How to Store Suede Items: The Complete Guide for Shoes, Jackets, and Bags

Storing suede incorrectly is one of the fastest ways to ruin it. Fold it and you'll get permanent creases. Store it in plastic and moisture will build up, causing mold. Leave it unprotected and dust will settle into the nap, making it dull and difficult to clean. Here's exactly how to store suede items correctly — whether for a season or long-term.

General Rules for Storing All Suede Items

• Always clean before storing — dirt and oils left on suede during storage cause permanent staining and attract pests
• Always protect before storing — apply suede protector spray before long-term storage
• Never use plastic bags or airtight containers — suede needs airflow; plastic traps moisture and causes mold
• Store in a cool, dry, dark, ventilated space — avoid attics, basements, and garages where temperature and humidity fluctuate
• Keep away from direct sunlight — UV rays fade suede color over time

How to Store Suede Shoes and Boots

Short-Term Storage (Between Wears)

• Insert shoe trees or stuff with acid-free tissue paper to maintain shape
• Store upright in a shoe rack or on a shelf — never stacked on top of each other
• Keep in a dust bag or the original box with the lid slightly open for airflow
• Brush lightly with a suede brush after each wear to remove dust and maintain the nap

Long-Term Storage (Seasonal)

1. Clean thoroughly — use Leather Honey Suede Cleaner to remove any dirt or stains, allow to dry completely
2. Brush to restore nap — use the suede brush to lift and even out the fibers
3. Apply suede protector — spray with Leather Honey Suede Protector Spray and allow to dry fully
4. Insert shoe trees or stuff with tissue paper — maintains shape during storage
5. Store in breathable dust bags — fabric dust bags allow airflow while protecting from dust
6. Place in a cool, dark, dry location — a bedroom closet is ideal

How to Store a Suede Jacket

Short-Term Storage

• Always hang — never fold a suede jacket. Folding creates permanent creases in the nap
• Use a wide, padded hanger to support the full shoulder width
• Give it space in the wardrobe — don't crush it against other garments
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources

Long-Term Storage (Seasonal)

1. Clean with suede cleaner and allow to dry completely
2. Brush to restore the nap
3. Apply Leather Honey Suede Protector Spray for added protection during storage
4. Cover with a breathable garment bag — fabric or non-woven, never plastic. This protects from dust while allowing the suede to breathe
5. Hang in a cool, dark, ventilated closet
6. Check every 4–6 weeks during long storage — brush lightly if dust has settled

How to Store Suede Bags and Handbags

• Clean and protect before storing
• Stuff with acid-free tissue paper to maintain the bag's shape
• Store in the original dust bag if available, or a breathable fabric bag
• Store upright on a shelf — never hanging by the straps (which can stretch and distort them) or stacked under other items
• Keep in a cool, dark, dry location away from direct light

How to Revive Suede After Storage

When you take suede items out of storage:

1. Remove from the dust bag or garment bag and allow to air out for a few hours
2. Inspect for any dust, flat spots, or minor staining
3. Brush with the suede brush to restore the nap — use the crepe rubber side for flat areas, then finish with nylon bristles
4. For any stains that appeared during storage, treat with Leather Honey Suede Cleaner
5. Reapply suede protector spray before wearing

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you store suede in a plastic bag?
No — plastic traps moisture and prevents airflow, which causes mold and mildew on suede. Always use breathable fabric dust bags or garment bags.

Should you store suede shoes in their original box?
The original box is fine for short-term storage if you leave the lid slightly open for airflow. For long-term storage, a breathable fabric dust bag is better.

How do you prevent suede from getting moldy in storage?
Store clean, dry suede in a well-ventilated space with moderate humidity. Never store in airtight containers or damp environments. A silica gel packet in the storage area helps control moisture.

Can you fold a suede jacket for storage?
No — always hang suede jackets. Folding creates permanent creases in the nap that are very difficult to remove.

How long can you store suede?
Indefinitely with proper care. Clean, protect, store in breathable bags in the right environment, and check periodically. Well-stored suede can last decades.

The Bottom Line

Storing suede correctly comes down to three rules: always clean before storing, always use breathable storage, and always hang — never fold. Apply Leather Honey Suede Protector Spray before storage, use a breathable garment bag for jackets, and store in a cool, dark, ventilated space. Do that and your suede will come out of storage looking as good as when it went in.