Shoe Storage Ideas for an Active Lifestyle
A place for every pair.
The average person owns 12 pairs of shoes or more, and this number can triple or quadruple based on the number of people in a household. With so many shoes to keep track of, having the right storage methods is key. Here are 13 ways to ensure your shoes stay organized and accessible.
1. Invest in Shoe Storage Cabinets for Hidden Organization
Best for: Entryways, mudrooms, and families wanting a tidy appearance
Shoe storage cabinets can double as entryway tables or TV stands while providing ample storage for multiple pairs of shoes at a time. Unlike standard accent cabinets, shoe cabinets have more depth or are designed with slanted holders to accommodate the length of various shoe sizes.
Best for: Under benches, closet shelves, and budget-conscious families
Fabric shoe bins can go beneath entryway benches, in coat closets, or on closet shelves. They reduce visual clutter and come in a variety of colors to complement your space. Look for fabric bins with individual slots to store pairs of shoes and make them easy to retrieve.
Tip!
Wicker baskets also work as stylish shoe storage if you’re looking for a warm, textured look. Large wicker baskets are great for tossing a bunch of pairs of shoes in at a time – perfect for busy households.
Best for: Large families and shared closets
Keep pairs of shoes together with the help of cubby-style shoe shelves. They come in a wide range of sizes and can hold anywhere from six to 30 or more pairs of shoes, depending on the design. This storage solution makes it easy to find the right pair of shoes whenever you need them.
Best for: Small entryways and apartments
If you have a small space, consider merging your shoe storage with other organizational needs. This shoe rack and umbrella holder combo is a great example of a multi-functional shoe storage solution that will help you maximize your space in small homes, apartments, or dorm rooms.
Best for: Walk-in closets and shoe collectors
Rotating shoe organizers can be installed in walk-in or reach-in closets and allow you to organize multiple pairs of shoes and boots. These systems feature cubby-style shelves where shoes can be displayed – all you have to do is rotate it to find the pair you’re looking for.
Best for: Entryways, mudrooms, and families with young children
Shoe storage benches work well in entryways or at the foot of the bed. They offer a comfortable place to sit while putting on or taking off your shoes. Some shoe storage benches have built-in cabinets with shelving racks to hide clutter, while others feature open-shelving or under-seat storage compartments for convenience.
Best for: Busy households, cluttered entryways, apartments
Place a shoe storage rack, bench, or hall tree by your entryway to serve as a drop zone where household members can leave their shoes when they come in the door. This will keep shoes neat and organized, reduce clutter, and keep your floors clean. Store a pair of slippers for each family member so they can swap into them when they get home.
Best for: Renters, small closets, and entryway closets
Hanging shoe organizers allow you to store multiple pairs of shoes vertically and without having to invest in additional closet shelving. If you don't have room in your closet, try an over-the-door organizer. These are also perfect for entryway closets.
Best for: Garages, mudrooms, and displaying favorite pairs
Wall-mounted shoe racks are the way to go if you're short on space or want to capitalize on vertical storage. Use floating shelves to highlight your favorite pairs or go for functionality with heavy-duty multitiered racks.
Best for: Seasonal boot storage and preserving tall boots
Keep your boots in tip-top shape with the help of a boot rack. This storage option displays boots upside down to prevent them from sagging or wrinkling like they would if they were upright.
Tip!
For more ways to store your boots, check out these 12 Clever Boot Storage Ideas.
11. Stack Shoes to Save Space
Best for: Maximizing existing closet shelves
Maximize shelf space using a stackable shoe organizer. These organizers are designed to store pairs of shoes on top of each other without touching – ensuring each shoe maintains its shape.
Best for: Small bedrooms and seasonal shoe rotation
You don't have to reduce your shoe collection – you just need some under-bed storage bins! You can also use under-bed shoe storage to store out-of-season shoes like winter boots or sandals.
Best for: Entryways, garages, and rainy or snowy climates
Prevent mud, dirt, or grass from getting on your entryway or closet floor by storing your shoes on a boot tray. You can also place one in your garage or by your back door for easy access.
Tip!
We've compiled a list of The Best Shoe Racks for Out-of-the-Box Organization to help you get started.
