Many of us are guilty of buying shoes that we don’t frequently use. Maybe you just bought that pair because you needed it for a certain occasion or maybe because it was the last pair with your size. Many of us are also guilty of having way too many pairs of shoes, but only use at least 3 pairs out of the bunch. That’s why it is important to have a proper way of storing all the other pairs of shoes you own because their quality could easily deteriorate over time. Instead of settling for short-term storage for your shoes, you should go for a long-term storage solution that will help maintain their quality.
Here are ways on how you can safely store your shoes:
1. Sort Your Shoes
Before you proceed with storing your shoes, start with sorting them into groups. For example, casual shoes, workout shoes, dress shoes, etc. Sorting your shoes will also help you know which ones need some repairs, can be donated, or thrown out. This way, you wouldn’t have to continuously store shoes that you don’t really need or use anymore.
2. Clean Your Shoes
It is essential that you clean your shoes before you store them, especially if it is for the long-term. Clean them thoroughly before storing them. The accumulated dirt on your shoes mixed with humidity and temperature fluctuations can cause quality deterioration.
- Sneakers
Sneakers are comfortable footwears that are mostly worn during casual events and other physical activities. And with them being frequently used outdoors, they get easily dirty. So for a thorough clean, you have to remove the laces and brush off the accumulated dirt on the surface of your sneakers. Use a soft-bristled one. Wash your sneakers along with the laces and soles in a cleaning solution that’s a mixture of warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Rinse properly, then let it air dry.
- High Heels
High heels are worn not only for formal events, but also for other corporate and casual events. To maintain their quality, you have to clean them according to their material using the right methods.
- Leather Shoes
Leather materials need some extra care if you want to maintain that shine on them. It is also the most common material used on dress shoes and boots. Wipe off the dirt on your leather shoes using a soft cloth or if it has shoe laces, then remove that first. For the cleaning solution, mix warm water with liquid dish soap. Dip a soft cloth into the cleaning solution, squeeze the excess soap and water, then wipe it onto the outer surface of the leather shoes. Using a damp cloth, wipe off the soap and dry it with a towel. Apply some leather conditioner for protection and extra shine. Let it air dry. Avoid direct sunlight.
- Kids’ Shoes
Kids run and step on just about anything that would cause their shoes to get dirty. So the best way to clean their shoes is to first remove the laces (if there are any) and simply soak the shoelaces in a cleaning solution that’s a mixture of warm water and mild detergent. Gently rub the cleaning solution into the laces. For the insoles and the outer surface of the shoes, use an old toothbrush to scrub off dirt and stains with the cleaning solution you prepared. Rinse properly, then let it air dry. Avoid using the machine for cleaning your kids’ shoes.
- Flip flops and Sandals
For cleaning rubber flip flops, baking soda will definitely do the trick. Prepare warm water in a basin and sprinkle some baking soda, then let your rubber flip flops soak for 5 minutes. Scrub with an old toothbrush afterwards. Using baking soda will not only help clean your rubber flip flops, but it will also remove bad smells.
For cleaning your sandals, you have to remove the dirt and grime first using a bristle brush. Mix equal parts of water and baking soda until a paste consistency is formed, then use an old toothbrush to scrub off the dirt, grime, and stain on the cloth or canvas sandals. Rinse thoroughly with running water and dry with a towel.
There are other ways to clean your flip flops and sandals depending on the type of material they are made of. Be sure to look for the specific way to clean them, so you can avoid using the wrong cleaning tools.
3. Choose the Right Shoe Organizer
In choosing the right organizer for your shoes, you need to consider the frequency of use and if you are going to store some of them long-term. For shoes that are frequently used, it is best to choose an open shoe storage, so you can easily access them. Open shoe storage such as shoe racks and cabinets with open fronts also helps leather or any shoe fabric breathe. But if you are going for long-term shoe storage, then you should invest in shoe storage boxes. We don’t recommend storing your shoes in the boxes they came in because pests can easily infiltrate inside. Instead, use clear, sturdy plastic shoe boxes that can be stacked and organized. Take note that all your shoes should be dry and clean when you put them up for storage because molds and mildew can build up if you store them in damp conditions.
4. Organize Your Shoes
Organize your shoes based on the frequency of use. For the pairs of shoes that you seldom wear, you can store and organize them using shoe storage bins with lids. That way, pests won’t easily creep in. Make sure as well that the shoe storage you use is acid-free. Lightweight shoes can be stored in over-the-door hanging shoe organizers. This will not only make your room look organized, but will help you save space by hanging your shoes on the wall.
5. Consider Your Storage Location
To safely store your shoes, you need to consider the storage location. They have to be stored in an area of your house that is not exposed to direct sunlight, dirt, humidity, and temperature as all of these factors can cause the quality of your shoes to deteriorate in the long run. Climate-controlled storage units are also perfect storage solutions for your belongings that are sensitive to humidity and temperature fluctuations, such as your shoes.
We hope that this article has been helpful in giving you tips on how to safely store your shoes.
In need of a self-storage unit nearby to store your belongings? Contact us today and we will be glad to assist you!
