It's important to replace your running shoes every 300 to 400 miles, but getting new shoes every couple of months can get expensive. But the better you take care of your running shoes, the longer they'll last. Here are some tips for making your running shoes last longer:

Wear your running shoes only for exercise.

Although they may be your most comfortable pair of shoes, don't wear your running shoes for anything other than running or working out. Even if you're just walking around, you're still wearing out the cushioning.

Take them on and off properly.

When you're in a rush, it's tempting to try to take your running shoes on and off without undoing the laces. Make sure you loosen the laces before you put your shoes on and take them off.

Dry your wet shoes properly.

If your shoes get wet, don't put them on direct heat, like on a radiator. Heat dries out the leather and other materials in the shoes. To dry your running shoes properly, loosen the laces, take out the insoles, and let them air dry, away from direct heat. To help them dry faster, you can put crumpled-up newspaper inside of them.

Alternate shoes.

If you run almost every day, it's beneficial to rotate two pairs of running shoes. Your shoes will last longer when you give them a day or two to decompress and dry out between workouts.

More: Do I Need Two Pairs of Running Shoes?

Store your shoes properly.

Keep your shoes in a cool, dry place where they can air out properly. Don't leave them in places like a gym bag or a hot trunk.

Don't put them in the washing machine.

If you need to clean your shoes, use a scrub brush, mild soap, and cold water, and then let them air dry.