Shoes piled up in the entryway, odd pairs at the back of the closet, booties misshapen by poor storage: we've all been there. Yet a few simple rules are enough to keep a tidy entryway and your shoes in good condition for longer.
In short
- Keep only the current season's pairs in the entryway.
- Clean and dry your shoes before storing them.
- Store them somewhere dry and ventilated, out of the sun.
- Preserve their shape with paper or shoe trees.
10 storage tips
1. Sort through them
Start by taking out all your pairs. Those you haven't worn in a year can be donated or sold.
2. Keep only the current season in the entryway
In winter, booties and slippers. In summer, clogs and sandals. The rest goes into a closet or under the bed.
3. Choose suitable furniture
An open shelf lets shoes breathe. A closed cabinet hides the mess but needs ventilation.
4. Use baskets
One basket per family member, or one basket for slippers, prevents pile-ups.
5. Add a bench
A bench with built-in storage lets you sit to put your shoes on and store them underneath.
6. Clean before storing
A quick brush on the suede, a damp cloth on the soles: always store clean, dry shoes. Our tips: caring for vegan suede.
7. Preserve the shape
Crumpled paper or shoe trees in booties and clogs stop them from losing their shape in storage.
8. Use fabric bags
For long-term storage, choose fabric bags over plastic ones, which trap moisture.
9. Avoid heat and sun
Not near a radiator, nor behind a sunny window: heat and UV dry out and fade materials.
10. Rotate seasonally
Twice a year, in spring and autumn, swap the pairs in the entryway with those in the closet, and clean them while you're at it.
Special cases
Lined clogs and slippers: brush the lining, let them dry thoroughly and store them flat, without crushing them under other pairs. Your Bormio clog will be waiting for you intact next winter.
Booties: store them upright, with paper inside so the shaft doesn't fold.
Sandals: fasten the buckles so the straps keep their shape.
Frequently asked questions
Should you keep shoe boxes?
For long-term storage, yes if they're cardboard and ventilated. Otherwise, a fabric bag works perfectly well.
How do I avoid bad odours in a shoe cabinet?
Store dry shoes, air the cabinet regularly and slip a small sachet of baking soda inside.
Where should I keep my slippers?
In a basket near the entrance, so you can slip them on as soon as you get home. Read also: taking your shoes off at home.
Read also
Vegan suede styles that are easy to care for and store: discover All our styles.
