Boots are a versatile and stylish footwear option that can elevate any outfit. Whether you're stowing away your boots during the off-season or organizing your collection, proper storage is essential to maintain their quality and prolong their lifespan. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best practices for storing boots, ensuring they remain in excellent condition and ready to be worn whenever you need them.
1. Clean and Prepare
Before storing your boots, it's crucial to clean and prepare them properly. Remove any dirt, dust, or stains from the surface using a soft brush or damp cloth. Allow them to air dry completely to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or mildew growth. Conditioning leather boots with a specialized leather conditioner will help keep the material supple and hydrated, preventing cracks and stiffness.
2. Choose the Right Location
Selecting an appropriate storage location is vital to protect your boots from environmental factors that can damage them. Opt for a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures, excess humidity, and prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause leather to fade, crack, or warp. Avoid storing boots in basements, attics, or garages where temperature and humidity fluctuations are common.
3. Consider Boot Inserts
To maintain the shape of your boots and prevent them from developing unsightly creases, consider using boot inserts or trees. These inserts help preserve the natural form of the boots, particularly for tall or knee-high styles. Boot trees made from cedar wood not only maintain the shape but also absorb moisture and odors, keeping your boots fresh and ready to wear. Wydr's boots come with complementary inserts to preserve the shape of the boots.
4. Store Boots in an Upright Position
Storing boots in an upright position is essential for preventing creasing and maintaining their structure. If your boots have a tendency to slouch or lose their shape, use rolled-up magazines or pool noodles to fill the shafts. This will help them retain their upright position and prevent any unsightly wrinkles or folds.
5. Use Protective Bags or Covers
To shield your boots from dust, dirt, and potential scuffs, consider using protective bags or covers. Fabric shoe bags or pillowcases are ideal for breathable storage. Wydr's shoes come with fabric shoe bags to protect shoes from dust.
Avoid using plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and promote the growth of mold or mildew. Labeling the bags or utilizing transparent options can make it easier to identify specific pairs without rummaging through a pile. If space allows, keep your boots in Wydr's original boxes. This protects them from dust and potential damage.
6. Rotate Boots Regularly
To prevent any long-term damage caused by prolonged storage, it's advisable to rotate your boots regularly. If you have multiple pairs, periodically switch the boots you wear and the ones you store. This helps distribute the weight and pressure on the boots, preventing permanent indentations or deformations. Additionally, wearing different boots allows you to enjoy your entire collection and give each pair a chance to breathe.
Properly storing your boots is essential for preserving their quality and ensuring they remain in excellent condition over time. By following these guidelines, including cleaning and preparation, choosing the right storage location, using boot inserts or trees, storing boots upright, using protective bags or covers, and rotating your boots regularly, you can enjoy a well-organized and well-maintained collection. With the proper care and attention, your boots will always be ready to step out in style whenever you need them.
You can also refer to Wydr's complementary care card for reference.
