Many people have several pairs of shoes. If you’re moving to a smaller home or need to free up space in your closet, place footwear you rarely use in a storage unit. Here are a few ways to preserve the condition of your belongings.

Do:

Pack them in pairs.

Keeping pairs together helps you avoid misplacing a shoe. Use any original boxes you have, or get sturdy plastic containers you can stack neatly. The extra effort of organizing is worth it when it’s time to unbox.

Choose climate controlled storage.

Heat and moisture can turn leather brittle, break down connecting glue, and lead to mildew growth on fabric. Unfortunately, attics and basements are prone to moisture, so they aren’t ideal locations for long-term storage.

When you search for storage facilities, pick one that offers units with climate control. This feature keeps temperature and humidity levels stable to protect sensitive items. You can further combat moisture by placing silica gel packets inside each shoe or box.

Don’t:

Store dirty shoes.

Dust and dirt can become permanent stains if you let them sit for prolonged periods. To preserve your shoes, thoroughly clean them before moving them into storage.

For leather footwear, use conditioner and polish. Place canvas sneakers in the washing machine, then let them air-dry. Use water with a touch of dish soap to wipe rubber boots. Remember to let all belongings dry completely before placing them in boxes to prevent mold growth.

Stuff them with newspaper.

Stuffing shoes helps them maintain their shape. However, avoid newspaper, which has ink that can transfer onto other materials. Dyes from clothing may cause similar issues.

For the best results, place acid-free cardboard and paper inside your footwear. Frequently used to preserve artwork, acid-free products are less likely to break down over time.

When you’re ready to move your well-packed shoes into storage, turn to CJ’s Storage in Colombia Falls, MT. Serving Flathead County, including the Kalispell, Columbia Falls, and Whitefish areas, they’ve offered climate controlled storage since 2004. They have onsite management to ensure your unit is functional, clean, and secure. Call (406) 892-1272 to ask about their flexible terms, or visit their website to learn more about climate control.