How to Keep Your Ballet Flats in Best Condition: Tips on Proper Storage and Care

Whether you are a professional ballet dancer or a beginner, you understand that having the right dancewear and shoes for your performance is very important. Imagine showing up to a performance with damaged ballet shoes- this can be frustrating, affecting your movement and consequent performance as a dancer. 

Storing your ballet flats can significantly impact their condition and longevity, ensuring that they last long and use them in their best condition. 

In this article, Mino Dance will explore the consequences of improper storage (not using the right bag, storing in cramped spaces and not cleaning regularly) of your ballet flats, and of course, provide you solutions on how you can care for their longevity. 

Improper ballet shoe storage may lead to the following problems: 

• Damage. Ballet shoes can become worn out when not stored properly. Where shoes are placed in a plastic bag or a cramped space, it has the chance of losing its shape and structure over time. On the other end of the spectrum, exposing ballet shoes to certain elements like sunlight, or humidity can lead to discolouration. 
• Dirt and Debris. Ballet flats that are not cleaned and stored properly may result in an accumulation of dirt and bacteria, leading to the development of cultures implicating athlete’s foot and other skin infections. 

Where to store your ballet flats

Use a proper bag. A duffel bag is recommended to store your ballet shoes when transporting them to and from class. Duffel bags usually provide a cushioned and protective environment for the shoes, protecting them from external elements and rough handling during transportation - add a mesh shoe bag to the mix, and you ensure that your flats stay aerated from stagnating moisture and stench. 

Allocate proper storage at home. Keep your ballet flats in a cool dry place to prevent moisture build up. The best place to store your shoes at home is in a shoe rack or shoe boxes to protect and stack your shoes neatly. Moisture potentially weakens the fibres of the shoe, making it more susceptible to wear-and-tear. This weakening effect makes the materials of your ballet shoes more brittle, and limits their flexibility. 

Moreover, enclosed space helps maintain the cleanliness of your ballet flats by preventing dirt and dust from accumulating on your ballet shoes. This preserves its shape and ensures that they are in an optimal condition. 

How to take care of your ballet flats

• Clean your ballet flats regularly with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris. 
• Make sure to dry your ballet shoes after use. You can dry them by keeping shoe interiors exposed to airflow and ventilation - this could be as simple as hanging your pair on your door handle, airing them out! Deodorising pouches are also available, actively absorbing excess moisture and odour buildup. 
• Do not store your ballet shoes in direct sunlight to avoid fading and brittleness. 
• Use shoe trees or shoe forms to maintain the shape of your ballet flats. 
• If you have multiple pairs of ballet shoes, rotate them regularly to prevent excessive use that will lead to wear and tear.

Invest in high-quality dancewear and proper storage for optimal use

We understand that considering high-quality ballet flats while taking proper care of them ensures their longevity. At Mino Dance, we offer top-notch dancewear and shoes for all ages and levels. Contact us today, to learn more about our products.