How to Store Belts: 6 Tips to Keep Your Belts in Great Shape
Did you know that belts are one of the oldest clothing accessories, dating back to the Bronze Age (roughly 3300 to 1200 BC)? In the beginning, belts were used to carry weapons and tools—but they have continuously adapted and transformed throughout history.
Whether your belt is part of your everyday work uniform, a dazzling fashion statement, or simply a way to keep your pants up—we understand if you need to know how to store belts properly.
In order to increase the life of your belts and ensure they last for years to come; you need to store them correctly. Don’t just roll them up and shove them in the back of your sock drawer, keep them organized and tidy so they stay in excellent condition. Keep reading for tips to properly store and organize your belts.
Is it Better to Hang or Roll Belts?
The material of your belt, how much space you have, and the number of belts in your collection will determine the best way to store your belts. Generally, fabric belts should be rolled to conserve space (plus, some fabric belt buckles are not suitable for hanging). Expensive, leather belts can become damaged if you don’t store them properly—so consider hanging these belts. You should also condition leather belts regularly to ensure they stay in good shape.
Often hanging belts is a good idea if you have a small collection, but rolling belts is essential if you have limited space.
Where Should Belts be Stored?
It is recommended that belts be stored in a cool and dry environment. A climate-controlled area is the best option to keep your belts safe from extreme temperature changes and humidity. It’s also important to limit direct sunlight to prevent any lasting damage.
How to Hang Belts
Hanging belts minimizes damage (like creasing or cracking), so it is a popular storage method for expensive, leather belts. There are a number of ways to hang belts, check out a few ideas below:
1. Belt Rack
A hanging belt rack is an excellent storage solution. Typically, belt racks consist of a set of hooks on a wood or metal bar. Belts are hung by their buckles, which minimizes damage to leather tails. In order to best preserve your belts, place the belt rack on the back of a closet door or in the closet to minimize sun exposure.
2. Pull-out Belt Rack
Pull-out belt racks or sliding belt racks are usually placed on a closet wall or panel. This belt storing technique minimizes the amount of space required for your belts, and allows for convenient access. There are a variety of sizes and types of sliding belt racks, but we suggest investing in a sturdy metal rack instead of a plastic one. (A plastic belt rack may not be able to support the weight of your belt collection.)
3. Hanging Belt Organizer
Another way to hang your belts is to use a belt organizer. Often, these hook on a closet rod and have slots to hold a number of belts or ties. (Check out this blog for tips to store ties.) Keep in mind—hanging belt organizers may not be the best option if you have a small closet. They normally take up as much space as multiple shirts.
A belt ring hanger hooks on a closet rod and usually has space for multiple belts. (This belt ring hanger can also be used for ties or scarves.)
How to Store Rolled Belts
Rolling your belts is a good option if you lack storage or closet space. There are multiple ways to roll your belts, but we suggest starting at the buckle and evenly rolling it. (Starting at the buckle ensures the roll is not too tight—which could damage the belt.) In order to keep your belts tidy and organized, tie a string or thread around the rolled belt to keep the spiral in place.
It’s important to note that rolling belts is not ideal for leather belts. These belts are susceptible to warping or cracking if rolled too tight or kept in a roll for a long period of time. Check out these belt organization ideas:
4. Drawer Dividers
Keeping your rolled belts in a drawer is an excellent solution. Make the most of your drawer space with adjustable drawer organizers or dividers to keep belts neat and organized. You can also set your rolled belts on their end instead of laying them flat to maximize storage. If you place your belts in a single layer, you’ll easily be able to see your entire collection.
5. Shallow Cubbies
Small shelves or cubbies enable you to keep your belts organized, and display your belts at the same time. Typically, belts are rolled and laid flat in each cubby. Belt cubbies are generally considered a custom option that can be inserted in the end of a closet island or on a wall. If you want to show off your belt collection—shallow cubbies are the way to go.
6. Belt Storage Box
Belt storage boxes are another way to display your collection. Similar to a watch display box, this classy solution includes individual cubbies to show off your rolled belts. Often, these boxes have a glass lid, so be sure to keep them out of direct sunlight.
Belt Storage FAQs
Should belts be rolled?
If you have a large belt collection or limited space, rolling belts is a great storage solution. Be sure to roll belts (especially leather belts) loosely to prevent any creases or cracks.
How do you store a rolled belt?
Once you’ve rolled your belts, either use drawer organizers, shallow cubbies or even a belt storage box to keep them organized.
How do I keep my belts tidy?
Many of the storage tips above can be used to keep your belt collection tidy. You can either roll or hang your belts depending on available space and the types of belts you have, then organize them using belt racks, drawer organizers, shallow cubbies, etc.
How do you store cowboy belts?
You can either hang cowboy belts or roll them up. If you’d like to display your belt buckle, you can store your belt in shallow cubbies or in a belt display box.
Belt Storage from Store Space
We hope this guide has helped you store and organize your belts! What was your favorite storage tip? Let us know in the comments below. Make sure to check out other helpful guides, like proper suit storage.
Whether you lack storage space, or your belt collection has taken over your closet—Store Space can help! Our climate-controlled units stay between 55 degrees and 80 degrees Fahrenheit to protect your belts from extreme temperature changes and humidity.
You can find your nearest Store Space facility using our storage location finder.
