Introduction
Leather shoes are an essential part of our wardrobes. They are stylish, durable, and comfortable. However, they require proper care and maintenance to ensure they last longer and maintain their appearance.
One of the key aspects of caring for leather shoes is understanding how improperly preparing your leather shoes before storage can lessen the life of your shoes. By understanding how your leather shoes can get damaged and taking the necessary steps to prevent it prior to storing your shoes long term, you can reap the benefit of shoes that will last longer and bring you joy for many years.
In this article, we will discuss the best ways to store leather shoes to prevent cracking, fading or any other form of damage. We will also discuss the top tips and tricks for keeping your leather shoe collection in pristine condition.
We will also cover the different types of leather shoes for men and women and the specific concerns one should be aware of when storing each type.
Types of Leather Shoes
There are different types of leather shoes for both men and women. Some of the most common types include dress shoes, casual shoes, boots, and sneakers. Each type has unique characteristics that require specific care and storage methods.
When caring for your leather shoes, it is important to make sure that they are kept clean and dry. Leather can be damaged by dirt, sweat, and water. T
o keep your shoes looking their best, it is important to clean them regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap.
You should also condition the leather periodically with a specialized leather conditioner to help keep it supple and prevent cracking.
In addition to cleaning and conditioning, proper storage is essential for protecting your leather shoes from damage.
Leather shoes should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid storing them in plastic bags or boxes as this can cause the leather to dry out over time.
If possible, store them in shoe bags that are made of breathable materials like cotton or linen. This will help protect the leather from moisture while also allowing air circulation which helps keep the material soft and supple.
Below is a guide on how to care for each type of leather shoe before storing.
Dress Shoes
Dress shoes are typically made of high-quality leather and are often expensive. They are designed to be worn on formal occasions and require special care to maintain their shine and appearance.
When storing dress shoes, it is recommended to use a shoe tree to maintain their shape. This will prevent the creasing and wrinkling of the leather.
Before storing your dress shoes, make sure you clean them with a damp cloth and mild soap. You should also condition the leather with a specialized leather conditioner to keep it supple and prevent cracking.
Store your dress shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Avoid storing them in plastic bags or boxes as this can cause the leather to dry out over time.
Consider using shoe bags made of breathable materials like cotton or linen which will help protect the leather from moisture while also allowing air circulation.
Casual Shoes
Casual shoes are more versatile than dress shoes and can be worn on various occasions. They are typically made of leather or canvas and require regular cleaning and conditioning to prevent cracking and fading.
When storing casual shoes, it is recommended to stuff them with newspaper to maintain their shape. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Boots
Boots are typically made of leather or suede and are designed for cold weather.
They require regular cleaning and conditioning to prevent cracking and fading.
When storing boots, it is recommended to stuff them with newspaper or a boot tree to maintain their shape when storing them away for extended periods.
Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
It is also important to clean the interior and exterior of the boot using a damp cloth and mild soap before storing them away. This will help prevent dirt and debris from damaging the leather material.
Sneakers
Sneakers are typically made of canvas or leather and are designed for casual wear. They require regular cleaning and conditioning to prevent cracking and fading.
When storing sneakers, it is recommended to stuff them with newspaper to maintain their shape. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
It is important to keep them clean by wiping down their exterior with a damp cloth after each wear. Additionally, you should use an air freshener inside the shoe to keep it smelling fresh before storing them away for long periods.
The Top 7 Tips and Tricks for Maintaining Leather Shoes
To maintain the appearance and prolong the life of your leather shoes, here are some tips and tricks you should follow:
- Clean your shoes regularly using a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth.
- Condition your shoes regularly with a leather conditioner to prevent cracking and fading.
- Polish your dress shoes with shoe polish to maintain their shine.
- Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Use a shoe tree or stuff them with newspaper to maintain their shape while storing them.
- Avoid getting leather shoes wet and dry them immediately if they get wet.
- Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes two days in a row to allow the leather to rest and recover before wearing them again.
Conclusion
Proper storage of leather shoes is essential to maintain their appearance and prolong their life.
Different types of leather shoes require specific care and storage methods.
By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can ensure your leather shoes look great and last longer.
Always remember to clean, condition, and polish your shoes regularly and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.