5 Best Shoe Storage Options
Are you a sneaker collector or high-heel enthusiast, or do you want to keep your everyday shoes or work boots organized? If so, you may be wondering how to organize shoes without sacrificing space around your house or apartment. In this guide, you can explore KO Storage’s top five tips for efficiently organizing your footwear.
1. Best Shoe Organization Ideas: Material and Usage
Many people own more shoes than they wear regularly, and that’s okay—different occasions call for different footwear. However, it can be frustrating to sift through a pile of shoes when you’re in a rush or trying to coordinate your outfit.
To make your life easier, divide your shoe collection into three categories: dress shoes, work shoes, and everyday shoes. This method makes it simple to pick the right pair depending on the occasion. For instance, keep your black and brown leather dress shoes side by side for easy comparison when selecting the best match for your outfit.
Another example might be grouping athletic shoes separately to quickly grab them for a workout, helping you streamline your mornings and keep your shoes in top condition.
2. Have Multiple Shoe Racks
It may sound unnecessary, but having two separate shoe racks can drastically improve your organization. Certain shoes serve utilitarian purposes, like an old pair of sneakers you wear for yard work, or sandals you never wear outside the house. These shoes should be easily accessible but kept separate from your main collection.
Keep one smaller shoe rack by the front door for shoes you wear frequently or may need at a moment’s notice—such as rain boots or house shoes. This keeps them out of your closet and ready when needed.
The best shoe racks for the rest of your collection would be larger ones inside your closet. A larger shoe rack allows for better organization by type and material, and if you prefer guests to remove their shoes at the door, a second rack is essential to avoid a cluttered entryway.
3. Storing Shoes While Traveling
Traveling with shoes can be tricky. Not only can shoes get dirty from outdoor use, but they are also bulky and can damage other items if not packed properly. Here are a few tips for storing shoes while on the go:
- Use shoe bags or plastic covers. Place each pair of shoes in a designated shoe bag or plastic cover to prevent dirt from spreading to your clothes.
- Stuff shoes with socks. To maintain their shape and save space, stuff your shoes with socks or small items. This works especially well for heels or boots.
- Pack shoes sole-down. Position shoes sole-down in your suitcase to minimize contact with your clothes and maximize space.
4. Watch Out For Heat and Humidity
Even when not in use, shoes—especially those made from leather, suede, or other delicate materials—can be damaged by high temperatures and humidity. Thermal fluctuations cause materials to expand and contract, leading to warping, cracking, or fading over time. Humidity can also cause mold and mildew to grow, damaging leather and promoting odors.
To prevent this, always store your shoes in a climate-controlled environment and avoid leaving them in the garage, attic, or basement, where temperature and humidity can be less predictable.
5. Avoid Clutter in Your Closet With Self Storage
If you have shoes that are rarely worn but too valuable to get rid of, a climate-controlled storage might be the space you need. Storing shoes in a clutter-free environment will help them remain organized and in the best condition possible without taking up space in your closet. This is particularly important for delicate or expensive footwear, but every shoe, boot, or sandals you store can benefit from a stable, climate-controlled environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoe Storage
Provide compact storage ideas like under-bed organizers, over-the-door racks, or stackable containers.
Suggest solutions like clear plastic boxes, dust bags, or shoe cabinets with doors.
Discuss strategies such as labeling shoe bins, arranging by type, or using a rotating shoe rack.
Offer advice on storing off-season shoes, such as using vacuum-sealed bags or placing them on higher shelves.
Mention tips like using cedar inserts, silica gel packs, or activated charcoal bags.
Highlight decorative shoe racks, wall-mounted displays, or glass-fronted storage cases.
Suggest using shoe trees, acid-free tissue paper, and climate-controlled storage spaces.
Learn How To Organize Shoes With KO Storage
If you have more footwear than places to keep them in your house or apartment, KO Storage has you covered. Browse our unit sizes to find the right fit for your shoe collection and reach out to your nearest KO Storage Facility to create the closet organization you need without sacrificing your style.