, dirt, and pet hair are the primary culprits for a weak grip.

Using a small brush or a toothpick to remove this debris can restore the grip, keeping shoes securely fastened and your kids happy. When Velcro loses its stick, it can be more than just frustrating; it's a recipe for tripping hazards, lost shoes, and meltdowns at the worst possible moments.

Quick Fix: How to Make Shoe Velcro Stick Again

When you’re out and about and need a fast solution to keep those shoes on, these handy tips can refresh the Velcro and extend its life.

  1. Clean It Up: Use a small brush, a toothpick, or even the hook side of the Velcro itself to pick out any lint, dirt, and pet hair. This simple step often restores most of the stickiness. This is the fastest answer to how to make velcro sticky again without tools.

  2. Try the Toothbrush Trick: Gently scrub the Velcro with an old toothbrush. This helps clean and straighten the tiny fibers on both the hook and loop parts, improving their ability to grip.

  3. Increase the Friction: Sometimes, simply pressing the Velcro together firmly or rubbing it with a cloth can improve the grip and adhesion.

If velcro not sticking persists after cleaning, check for bent hooks or matted loops. A toothbrush can refresh velcro; trimming loose fibers can revive velcro so the hooks catch again.

How to Repair Velcro & Restore Grip (When Cleaning Isn’t Enough)

If cleaning doesn’t solve the problem, the Velcro may be worn out. For a more permanent solution, you can use adhesives.

  • Adhesive Sprays & Glue: Fabric glue or velcro-specific adhesive can repair velcro that’s peeling away. If the loops are worn flat, replacing the loop strip is often the most reliable way to restore velcro on busy kids’ shoes.

  • Velcro-Specific Adhesives: These products are designed to revitalize non-adhesive Velcro, giving them a brand-new, sticky hold.

  • The Dual-Lock Alternative: For a robust, reusable alternative, dual-lock fasteners offer a unique interlocking design and a high-strength adhesive backing, perfect for shoes that see a lot of wear.

Tip: Before applying any adhesive, always clean the Velcro thoroughly and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

Still wondering how do you make velcro stick more? Choose shoes with shorter strap overhangs and dense loop fabric; both boost grip and reduce lint build-up.

A Better Way Forward: Why Investing in Quality Matters

While these fixes can extend the life of your shoes, the best long-term solution is to start with a pair designed for durability and proper foot health. At First Walkers Australia, our shoes are more than just footwear; they’re designed by podiatrists to support healthy foot development.

With high-quality materials and secure, adjustable closures, our shoes are made to stay on, providing the support and confidence your child needs for every adventure.



Disclaimer: First Walkers' information is intended for educational and informational purposes related to toddler footwear and feet. We encourage you to consider individual circumstances and consult qualified orthopaedists about specific conditions.

FAQs

Does vinegar help clean Velcro?

Yes. Vinegar can loosen dirt and debris, making Velcro easier to clean. Use it sparingly and rinse well.

Does fabric softener ruin Velcro?

Yes. Fabric softener leaves a residue that weakens Velcro’s grip over time.

Will Velcro work if it gets wet?

Yes. Velcro still sticks when wet, though the bond may be weaker until it dries.

Who invented Velcro?

Swiss engineer George de Mestral invented Velcro in 1941, inspired by burrs sticking to his clothes.

Can I put Velcro in the dryer?

Yes, but it’s best to close the strips first. High heat may reduce longevity, so air-drying is gentler.



SUBSCRIBE & GET $10 OFF YOUR PURCHASE

Subscribe to our newsletter and receive $10 off your next order when you spend $100 or more.

Australia AUD $