The Best Tips and Tricks for Organizing Shoes
Shoes can turn any outfit into a fashion statement. Actress Marilyn Monroe said, “Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.” Marilyn probably had an extensive shoe collection, and she may have used a few of these tips and tricks to organize her shoes. After all, you can only wear the right shoes if you can find them.
Because shoes are less likely to go out of style than clothes and you are also less likely to change sizes, it is easy to amass quite a collection. And, when you have many pairs of shoes, it becomes vitally important to organize them well so you can access the pair you want quickly.
Beyond the practical reasons for organizing, shoes are also beautiful, and they can create a striking display when organized properly. The following tips will help you do just that.
Take Inventory of Your Shoes
Before you start organizing your shoes, take this opportunity to declutter your collection. Begin by trying on each pair of shoes and measure if the shoes are the right size. See if you still enjoy the way they look and feel. If they fit and you like them, set the pair aside for cleaning and repairs. Any pairs that are uncomfortable, cause blisters, or no longer fit in your wardrobe can be sold or donated.
Shoes that need to be repaired can be sent to a cobbler. A cobbler can repair soles and heels for a fraction of the cost of a new pair of shoes.
Also, wipe down every pair of shoes. Dirt and grime that remains on the shoes while in storage could stain the fabric or cause damage. Any boots or shoes made out of natural materials, like leather or leather alternatives, should be treated with a wax or leather conditioner.
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Ways to Store Shoes in a Closet
Placing shoes side-by-side on a closet shelf isn’t the only way to organize your footwear. Here are a few other ideas for organizing shoes in your closet.
1. Purchase Shoe Boxes
Stackable shoe boxes have several advantages. They protect your shoes from dust and damage, they come in a variety of styles, and they often allow you to see your ethical shoe brands collection all at once. Shoe boxes also make use of vertical wall space in your closet by stacking easily so you can utilize vertical storage solutions.
2. Hang Shoes with Heels
If you prefer a more minimalist look, install a towel rods or crown molding in your walk-in closet. The space between the rod and the wall is perfect for hanging up shoes with heels.
3. Designate a Shoe Closet
If your closet is already full with clothing and accessories, turn an underutilized closet elsewhere in your home into a shoe closet. Install vertical shelves or rods, as mentioned above, and fill them with shoes.
This solution ensures that both your clothing and your shoes have adequate space.
4. Rolling Shoe Racks
If you need added shoe storage space, but would prefer not to have a dedicated shoe closet, consider purchasing a rolling shoe rack. Most double-sided racks can fit up to 30 pairs of shoes, and they do not require a lot of space.
Whenever you need to select an outfit from your timeless fashion pieces out, pull out the rack, select your shoes, and then roll the rack back into place.
Separate Shoes Into Categories
To locate the pair of shoes you want to wear quickly, consider organizing your shoes into the following categories:
- Shoes you wear frequently
- Shoes you wear occasionally
- Seasonal pairs of shoes (snow or rain boots, beach sandals, etc.)
The most frequently worn shoes should be within reach, which usually means at eye height when stored off the floor. Place similar styles together, such as casual shoes, exercise shoes, work shoes, and formal shoes. The pairs that you use less often can be placed on a lower or higher shelf. Seasonal pairs are either on the lowest or highest shelf.
Store Shoes for Quick Access
Though shoes are best stored in the closet, that is not always convenient when you need a pair of shoes to run a quick errand or step outside for a moment. When you want shoes that are easy-to-access but still kept out of sight, these are great solutions:
Store Shoes in Baskets or Cubbies
If you have children or other family members who like to leave their shoes at the door, it may be a good idea to use baskets or cubbies for shoe storage.
Purchase a bench for the foyer or other entrance of your home, and put baskets or cubbies there. You can assign each family member a basket or cubby, and allow them to store their shoes there out of sight.
Hide Your Shoes in Storage Ottomans
Storage ottomans are another storage solution for shoes that allow them to remain out of sight.
Many storage ottomans have enough space for several pairs of shoes. These ottomans can also be used as seating then tucked away under an end table when not in use.
FAQs
1. Where should shoes be stored at home?
The most ideal place to store shoes is inside a closet where they will be protected from sun exposure. If your closet is full, consider using a secondary closet or a rolling shoe rack. Alternatively, check out how to organize a closet in order to find some space.
2. What is the best way to store shoes in a closet?
The best way to store shoes is either on a shelf, in shoe boxes, or in an over-the-door shoe organizer. Keep your shoes somewhere dark and cool, away from prolonged sun exposure. The best place for this is the closet.
3. How do you organize 30 pairs of shoes?
If you have 30 pairs of shoes or more, finding the appropriate amount of space for all of them may be challenging. One organizing trick is to place shoes heel-to-toe on the shelf, which will allow you to fit more shoes in the space. You could also use stackable shoe boxes or use a secondary closet for shoe storage.
4. Is it better to keep shoes in boxes or out?
It depends. If you plan on wearing your shoes regularly, keep them out. For short-term storage, keeping shoes in boxes will protect them from dust and damage. For long-term storage, place shoes in dust bags that allow for air circulation.
5. Do shoes deteriorate in the box?
Yes, shoes do tend to deteriorate when placed in a cardboard box. This is because the box prevents adequate air circulation. Shoes kept in a cardboard box for a long period of time may have cracks and creases. If you wish to put your shoes in a box, make sure it is made of breathable materials like cotton storage bags.
6. How long do unworn shoes last?
Shoes can last for many years when not worn. However, the material gradually changes and starts to lose durability and support. On average, unworn shoes last around 5-6 years. Some higher quality shoes may last 10 years in storage, but they will not feel the same on your feet. Leather is one of the few materials that will last for a significant amount of time, much longer than shoes made from synthetic fabrics.
Shoes can turn any outfit into a fashion statement. Actress Marilyn Monroe said, “Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.” Marilyn probably had an extensive shoe collection, and she may have used a few of these tips and tricks to organize her shoes. After all, you can only wear the right shoes if you can find them.
