This trick is a real lifesaver if you have an accident in the middle of the day or on vacation: The strap tears off the sole (especially with flip-flops or sandals).

Most people then throw them away because the adhesive rarely holds up on the go. However, there is a solution based on physical principles and a small item that can be found in every household or bar.

🗝️ Secret ingredient: Rubber band or can ring

If the strap has slipped through the hole in the sole, the problem is that the hole has enlarged and the rubber stopper no longer provides a secure hold.

Procedure with clip/ring (anchoring method): Thread the strap back through the hole in the sole (you can use a wrench or a blunt knife for this).

Secure from below: On the underside of the sole, where the strap end protrudes, slide a metal washer, a small paperclip, or a ring from a can over the “neck” (under the wider end of the stopper).

This creates a barrier: This small object increases the strap’s contact area with the sole. Now, when you pull on the strap from above, the metal ring prevents it from slipping back through the hole.

🧪 “Instant Weld” Trick (Superglue + Baking Soda)

If your sole has come loose or your strap has broken, and regular superglue won’t hold, use this chemical trick that creates a bond as strong as plastic:

Apply superglue to the damaged area.

Immediately sprinkle a pinch of baking soda over it.

Result: The glue hardens instantly. The baking soda acts as an accelerator and filler. An extremely strong bond is created that hardens within 2–3 seconds and holds the sandals together until you buy new ones.

“` 💡 Quick fix for squeaky sandals

If your sandals squeak with every step (which is extremely annoying), the problem is friction between the rubber layers or between your foot and the insole.

Solution: Sprinkle some baby powder or cornstarch inside the sandals and under the insole (if removable). The powder absorbs moisture and reduces friction, making the squeaking stop immediately.

📊 Which trick when?

Problem
Solution
Repair time
Pull out the strap
Tying ring from a can / paper clip
30 seconds
Sole detached

Superglue + baking soda
1 minute
Strap too loose
Stick a piece of blister plaster on the bottom
2 minutes
Squeaking
Baby powder / cornstarch
10 seconds

A little tip: These repairs are great as a first-aid measure so you don’t have to go home barefoot. However, plastic or rubber that is subjected to mechanical stress will lose its stability over time. If you use the paperclip method, be careful that it doesn’t press into your foot (you can gently push it into the groove of the sole).

Are you wondering how to remove the unpleasant odor from your sandals that even washing won’t get rid of?