Leather shoes are an expensive investment and deserve proper care, so to ensure they last a long time it’s essential that you know how to store them correctly. Keeping leather shoes in optimum condition doesn’t have to be complicated – with the right information and some simple maintenance steps, you can guarantee your leather footwear keeps looking beautiful season after season.
In this blog post, we will explain exactly how to store leather shoes while protecting them from dust, dirt, and damage. Read on for all the tips and tricks needed to maintain those trusty classics or summer sandals!
Can You Store Leather Shoes in a Box?
Yes, you can store leather shoes in a box. However, it is important to take the right precautions to ensure that your shoes stay in good condition while being stored. Make sure the box is lined with acid-free tissue paper or cotton cloth so that any dirt or dampness will not damage them.
Additionally, make sure that the box is not too tight or too large for the shoes, as this could cause them to become creased or misshapen. Finally, make sure that the box is kept away from any sources of heat or light, such as direct sunlight or a radiator. Doing so will help keep your leather shoes in top condition until you are ready to wear them again.
When storing your leather shoes in a box, it is also important to remember to fill the empty space with paper stuffing. This will help maintain their shape and prevent them from rubbing against each other while they are being stored.
Additionally, if possible, try to store the boxes containing your leather shoes in a cool, dry place. Lastly, do not forget to clean and polish your shoes before storing them, as this will help keep them in great condition and also make them easier to take care of when you finally get around to wearing them.
9 Methods How to Store Leather Shoes
1. Keep Them in a Cool, Dry Place
One of the most important things you can do to keep your leather shoes in good condition is to store them in a cool, dry place. Leather is a natural material that can be damaged by heat and moisture, so it’s important to avoid storing your shoes in an environment that is too warm or too humid.
An ideal storage spot for leather shoes would be a closet that is not near any heating vents or windows. If you don’t have a dedicated space for your shoes, you can store them in their original shoe box or an airtight plastic container.
2. Use Shoe Trees
If you want your leather shoes to keep their shape and not become misshapen, it’s important to use shoe trees when you’re not wearing them. Shoe trees are inserted into the shoes and help to hold their shape while they’re being stored. You can find shoe trees made specifically for leather shoes at most shoe stores or online.
Make sure to get shoe trees that are the right size for your shoes, and don’t over-stuff them – this can cause them to stretch out. If you’re not sure what size to get, bring the shoes with you when you go shopping so that you can find a pair that fits perfectly.
3. Polish Them Regularly
Another way to keep your leather shoes in good condition is to polish them regularly. This will help to protect the leather from scuffs and scratches and will also make them look shiny and new. You can find shoe polish at most drugstores or online. Make sure to choose a polish that is specifically made for leather shoes and follow the instructions on the package for the best results.
Be sure to use a soft cloth and circular motions when applying the polish. Allow the polish to dry completely before wearing them again. Make sure you store your leather shoes in a cool and dry place to help keep them looking their best.
4. Protect Them from Sunlight
Leather shoes can also be damaged by sunlight, so it’s important to store them in a place where they won’t be exposed to direct sunlight. If you must store your shoes in an area that gets sunlight, consider covering them with a cloth or placing them in a box so that they’re not directly exposed to the sun’s rays.
This will help to keep them looking good and in the best condition. If your leather shoes are already damaged by the sun, you can try using a leather conditioner to restore them to their natural shine.
5. Don’t Store Them in Plastic Bags
While it may seem like a good idea to store your leather shoes in plastic bags to keep them dust-free, this is actually not recommended. Plastic bags can trap moisture against the leather, which can cause the material to break down over time. It’s better to store your shoes in cloth bags or boxes instead of plastic bags.
Additionally, avoid using cardboard as storage material, as this can also trap moisture and cause the leather to dry out. Though it may take up more space, invest in a shoe rack to store your leather shoes properly. This will keep them safe and make sure that they last a long time.
6. Let Them Breathe
Leather shoes need to be able to breathe in order to stay in good condition, so don’t store them in airtight containers such as plastic bins or Tupperware containers. Instead, opt for cloth bags or boxes that will allow air circulation around the shoes.
Additionally, avoid heavy boxes that could cause the shoes to become misshapen over time. However, if you do choose to store your leather shoes in a plastic bag, make sure there is some kind of air circulation, such as a few holes punched in the bag.
7. Stuff Them with Newspaper
If you want your leather shoes to keep their shape while they’re being stored, stuff them with newspaper before putting them away. This will help the leather retain its shape and prevent creases from forming. Just make sure to remove the newspaper before wearing the shoes again so that it doesn’t rub against your feet and cause discomfort.
Alternatively, you can use shoe trees for this purpose. Shoe trees are designed to keep your shoes shaped and may be preferable if you want a more permanent solution.
8. Condition Them Regularly
In addition to polishing your leather shoes regularly, you should also condition them every few months using a quality leather conditioner. This will help keep the leather supple and prevent it from drying out and cracking over time. You can find quality leather conditioners at most shoe stores or online.
Follow the instructions on the bottle for the best results. Make sure to protect your shoes with a waterproofing spray before taking them out in wet weather. Clean and condition any dirt and salt deposits off the shoes as soon as possible to avoid damage. With the proper care, your leather shoes will last for years.
9 . Avoid Direct Sunlight
Avoid direct sunlight when storing your leather shoes. Leather can become dry due to prolonged exposure to the sun, resulting in cracking and fading of the material. If possible, store them in an area away from windows or other sources of direct light.
To further protect your shoes, you can place a thin cotton cloth over them while they are in storage. This will ensure that your leather shoes remain looking great for years to come.
Things to Consider When Storing Leather Shoes
1. Temperature:
Store leather shoes in a dry, cool area that does not get too hot or cold. Extreme temperatures can cause the material to shrink, crack and warp.
2. Humidity:
Leather shoes should be stored in a dry area with low humidity, as moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth on your shoes. This can damage the material permanently.
3. Sunlight:
Avoid storing leather shoes in direct sunlight, as this will cause fading and discoloration over time.
4. Airflow:
When storing leather shoes, make sure that the space is well-ventilated to ensure good air circulation. This will help prevent bad odors from forming due to trapped moisture.
5. Wrapping:
Wrap your leather shoes in a cotton or muslin cloth before storing them in a dust bag. This will help protect them from dust and dirt accumulation.
Following these steps will help you properly store your leather shoes and keep them in good condition for longer. Taking the time to care for leather shoes properly will help extend the life of your favorite footwear.
Conclusion
Suppose you’re looking to keep your leather shoes in pristine condition, following these tips on how to store leather shoes. Proper care will not only extend the lifespan of your shoes but also keep them looking their best. With a little effort, you can enjoy your beautiful leather shoes for many years to come.
