When storing your winter shoes and boots, you should avoid putting them in an open container or putting them in a plastic bin. The reason is that this type of storage can damage the shoes and damage the interiors. Therefore, you should keep them in a climate-controlled room or in cedar shoe trees to avoid odors. The following are some other ways you can store your winter shoes and boots. Read on to learn more about the best storage methods for your winter footwear.
Avoid open storage for winter shoes
If you wear warm, woolen shoes during the colder months, avoid open storage for your winter shoes. It can be a space-sucking problem if your shoes are exposed to the elements. Avoid storing your winter shoes in a cabinet or closet. You’ll only be adding to your clutter and exposing your footwear to sun damage. Open storage can also result in more dirt. And open storage for winter shoes is also more likely to attract bugs and critters.
Store in a Climate-Controlled space
If you plan to keep your winter shoes in a climate-controlled area, there are several steps you need to follow. First of all, do not stack your winter shoes on top of each other. This may damage them and can also damage the interior of your storage bin. If you do this, you should also put your winter boots in a separate bin. This way, you can easily rotate them and avoid the possibility of scuffing your shoes.
Avoid odor-causing plastic containers
Before storing your winter shoes, make sure they are free from odor. You can do this by filling them with newspapers or citrus fruits. Then, secure the lid and leave them outside for at least 24 hours. Alternatively, you can purchase shoe forms. In any case, you should avoid using plastic containers that will cause odor. This article was originally published on Life Storage on 6/4/13.
Use cedar shoe trees
Using cedar shoe trees to store winter shoes will help keep them fresh longer, and can save you a bundle on new pairs. The cedar absorbs moisture that accumulates when you wear them, and prevents them from smelling and cracking. The cedar also serves an antimicrobial function. This will prevent any fungus and bacterial growth from growing in your shoes. So, you can be sure that your new pair of winter boots or shoes will look brand new again.
Properly clean and deodorize winter footwear
The best way to combat the smell of sweaty shoes is to use a shoe deodorizer. These products contain special enzymes that eat up bacteria and organic matter. They can be applied using wipes, sprays, or even submerged in water. To prevent odors, don’t use balsamic or apple cider vinegar. In addition to using a deodorizer, you can also use newspaper to absorb excess moisture.