As you face a new day, you may be wondering how best to store your shoes so that you can spend your time on more important things than chasing down a match. Perhaps you are trying to get the kiddos out of the door, and nobody can find a matching pair of shoes, or you are tired of coming home from work to a pile of assorted footwear in your entryway. The struggle is real, but it is not impossible to overcome.
Generally, organized shoe collections are kept in a shelving or tote system. Shoe racks or trees are not recommended for long-term storage as they can cause the shoe to become misshapen. Other measures can be taken to protect the integrity of shoes if they are in long-term storage as well.
If you have become overwhelmed by your massive collection of shoes and would like some tips on how to organize your mess and how to keep them looking fresh and new for years to come, continue reading this article for some inspiring ideas.
Organizing Your Shoe Collection
It doesn’t matter how or why you acquired a collection of shoes so large that they require their own zip code. All that matters is that you get them organized so you can move onto bigger and better things, like organizing the rest of the house!
But one thing at a time. Today, we shall discuss shoes and how to properly store and organize them so they can be found efficiently.
If you are like many people, you probably have a family, and as we all know, families come with clutter. This article will also help you to organize the family spaces that tend to get cluttered with miscellaneous shoes.
The next section will discuss ways to efficiently categorize your collection of shoes.
Categorizing Your Shoe Collection Efficiently
This is where the organizing gets really fun. It’s time to put things into categories. The categories you use will depend upon the type of shoe collection you have and your personality.
If you have a Type A kind of personality, you are likely to have more categories for your organizational system.
Although, if you have a Type A personality, you probably don’t need help with organizing, so this section will mostly benefit those who fly by the seat of their pants and don’t let things like clutter slow them down from their daily activities.
Regardless of your personality type, this category list and the storage solutions shown in this article should help inspire you to get your shoe clutter under control.
Getting organized means you can spend more time doing the things you love and less time looking for the right pair of shoes to go with your amazing outfit. This list will give you some ideas of different ways to effectively categorize your shoe collection.
Color of Footwear
Organizing your shoes by color expedites the preparation process when you are getting ready for work in the morning; or perhaps for a hot date later in the evening.
Either way, categorizing things by color is a very effective way to stay organized and see what you have at a glance rather than shuffling around for the right shoe.
Designer Footwear
If you are fortunate enough to have a designer shoe collection like that of Carrie from Sex in the City, then you may wish to organize your shoes by designer. The great thing is you can be as fancy or simple as you want and as your budget allows.
Everyday Footwear
One of the most important categories will be the frequently used shoes. These are the shoes you wear all the time.
There is nothing worse than being in a hurry, and you can’t find your shoe, or even better, your children can’t (or won’t) find their shoes. This leads to everyone running around like chickens with their heads cut off, wearing only one shoe as the school bus is flying by at what seems like a hundred miles per hour.
To avoid chaotic situations like the one just mentioned, keep your “everyday” shoes neatly organized in a central location where everyone can find them when they are in a hurry.
Seasonal Footwear
If you live in an area where you have seasons of inclement weather, then you likely have a collection of boots and other footwear equipped to handle cold, snowy, and wet situations.
Keeping things organized by season and weather conditions will reduce your clutter, so you are not tripping over your boots in the middle of the summer.
Special Occasion/Formal Footwear
We all have certain clothing and shoes that we only wear for specific occasions, such as:
- Birthday Parties
- Christenings
- Church Services
- Formal Events
- Funerals
- School Events
- Weddings
Keep those special occasion shoes in their own category so you can find them easily when that wedding invite comes in the mail.
Style of Footwear
The following list will give some examples of categories you can use when organizing by the style of footwear.
- Boots
- Dress shoes
- Flats
- Flip-flops
- High heels
- House shoes aka Slippers
- Loafers
- Sandals
- Slip-on shoes
- Sneakers/Athletic Footwear
Fun Fact: There are over 64 different styles of footwear.
The next section will go over some creative storage options for your shoe collection.
Creative and Simple Ideas For Storing Your Shoes
When it comes to choosing a method of storage for your shoe collection, opt for a solution that you will actually use and that will function well for your space.
Choose a storage location that is easy to access and allows you to clearly see your options without having to move everything out of the way.
Cabinet Style Shoe Organizers
If you are looking for a more sophisticated setup for your large collection of shoes, try one of these cabinet-style organizers on for size.
This storage unit is designed with the fashionista in mind. You can easily adjust the size of the shelves and the configuration of the unit to suit your needs. Doors protect your shoes from dust and light and keep everything looking neat and organized.
Product features overview:
- Blends in well with many color themes and furniture styles
- Easy to install, and there are no tools necessary to put it together
- Easy to keep clean, simply wipe with a damp rag
- The large cubes can hold up to four pairs of shoes, or when the divider is removed, they can hold up to two pairs of boots
- This product is made from eco-friendly materials
- This shelving unit is constructed with high-quality materials that are made to last
This product offers the same great features as the unit above; however, it can hold up to 72 pairs of assorted shoes and footwear. This portable shelving unit also boasts the same great features as the unit listed above, plus a bonus feature that allows you to hang things such as flip-flops, slippers, or other miscellaneous items on the side of the unit.
There are many other storage units that are similar to the ones listed here. These are simply meant to give you an idea of what is available and inspire you to create your own unique way of storing your massive collection of shoes.
Entryway Shoe Organizers
Clear up that clutter that greets you when you first enter your home. These solutions will make it a breeze to keep the entryway of your home clean and free of clutter.
Prepac Shoe Storage Bench 24 Pair
To eliminate the pile of shoes that tends to accumulate near the entryway of your home, try using a storage bench with shoe cubbies. This storage bench will add a sense of style as well as function to your home.
Product features overview:
- Finished with white laminate to go with any style décor
- Made of composite wood
- The dimensions of the shoe cubbies are 6.75″ x 4.75″ x 14″
- The dimensions of this product are 60″ x 20.25″ x 15.5″
- This handy shoe storage bench can hold up to 24 pairs of shoes and are large enough to hold a men’s size 13 shoe
Tribesign Boot and Shoe Shelf Unit
For those of you who are more concerned about function and less about aesthetics, this is a great option for storing your shoes and boots when you first walk into the house. It can even work great as a garage or basement storage unit.
Product features overview:
- Can hold up to 24 – 30 pairs of adult shoes or boots
- Easy to put together and comes with helpful customer service and satisfaction guarantee
- The dimensions of this product are 33.46″ x 12″ x 42.13″
- Comes with hooks on each side for hanging jackets and other items
- This convenient shoe storage unit comes with seven tiers and has been powder-coated to ensure long-lasting durability
- This unit was designed to withstand the weight of your shoes and whatever else you plan on storing, thanks to its durable construction and larger tubing to ensure sturdiness
Simple Shelf System
If you are looking for something simple and easy to store a smaller collection of shoes, try something like the following items.
PENGKE Three Tier Folding Bamboo Shoe Rack
If you are looking for a simple way to organize up to 12 pairs of shoes, this portable folding shoe rack will work perfectly for what you need.
Product features overview:
- 100% Satisfaction guarantee
- Easy to fold and store when not in use
- Holds up to 12 pairs of shoes
- Made from natural bamboo and designed to last a long time
- Portable
- The dimensions of this product are 27.6″ x 9.8″ x 15.4″
Simple Houseware Store Three Tier Shoe Organizer
This organizer is another simple way to store shoes and reduce clutter. This shelving system comes with pockets on the side for even more storage and can be used in many different areas of the home to keep things looking neat and organized.
Product features overview:
- Can hold up to 34 pairs of shoes on the shelves, and additional storage is available in the side hanging pockets
- Made from durable materials for long-lasting use
- Easy to assemble, and shelves can be adjusted
- The dimensions of this product are 31.25″ x 12.25″ x 47.6″
Storage Bins
If you are looking for clear storage bins so you can see everything you have, try one of these handy options.
mDesign Stackable Shoe Storage Bins
Simple, clear, and classy. These clear plastic storage bins are a great way to display your favorite shoes and keep them safe from the elements.
Product features overview:
- Can be kept anywhere
- Easy to use
- Made from premium materials for long-lasting durability
- No assembly required
- These bins help to protect your items from moisture, mildew, bugs, and more
SESENO Stackable Drawer Type Shoe Storage Bins
If you are looking for a clear way to display your shoes, this stackable drawer-type storage unit will be perfect. It allows you to organize your shoes easily so you can grab them in a flash.
Product features overview:
- Allows you to store your shoes and keep them free from dust, mildew, and other outside elements that can be harmful when being stored for a long time
- Easily stackable and can be configured into different shapes to suit your needs
- Great for any room of the house
- Made from high-quality materials
- The dimensions of each cube are 13.1″ x 9″ x 5.5
Thinking Outside of the Box – Creative Solutions for Small Spaces
For those of you who have a lot of shoes and a little space, it may be necessary for you to get creative with your storage solutions.
Find spaces that tend to attract clutter or perhaps do not get used with intentionality to give you more storage space and less chaos.
If you live in a small studio apartment or perhaps you are sharing a dorm room with another student, the following solutions may be effective.
Closet Organizers
Lovotex 27 Pocket Hanging Shoe Organizer
When you are short on space and wish to stay organized, this 27-pocket hanging organizer will work perfectly. There are two handy drawers on the bottom for miscellaneous items or perhaps even for your socks or leggings.
Product features overview:
- A functional and practical design that allows you to store shoes of varying sizes with the exception of tall boots
- Includes 27-storage pockets and two nice sized drawers on the bottom for additional items
- It is designed to hold up the weight of your shoes without tearing the organizer
- The dimensions of this organizer are 11.5″ x 16.5″ x 48.0″
- There are no tools required to install this organizer, simply open it up and hang it in your closet
- This organizer is made with premium materials and comes with three sturdy hooks that easily hang on any clothes hanging rod
- When this organizer is not being used, it can be easily folded and stored somewhere flat until you need it again
This is similar to the hanging closet organizer listed above and works well for those who don’t have a huge collection of shoes but wish to be organized. This hanging shelf has eight cubbies and depending on the size of your shoes, you can probably fit two pairs in each cubby. This is a great space-saving solution.
Product features overview:
- Easy to install. No tools are required to set up. Simply open and hang it in your closet
- The dimensions of this organizer are 11.5″ x 5.5″ x 41″
- This hanging shoe shelf can easily store at least eight pairs of shoes so you can free up your much-needed floor space
- This organizer is made from premium materials and reinforced with extra stitching to hold the weight of multiple pairs of shoes without tearing or sagging
- Whitmor offers a service guarantee. If you are not satisfied with their products, they will do what it takes to make you happy
Over the Door Hanging Organizer
When space is an issue, take advantage of the backside of your doors. This is a great way to free up much-needed floor space.
MISSLO Hanging Pocket Organizer
Sometimes an oldie really is a goodie. This method of storage has been around for years because it works. Easily store your shoes in this organizer with 24 clear pockets that allow you to easily see where everything is when you are in a hurry.
Product features overview:
- This easy-to-install over-the-door pocket organizer will make it a snap to find your shoes when you are short on time.
- This organizer comes with 24 clear pockets and can hold up to 12 pairs of size 13 men’s shoes
- This over-the-door pocket organizer comes with four sturdy hooks to ensure that it can hold the weight of your shoes. The hooks can fit a door that is up to 1.65″ thick.
- The dimensions of this handy pocket organizer are 56.5″ x 22.3″ and the pocket dimensions are 5.25″ x 7.5″, allowing for plenty of storage
Under the Bed Storage Containers
Take advantage of the space underneath your bed by trying one of these helpful storage ideas.
Homeyfor Under Bed Shoe Storage with Adjustable Dividers
These storage boxes are super cute and very handy for keeping your shoes nice and neat. They easily slide under your bed and have a cute pattern to match your quirky personality. Another great way to stay organized when you are short on space.
Product features overview:
- A see-through extra-strong zipper top allows you to see what you have without having to open the top
- Comes with sturdy, reinforced handles for easy pulling or carrying
- Easy to fold and store when they are not being used
- The compartments in these storage boxes are adjustable so they can accommodate shoes of various sizes
- The dimensions of this product are 29.9″ x 25.9″ x 5.9″
- These storage bins are designed to prevent moisture and mildew from damaging your items
- These storage boxes are made from high-quality, durable, eco-friendly materials that are made to withstand the wear and tear of pulling in and out from under the bed and hold the weight of your shoes
Whitmor Bedskirt Pocket Organizer
This is such a cool way to hide your clutter and keep things off of the floor. Simply lay the organizer under the mattress and dust ruffle, and voila, no more shoes to trip over. This is a fantastic storage solution for those who share a room with someone else or have very little space to store their things.
Product feature overview:
- Can be easily folded up when not being used
- Supported by Whitmor’s customer satisfaction guarantee
- The dimensions of this product are 74″ x 52″ x 12.5″ and can fit a twin, full, queen, or king-sized bed thanks to its functional design
- This handy organizer has 16 clear pockets, so you can easily see what is inside. Each side has eight pockets
- This organizer is so easy to use and requires no assembly. If you know how to make your bed, you can install this pocket organizer with no trouble
- This pocket organizer is made from high-quality materials and designed to last for a long time
The next section will give some extra tips on how to store your shoes long-term and what to avoid if you wish for them to stay in good condition.
Storing Shoes Long-Term – Tips and Things to Avoid
As with anything, there is a right way and a wrong way to store your shoes long-term. You may be wondering what measures should be taken to preserve your precious pumps while they are being stored for long periods of time in between use.
To keep your shoes looking good while they are being stored:
- Clean before storing
- Keep in a climate-controlled environment
- Use acid-free tissue paper, cardboard, or muslin for stuffing
- Use adjustable wooden shoehorns
- Use silica packets
Continue reading for more details on how to preserve your precious pumps when you aren’t going to wear them for a while.
Seven Helpful Storage Tips
Here are seven tips and things you should avoid if you wish to keep your shoes in the best condition possible while they are in long-term storage.
Acid-free Tissue Paper, Cardboard, and Muslin
When storing your shoes or boots for extended periods of time, it is recommended that you use acid-free tissue paper or muslin to stuff your shoes and boots. These materials will absorb any moisture in the air and also help to keep the shape of the shoe while it’s not being worn.
When storing tall boots, line the flank of the boot with acid-free cardboard to keep them standing tall and prevent creasing, then fill the part where your foot goes with the acid-free tissue paper or muslin.
Choose a System That Works Easily For You
You know yourself better than anyone, so when creating your storage system, it is important that you are honest with yourself. Create something that you will truly use and be able to keep organized.
Don’t get too complicated if you are not the type of person who will keep up with a complex organizational system. Keep it simple and functional, and you will be happy with what you come up with.
Clean Before Storing Shoes Long-Term
If you plan on storing certain shoes for a long time, it is recommended that you clean and disinfect them before boxing them up. When shoes are not cleaned before storing for a long time, it gives bacteria a chance to grow. Also, if storing leather shoes, be sure to polish and condition them first, so they have a good protective layer on the material.
Climate Controlled Environment
Whenever possible, store your shoes in an environment where the climate can be controlled. This will prevent moisture and heat from damaging your favorite kicks until you are ready to wear them again.
Silica Packets For Lightweight Shoes
You know those annoying little silica packages that come in your pill bottles, shoe boxes, and in the pockets of certain clothing?
Although they can be dangerous to your children or pets if ingested, they are a great way to prevent moisture and bugs from ruining your shoes while they’re in long-term storage.
These packets work best in lightweight shoes and sandals. Silica packets can be purchased at most major box stores or online.
Shoe Trees/Racks Aren’t Recommended For Long-Term Storage
If you are planning on storing some of your favorite shoes or boots for long periods of time in between uses, it is recommended that you avoid shoe trees and shoe racks as they will cause your shoes to become misshapen and leave creases.
Wooden Shoe Horns
If you don’t want to use paper or muslin, another way to preserve the shape and condition of your favorite shoes that are being stored for a long time is to use wooden shoehorns. The key is to be sure you are using the correct size and shape for the shoe, or they will not be effective.
The next section will discuss how creativity can be used to solve any storage problem.
Endless Storage Possibilities When Creativity is Used
The great thing about many of the storage options shown in this article is that you can use them to organize other parts of your home as well. Keep thinking about creative solutions that will work for your unique situation and have fun with the process.
The biggest part of staying organized is to clean as you go. When you are finished using something, put it back in its home. Then, when you are ready to use it again, you know where it is, and you never have clutter laying around.
It has been shown that visual clutter can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety in people’s lives. If things are neat and organized, it leaves more room to focus on things that are more important.
More Than One Way to Store a Shoe
You have most likely heard the old saying, “there’s more than one way to skin a cat.” The same holds true for storing your shoes. There are multiple ways to organize your footwear. The key is to find an organizational system that works for you and your household and keep things arranged by category so you can easily see what you have and can easily make a quick decision if you are in a hurry.