You can use apps like Facebook Marketplace, Depop, eBay, or Poshmark to sell shoes that are still in good shape. Keep in mind how much space you have for your shoes during packing and in your new place. That way, you can figure out how many pairs of shoes you need to cut out.
For example, you may keep dress shoes for work, sneakers for regular wear, and a warm pair of slippers in your go box. You can also separate any designer shoes that can get damaged or scuffed easily so you can protect them better in another box.
You can also apply some antibacterial spray on and inside your shoes to help kill any fungus. While you can pack your shoes when they’re dirty, it could make your new place messy once you unpack.
If you’re packing up boots, stuff paper into the vertical shafts so they don’t bend or flop over. You can also use balled socks or washcloths if you don’t have packing paper.
If you don’t have packing paper, you can use bubble wrap instead. Try to avoid using newspaper to wrap your shoes since the ink could transfer onto them and leave stains.
If you don’t have a shoebox, you can just leave your shoes in paper or add an additional layer of bubble wrap around the outside for extra cushion.
Be cautious storing leather or suede in plastic totes long-term since it’s not a breathable container and could cause your shoes to dry out or crack. In a pinch, you can use a hardshell suitcase instead. If you have flats, you could store the pairs individually in a hanging closet door organizer. Fold the organizer in half to keep your shoes from falling out. However, this won’t offer as much protection during the move.
Avoid packing more than 40 pounds (18 kg) in a single container since the box could break.
You can instead use dried citrus peels, like oranges, limes, or lemons.
