As the colder months set in, many of us tuck away our lighter shoes and make room for boots and winter essentials. But how you store your shoes during this time matters just as much as how you wear them.
Proper storage keeps your shoes in shape, protects the leather, and ensures they’re ready to step out in style when spring arrives. At Rana Cheikha, we believe caring for your shoes is part of their story—here are my 3 essentials to store them this winter!
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Clean Before You Store
Before putting your shoes away, give them a little care. Wipe off any dust, dirt, or salt stains, and condition the leather so it doesn’t dry out over the season. For suede, use a soft brush to remove dirt and restore the nap. This step not only preserves the look of your shoes but also prevents damage while they rest.
Tip: Always let shoes air-dry fully before storage (even for short-term storage) —moisture can lead to mildew or cracking.
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Use the Right Supports
Shoes need help maintaining their shape when not in use. Insert cedar shoe trees in leather shoes to absorb moisture and keep them structured. For softer or seasonal pairs, stuff them with acid-free tissue paper or muslin. Avoid plastic inserts, which can trap unwanted moisture.
We recommend cedar shoe trees (as discussed in more detail in my “Preparing Your Summer Shoes for Hibernation” guide), which help maintain shape and absorb humidity.
Tip: Zip-up dust bags are great for protecting delicate shoes from scratches and dust without suffocating the leather.
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Choose the Right Space
Where you store your shoes matters. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heating units, as both can cause leather to fade or crack. Use breathable fabric bags or original shoe boxes (if they allow airflow). For long-term storage, avoid sealed plastic containers—they trap humidity and can damage natural materials (I also share my top picks for containers and storage aids in the “Preparing Your Summer Shoes for Hibernation” guide).
Tip: If stacking boxes, place heavier winter boots at the bottom and lighter shoes at the top.
A Final Thought
Shoes are more than seasonal accessories—they’re part of your journey. With a little care and thoughtful storage, your favorite pairs (like the Sia or Ain) will emerge from winter looking as beautiful as when you first slipped them on.
At Rana Cheikha, we design shoes are designed to be cherished, not just worn. Taking care of them is an easy way to ensure they walk with you for years to come!
Signing-off: The Shoe Advisor
// Have questions? Reach out here or by email at rana@ranacheikha.com //