Before storing, make sure your shoes are clean and free from dust, dirt, or product buildup. Even a light surface brushing before putting them away helps preserve the finish and prevents residue from settling into the leather during storage.
Always use cedar or wooden shoe trees when the shoes are not being worn. They help preserve the original form, reduce creasing, and absorb lingering moisture from the interior — an essential step for protecting both the leather upper and inner lining.
If the shoes have been worn throughout the day, allow them to rest and dry naturally for at least 24 hours before longer storage. This gives the leather time to release retained moisture and prevents dampness from being trapped inside the shoe.
Store shoes in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight, excessive humidity, and sudden temperature changes. Fine leather thrives in stable conditions and suffers when exposed to heat, dampness, or enclosed environments without airflow.
For daily or seasonal storage, use breathable shoe bags or a well-ventilated shoe cabinet. This protects the surface from dust and accidental scuffing while still allowing the leather to breathe. Avoid sealing leather shoes in plastic, which can trap moisture and compromise the finish.
Before placing shoes into storage for an extended period, apply a light layer of shoe moisturiser or conditioning cream. Properly conditioned leather is far better equipped to endure time in storage without becoming dry or lifeless.
A discreet finishing layer of natural wax polish may also be applied before storage, especially on the toe and heel, to provide a gentle protective barrier while preserving depth of colour and elegance of finish.
When storing multiple pairs, give each pair enough space to rest without pressing against another. Crowded storage can distort the shape, damage the leather, and dull the finish through unnecessary friction.
For shoes kept away between seasons, revisit them periodically. A brief inspection, light brushing, and occasional reconditioning will ensure they remain in excellent condition and ready to wear at a moment’s notice.
Well-stored shoes age with dignity. With the support of a shoe tree, proper ventilation, thoughtful conditioning, and careful protection from heat and humidity, fine footwear will not simply last longer — it will look increasingly distinguished with time.
Long-Term Storage Tips
If you're putting your shoes away for a season:
- Clean, condition, and polish before storing.
- Insert cedar shoe trees.
- Wrap in soft cloth and place in breathable boxes or shelves.
- Check them monthly to ensure no mildew or odor has formed.
Brushing is where shoe care becomes habit—effortless, quiet, but immensely impactful.
Avoid :
- Attic storage (heat).
- Basement storage (dampness).
- Locking in airtight containers (no airflow).
Brushing is where shoe care becomes habit—effortless, quiet, but immensely impactful.
Bonus: Travel Storage
When traveling with premium shoes, pack them in cloth shoe bags with wrapped trees inside. For added protection, surround them with soft garments and avoid pressure at the toe.
Before you get started
A Few Additional Tips
Tip-1
Use Shoe Trees - Using wooden shoe trees will help to absorb moisture and maintain the shape of the shoes as they dry out. Using a shoe horn prevents damage to the heels, counter and top line.
Tip-2
Mix In Some Cream - You can mix the dubbin on the end of your applicator brush, with some Shoe Cream to darken down the Rough-Out Suede by using the colour pigments in the Shoe Cream. This will help to get your shoes looking as new if the rougher look is not to your liking.
Tip-3
Storm Welt Care - A storm welt aids waterproofing along the feather-edge (between the sole and the upper). This storm-welt can really benefit from a coating or wax. Unlike the upper leather, we recommend putting a healthy amount of wax using a smaller welt brush. Allow to dry (soak in) and buff off with a different buffing brush.
Tip-4
Wax For Added Protection - Our Rough-Out Suede styles are built to handle the elements but the welt and the ‘through’ (mid-sole) are both leather components. Use a wax polish to protect and add water resistance to the welt and a wax crayon to re-seal and re-colour the edges of the soles.
General Care
Leather is a living material that demands nourishment. Use conditioners and creams to keep it hydrated, supple, and crack-free. Regular care maintains its natural sheen and flexibility. Avoid harsh chemicals; instead, opt for pH-balanced products. Proper leather care ensures your premium shoes age gracefully and last for decades.
Read More
