How to Store Boots for Summer

Why summer storage matters

Boots get heavy use in colder months, collecting dirt, moisture, and the occasional salt stain. Storing them without attention invites mildew, odors, and stiff or cracked materials. A little care at the end of the season protects your investment and keeps your feet healthy. The American Podiatric Medical Association emphasizes that your feet are your foundation for a healthy and happy life, so footwear that stays clean and well maintained supports that foundation. If you rotate your footwear and store each pair properly, they will last longer and perform better when you need them again.

Summer heat and humidity can accelerate problems. Damp boots sealed in a dark closet become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Proper storage stops that before it starts. Following a few simple steps, like those outlined in our guide to storing shoes with tissue paper, can make a big difference.

Clean boots before storing

Start by removing laces and any insoles or inserts. This allows every part of the boot to dry and air out. Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush or cloth. For leather, use a damp cloth and a mild saddle soap or leather cleaner; wipe off residue. For suede or nubuck, use a suede brush or eraser to lift nap and remove marks. Avoid soaking the material; you want it clean, not wet. If you are unsure about the specific care, our leather vs. suede care guide can help.

Don't forget the outsoles. Mud and grit left on treads can harbor moisture and cause staining. Clean the treads with a stiff brush and warm water, then dry thoroughly. Also inspect the insoles; if they are removable, wash them separately and allow them to dry completely. Our insole materials and replacement guide explains how to care for different types.

For fabric or canvas boots, check the care label. Most can be hand washed with mild detergent and air dried. Never machine dry boots; heat can shrink or warp them. If your boots have any damage like loose stitching or worn soles, now is the time to note it and plan a repair before next season.

Condition leather and suede

Cleaning strips natural oils from leather. Conditioning replaces them, keeping the leather flexible and preventing cracks. Apply a leather conditioner or balm with a soft cloth, following the product instructions. For suede, use a protector spray instead of an oil-based conditioner, which can darken or stiffen the material. A well-conditioned boot is less likely to develop deep creases or cracks in storage.

Conditioning also creates a barrier against humidity, which is especially useful in warm climates. Let the conditioner absorb fully before storing. If your boots are made of patent leather or vegan leather, check whether they need a different product; many synthetic materials do not absorb conditioners the same way. For more detailed advice on applying conditioner, see our how to apply leather conditioner guide.

Dry boots completely

Any moisture left inside a boot invites mildew. After cleaning or conditioning, let boots air dry for at least 24 hours in a well ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight. Avoid radiators or hair dryers; they can dry leather too fast and cause cracking.

To speed drying, stuff the boots with crumpled, acid-free tissue paper or a clean, dry cloth. This absorbs residual moisture and helps hold the boot's shape. Never store boots that are even slightly damp. If you live in a humid area, you might also consider a dedicated drying rack. Proper drying is the most effective way to prevent mold, which is easier to avoid than to remove, as discussed in our mold removal guide.

Box boots with acid-free paper

Acid-free tissue paper is your best friend for summer storage. Crumple it gently and stuff it into the toe box and shaft to maintain shape and absorb any lingering moisture. Acid-free paper won't yellow or transfer acids to leather or suede, unlike newsprint or regular paper. This simple step is part of a broader strategy to prevent shoes from losing shape.

Place each boot in its own cotton or muslin drawstring bag, or a plain cardboard box. Avoid plastic bags or airtight plastic containers, which trap humidity and lead to mildew. A cardboard box breathes and lets any residual moisture escape.

Label the box with the style and size so you can find them easily next fall. Then store the boxes in a cool, dry, dark closet or under a bed. Avoid attics or basements where temperatures and humidity swing widely.

If you have tall boots, lay them flat or store them upright with the shaft supported by the paper to prevent creasing. Boot trees or a rolled towel inside the shaft also work. For more tips on maintaining boot shape, check our shoe tree guide.

Prevent mold and mildew

Mold and mildew thrive in dark, damp, warm places. Keeping boots clean and dry is the first line of defense. For extra protection in humid climates, add a small silica gel packet or a cedar block inside each box. These absorb moisture without touching the boot material directly.

Check your stored boots once a month or so, especially if you live somewhere humid. If you see any sign of mold, remove the boots, brush off the mold outdoors, and treat the affected area with a diluted vinegar solution or a commercial leather cleaner. Let them dry fully before returning them to storage. Our how to remove mold from leather shoes guide provides step-by-step instructions.

Using a product like cedar shoe trees also helps maintain shape and absorbs moisture, though they may be too bulky for some boot shafts. When you take your boots out of storage next fall, they'll look fresh and ready for action.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I store boots in a plastic bag?

No. Plastic traps moisture and can lead to mold or mildew. Use a breathable cotton or muslin bag or a cardboard box instead.

How often should I check my stored boots?

At least once a month, especially in humid climates. Look for any signs of mold, discoloration, or odor, and air them out if needed.

Do I need to condition boots before storing them?

Yes, for leather and suede. Conditioning replaces oils lost during cleaning, keeping the material flexible and less prone to cracking during months of disuse.

Can I use newspaper to stuff my boots?

It is better to avoid newspaper. Print ink can transfer to leather and suede, and newsprint is not acid free. Use acid-free tissue paper or a clean cloth instead.

What should I do if I find mold on stored boots?

Take the boots outside, brush off as much mold as possible, then wipe with a diluted vinegar solution or a commercial leather cleaner. Dry completely and consider adding silica gel to the storage box.