How to Store Boots & Shoes for Maximum Longevity

I’ve amassed an extraordinarily sizable boot collection, and over the years, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to store boots so they stay in good condition. I want to share some tips about storing boots to extend their lifespan without converting half your bedroom or basement into a purpose-built boot display.  

So, let’s jump into how to store boots efficiently, inexpensively, and safely. We met up with Mr. William Wong of Arteron London, a store specializing in garment care near the famous menswear hub of Savile Row, to learn the best ways to store boots.

Essential Boot Storage Items

Let’s dive into the must-have items you need to store boots properly. We’re providing a range of items and storage ideas that work in different spaces and budgets.

Cedar Boot Trees

• Odor control
• Absorbs moisture
• Maintains shape

A boot tree is to a boot what a hanger is to a suit. These are shaped inserts, usually made of cedar, that maintain the shape of your shoes when they’re not worn.

“A shoe tree is an object you put inside your shoes when you’re not wearing them. It has many functions.” says Wong, “When you’re wearing them, you flex them a lot, and they are prone to creasing, especially around the vamp. “

In addition to limiting leather creases, this helps avoid “toe spring,” when the toe slowly curls up off the ground, making it look like elf shoes.

“You want to make sure you have adequately sized shoe trees,” Wong adds. If, say, you’re a size 11 and the two options you see for shoe trees are for sizes 8-11 and 11-14, pick the larger one.

You’ll also need to choose the right material for your shoe trees, though plastic isn’t the end of the world.

“Plastic tends to have some pros, believe it or not,” Wong points out, “Plastic is usually lighter if you’re traveling a lot, and I do think it’s better to have a plastic shoe tree than no shoe tree at all.”

Cedar boot trees absorb moisture from the boot, which extends their lifespan because moisture can break down glues and stitching. This also controls bad smells and even wards away insects. “Cedar has some antibacterial function; it has a nice smell to it, ” says Wong. “Some people claim it’s great at moisture absorption. I’m not sure how true that is, frankly.”

In addition to cedar, beechwood is a less common material for shoe trees. “It is a very dense wood. It’s very hard.” Wong explains, “Wearing it will last a long time. Importantly for us, I think beech wood lends itself to being stained beautifully.”

Boot Shapers

• Better than nothing but not as good as boot trees

For those who prefer a cheaper alternative to wooden boot trees, boot shapers are plastic inserts that keep boots upright and maintain their shape. They are adjustable and fit into most boots. I recommend cedar shoe trees, though: the cost savings isn’t that much and they work so much better.

Boot Storage Racks

• Stable and durable
• Large enough to accommodate all your boots without cramming them together
• Easy to assemble
• Customizable and modular
• Stylish and complements, your interior decor can seamlessly integrate into your space

With their unique shapes and sizes, boots require specialized storage solutions to maintain their form, prevent damage, and ensure longevity. Boot racks are invaluable organizational tools.

Made of steel shelves, the Seville Classics storage shelf lets you connect two units side by side, has two or three levels, is adjustable in height, and is available in several colors and materials to suit whatever decor your room has. 

Pros

• Perfect for minimalists or those who prefer clean lines.
• Modular design is customizable for different heights of boots
• Great for those on a budget without compromising on quality
• Quick setup, no tools required

Cons

• It’s a shoe rack, and while it’s customizable, it can only fit about six pairs of boots

If you don’t have a lot of extra floor space or closet space, then over-the-door racks are an option — Whitmor’s is one of the best I’ve seen. The rungs fold up to accommodate any shoe size, and the materials used are sturdier than most hanging racks.

It’s essential to invest in a rack specifically designed for boots. It organizes and ensures the longevity of your prized footwear collection by preventing mold and maintaining your boot’s shape.

3. Boot Bags

Boot bags protect your footwear from scuffs and scratches when traveling. Made typically of cloth or canvas, you want to pick the right material that’s breathable, protective, and water resistant all in one. Nylon is the most cost effective option here, and Case4Life is our favorite: it’s very inexpensive, has a 3-year warranty, and can be opened up to ventilate when necessary. 

Do you need to use a dust bag at home?

“I would say if you have the choice of using a dust bag or not using a dust bag, use a dust bag.” Wong explains, “But otherwise, if it’s in your cupboard and there’s not much dust moving about anyway, then the dust bag is less important.”

4. Boot Care Kit

• Lightly brush boots after every use
• Store near your de-booting zone
• Condition when leather is dry

While not strictly a storage item, having a leather boot care kit is essential. At a minimum, you want a horsehair brush, dust cloth, and leather conditioner. Break it out frequently for light cleaning. Condition your boots semi-regularly — at least twice a year — to ensure the leather remains supple and hydrated. Dry leather can crack, so regular conditioning extends the life of your boots.

5. Silica Gel Packets

If you live in a particularly humid environment, dropping a silica gel packet into each boot can help absorb excess moisture. Just remember to replace these every few months for the best results.

Storing Different Types of Boots & Shoes

Storing winter boots requires extra steps compared to a pair of dress boots. It’s important to adapt your storage to the materials and use case for the boots.

Winter Boots

When you store winter boots, ensure they are clean and dry before packing them away for the winter season. It’s all too common for snow to make its way inside the boots, and given they’re often lined with insulation or wool, it’s easy for moisture to get trapped within. Immediately after you remove your winter boots, clean them with a damp rag and brush them to remove debris once they dry.

If they’re wet, stuff them with crumpled newspapers and replace the damp paper every six hours until dry.

Dress Boots & Shoes

Dress shoes and boots require extra care. First, you’ll want to know the type of leather you’re working with. Suede ankle boots will require different care than box calf leather or shell cordovan.

Before you store your dress boots, you might want to condition or clean them. Higher-end leathers should be regularly conditioned to improve their longevity, especially before being stowed away until the next boot season.

Generally speaking, unless you have suede, you’ll want to brush, condition, and polish the leather. It also helps to have a boot care kit containing essentials like a brush, polish, cloth, leather conditioner, and extra laces. Store them in a boot bag, boot box, shoe bag, or closed container — just avoid plastic bags, as they trap moisture and can lead to mold and rot.

Why Store Boots Properly?

Keeping your winter boots or work boots in the garage might seem like a great boot storage idea. But it might be one of the worst places to keep your boots if you want your favorite pair to survive the off-season.

Here’s what to avoid.

Humidity

High humidity leads to mold and mildew growth. Leather boots, in particular, can become damaged if stored in a damp environment. Moisture can also cause metal components, such as eyelets, to corrode.

Hydrolysis

Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction where water molecules break chemical bonds in squishy materials found in boots and shoes. It messes them up. It affects materials like polyurethane (PU) used in constructing the sole or midsole. If you have certain Red Wing, Thursday, or Timberland boots, among others, they could have a polyurethane component that will disintegrate over time.

Temperature Extremes

Very high or very low temperatures can damage the material of the boots. For instance, leather can dry out and crack in high temperatures, while certain materials can become brittle in freezing temperatures or snow. All in all, cold temperatures are less risky than hot.

Improper Position

If boots are not stored in their natural shape, they can become deformed over time. For example, if tall boots are not supported, the shaft can fold over. Using boot shapers or stuffing them lightly with balled up paper can help retain their shape.

Pests

Insects such as moths or carpet beetles can damage certain boot materials. Rodents may also gnaw on boots if stored in locations these animals can access. Good news for the bugs, though: cedar shoe trees appear to help ward away insects.

Contaminants & Dirt

If boots are stored without cleaning, residues like dirt, salt, or other contaminants can further degrade the material, especially leather. It’s crucial to clean and condition leather boots before storing them.

Chemicals

Storing boots near chemicals or in boxes with acidic content can cause the materials to break down over time. Avoid storing boots in areas where they might be exposed to harmful chemicals.

Pressure or Weight

Storing heavy items on top of boots can cause them to become misshapen or compressed.

Vertical boot trees or pegboards offer a convenient solution for everyday boots. They keep your boots off the floor, organized, and out of the way. However, be mindful that hanging boots for extended periods can stretch and deform leather. To prevent damage, occasionally switch up how you hang them. 

It’s worth noting that another type of boot tree is a block that sits inside a boot when it’s not being worn. These help maintain the boot’s shape and prevent permanent folds and creases.

Boot racks or boot shelves come in various styles. Opt for ones with an open design (like we suggested above) to ensure proper air circulation around your boots. Shelves also serve as a neat and stylish way to display your shoes. Consider placing a small boot rack near entryways and high-traffic areas.

Boot boxes are also an easy and convenient choice for storage if you have the room—and you got one for free when you bought your boots.

Under-the-bed storage is another space-saving option for storing boots under your bed. Numerous under-the-bed boot storage ideas and solutions, including gliding shelves and rolling racks, keep your shoes accessible while out of the way.

How to Store Boots when Traveling

To ensure a worry-free travel experience, follow these three essential guidelines when packing your boots:

Keep Them Clean

Regardless of how you plan to store your boots during your travels, starting with clean boots is smart. You don’t want dried mud sprinkling onto your clothes when you’re unpacking.

Provide a Protective Barrier

Safeguard your boots and prevent them from directly contacting your other items. The easiest way to achieve this is by placing your boots inside a protective boot bag or a sturdy box. In a pinch, a plastic bag can suffice.

Personally, I’ve adopted a system where I pack casual or winter boots in a dedicated boot bag. I individually wrap dress boots in boot bags to keep them pristine.

Avoid Overpacking

Consider placing your boots toward the top of your suitcase as a practical tip. Many overnight bags even feature special built-in boot compartments. Take advantage of these compartments while ensuring your boots are clean to isolate dirt and odors effectively.

Conclusion

Proper boot storage maintains the condition and appearance of your boots, extending their lifespan. Use these great boot storage ideas for all your boots, whether Chelsea or hiking boots. Just don’t toss them in a messy pile.

FAQS

How can I store a lot of boots?

Use good over-the-door systems. They look neat, typically have vents for good air circulation, and are stackable to save space. Place and stack several pairs in boxes on a shelf, on your closet floor, or under the bed for space-saving storage.

Do boots need ventilation?

Ventilation, temperature, and humidity matter with long-term storage for your favorite shoes and boots, especially during the summer. Trapped moisture and extreme temperatures can encourage mold growth and bacteria that can cause bad odors and mildew stains. In the summer, direct sunlight can also age your boots faster, like it ages your skin.

How to choose the best boot rack for your home?

Pick one that's both stable and durable, ensuring it can withstand daily use and maintain its integrity over time. Equally important is its capacity: it should be spacious enough to house all your boots without squeezing them together. Moreover, the assembly process should be straightforward and user-friendly, eliminating the need for complex tools or expertise. Preferably, go for a modular, customizable design that can adjust to your ever-changing storage needs. Lastly, aesthetics matter; opt for a storage system that complements your interior decor and blends effortlessly into your space.

How to store fashion boots?

When storing fashion boots, cleanliness is key, so start by removing any dirt or dust. Use cedar boot trees to help them retain shape and avoid folding taller boots. If your boot tree isn't high enough, stuff the rest with paper. Store them upright in cool, dry places, away from direct sunlight. Consider breathable storage solutions, like cloth bags, and remember that well-displayed boots can also enhance room aesthetics.