Now that the long, dark, and cold days of winter are behind us, it’s time to give your boots some love before putting them away. Learning how to store winder boots properly will help you extend their lifespan and keep them looking great for many seasons to come.

Even though most winter boots are water-resistant and builts to handle the elements, you’ll still want to make sure they’re clean, dry, and well-shaped before storing them. The right storage methods can help prevent damage, odors, and creases. Especially if you plan to store boots lont term.

Here are seven expert tips on how to store winter boots the right way!

Before you start packing away your boots, let them air out indoors for a few days. During winter, boots collect moisture, dirt, and bacteria. The mix of wet snow, salt, and dry indoor heat can leave your boots smelling unpleasant and not fully dry.

Allowing them to air out completely helps prevent mold and odors when you store your winter boots long term.

Even if you only wore your winter boots for a few weeks, cleaning them properly before storage is essential.

Different materials require different care:

Leather Boots should be wiped clean and polished with leather conditioner or shoe polish.

Suede boots need a special suede cleaner and a soft brush.

Fabric or synthetic boots can usually be cleaned with mild soap, water, and a soft cloth.

Always remove first, salt stains, and debris before putting your boots away. Clean boots not only look better but also last longer when you store them long term.

Don’t forget the soles! The bottom of your boots collects the most grime. Use a toothbrush or small brush to remove first from the treads while they’re dry. Then, wash the soles with warm water and mild soap.

Let the soles dry completely, ideally for a full day, before packing. This prevents trapped moisture from damaging your boots during storage.

When learning how to store winter boots, one often-overlooked step is caring for the insoles. Removing them allows your boots to air out fully and help preserve their shape.

Remove the insoles and store them in a clean, dry plastic bag.

If the insoles are warn or damaged, replace them before next season.

This simple step keeps your boots fresh and comfortable when you take them back out.

To store boots long term without creasing, use boot shapers or inserts. These help your boots stand upright and prevent slouching.

Plastic boot shapers are ideal for tall winter boots or monogrammed styles. If you don’t have any on hand, you can stuff the boots with acid-free tissue paper or rolled up magazines as a temporary fix.

Before packing your boots into boxes or bins, wrap them individually in cloth bags or soft fabric. This protects the material and prevents scuffs or scratches, especially for boots with monograms, zippers, or embellishments.

Avoid using plastic wrap or airtight bags, which can trap moisture and cause mold.

When deciding how to store boots long term, your storage container matters.

If you still have the original box, that’s perfect. Otherwise, use a durable plastic or fabric storage bin that protects against dust and moisture.

Line the bottom with soft sloth or bubble wrap.

Avoid stacking boots directly on top of eachother.

If you must stack, place towels or fabric between pairs to prevent deformation.

Store your boots in a cool, dry place! Not in a damp basement or attic.

Properly packing your boots for the season is one of the best ways to protect your investment. Clean, dry, and well-shaped boots will last for many years and be ready to wear as soon as the cold weather returns.

Whether you’re storing monogrammed duck boots, cowboy boots, or cozy sherpa boots, these simple steps will keep them looking brand new.

With the right care, you’ll never have to wonder how to store winter boots or how to store boots long term again. You will already know exactly what to do!