How to Store Your Shoes to Keep Them Fresh
How to Store Your Shoes to Keep Them Fresh
Whether you're a casual wearer or a dedicated sneakerhead, keeping your trainers fresh and in top condition is essential. Proper storage plays a major role in extending the life of your shoes, preventing them from deteriorating over time. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to store your sneakers to ensure they remain fresh, stylish, and ready to wear whenever you need them.
1. Clean Before You Store
Before you even think about putting your sneakers away, make sure they are thoroughly cleaned. Dirt, grime, and moisture can degrade the materials of your shoes over time if not dealt with.
We recommend our all-purpose, eco-friendly cleaning foam and conditioner to keep both your trainers and the environment fresh. Our cleaning kits provide everything you need to revive your shoes including brushes and a microfiber cloth to wipe off dirt. For a deeper clean, check out our detailed guides or try our specialized shoe cleaning service.
Quick tip: Let your trainers air dry completely before storing them to avoid mold or mildew buildup.
2. Use a Shoe Storage Box
Once your shoes are clean and dry, you’ll want to protect them from dust and potential damage. Original shoeboxes are great for long-term storage as they are designed to fit your trainers perfectly. However, if you prefer a more aesthetically pleasing solution, consider using clear plastic storage boxes. These options will also allow you to easily identify which pair is inside without having to open the box.
Quick tip: If you’re going for plastic containers, make sure they are ventilated to allow air circulation. This helps to avoid trapped moisture, which could damage your sneakers over time.
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3. Control Temperature and Humidity
Your sneakers are sensitive to environmental conditions, especially temperature and humidity. Extreme heat can cause certain materials to crack, warp, or fade, while high humidity can lead to mold growth. Ideally, store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Basements and attics may seem like good spots, but they can be prone to temperature fluctuations and humidity changes.
Quick tip: Use silica gel packs or moisture absorbers inside your shoe boxes to control the humidity and keep them dry.
4. Avoid Overstuffing Your Storage Space
If you're a shoe enthusiast with a large collection, it can be tempting to stack boxes or cram multiple pairs into a small space. Resist this urge! Overcrowding your shoes can lead to them being crushed or deformed, especially for those made of more delicate materials like suede or mesh. Give each pair enough space to maintain their shape and avoid damage.
Quick tip: Store your sneakers upright in their boxes or use shelving that allows each pair to sit without being squished.
5. Stuff Your Shoes
To help your shoes retain their shape while they’re in storage, consider stuffing them with soft material. You can use acid-free tissue paper, shoe trees, or even socks. This will prevent creasing and deformation, especially in the toe box area.
Quick tip: Avoid using newspaper as it can transfer ink onto the sneaker material and cause discoloration.
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6. Rotate Your Shoes
If you’re someone who rotates their shoes often, make sure to not leave any pair in storage for too long. Prolonged storage without wear can cause the soles to harden and the material to stiffen. Regularly wearing your sneakers helps them maintain their flexibility and overall condition.
Quick tip: Even if you don’t plan on wearing a pair, take them out occasionally to let them “breathe” and ensure they aren’t becoming brittle.
7. Invest in Deodorizers
No one wants to pull out a pair of sneakers only to find them smelling less than fresh. To combat any unwanted odors, use trainer deodorizers or odor-absorbing products like activated charcoal or baking soda. You can also opt for eco-friendly deodorizing sprays to keep your shoes smelling as good as they look.
Quick tip: Place a deodorizing sachet inside each sneaker when you store them to prevent stale odors from developing.
Conclusion
Proper shoe storage is key to keeping your creps looking fresh and lasting longer. By following these simple steps: cleaning, controlling the environment, and giving them enough space—you’ll ensure your trainers stay in top shape, ready to rock whenever you are. Whether you’re storing them short-term or for a longer period, a little attention goes a long way.
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