Leather boots are a timeless classic that everyone should own. Not only do they look great, but if stored properly, can last for years. Whether you have just splurged on your first pair of leather boots or if you’ve been wearing them for a while now, taking the time to store them correctly is essential in preserving their integrity and keeping them looking good.
In this article, we’ll discuss some expert tips on how to store leather boots so that they remain soft and supple even when not worn. Read on to learn more!
Properly storing your leather boots is essential for their longevity. Without proper care, you might find yourself having to replace your beloved footwear every few years instead of enjoying them for life.
Whether you’re looking at long-term storage during the summer months or just trying to figure out how best to keep your boots safe in between wears, we’ve got some helpful tips to store leather boots so they stay in top condition. Keep reading as we break down the simple steps it takes for optimum protection and lasting wear.
Why is It Important to Store Leather Boots?
1. To Maintain the Quality of the Leather
Leather boots are an investment, and when stored correctly they can remain in top condition for years—even decades! Storing your leather boots can help to prevent them from drying out and cracking.
2. To Keep Dirt and Other Particles Away
Leather is naturally porous, which means it can absorb dirt and debris if left exposed to the environment. Storing your leather boots, or at least covering them with a dust bag, can help keep debris out and maintain their pristine condition.
3. To Preserve Their Shape and Keep Them Clean
Leather tends to lose its shape when stored improperly—such as in a suitcase or closet—or when worn for too long. Storing your leather boots in a designated area—like an enclosed shoe rack or closet shelf—can help them keep their original shape and also help maintain their cleanliness.
Storing your leather boots properly is essential to preserving their quality and keeping them in top condition for years to come. With a few simple steps, you can ensure that your boots stay clean, keep their shape, and remain in good condition. Following the proper storage methods can help ensure that you get the most out of your leather boots.
10 Ideas On How to Store Leather Boots
1. Stuff the Toes of the Boots With Newspaper or Tissue Paper
One of the best ways to store leather boots is by stuffing the toes with newspaper or tissue paper. This helps absorb any moisture inside and prevents creases from forming in the material of the boot.
2. Use Boot Trees or Shapers
Boot trees, also known as shapers, are specially designed to help maintain the shape of boots when they’re not being used. You can find these in any shoe store or online and they come in a variety of sizes, so make sure to measure your boots before purchasing them.
3. Rotate the Boots
It’s important to rotate your boots when you’re storing them, as this helps prevent creases from forming on the leather. It also helps to reduce wear and tear on any one part of the boot, making them last longer.
4. Use Boot Bags
Boot bags are a great way to keep your boots safe and protected while they’re not in use. Some even have drawstrings so you can make sure they’re sealed tight and there’s no dust or dirt getting in.
5. Store Them in a Cool, Dry Place
Leather is vulnerable to humidity and moisture, so make sure to store your boots away from any sources of heat or dampness. Keep them out of direct sunlight as well, since that can cause the material to dry out and crack.
6. Condition the Leather Regularly
Leather needs to be conditioned on a regular basis in order to stay supple and prevent cracking. Invest in a good quality leather conditioner and use it every few weeks, or as often as the manufacturer recommends.
7. Use Cedar Blocks
Cedar blocks are great for absorbing any moisture that might be present inside the boot and keeping them smelling fresh. You can find these in most shoe stores or online. Also, make sure to keep them away from any direct heat sources.
8. Use Plastic Bags
Plastic bags can help protect boots against water damage or dirt and dust if you’re storing them in an area that is prone to either of these hazards. Make sure that the bag is bigger than the boot itself, so no creases form on the material.
9. Hang Them Up
If you have enough space in your closet, try hanging up your boots instead of storing them flat. This will help keep them from slouching and losing their shape over time. Also, make sure to use wide-based hangers so your boots don’t slip off.
10. Opt for Breathable Storage Containers
Rather than using plastic or cardboard boxes to store your boots, opt for breathable storage containers that will allow air to circulate inside the container. This will help prevent creases and odors from developing inside your boots.
Storing leather boots correctly is essential if you want to maintain their shape and quality over a long period of time. By following these helpful tips, you can make sure that your boots stay in great condition for years to come. By investing in the right storage solutions and taking proper care of them, you can extend the life of your leather boots for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take When Storing Leather Boots?
When storing leather boots, it is important to consider the environment in which they will be stored. It should be kept cool and dry, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. It’s also a good idea to stuff the inside of the boot with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb any moisture that might be present in the air.
It’s also beneficial to condition and waterproofs your boots prior to storage to help keep the leather from cracking or drying out.
How Long Can Leather Boots Be Left in Storage?
Leather boots should not be left in storage for too long without being checked on periodically. When stored correctly, they can last for several years. However, if left in storage for excessively long periods of time, the leather may start to crack or become brittle.
It’s important to check your boots at least once a year to ensure that they are still in good condition and able to be worn.
What Should I Do Before Storing Leather Boots?
Before storing your leather boots, be sure to clean them thoroughly with a damp cloth and leather cleaner. This will help to remove dirt, dust, and other debris that might have accumulated on the surface of the boot. Additionally, it’s important to condition and waterproof your boots before storing them in order to keep the leather from cracking or becoming brittle over time.
Finally, if possible, stuff the interior of your boots with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb any moisture in the air. Following these steps will ensure that your leather boots maintain their quality and last for years to come.
Which Materials are Best for Storing Leather Boots?
When storing leather boots, it’s important to choose materials that will not damage the leather over time. It’s best to store your boots in a cool, dry place away from direct heat or sunlight.
Additionally, it’s beneficial to use materials such as acid-free paper or cloth bags that will not cause discoloration or damage to the leather. Avoid using plastic containers as they can trap moisture and cause mold and mildew to form.
How Can I Prevent Leather Boots From Drying Out While in Storage?
In order to prevent leather boots from drying out while in storage, it’s important to condition and waterproof them prior to storing. Additionally, it’s beneficial to stuff the inside of the boot with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb any moisture that might be present in the air.
Finally, make sure to store your boots in a cool, dry place away from direct heat or sunlight. Following these steps will help keep the leather soft and supple for years to come.
Conclusion
Now you know how to store leather boots! Not only have we walked through the best practices for cleaning and caring for your leather boots, but we’ve also discussed how to store them too. Both of these processes are essential if you want your boots to last a long time! It’s always a good idea to repair any damage that occurs too.
A simple patch or some conditioning can make a world of difference in how long they can be used. Remember, with proper care and attention, your boots can last for years and make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to storage and cleaning. With this knowledge, you can keep your leather boots looking great for longer periods of time!
