Organizing your shoe collection can seem like a daunting task, but with some planning and effort, you can transform that messy pile into a functional system. A well-organized shoe storage solution will not only make your shoes more accessible and protect them from damage, but it can also turn your closet or entryway into an Instagram-worthy display. Here are some tips and ideas to help you organize your shoes.

Assess Your Current Shoe Situation

Before setting up any type of storage, first take stock of your current shoe collection. This will help you understand how much space and what types of storage you need.

Count and Categorize

Count how many pairs of shoes you own and group them into categories like everyday, athletic, dress shoes, sandals, boots, etc. This will give you an idea of how much space each category needs.

Evaluate Condition

Assess the condition of each pair. Set aside any that need repair or replacement. Don’t waste storage space on shoes you no longer wear.

Measure Shoe Sizes

Make note of all the different sizes and widths represented in your collection. This will be helpful when choosing shoe racks and cubbies.

Consider Growth

Estimate how many more pairs you are likely to acquire over the next 6-12 months. Leave room for growth when deciding on the storage capacity you need.

Choose Location

Once you know what you’re working with, think about where you want to store your organized shoes. Consider accessibility, space, and aesthetics.

Entryway

The entryway is a convenient spot for shoes you wear frequently. This allows you to slip them on easily as you come and go. However, space limitations might mean you can only store a portion of your collection here.

Closet

A closet, especially a walk-in closet, often has room for more expansive shoe storage. You may be able to incorporate racks, shelves, cubbies and more to store multiple pairs.

Under Bed

Under bed storage allows you to utilize valuable space that is often wasted. Long, low bins and slide out trays can hold many pairs out of sight. Just be sure to measure carefully to select storage that will fit.

Garage or Basement

If you have an overabundance of shoes, storing some in a garage, basement or spare room may be needed. This gets them out of the way but makes access less convenient.

Select Storage Method(s)

Once you know where you want to organize your shoes, it’s time to decide on the specific storage methods. You may opt to use different solutions in different locations.

Shelving

Free standing shelving units come in many sizes and configurations perfect for displaying shoes. Cubbies and modular stacked shelves help keep pairs separated.

Racks

Shoe racks come in single row, double row and even multiple tier options. These vertical displays are great for entryways or tight closets. Expandable racks adjust to hold different shoe sizes.

Hanging Organizers

Clear vinyl hanging organizers have individual pouches to keep shoes dust-free and visible. These are good for tight spaces like coat closets.

Stackable Boxes & Trays

Plastic bins and fabric cubbies neatly contain shoes while protecting them from damage. Stack and arrange them on shelves or in cabinents. Label the fronts for easy identification.

Over the Door

Multi-pocket over the door hanging organizers maximize vertical storage space. Use for shoes you wear frequently. Not ideal for heavy shoes which could cause the door to sag.

Under Bed Storage

Long, low under bed bins and slide out trays utilize wasted space beneath your bed. Use for off-season or overflow storage.

Sort and Group Shoes

Once you’ve selected your storage options, it’s time to start filling them up. Keep these tips in mind:

Group shoes by type/use – everyday, athletic, formal, etc.
Store in frequency of use – most used pairs should be most accessible.
Consider pairing together mate sets – this makes retrieval easier.
Stand shoes upright rather than stacking horizontally to avoid compression damage.
Face soles inward toward each other to keep bottoms clean and prevent dust buildup inside.
Stuff toes with tissue to help maintain shape.
Avoid overcrowding which can damage shoes and make sorting difficult.
Limit stacking shoe boxes more than three high, which can crush boxes on bottom.

Maintain Your Organization

Set up a shoe organizing system that makes it easy to maintain tidy shoes and clean storage.

Return shoes to their designated spot after each wear.
Dust racks, shelves and storage bins regularly.
Use shoe bags for travel to corral shoes and keep dirt contained.
Clean soiled shoe bottoms before storing to avoid spreading dirt inside.
Wash fabric shoe bags, inserts and storage cubes as needed.
Wipe vinyl and plastic storage with disinfectant to kill bacteria and odor.
Occasionally reshuffle storage to avoid permanent creases from shoes being stored in same position.
Re-evaluate your collection each season and remove unworn pairs to free up space.

Shoe Organizing Ideas by Location

Here are some step-by-step guides to setting up your shoe organization for some of the most popular storage spots.

Entryway Shoe Organizer

The entryway is a high-traffic area, so your storage solutions need to be functional as well as decorative. Follow these tips for a fashionable yet functional entryway shoe station:

Choose Storage

Entryway shoe storage should be vertical to save on floor space.
Select an over the door shoe organizer, multi-row shoe rack or shelving unit with cubbies.
Make sure it’s large enough to hold the styles you wear most frequently.

Style It

Look for storage options in finishes like wood and metal that coordinate with your entryway decor.
Use baskets or fabric cubbies in the shelves to conceal mess.
Include a bench or stool for sitting while putting on shoes.
Add a decorative tray or rug underneath to catch dirt and define the space.

Fill It Up

Place shoes you wear most often, like sneakers and flats, on the most accessible shelves.
Group types together – athletic shoes on top shelf, sandals and slippers on bottom.
Stand shoes upright, facing inward with toes pointing toward each other.
Stuff with tissue paper to help maintain shape.
Leave a little room for expansion.

Maintain It

Assign each family member a cubby or shelf.
Promptly return shoes to their designated spots after wearing.
Vacuum entry rug/mat weekly to remove tracked in dirt.
Dust shelves and shoe tops monthly to keep dust-free.

Walk In Closet Shoe Storage

Large walk-in closets offer ample room for your dream shoe closet. Follow this advice for outfitting your closet:

Take Measurements

Measure overall closet space and layout. Sketch floor plan if helpful.
Note any dead space that can be utilized, like above cabinets or on the back of doors.
Measure depth of shelving areas to ensure shoes will fit.

Select Storage Solutions

Use a combination of shelving units, shoe racks, and hanging storage.
Incorporate floor to ceiling shelves or tall bookcase units to maximize vertical space.
Use durable storage that will hold up to weight of shoes long term.

Arrange Strategically

Place most used shoes at eye level for convenient access.
Use prime real estate for your favorite, prettiest or most expensive pairs.
Categorize by use – heels, sneakers, dress shoes, etc on separate shelves.
Store off-season shoes up high or lower down.
Display well-loved shoes proudly.

Increase Visibility

Use clear stackable shoe boxes to easily ID box contents.
Store shoes facing outward with toes pointed forward for quick ID.
Position shelves and racks perpendicular to closet door for easy viewing.

Maintain Order

Only return cleaned and polished shoes to shelves.
Repair scuffed or damaged shoes before storing.
Dust shelves every 1-2 weeks to prevent dirt buildup.
Re-organize annually, donating unworn pairs to free up space.

Under Bed Shoe Storage

Maximize wasted space under your bed with these tips:

Measure Clearance

Measure height of bed frame above floor to determine storage capacity.
Account for bed skirts, dust ruffles and mattresses that sit low to floor.

Select Low Profile Storage

Under bed bins should be no more than 6-8 inches high to allow sliding and lifting.
Look for slide out trays, roll out drawers and collapsible fabric cubes.

Arrange Efficiently

Fill empty spaces with adjustable dividers or shoe cubbies.
Use one bin for each category – sneakers, heels, sandals, etc.
Place seasonal shoes towards the back.

Maximize Space

Store shoes sideways with toes pointing toward bed. This allows more pairs per bin.
Stack shoe boxes no more than 2-3 high to avoid crushing.
Use lids to prevent dust and contain odors.

Maintain Access

Pull bins/trays fully outward before lifting so they don’t get stuck.
Check bins every 1-2 months for dampness or odor issues.
Rotate stock each season to keep accessible pairs up front.

Shoe Storage Solutions by Type

Certain types of shoes have unique storage needs. Tailor your solutions to best protect special use shoes:

Athletic Shoes

Allow shoes to fully dry between wears to prevent bacterial and fungal growth.
Use mesh bags that allow ventilation and drying.
Insert shoetrees, crumpled paper or shoe shapers to absorb moisture and maintain shape.
Frequently launder removable insoles and inserts.
Keep a stock of fresh shoe deodorizers to control odors.

Dress Shoes

Store in original boxes or on slatwall shelves to allow ventilation.
Stuff toes lightly withtissue to retain shape.
Use cedar shoe trees to absorb moisture and stretch leather.
Polish and buff regularly before putting back into storage.
Avoid overcrowding on shelves which can damage delicate materials.

Rain Boots

Allow to dry fully inflated with crumpled newspaper inside before storing.
Keep away from direct heat sources like radiators or vents.
Store upright rather than stacked horizontally.
Avoid hanging rain boots, which can stretch out ankle openings.
Stuff a few sheets of crumpled tissue inside each boot to help hold shape.

Winter Boots

Remove insoles and replace with fresh paper or insole inserts each year.
Spray inside lightly with disinfecting spray to prevent odors.
Fill boots with crumpled paper to hold shape if storing for many months.
Store in cool, dry area away from heat vents and sunlight to avoid damage.
Keep away from humidity to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Answers to Common Shoe Storage FAQs

Organizing your shoes comes with many questions. Here are some helpful answers:

How many pairs of shoes are normal to own?

There is no “normal” amount of shoes. The average reported is around 10-20 pairs per person, but avid shoe lovers often exceed that by many multiples. Let your needs and available storage space determine how many pairs work for your lifestyle.

How long do shoes last with regular wear?

With proper care, most shoes typically last 1-2 years with regular use. Well-made leather shoes and boots may last 3-5 years or longer. Signs it’s time to replace shoes include worn tread, holes, cracking, reduced support and foot pain.

Should shoes be stored in their original boxes?

Storing in original shoe boxes helps protect the shape and structure of shoes when not being worn. However, the boxes take up a lot of space. If short on space, discard boxes and use other storage methods.

Should athletic shoes be washed regularly?

Wash athletic shoes every 2-3 weeks of regular wear, especially if you sweat heavily. Remove dirt on uppers with soap and water. Clean insoles and inserts with disinfectant spray. Let dry fully before wearing again.

How can you optimize closet space for shoe storage?

Install floor to ceiling shelving, over door racks and hanging organizers to take advantage of vertical storage space. Have at least 12-15 inches depth for shoes. Place most worn pairs at eye level. Categorize by use.

What are the benefits of cedar shoe trees?

Cedar absorbs moisture, helps shoes retain shape and stretches out leather. The aromatic wood also helps mask odors. Use cedar shoe trees for fine leather shoes and boots when not being worn.

Conclusion

Organizing your shoe collection takes some time and effort up front, but the benefits are well worth it. The ability to easily find the pair you want and protect your favorite shoes from damage will make your morning routine so much smoother. Follow the tips that best suit your space and shoe storage needs. In no time, you’ll have a functional, fashionable shoe storage solution worthy of showing off!

How to Organize Shoes

Organizing shoes allows you to protect your footwear investment, keep pairs looking their best, and simplify getting ready. But between athletic sneakers, dress loafers, high heels, and everything in between, shoe storage can quickly become overwhelming. Follow these tips to tame your shoe collection and keep pairs properly stored for longevity and accessibility.

Declutter First

Before designating space and choosing storage, it’s smart to declutter your current shoe collection. This prevents wasting storage on pairs you no longer need:

Try on every pair. Toss any that are painfully worn out, damaged beyond repair, or simply hurt your feet. Be brutally honest about what needs to go.
Evaluate wear. Keep only pairs you’ve worn in the past year. Exceptions could be for special occasions or seasons.
Check expiration dates. Athletic shoes should be replaced every 300-500 miles. Discard any way beyond their prime.
Donate gently used shoes that are still in good condition but you just don’t wear anymore.

Now you have a realistic sense of your storage needs.

Designate Space

Ideally, store shoes where you use them most for convenience. Assess all available space in your home:

Entryway or mudroom for slip-on shoes
Coat closet for seasonal pairs accessed when you grab coats
Under bed bins for overflow and little-used pairs
Back of closet doors using over door hangers
Walk-in closets for most or all of your collection

Think vertically – utilize shelves, racks and hanging storage fully from floor to ceiling.

Choose Storage Method

Consider your space, budget, and types of shoes to select the right storage:

Stackable plastic bins work well for athletic shoes and keep dust out.
Breathable fabric cubbies contain but don’t suffocate shoes.
Clear stacking boxes neatly show off heels and dress shoes.
Slanted shelves and racks keep pairs visible and accessible.
Over the door clear pouches prevent shoe avalanches.
Under bed slide out trays maintain unused space.

Sort and Organize

Categorize – athletic, casual, dress, seasonal types each need their own space.

Most used pairs should go in prime real estate (eye level shelves or racks).

Off-season shoes can be stored in harder to reach spots.

Stand upright and stuff toes lightly with tissue to retain shape.

Face soles inward so bottoms stay clean.

Avoid overcrowding that stretches out shoes.

Maintain

Return promptly – never leave pairs lying out.

Dust shelves weekly to prevent dirt buildup.

Wash shoe bags regularly that contain travel or gym shoes.

Disinfect insides of sweaty athletic shoes to prevent odor.

Repair heels, stretch toes, and polish leather periodically to extend life.

A functional shoe storage solution saves time, prolongs the life of your shoes, and keeps your space tidy. Put in the initial work to organize your collection, and maintaining it will be a breeze. Enjoy the convenience of easily finding any desired pair!

How to Organize Shoes

Shoes are often one of the most under-organized areas of our homes. Over time, it’s easy for footwear to pile up into a jumbled mess that leaves you searching every morning. Organizing your shoe collection provides many benefits beyond just a tidy appearance. Proper storage helps protect expensive shoes from damage, makes pairs readily accessible, and extends the life of your footwear. Follow these tips to finally conquer even the most explosive shoe clutter.

Declutter

The first step is sorting through your current shoe stockpile and purging pairs that are past their prime.

Try on each style and walk around to check comfort and fit. Toss any that are too worn out, damaged, or no longer fit well.
Get rid of shoes you haven’t worn at all in the past year, with a few exceptions for special occasion pairs.
Check the mileage on athletic shoes. Most need replacement around 300-500 miles.
Donate gently used shoes in decent condition to charity.

Now you know exactly how much storage space you really require.

Designate a Home

Ideally, shoes should be stored in the locations where you use them most often. Consider all the available real estate in your home:

Entryway, mudroom, or garage for slip-on athletic and casual shoes.
Coat closet for shoes you access when getting outerwear.
Under your bed utilizing otherwise wasted space.
Backs of doors with over-door hangers.
Walk-in closets allow room for your entire shoe collection.

Take advantage of vertical space from floor to ceiling with shelves, racks, and hanging storage.

Select Storage Method(s)

Types of shoes and your space constraints