If you’ve picked up boots you’re keen to keep looking their best-whether they’re stylish leather, practical work boots, or your favorite ankle booties-how you store them makes a big difference. Simply tossing boots in a closet corner can lead to damage and a short lifespan. Good storage takes just a little prep, the right space, and a few helpful tools. Storing boots correctly keeps them in shape, looking fresh, and ready to wear when you need them. Let’s break down the process, from cleaning and prepping to picking the best spot and organizing your boots smartly.
Why Proper Boot Storage Matters
It’s tempting to just drop your boots in a pile after wearing them, but this can harm them over time. Treating your boots with care saves you money in the long run and keeps your shoes in better condition.
What Can Go Wrong If You Don’t Store Boots the Right Way?
- Lose their shape: Tall boots can slump and crease, leading to permanent wrinkles.
- Mold and mildew: Storing boots while damp encourages fungal growth and smelly odors.
- Cracks and dryness: Leather can dry out, crack, or become discolored if left in the wrong environment.
- Scuffs and dust: Boots rubbing together or getting dusty lose their appearance and wear out faster. Suede is especially sensitive to dust and friction.
How Can Correct Storage Help Boots Last Longer?
- Holds their shape: Using supportive tools keeps them upright and smooth.
- Stays clean and dry: Clean boots before storage to avoid damage from dirt or moisture.
- Protects materials: A dry, cool, and shaded place keeps leather and other materials looking good.
- Saves money: Well-stored boots last longer, so you won’t have to replace them as often.
Especially when putting boots away for a season, following these steps helps you pull them out next year in great condition.
Get Boots Ready for Storage
Prepping your boots before tucking them away is key. Here’s what to do:
Remove Dirt, Moisture, and Odors
- Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush.
- Wipe off stains or mud with a damp cloth.
- Let boots dry completely in the open air, but out of direct heat or sunshine.
- If needed, dust a bit of baking soda inside or use cedar shoe inserts to fight smells and moisture.
Especially after winter, leftover salt and dirt can eat away at the materials, so a good clean prevents trouble.
Clean and Condition Based on Material
| Material | Cleaning | Conditioning |
|---|---|---|
| Leather | Brush, wipe with damp cloth, air dry | Apply leather conditioner evenly after drying |
| Suede | Use suede brush and cleaner made for suede only | Apply suede conditioner to keep soft |
| Synthetics | Follow care label, usually mild soap and water | No special conditioner needed |
Always make sure boots are fully dry before storing.
Why Boots Must Be Stored Dry
Wet boots easily become moldy or smelly. Mold can ruin both natural and manmade materials, leaving stains and weakening glue. Let boots air out until they are totally dry, inside and out, to protect both their look and structure.
Picking the Right Place to Store Boots
Your boots need the right spot to stay in good shape.
Keep Temperature and Humidity Steady
- Store in a spot that’s cool and dry, around 68°F (20°C).
- Humidity should be between 40-50% to avoid mold and cracking.
- Avoid attics, garages, or basements if they get very hot, cold, or damp. If humidity is a problem, add silica gel packets or use a dehumidifier.
Stability is important-big swings in temperature and humidity can ruin boots over time.
Why Boots Need Darkness and Airflow
- Sunlight can fade colors and dry out leather or suede.
- Keep boots in the dark-a closet or fabric bag works well.
- Air needs to flow around boots. Use shelves, racks, or fabric bags for long storage; avoid tight plastic boxes unless boots are totally dry.
Where Should You Store Boots?
- Closets: Most stable option for indoors. Shelves and bins work well for tall boots, and boots on a visible shelf are easier to grab.
- Entryways: Store boots under a console or in a mudroom for convenience. Trays help contain dirt.
- Garages: OK for rubber boots or work boots, but too risky for leather or suede.
- Outside: Use only for rain/garden boots in a covered boot shed.
How to Keep Boots in Shape During Storage
Boot Trees and Setup Tools
| Tool | Purpose | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Boot Tree (Cedar, Plastic) | Keeps boots upright and absorbs smells/moisture (with cedar) | Tall, leather, or suede boots |
| Shaper Inserts | Prevents sagging and creasing | Any tall boot |
| DIY (magazine, pool noodle) | Cheap way to fill out shaft | Tall or knee-high boots |
Preventing Slouching in Tall Boots
Stand tall boots upright with something inside for support. Pool noodles, rolled-up magazines, or a proper boot shaper all help. Don’t fold or bend the shaft for long periods-this leads to creases that won’t come out.
Spacing Between Boots
Leave space around each pair on a rack, shelf, or in storage. Squishing boots together traps moisture and causes scuffs. It’s also easier to pick the pair you want if every pair is in its own spot.
Simple Boot Storage Solutions
- Floor racks and stands: Hold boots upright and organized. Peg or dowel designs are great for airflow.
- Over-the-door organizers: Use closet door space. Great for short or ankle boots with pockets or hooks.
- Under-bed bags and boxes: Protect boots you’re not using every day-choose see-through boxes if possible to quickly spot the pair you need.
- Clear display boxes: Keep boots visible and dust-free; stack these on shelves for tidy organization.
- Boot trays: Set by your door or in a mudroom to catch wet or dirty boots and keep floors clean. Easy to wash and many non-slip options exist.
- Stackable containers and shelving: Build up-not out-to save space. Adjustable shelves help when storing boots of different heights.
- Pegboards and entryway organizers: Hang boots in a garage or mudroom to get them off the floor and let them air out.
Tips for Different Types of Boots
| Type of Boot | Tips |
|---|---|
| Tall/Knee-High | Always store upright with a shaper. Extra room above is helpful. |
| Ankle Boots/Booties | Store upright on a shelf, use hanging storage for visibility, keep away from tightly packed shoes to avoid scuffs. |
| Cowboy/Work Boots | Brush and condition after wear. Store in a dry place with inserts; cover with a dust bag for long storage. |
| Rain/WWinter Boots | Clean thoroughly, dry out with newspaper inside, store near the door or on a rack that lets air and water drain. |
Storing Boots for the Long Term
Preparing for Off-Season Storage
- Deep clean and fully dry boots.
- Condition materials like leather as needed.
- Use a shaper, tree, or stuff the shaft to keep the shape.
- Choose a cool, dark, dry spot like a closet or under-bed bin.
- Use fabric bags or ventilated boxes.
How to Avoid Discoloration and Creases
- Keep boots out of sunlight; use dust bags or boxes that block light.
- Boots must be fully dry to prevent mold stains.
- Always support tall boots upright to avoid permanent wrinkles.
- Don’t stack or crush-one pair per spot is best.
Keep an Eye on Stored Boots
- Every few months, check your boots for dryness, mold, or cracks.
- Air them out and brush off any dust.
- If you rotate boots during the season, swapping pairs helps them last longer.
Boot Storage Mistakes to Avoid
Are Plastic Boxes Okay for Leather Boots?
- Yes, but only if boots are 100% clean and dry. Trapped moisture causes mold.
- Add silica gel or fabric sachets inside the box for extra dryness.
- Fabric storage bags or boxes with some breathability are safest for leather.
Why Not Stack or Crush Boots?
Piling boots or stuffing them in too tight breaks down their shape, leading to wrinkles and scuffs-especially for tall or delicate boots. Use racks, shelves, or individual boxes instead.
Original Box vs. Other Storage
- Original boxes give dust and light protection, especially with tissue or inserts inside, but are not always sturdy or breathable enough for long-term use.
- Clear boxes, racks, or hanging organizers may save more space and keep boots easier to find.
- If you stick with boxes, make sure to add support inside each boot.
Questions about Boot Storage
How Do You Keep Dust Off Stored Boots?
- Use fabric shoe bags, dust covers, or storage boxes.
- Clean shelves and boots regularly if using open storage.
- Drape a light cloth over open racks for an easy fix.
Why Store Boots Upside Down?
Some boots, like rain or work boots that get wet, dry better when stored upside down on a rack. This lets trapped water run out and keeps the shaft straight. Not needed (and not ideal) for delicate boots.
What’s Best for Leather Boot Storage?
- Breathable bags or fabric-lined boxes are best to prevent trapped moisture.
- If using clear plastic boxes, make sure boots are bone dry and add a drying packet.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage-What Changes?
| Short-Term | Long-Term |
|---|---|
| Wipe dirt, air out, store upright | Deep clean, condition, dry fully, use shapers, store in cool, dry, dark spot, check every few months |
With these practical steps and simple setup ideas, your boots will look great, be easy to find, and serve you well year after year.