Should You Keep Shoes In Their Boxes?

Published: April 3, 2020/Last Updated July 11, 2024

Table of Contents

Lots of us have been under the impression that plastic shoe boxes or cardboard are the most secure way to keep our footwear out of the way for years. Wait, is it? We use them to keep our footwear organised and somewhat protected,’ but keeping shoes in this type of container for longer durations can cause permanent damage and reduce the shoes’ useful life.

The struggle to find a secure home for one’s shoe collection is real, and any shoe enthusiast can attest to that. To what extent your shoes last depends on how often you wear them, how often you store them, and how you treat them while you’re not wearing them. Have a look at Garage Storage Solutions

Careful attention from its owner is what every pair of shoes needs. To show how important they are to you, clean them and put them away. If you wear it every day, keeping it looking like it did the first time can be challenging. Having a suitable method of storing your shoes not only aids in keeping them organised, but also increases their longevity.

If you had to choose, what would be your ideal method of storing shoes? Storage Options: Wall, Cupboard, or Boxes It’s worth your time to look at the many shoe-organization options available. Everyone has to deal with this problem at some point, and it often arises after starting something new. Because of this problem, we explored numerous storage solutions before settling on one that fit our needs.

If you’ve ever seen the bewildering sight of someone who retains all of their sneakers in the boxes, you might have wondered if you should do the same. Not only are many shoeboxes unsightly and badly damaged, but some individuals also find the practise of storing shoes in a box to be odd when they could just as easily toss them in a haphazard pile in their shoe closet near the front entrance.

People can be divided into two categories: those who buy “Storage” shoes and everyone else. While keeping your shoes in their original packaging has some advantages, it also has some drawbacks.

What’s the Big Deal About Shoe Cabinets?

Shoe storage may seem like a pointless activity for individuals who would rather just take off their footwear and let misfortune find them where it may. However, it is undeniable that careless shoe throwers are more prone to wear out their footwear rapidly.

Proper shoe storage is an essential element of shoe care since improper storage can hasten the premature deterioration of your footwear. That said, if you really can’t be bothered to find another place to keep your shoes, then it’s probably best to keep them in their original packaging.

To prevent your shoes from being damaged by things like dirt, dust, and wetness, as well as to prevent them from being stomped or bent out of shape, invest in some shoe storage. The principal advantage of storing footwear in the packaging in which it was originally sold is that this provides an extra layer of protection against damage.

While you probably won’t want to store your every-day kicks in their original boxes, seasonal or special-occasion pairs are more happier in their protective packaging than they would be if you just threw them in the back of the closet.

Protecting your shoes in a shoe box and storing them in a dry, clean environment can extend their lifespan by a significant amount. But there’s no point in putting your shoes away if you aren’t going to clean them first.

When you put shoes away for an extended period of time without cleaning them first, you’re asking for trouble. Place the boxes you will need the most often near the front of your storage container. Advantage number one for plastic containers is that they may be stacked on top of one another without hurting the shoes within. Choose an area of your storage unit and use it exclusively for your shoe collection to make finding a pair of shoes as straightforward as possible. However, they must be stored on top of a wooden pallet and away from walls to avoid moisture damage. Shoes that aren’t going to get much use can be left in the package.

Shoes should never be put away when they are dirty; your daily walking shoes are worse than you might believe, and it would be a huge pain to have to dig through boxes every day to find your favourite pair.

In addition to the dirt and dust that gathers on your shoes every day—dirt and dust that you definitely aren’t going to wipe away—also there’s the sweat and bacteria that can accumulate in such an environment. Inevitably, the more you wear a pair of shoes, the more they will smell after being worn repeatedly. Your shoes will get sweaty and disgusting if you put them back in the box every night.

The increased likelihood of sweat and bacteria buildup over time in these shoes makes it imperative that they not be stored in an airtight container. You should store your nicer, more valuable shoes in a shoebox. Click here to check out garage storage ideas

Shoe Boxes

Shoe boxes offer the best possible protection for your footwear from the elements, including dust, sunshine, and temperature fluctuations, all of which can reduce the flexibility of leather shoes. Stuffing and wrapping vintage footwear with tissue and then placing it in a box will protect the quality leather, cork, and other organic components for as long as possible. Check out garage basket solutions

You can also use plastic containers, but making sure the shoes are completely dry before putting them away will avoid mildew growth. Picture boxes can be used as a substitute for the original shoeboxes. You should use an acid-free shoe box if at all possible.

For the sake of preservation, some people never take their shoes out of their boxes. If other people can’t see your shoes on the floor or shelf, they’re less likely to wear them. There are a few different shoe storage alternatives available, depending on whether you prioritise cleanliness or convenience while stacking your shoes. Some people use a photo of their shoes as a label, while others swap out the cardboard box with a transparent plastic one so they can easily identify the shoes they’re looking for. If your choice helps you, then it’s the right one. The only thing that shouldn’t be done is to let empty shoe boxes sit around accumulating dust or taking up valuable real estate in your closet.

Your shoebox serves as a metaphor for their dwelling. Whenever they are not being used, high-quality footwear belongs in a dedicated shoe storage. When not in use, shoes are best stored in a shoe box since it is stackable and provides superior protection from dirt and dust. Taking a picture of the shoes and taping it to the outside of the box is a clever way to quickly identify them without opening the packaging. Exactly as advertised.

Shoes should be stored in a climate-controlled area away from dust, moisture, and sunlight to prevent deterioration. Keeping your shoes in a dry, cool place will keep them looking fantastic for years. Keeping your shoes in a shoe box is the best way to keep them safe from the elements, including dust, sunshine, and temperature extremes, all of which can damage the flexibility of leather shoes.

Take extra precautions to ensure the safety of your footwear while storing it in a basement. Keep your footwear in plastic containers, never in cardboard crates or, heaven forbid, a cellar. Conditions can get muggy, and occasionally, rodents hitch a ride. It is, of course, important to consider the state of your basement. The traditional shoe box is the ideal means of storing footwear. You should buy replacement cardboard boxes of the same size if you’ve already thrown away the originals. The following items must be included in each box while packing:

Packing paper can be used to create a cushioned base in each box for your footwear.
To keep your shoes from deforming during shipping, stuff them with wads of packing paper.
Pack each pair of shoes separately in packing paper, taking care to wipe them off well before beginning.
Tape the lid of the shoe box shut after inserting the wrapped shoes.
Put the boxes inside the plastic bins.

Boxes for shoes are typically stored there. It can become chaotic if pushed too far, though. Finding a certain pair may take more time than expected, which is another issue. This is a good example of why transparent shoe boxes exist.

Sneaker collectors are typically the type of people who maintain their shoes’ packaging even after they’ve used them. It’s considered as a bonus if they ever choose to part with their sneakers. The original boxes for shoes aren’t required to store footwear in shoe boxes.

The majority of consumers either discard or reuse the packaging their sneakers came in. They aren’t aware that by doing so, they are eliminating a perfectly functional and cost-free method of storing and organising their footwear. If you have a lot of shoes that you don’t wear often, it may be helpful to keep them in their boxes and put them on a shelf in your wardrobe. A picture of your shoes taped to the box will help you locate them quickly and easily. Shoe storage boxes come in a variety of materials, including cardboard, clear plastic, and even wood. You can see what’s inside the boxes, but the photo suggestion is still worth considering if your closet is dim or if the boxes will be stored on a high shelf.

There Is No Benefit to Shoe Preservation from Shoe Boxes

The glue and the soles of your shoes will dry up and your shoes will eventually fall apart and the heels will break away or crumble if they are not used often enough or if they are not exposed to fresh air. This deterioration is the result of poor storage practises, a lack of air flow, and other environmental variables. Whether you spend $20 or $200 on a pair of shoes, storing them in these containers—especially plastic ones—can ruin them. They may become brittle, crack, peel, mould, disfigure the material and the structure, and eventually become unwearable. It’s smarter to take precautions now and find safer, more natural ways to maintain your shoe collection.

It doesn’t matter how much money you spent on your shoes or shoe collection; you should always wear them with pride. If you have the room, the most secure way to store your shoes is on a rack or cube, but open shelves are still an option. Shoe racks are superior to plastic shoe boxes and cardboard because they expose your shoes to air and allow air to move freely around your shoes and clothing, which they will appreciate. Keeping your footwear neatly organised on a shoe rack ensures that each pair is easily accessible at all times. In order to extend the life of your shoes, you should wear them rather than storing or (unintentionally) hiding them.

Shoe cubes and racks can be assembled in minutes or purchased ready to use. You can choose from a wide selection of styles, colours, woods, and materials. They are great for anyone with a shoe collection of any size, from five pairs to a hundred. In order to maintain their cleanliness, a simple wipe down is all that is required.

Should One Keep Shoes In Their Original Packaging?

Shoes are kept in their original packaging at stores and factories. That’s a fairly solid case for keeping the sneakers in their original packaging. Conversely, have you observed that during the summer and the winter, shoe stores typically offer stock sales? Of course, businesses want to get rid of their inventory before it goes out of style, but cardboard boxes also aren’t the most practical option when it comes to storing things.

First of all, cardboard absorbs moisture easily. Leaving an empty box in a damp place like a bathroom or a basement for a few months will demonstrate just how disgusting things may get. There will be all sorts of stinky bacteria growing in that damp card box.

Cardboard boxes are ideal during the first few months while the shoes are in transit or sitting on store shelves because of their humidity absorbing characteristics. However, a plastic box is preferable if you expect to keep the shoes for a long time, especially in rainy locations.

Using see-through containers is preferable to other shoe storage options for a number of reasons. Accessing the footwear you need promptly is made possible, first and foremost, by dumpsters that allow you to look inside. Use only plastic containers for long-term shoe storage. Cardboard shoe boxes are susceptible to damage from humidity, moisture, and bugs, while plastic containers prevent this from happening. If the footwear is only worn during specific times of year or on particular occasions.

That’s when a box comes in handy. The shoes are safe from dirt, sunlight, and temperature changes thanks to the packaging. It doesn’t have to be in the original box if you don’t want it to be; some individuals like to store their footwear in clear plastic boxes. Also, to prevent the paper from flattening out, you should use acid-free paper to stuff them (if you are storing them for a month or longer, you might also want to wrap them in the acid-free paper). It’s important to keep in mind that acidic paper can eat away at the components in your shoes and must be avoided. Check out the garage smart wall

It’s best to keep them boxed up for long-term storage. Shoes that won’t be worn for at least a month should be kept in a box for storage. You can keep track of your footwear collection by storing them in their original boxes or in transparent plastic containers. If you can’t find the original box for a pair of shoes, an old wine box can do. Protect the shoes by wrapping them in acid-free tissue paper before putting them away.

Silica gel is another option for maintaining the freshness of shoes created from a certain material. A container of silica gel can be purchased from a hobby shop. Put silica packets in the bins with shoes made of materials that can be damaged by moisture, such as leather. Moisture is absorbed by the silica packets, which helps prevent warping and mould growth.

Shoe boxes are typically made from plastic or linen. Select stackable boxes with a door opening on the side or a drop front to maximise vertical storage, or go for translucent or transparent shoeboxes to quickly locate your footwear.

Take extra precautions to ensure the safety of your footwear while storing it in a basement. Keep your footwear in plastic containers, never in cardboard crates or, heaven forbid, a cellar. Conditions can get muggy, and occasionally, rodents hitch a ride. It is, of course, important to consider the state of your basement. The main issue with always storing footwear in their original packaging is that certain footwear has certain requirements when it comes to being sent on a restful vacation.

Because of their susceptibility to damage from dampness, leather shoes and similar styles should only be stored in the box if you can be sure that no moisture will enter the box along with the shoes. If this occurs, it’s possible that your shoes will be ruined. Further, there is a proper manner to pack shoes away in a box.

If you’re going to be storing your nicest shoes, you should perhaps look into other Storage methods or find a more breathable alternative to a shoebox. In case you’d rather not keep your shoes in the packaging they came in, you can choose from a dizzying array of alternatives.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwkCjbbCZUg

In 2005, GarageSmart® pioneered the garage storage category in Australia. Since we’ve built a reputation of providing a premium product along with a friendly and professional service. GarageSmart has the best storage solutions for home. GarageSmart is the nation’s leader in complete garage fit-outs. We are a privately owned company and we are very proud of that. GarageSmart is a complete “do-it for you” premium garage fit out company.

Conclusion

For those who would rather remove their shoes and let misfortune find them when they least expect it, putting them away in a safe place may seem like a waste of time. Shoes last longer if you have a system in place for storing them, and doing so also helps you stay more organised. Boxes, cabinets, or the wall can all be used as storage. Don’t ever keep your unclean or worn out shoes in storage. If you aren’t going to clean your shoes before putting them away, there’s no purpose in doing so.

Keeping shoes in a suitable location can greatly increase their useful life span. Select a specific section of your storage locker to house your shoe collection. After repeated uses, shoes tend to take on an unpleasant odour. It is vital that they not be stored in an airtight container due to the increased probability of sweat and bacteria growth over time. There are a variety of shoe rack options to choose from.

Protect your footwear from the elements by keeping them in a dark, dry place out of the direct glare of the sun. When it comes to keeping shoes, nothing beats the good old fashioned shoe box. A image of the shoes taped to the outside of the box is a handy method to recognise them right away. Depending on your preference, you can choose a shoe box made of cardboard, clear plastic, or even wood. Having a photo of your shoes posted to the box will make finding them a breeze.

Shoe racks are preferable to other storage options like cardboard boxes or plastic bags because they allow the shoes to breathe. You can find ready-made shoe cubes and racks, or you can assemble them in a matter of minutes. They work wonderfully for someone with five pairs of shoes or a hundred. It’s important to keep cardboard boxes dry and free of pests to extend their lifespan. If you need to store shoes for an extended period of time, only use plastic containers.

If you don’t plan on wearing a pair of shoes for at least a month, it’s best to store them in a box. A wine box makes a suitable substitute for a lost shoebox in this situation. You should never store your shoes in cardboard boxes in a basement, but instead in plastic containers. The only time it’s okay to keep leather shoes or comparable types in a box is if you’ve double checked to make sure there won’t be any condensation. You might want to find a better solution than a shoebox for your most expensive footwear.

Content Summary

For years, many of us have assumed that plastic shoe boxes or cardboard are the safest method to store our shoes out of the way.
While they serve a vital purpose in helping us stay organised and providing some protection for our shoes, storing footwear in these containers for extended periods of time can cause irreparable harm and shorten the shoes’ lifespan.
Every ardent shoe collector knows the pain of trying to locate a safe haven for their prized footwear.
Shoes last longer if you have a system in place for storing them, and doing so also helps you stay more organised.
There are benefits to storing your shoes in their original packaging, but there are also negatives.
Since improper storage can exacerbate the premature deterioration of your footwear, it is crucial that you store them properly.
However, if you’re too lazy to dig up some alternative storage solution, the box your shoes came in is generally the safest bet.
Protecting shoes from harm is the primary benefit of keeping them in their original package.
Your regular pair of sneakers doesn’t need to stay in their box, but shoes you only pull out for special occasions or holidays should be kept in their packaging to prevent damage.
Keeping your shoes in a shoe box in a dry, clean place will greatly increase their longevity.
If you aren’t going to clean your shoes before putting them away, there’s no use in putting them away.
Put the most frequently used boxes near the front of your storage unit.
To make it easier to find a specific pair of shoes, dedicate a specific section of your storage unit to your shoe collection.
Putting your shoes in the box every night may cause them to smell bad and get damp.
It is vital that these shoes not be maintained in an airtight container due to the increased probability of sweat and bacteria growth over time.
To protect your more expensive footwear, place them in a shoebox.
Shoes are most effectively shielded from dust, sunlight, and temperature changes in a shoe box, all of which can diminish the pliability of leather shoes.
Shoes can be stored in plastic containers, however mildew can be prevented if they are allowed to dry out entirely beforehand.
If at all possible, you should store your shoes in an acid-free shoe box.
Some people choose to keep their shoes in their original packaging forever.
People are less inclined to steal your shoes if they can’t see them on display.
Depending on your requirements for neatness and ease of access, you can choose from a variety of shoe storage options.
The one thing you shouldn’t do is keep empty shoe boxes around, where they’ll just collect dust and take up important closet space.
High-quality shoes should be stored in a designated shoe cabinet while they are not being worn.
A shoe box, which can be stacked and offers greater protection from filth and dust, is the finest option for storing shoes while they are not being worn.
If you store your shoes in a dry, cool environment, you can make them last for years without any deterioration in quality.
It is preferable to store your shoes in a shoe box away from dust, sunlight, and extreme temperatures, all of which can reduce the pliability of leather shoes.
When storing shoes in a basement, special care should be taken to prevent damage.
Never store shoes in cardboard boxes or, heaven forbid, a cellar; instead, use plastic containers.
You should obviously think about the condition of your basement.
When it comes to keeping shoes, nothing beats the good old fashioned shoe box.
Stuffing your shoes with wads of packing paper will prevent them from being squashed in transit.
It is a common place to keep shoe boxes.
It can be good to preserve seldom-worn pairs of shoes in their original packaging and stored on a shelf in a closet.
Having a photo of your shoes posted to the box will make finding them a breeze.
Depending on your preference, you can choose a shoe box made of cardboard, clear plastic, or even wood.
Shoe storage containers, especially plastic ones, can destroy shoes of any price.
It’s better to be safe than sorry, therefore it’s smarter to start looking into alternative methods of care for your shoe collection right now.
You should always wear your shoes with pride, no matter how much money you put into them or how many pairs you have.
Shoes are best kept on a rack or cube if you have the space for them, but you can also use open shelves.
When compared to plastic shoe boxes and cardboard shoe boxes, shoe racks are preferable since they expose shoes to air and allow for air circulation around shoes and garments.
Having all of your shoes neatly displayed on a shoe rack makes finding the right one quick and easy.
Wearing your shoes regularly, as opposed to storing or (accidentally) concealing them, will help them last longer.
You can find ready-made shoe cubes and racks, or you can assemble them in a matter of minutes.
When not being worn, shoes are stored in their original boxes.
That’s a good argument for storing the shoes in their original containers.
Stores want to unload their stock before it goes out of style, but cardboard boxes aren’t the most convenient solution for storing goods.
If you plan on keeping the shoes for an extended period of time, particularly in wet climates, a plastic box is recommended.
There are a lot of advantages to using see-through containers for storing shoes instead of other methods.
If you need to store shoes for an extended period of time, only use plastic containers.
Some people find it more convenient to store their shoes in clear plastic boxes rather than the original packaging.
Acid-free paper is recommended for stuffing to avoid flattening of the paper (if you are storing them for a month or longer, you might also want to wrap them in the acid-free paper).
Look at the intelligent garage wallIt’s safest to keep them in boxes for the long haul.
Put shoes in a box if you won’t be wearing them for at least a month.
Keeping your shoe collection organised is a breeze if you use either the original packaging or clear plastic containers.
A wine box makes a suitable substitute for a lost shoebox in this situation.
Wrapping the shoes in acid-free tissue paper before storing them will keep them in pristine condition.
Your local hobby store should carry a jar of silica gel.
When storing shoes in a basement, special care should be taken to prevent damage.
Never store shoes in cardboard boxes or, heaven forbid, a cellar; instead, use plastic containers.

FAQs About Shoes Storage

Do Shoes Need To Be Stored In Boxes?

Shoe boxes can protect your shoes and keep them in proper conditions to avoid any kind of residue or build-up, and this can drastically improve the overall lifespan of your shoe. However, there is no benefit to storing your shoes at all if you are going to put them away without cleaning them.

Why Are My Shoes Dry Rotting In My Closet?

Dry rot is the process in which leather degrades due to the lack of moisture in the material. When all the oil from the leather evaporates, the fibers in the material become brittle and crack, which leads to permanent damage. This process usually occurs if your leather footwear is kept in warm, dry conditions.

How Should You Store Shoes When Not In Use?

Shoe boxes are an excellent storage option. Boxes offer protection from sunlight and prevent dust build-up. Plastic storage containers can also be used to store and display your collection, just be sure to clean and dry your shoes before storing to avoid mildew growth.

Is It Ok To Store Shoes In Plastic Bags?

You can save yourself time and effort if you store your shoes in plastic bags, which also preserves them and protects them from dirt and dust. A plastic bag uses less space than a box and is less expensive than traditional plastic storage containers.

How Do I Keep My Shoes From Getting Mold In My Closet?

Place silica gel packets inside each shoe to help absorb any humidity in the closet. You can place them inside coat and jacket pockets as well, or between stacked layers of clothes. Keep your shoes on metal racks in your closet.