Storing shoes in the garage is a great way to free up closet space in your home. However, garages tend to have temperature swings and humidity levels that can damage footwear over time. With some planning and strategic storage methods, how to store shoes in garage and protect them year-round.
Key Takeaways:
- Store shoes off the floor and in a cool, dry area of the garage.
- Use shelves, racks, and breathable containers to promote air circulation.
- Monitor for moisture, pests, and signs of damage, and address issues promptly.
7 Easy Steps for How to Store Shoes in Garage
Here are 7 easy steps for how to store shoes in garage:
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
When selecting a storage spot, opt for the coolest, driest area of your garage. Heat, moisture, and sunlight will accelerate shoe damage, so avoid placing storage near appliances like water heaters or under windows where sunlight streams in. Well-ventilated corners or rooms adjoining the house tend to be safer bets. Consider installing a thermometer/hygrometer to monitor conditions.
Step 2: Store Shoes Off the Floor
One of the easiest ways to protect garage-stored shoes is to keep them up off the concrete floor. Plastic storage bins left on the ground risk moisture damage from condensation or leaks. Elevating shoes also discourage mice and insect nesting that can ruin your favorite kicks.
Storage containers and shoe racks should be securely installed on shelving units or mounted to garage walls. Sturdy, industrial-grade metal shelving that can handle the weight of your entire collection is best.
Step 3: Use Storage Racks and Shelves
The optimal way to neatly store and organize dozens of shoes is with storage racks and shelves. Consider these tips when choosing storage:
- Wall-mounted metal racks with ventilated, angled shelves allow air circulation while keeping pairs upright and visible. Rotating racks make finding the right shoe easy.
- For boots and heels, install solid shelving high enough to accommodate tall shoes. Leave some vertical space between shelves.
- Rolling racks or modular storage cubes give the flexibility to move shoes around seasonally or rearrange them as needed.
Step 4: Store Shoes in Protective Boxes and Bins
Clear plastic bins, archive-quality boxes, and breathable fabric containers help shield shoes from dust, pests, moisture damage, and extreme temperature swings.
- Labeled, stackable bins keep types of shoes separate and organized. They save space while keeping contents visible.
- Acid-free archive boxes with lids are ideal for preserving delicate shoes in long-term storage.
- Mesh pop-up laundry bags allow air flow so shoes avoid getting musty. Use them to store shoes together that often get worn as outfits.
Step 5: Use WallHooks and Over-the-Door Organizers
Take advantage of vertical wall space and doors by hanging shoes out of the way using simple storage devices. Great for sandals, heels, and casual slip-on shoes.
- Sturdy wall hooks, hanging shelves, and fixed racks keep pairs visible and accessible while freeing up the floor area.
- Multi-pocket over-the-door shoe organizers neatly accommodate shoes of various heights. Great for garage and closet doors.
- Some ceiling-mounted racks drop down for access then lift shoes out of walkways. Helpful in tight spaces.
Step 6: Add Moisture Control
To manage humidity levels, consider installing climate-controlled storage units or portable dehumidifiers that regulate moisture in confined areas. These are ideal for safekeeping expensive or delicate shoes.
Moisture-absorbing products like dehumidifying bags, moisture catcher boxes, and desiccant packs can be placed inside regular storage bins to protect contents too. Simply rotate to replenish the moisture-absorbing crystals as needed.
Step 7: Check Shoes Occasionally
No matter how well-secured, garage storage exposes shoes to risks. Set reminders to periodically check stored shoes for pest infestations, odors, or damage. Look out for signs of mold, UV fading, cracking, loose embellishments, and more. Addressing issues early allows for cleaning, maintenance, or repair before shoes are unwearable.
You Can Check It Out to Store Wood in Garage.
FAQs About How to Store Shoes in Garage
Is It a Good Idea to Store Shoes in Garage?
Storing shoes in the garage can be convenient for saving space and easy access, especially for seasonal or outdoor footwear. However, it’s important to be mindful of potential drawbacks, such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, pests, and odors. To mitigate these risks, consider using sealed containers, elevating storage, and regular inspections to ensure the shoes remain in good condition.
What is the Best Way to Store Shoes?
The best way to store shoes is to ensure they are clean and dry before storing, use shoe trees or stuffing to maintain their shape, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, avoid plastic bags, consider clear boxes or open shelving for visibility and air circulation, and rotate the shoes to prevent prolonged pressure on one pair. Following these steps can help preserve the condition of your shoes and extend their lifespan.
Is It Safe to Store Shoes in Plastic Containers?
Storing shoes in plastic containers can be safe if certain precautions are taken. It’s important to ensure that the shoes are clean and completely dry before storing them to prevent mold or mildew. Additionally, using plastic containers that are well-ventilated or opting for clear plastic containers can help promote air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. However, it’s advisable to avoid airtight or non-ventilated plastic containers, as they can trap moisture and lead to mold growth.
Can You Store Shoes in Plastic Bags?
Storing shoes in plastic bags is generally not recommended, as plastic bags can trap moisture, leading to mold and mildew growth. Additionally, plastic bags may not provide adequate protection from dust or allow for proper air circulation, which can affect the condition of the shoes. It’s preferable to use breathable storage solutions such as shoe boxes, clear plastic containers, or fabric shoe bags to maintain the shoes’ quality.
Conclusions
With smart organizational systems and protective accessories, your garage can provide specialized storage that keeps special shoes in mint condition for years to come. Just take precautions against temperature fluctuations, moisture, and critters that threaten their longevity. Follow these shoe storage guidelines, and your beloved footwear will survive garage storage in stellar shape.
