Spring Cleaning Your Closet: When To Replace Old Shoes and What To Do With Them
This time of year, many of us are thinking ahead to spring cleaning our homes. If that process involves a purge of your closet, you’re not alone! In fact, Jewels Busenberg, Senior Running/Cycling Footwear Buyer for Zappos.com, recommends it. “It’s worth taking a closer look at your shoe closet,” the shoe aficionado shares. “One question I frequently get is: When is it time to replace your shoes? Let’s dive in!
Shoes have a lifespan: when to get rid of them
“Many people forget that shoes have a limited lifespan,” Jewels shares with us. “Wearing worn-out footwear can impact your comfort and health, potentially leading to injury.”
“The longevity of a pair of shoes depends primarily on the quality of materials and construction,” Jewels continues. “Other key factors include frequency of use, environmental conditions, fit, support, and maintenance.”
Here are a few factors to consider when it comes to replacing your performance footwear:
- Soles + Tread: Are the soles worn down? Are they uneven? Is there any traction left?
- Cushioning: Is the shoe absorbing shock? Is the cushioning breaking down?
- Support: Does the shoe still support my arch and heel? Am I feeling pain?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, it might be time to replace the pair. And here’s an additional tip for running shoes: if you’ve hit anywhere between 300 and 500 miles, you’ll want to replace your shoes as soles, cushioning and support have likely deteriorated!
Unlike performance footwear, fashion-forward shoes follow a different set of rules when it comes to assessing for replacement:
- Appearance: Are there any visible cracks or tears on the upper part and sole of the shoe? Has it lost its shape? Are there any fading colors, stains or odors?
- Style: Do I still wear these?
- Fit: Is the shoe starting to hurt my feet? Have they broken down? Are they no longer supporting me?
If any of the above is a yes, it’s time to toss them!
How to properly dispose of shoes
Now that you’ve identified the shoes you’d like to clean out, there are a few things to consider when discarding them. “Shoes take years to decompose due to their materials,” Jewels explains. “I’d recommend finding a local recycling program. In some instances, old shoes can be transformed into sports surfaces and playgrounds. Additionally, if the shoe still has some life in it, donating shoes to local charities and thrift stores is another good option.”
Worn out shoes? You can probably still wear them if…
Just because you have shoes that have worn down with time doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to get rid of them. Jewels has a few tips to ensure that you get the most bang for your buck.
You’re wearing the right size
“The correct size is an important factor in ensuring your shoes last longer,” says the expert. “It might feel like a no-brainer, but if a shoe is too small or too big then your foot could change the shape or even damage the shoe.”
To find the right size, she recommends looking for shoes that leave a half inch between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. Other factors like good arch support, a secure heel, and an even pressure distribution are also good to look for. If there’s tightness or pain as you walk, you may want to size up.
And if you have wide feet, look for shoes with additional sizing (D-Wide) to accommodate your fit. Often fan-favorite brands including Asics, Hoka, Brooks and New Balance offer those sizing alternatives. Jewels likes the following options!
“Aside from fit, make sure you shop for your intended purpose and find features that will support you,” she elaborates. “If you’re looking for a running shoe, consider size, arch support and material when shopping. For tennis and pickleball players, find a shoe that supports lateral movement well. For avid travelers, shoes that are comfortable and pack easily are the best choice. Lastly, if you’re shopping for fashion, consider trends and styling options.”
You’re taking good care of them
Taking care of your shoes can also help prolong lifespan. Jewels says there are three things to consider here: storage, odor and cleaning.
Depending on the shoes, you might need to consider different storage methods in order to keep them in good condition. Here’s a breakdown of the best storage for your shoes:
- Sneakers + Casual Shoes: Store in a cool, dry place.
- Leather Shoes: Store in a cloth bag or a well-ventilated area.
- Boots: Store upright using boot shapers or rolled-up towels to prevent creasing and collapsing.
- High Heels + Dress Shoes: Store in individual soft fabric bags or a shoe rack to prevent scuffing.
- Off-Season Shoes: Store in airtight plastic bins to prevent moisture damage.
How to get rid of shoe odor
“I have a few tips to prevent odor in our shoes,” Jewels continues. “For one, cedar inserts or gel packs can help absorb any extra moisture that is usually the cause of the smell. I’d also recommend you wash your inserts and let the shoes air out after use. Lastly, deodorizers or sprinkling baking soda in your soles are the perfect overnight remedies.”
How to properly clean shoes
When it comes to cleaning, the best method is dependent on the type of shoe. “For sneakers, you’ll want to spot clean by hand or machine wash, if allowed,” Jewels says. “But never put your shoes in the dryer! For white shoes, the easiest home remedy for stain removal is baking soda and vinegar. For suede, use a suede brush to remove dirt and use suede protector spray. Do not use water! Lastly, for leather, use leather conditioner to prevent any cracking.”
Are there any shoes in your closet that need to go? Spring cleaning can be daunting, but these tips will help you assess your shoe collection and ensure that your shoes have a good run. And if any of your shoes need replacing, Zappos is the perfect destination to shop for your next pair!
Want more insight from Jewels? Keep reading!
Gym Shoes for Your 2025 Exercise Goals
Must-Have Items for Your Winter Run
The Importance of Wide Toe Box Shoes (Plus Expert-Recommended Styles)!
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