How Long Do Shoes Last in Storage: Tips in Properly Storing Your Shoes at Home to Make Them Last Longer
Shoes can last around 2 to 3 years in storage. When storing shoes, keeping a few things in mind is essential. Ensure your shoes are stored in a dry, cool environment, and avoid storing them with other heavy objects or liquids. If you need to keep them for an extended period, put them in a protective bag.
Tips for Making Your Shoes Last in Storage
Keeping your shoes in good condition can be tricky, especially if you have many. However, planning and a good shoe organizer can make life much easier.
Shoe Tree
Storing shoes can be a daunting task, but with the help of a shoe tree, it can be much easier. Shoe trees are specially designed to keep shoes organized and upright. This helps reduce the wear on your shoes and avoids storing them in a compressed position.
Shoe trees are wooden or plastic inserts designed to be placed inside your shoes when you’re not wearing them. They help maintain the shape of your shoes and prevent them from creasing or collapsing when they’re not worn. Shoe trees also help to absorb moisture from the inside of your shoes, which can help to prevent odors and keep your shoes fresher for longer.
Here are some benefits of using shoe trees to keep your shoes preserved:
- Maintain shape: Shoe trees help to hold your shoes in their proper shape, which can prevent creases and other damage caused by wear and tear.
- Absorb moisture: Shoe trees absorb moisture from the inside of your shoes, which can help to prevent odors and keep your shoes fresher for longer.
- Prevent creasing: Shoe trees help to prevent creasing in areas like the toes and heels, which can make your shoes look worn out.
- Improve fit: Shoe trees can help improve your shoes’ fit, especially if you have wide or narrow feet.
- Extend the life of your shoes: By maintaining the shape of your shoes and preventing creasing and other damage, shoe trees can help extend your shoes’ life.
It’s important to note that shoe trees are not suitable for all types of shoes. For example, they may need to work better with shoes that are made of very soft or flexible materials. So it’s always best to check the care instructions for your shoes before using shoe trees or any other type of shoe care product.
Wooden Shoe Horns
Hang shoes from wooden shoe horns to prevent them from becoming wrinkled or damaged. This will also help to keep them organized and easy to find. Make sure to check shoes for damage and replace them regularly as needed.
Acid-Free Tissue to Stuff the Shoes
Store your shoes in an acid-free environment to prevent damage. Clean them with acid-free tissue to avoid build-up and keep them looking new. Store them away from direct sunlight and moisture, which can damage them over time. Use acid-free shrink wrap or a band to seal the shoe’s opening to keep it clean and free of dust and debris.
Clean Them Thoroughly Before Storing
Make sure you clean and dry your shoes thoroughly. This will help avoid any moisture build-up, which can lead to deterioration. Next, fit the shoes tightly and position them upright in a shoe box or plastic bag. Ensure the shoes are stored in a cool, dark place to prevent them from deteriorating.
Keep Them in a Climate-Controlled Environment
When it comes to shoes, it’s essential to keep them in good condition. That means storing them in a climate-controlled environment and keeping them away from moisture and sunlight.
For indoor storage, you can place shoes in a closet or storage area that is out of sunlight and moisture. Outdoor shoe storage can be in a dry and dark place like a basement or garage.
Acid-Free Cardboard
To prevent moisture and insects from damaging the footwear, use acid-free cardboard. The cardboard should be rolled up and stored in a cool, dry place. If you keep shoes for a long time, purchasing a shoe box instead of cardboard rolls is best.
Silica Packets
One way to keep shoes in good condition is to add silica packets. This will help absorb moisture and protect the leather from damage. Shoes stored in a dry environment will also benefit from this treatment. For example, you can buy silica packs at most sporting goods stores or online retailers.
Types of Shoe Organizers and Storage Solutions
Storing shoes is necessary, but it can be a hassle. So that’s why it’s crucial to find the right shoe organizer and storage solution for your needs.
Shoe Storage Boxes
Keeping shoes in good condition is essential for long-term wear. One way to do this is by storing them in a storage box that can be easily accessed and kept clean. Various shoe storage boxes are available on the market, so it is essential to identify your needs before making a purchase.
Ideally, it would help if you store your shoes in a cool, dry place where they can be stored conveniently. It’s also beneficial to regularly clean your shoe storage box as bacteria build-up will cause unpleasant smells, and dirt stains will accumulate over time.
Shoe Racks and Cabinets
There are various types of shoe racks and cabinets on the market, so it is crucial to find one that will suit your needs.
For example, choose a lightweight option if you want a rack placed near the door or in an open space. On the other hand, if you have heavy footwear and need enough storage space for dozens of shoes, consider buying a cabinet instead.
When choosing between these two options, it is best to ensure the rack can handle heavy loads and fits in with your décor. It is also vital to ensure the shelf unit is sturdy – after all, shoes tend to get heavy! If storing your shoes in a basement or garage area – rather than on top of stairs – consider getting a shoe cabinet, as this type of storage accommodates more oversized items better.
Factors Affecting How Long Shoes Last
How Often You Wear Them
If you wear your shoes only a few times a year, they can last quite a while; however, if you wear them daily, the shoe’s lifespan is shorter. Keeping your shoes clean and dry is also essential – this will help extend their life span.
Where You Walk
Shoes that are meant to be used outdoors will last longer. Wearing shoes with thicker soles and storing them away from direct sunlight or near radiators can help them last longer. Additionally, avoid putting them in the dryer, as this could damage the leather material.
Shoe Type
It is important to remember that the type of shoes you wear significantly impacts your lifespan. For heel-wearers, their shoes will last for shorter periods as the heel provides more traction.
On the other hand, Sneaker-wearers can trust sneakers as they don’t have as much wear and tear since they are designed to be just that – sneakers! Therefore, it is crucial to rotate your footwear so that each pair doesn’t get worn out simultaneously. This way, you can prolong their lifespan and enjoy them for longer!
Weather Damage
Regarding weather damage, shoes are one of the most vulnerable pieces of clothing. Sun, rain, and snow can ruin a pair of shoes over time. Heat and humidity can do the same thing as well.
To make sure your shoes stay in good condition, keep them stored away from direct sunlight and rodents. Storing them in an airtight container will help!