How to Store & Care for Your Shoes and Accessories

Taking good care of your shoes and accessories not only extends their lifespan but also keeps them looking stylish for years to come. From shoes to jewelry and handbags, proper storage and maintenance are key to preserving their quality and appearance. Here’s how to store and care for your prized pieces, ensuring they remain in top shape.

1. Storing Shoes the Right Way

Shoes, especially those made of leather or delicate materials, require special attention to keep their shape and prevent damage. Here are some storage tips:

  • Use Shoe Trees: For leather, suede, or canvas shoes, investing in a shoe tree can help maintain their shape and prevent creases. You can find wooden or plastic versions, with cedar being a great option for absorbing moisture and odors.
  • Keep Them in Dust Bags: For luxury shoes or those you wear less often, store them in dust bags to protect them from dust, dirt, and scratches.
  • Box Them: If you have space, use the original shoe boxes for your shoes, especially if they’re designer or have sentimental value. Label the boxes so you can easily find the right pair.
  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause colors to fade and materials to deteriorate.

2. Cleaning Shoes Properly

Different materials require different cleaning methods. Here’s a quick breakdown of how to clean various types of shoes:

  • Leather: Use a soft cloth and a gentle leather cleaner or conditioner to keep your leather shoes looking polished. Buff them with a dry cloth after cleaning.
  • Suede: Suede requires a delicate touch. Use a suede brush to gently lift dirt and a suede eraser for stubborn stains. Avoid water, as it can ruin the material.
  • Canvas: Machine wash canvas shoes on a gentle cycle with cold water, or clean them by hand with mild detergent and a soft brush.
  • Rubber: Rubber shoes, like flip-flops or rain boots, can be cleaned with soap and water. A toothbrush can help get into the crevices.

3. Protecting Your Handbags & Accessories

Handbags, wallets, and other accessories deserve just as much attention as your shoes. Here’s how to care for them:

  • Use Dust Bags: Like shoes, handbags should be stored in dust bags to keep them clean and safe from dust, scratches, and fading. If you don’t have the original bag, consider investing in a good-quality fabric dust bag or organizer.
  • Stuff Them: To maintain the shape of your handbags, stuff them with tissue paper or a bag shaper when not in use. Avoid over-stuffing, as this can stretch the material.
  • Avoid Overloading: Overloading your bag with heavy items can cause it to lose its shape. Be mindful of how much you’re carrying to prevent wear and tear.
  • Keep Away from Heat: Store your handbags in a cool, dry place. Direct heat can cause the material, especially leather, to crack and fade.

4. Jewelry Care & Storage

Jewelry is delicate, and improper care can lead to tarnishing or damage. Here’s how to store and maintain it:

  • Use Jewelry Boxes or Trays: Invest in a jewelry box or organizer to keep necklaces from tangling, rings from scratching, and earrings from getting lost.
  • Separate Pieces: Store your jewelry in separate compartments to prevent pieces from rubbing against each other and causing scratches.
  • Clean Regularly: Use a jewelry cloth to wipe down silver, gold, or stainless steel jewelry to remove tarnish. For more delicate pieces like pearls, use a soft, damp cloth.
  • Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep your jewelry away from direct sunlight, humidity, and heat sources to avoid tarnishing or discoloration.

5. Caring for Special Occasion Shoes & Accessories

For those special occasion pieces you don’t wear every day, the key is in storage.

  • Avoid Hanging Shoes: If your special occasion shoes have heels, avoid storing them upright where the heel might bend or get damaged. Instead, store them lying flat in their dust bags.
  • Wrap Delicate Accessories: Delicate pieces like brooches or special necklaces should be wrapped in soft cloths to prevent damage.
  • Store in a Controlled Environment: For high-value or sentimental pieces, consider using a climate-controlled environment to protect them from extreme temperatures or moisture.

Taking a few extra steps to care for your shoes and accessories will not only preserve their condition but also keep them looking fresh and stylish. Whether you’re storing your everyday shoes or a luxurious handbag, proper care is an investment in your wardrobe.