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Keep Your Footwear in Top Condition With the Best Shoe Storage

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By Old House Journal Review Team
Last updated: 17 Jan 2023

Do you often find yourself digging through an overcrowded pile of mismatched heels and tangled laces to finish off your ensemble in the morning? The despair for this loss of time is only rivaled by the gloom you feel upon seeing your dirty sneakers that managed to come out of the storage box. Well, shoe storage can help you in this regard.

From shelves, racks, and rolling carts to cabinets, stackable boxes, and even stand-alone closets, shoe storage solutions come in all shapes and sizes. But their purpose in your life is singular — helping you keep track of your footwear and protecting them from damage.

Shoe storage is essential for keeping your footwear organized, stored away, and looking great. But it’s not always easy to decide which shoe storage solution to choose. Luckily, we’re here to help because we’re breaking down the finest shoe storage of 2023. So, buckle up and get ready to discover an amazing new, far more organized way to locate your treasured shoes.

Best Overall
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Kuject Shoe Storage
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Easiest to Assemble
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Woffit Shoe Storage
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Value Pick
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Gorilla Grip Shoe Storage
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Most Compact
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Simple Trending Shoe Storage
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Most Spacious
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ERONE Shoe Storage
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Best Durability
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Simple Houseware Shoe Storage
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Maneuverable Pick
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Lifewit Shoe Storage
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Show contents
Reviewing the Top Shoe Storage of 2023
  • 1 Kuject Shoe Storage
  • 2 Woffit Shoe Storage
  • 3 Gorilla Grip Shoe Storage
  • 4 Simple Trending Shoe Storage
  • 5 ERONE Shoe Storage
  • 6 Simple Houseware Shoe Storage
  • 7 Lifewit Shoe Storage

Buying Guide: Shoe Storage

It would be an understatement to say that keeping our footwear clean and organized is a hassle… well, at least for most of us. That’s why having a reliable shoe storage system is key. Clean and organized. Those are the keywords here. While clean footwear means long-lasting footwear, you can also expect benefits from the organizing abilities of these storage solutions. You see, decluttering positively impacts your mental health, including sharpening your focus and relieving anxiety. 

So, welcome aboard as we explore how to get top-notch shoe storage at great value. From design tips to DIY alternatives, this buyer’s guide covers everything about choosing the perfect shoe shelves for all budgets. 

Things To Consider Before Buying Shoe Storage

Capacity

If you’re looking to add some order to your abode, capacity is important when selecting the perfect shoe storage solution. Generally, it’s best to invest in shoe storage two to three sizes up from what you currently have. This allows for growth in case your footwear collection expands and additional room for items like hats, gloves, and socks. 

For instance, let’s say you typically own eight to 10 pairs of shoes; getting a 14 to 16-pair wardrobe offering approximately 10 inches of depth will serve you best in the long run. Ultimately, it all boils down to understanding your needs, so think ahead and figure out what size works best with what shoes you own and are likely to acquire in the future.

Design

When choosing a shoe storage solution for your home, the product’s design is an important factor to consider. Not only do different designs keep shoes organized, but they also help create aesthetically pleasing spaces within your home. Popular designs include shelves and open cubbies, under-the-bed storage boxes, and decorative baskets that blend in with the decor. 

Before buying a shoe storage product, think carefully about which design best suits your needs. If you have limited space, you can opt for a narrow, open closet or smaller wall shelves rather than large bulky frames. But if you’re dealing with a crowded front foyer or kids’ room, perhaps containers and bins might be a better option, as they provide more flexibility when storing many pairs of shoes at once. 

Additional Buying Tips

Material

When looking for shoe storage, consider the material it is made of. While it may seem insignificant compared to the available space and design, good quality material will ensure your shoe storage can last for many years. Popular materials for shoe storage are wood, plastic, and metal, with each material offering unique features and benefits. 

Wooden storage looks more timeless and offers more protection from dirt, but it can be more expensive and require regular maintenance. Plastic designs are lightweight and easily movable but don’t provide breathability. On the other hand, metal shoe storage units are typically stronger than plastic or wood ones. This material also has a lustrous appearance and is a good conductor of heat and electricity, but it may be prone to rusting at times. So, whichever option you go for, understanding the distinctions of each material is key to finding the right one for you.

Expandable nature

Shoe storage is essential to keep your shoes organized, protected, and in pristine condition. Being able to expand or stack the storage to fit the available space in your home, such as beneath entryways or along closet walls, makes it possible to store a larger collection of shoes with less clutter. You can also save money by buying stackable shoe storage because it allows you to purchase modules one at a time without taking up too much space. 

Also, since you can mix and match sizes and finishes for a custom look, you can easily adjust the size of shoe racks depending on how many shoes you have at any given time. An expandable or stackable shoe storage solution makes it easy to adapt your setup without taking up more room in an already cramped home.

Tips for Maintaining Your Shoe Storage

A shoe storage unit should be organized, efficient, and easy to access. These simple tips will ensure efficient, well-managed shoe storage that will help you keep up with the latest trends. 

  • First, ensure the shelves can accommodate various types of shoes by setting up different heights for boots, sandals, slippers, and more. 
  • Secondly, use shoeboxes to store several pairs together. This way, it will be more convenient to grab a pair whenever you need them. 
  • Thirdly, employ dividers to separate workout shoes from dressy shoes and by color or style so that you won’t have to search through all your options before finding the right pair. 
  • Lastly, depending on the size of your closet or storage unit, consider adding rails above the shelves that you can use for purses or hats. 

Different Types of Shoe Storage

Towers

Towers are great for displaying your various footwear styles and keeping them organized by color or type; even if you have limited closet space, you can still find an attractive tower design that suits your needs. Tower organizers provide a vertical approach to shoe storage that takes advantage of high or narrow spaces in your closet. 

Shelves and closets

For larger collections, dedicated shelves and closets may be necessary so that nothing gets lost. Shelves and closets are the go-to routes for large collections; they’re perfect for organizing lots of shoes in one place with room left to spare. 

Over-the-door holders

Over-the-door shoe storage is ideal for those tight on space — simply attach the organizer to any door and make use of the pockets for different sizes and types of shoes. These designs offer an easy and classic way to get organized while taking up only a small amount of wall space. 

Under-bed organizers

Lastly, those tall enough beds can reap the benefits of under-bed shoe storage options. The hidden boxes offer out-of-sight protection against dust while being accessible enough that there’s no need to dig through valuable shelving space in search of the right pair. These storage bins are great for keeping dust and dirt off your favorite pairs of kicks while still allowing you easy access to them. 

Reviewing the Top Shoe Storage of 2023

1

Kuject Shoe Storage

– Best Overall
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Kuject’s Shoe Storage is designed with convenience and optimal organization in mind. With its extra-large capacity, you’ll be able to store all kinds of shoes, from boots to high heels. Its wider and taller design fits up to size 12 (US) women’s shoes and size 11 (US) men’s shoes., making it suitable for various shoe styles. 

Unlike traditional shoe racks, this dust-free, stackable design makes organizing your shoes cleaner and hassle-free. So, that means no more sprawled messes in your closets. Meanwhile, the transparent material means that accessing a particular pair of shoes is quick work, even with dozens stored away, and you’ll easily know what pairs you own. And finally, with the included slot lock design, it’s easy to stack this shoe storage unit securely, giving you peace of mind and additional space in your home. 

With a thicker frame, it’s less prone to breakage, plus the shoe box body is more stable and less likely to deform, even when placed in a hallway or closet. There’s no need to worry about dust gathering on your shoes, either, since this pick has ventilation holes in the front and back that are perfect for air circulation and odor prevention. Simply put, this shoe storage will make life easier by allocating your shoes into clear and uniform boxes, giving you well-organized spaces without compromising style. Featuring a stackable build, ventilation holes, and a sizable capacity, this is easily the top product on our list. 

Pros
  • Stackable, dust-free design
  • Ventilation holes allow air circulation
  • Stable build that’s less prone to deformation
Cons
  • Doors could be sturdier
2

Woffit Shoe Storage

– Easiest to Assemble
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Is your closet packed to the brim with shoe boxes? It’s time to end the chaos and finally keep tabs on all of your footwear with Woffit’s Under Bed  Shoe Storage. These under-bed organizers are sure to make life easier for you. The two-piece set is 32 inches in length and made using sturdy sides, with a firm base for long-term use, reinforced handles, and a robust zipper. This makes it suitable for all kinds of shoes: slippers, heels, sneakers, you name it. 

If you’re looking to give your boots their special home away from home, the other variation gives you 38 inches of storage when the second shoe storage is swapped out for the boot organizer. With these two handy options, this pick helps declutter your closet while still letting you organize your 24 pairs of shoes effortlessly, providing an optimal combination of size, breathability, and visibility. It is also slim enough to fit neatly under beds, so you don’t have to clear extra floor space for it to work. 

Crafted from an odorless and breathable material, this pick is designed with a special transparent window that keeps your footwear visible but secure at the same time. No more searching for shoes that have long been forgotten or hiding in dark corners. With this all-in-one shoe storage system, you benefit from its generous yet compact size, allowing you to make the most of the available space beneath your bed. 

Pros
  • Transparent window and robust zipper
  • Made with breathable and non-woven fabric
  • Firm base and sturdy sides
Cons
  • Not sturdy enough to move around
3

Gorilla Grip Shoe Storage

– Value Pick
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Discover the perfect way to keep your shoes neatly tucked away and in outstanding condition with Gorilla Grip Hanging Shoe Storage. This 24-pocket organizer is designed to be exceptionally long-lasting and the breathable mesh material provides a barrier of protection, while strong and sturdy hooks can hold up to 40 pounds without budging. Each pocket has been crafted with an advanced non-woven polyester fabric that looks great and prevents dirt and dust from sticking around. 

A clever slip-resistant design ensures it fits seamlessly over most doorways for a perfect fit, and its breathable pockets help keep your shoes grime-free. A superior choice for organizing nearly anything, this versatile storage solution measures 64 x 19 inches and allows for 100% visibility from every angle. That means, no matter what you have to store — from crafting supplies and pantry items to beauty products and, of course, shoes — you can easily and efficiently do so. 

Best of all, its lightweight design means it’s easy to hang anywhere — even over garage doors. For extra convenience, this option also has a no-hardware setup, so you can easily place it in closets, mudrooms, or wherever else best fits your organizational needs. Don’t just settle for clutter; get the perfect tool for hassle-free organizing with this pick. All in all, it’s the storage you need to get the job done right.

Pros
  • Made of premium polyester fabric
  • Holds up to 40 pounds of weight
  • Equipped with 24 breathable mesh pockets
  • Sturdy, slip-resistant door hooks
Cons
  • Hooks might scratch your doors
4

Simple Trending Shoe Storage

– Most Compact
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This great storage unit includes four connectors, the ability to stack units, and adjustable tiers to fit any configuration of shoes. With it, you can store up to 12 pairs of men’s or women’s shoes without sacrificing space. Better yet, use the additional storage for your slippers. This way, you can make the most of your available room and feel good knowing your shoe collection is in perfect order. 

Even more, you can purchase two or more pieces and bridge them horizontally to build a bigger organizational system with shelves. Assembly is easy as well — just clip up the shelves into the frame. This easy assembly means you don’t have to worry about wasting time trying to figure out complicated setups. No matter how much space you need for shoe storage, this shoe storage unit by Simple Trending has got you covered.

With this pick, you won’t have to worry about clutter or having your home look disorganized. It is made with a thickened metal tube, giving it extra durability and making it very lightweight. It also has a smooth powder-coated finish that provides excellent corrosion resistance. And don’t worry, you can rest assured that the great price of this product matches its superior quality. 

Pros
  • Corrosion-resistant build
  • Sturdy powder-coated finish
  • Expandable and stackable design 
  • Strong metal construction
Cons
  • Wobbles a bit at times
5

ERONE Shoe Storage

– Most Spacious
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Do you want to get the most out of your shoe collection without compromising your home’s style? Look no further than the Erone Shoe Storage Cabinet. The convenient design makes it ideal for a wide range of spaces, from closets and cabinets to hallways, entryways, and even narrow dormitory rooms. It has seven layers and can support up to 28 pairs of women’s or 21 pairs of men’s shoes. 

Built with corrosion-resistant metal pipes and firm PP (polypropylene) connectors, this shoe shelf is extra durable yet lightweight, letting you easily move it around if necessary. A waterproof non-woven fabric further adds to the sturdy construction, all while creating an elegant aesthetic. And thanks to its portable double-row structure, your shelf will stay stable while in use. 

Boasting a zipper cloth cover that effectively isolates dust, you won’t have to worry about the mess and chaos of all those shoes. Plus, this shoe storage unit is removable, which allows you to fit one or two layers conveniently with different sizes when necessary, making things super easy to accommodate even high-heeled shoes or boots. Because this practical product uses a buckle design, assembly can be done without tools easily and quickly, with no need to use unnecessary energy. Stop tripping over randomly placed heels and start taking control of your space today with this pick. 

Pros
  • Corrosion-resistant build
  • Metal construction and PP connectors
  • Compact design
  • Tool-free assembly
Cons
  • Slightly difficult to assemble
6

Simple Houseware Shoe Storage

– Best Durability
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If you’ve been looking for an easy, space-saving solution to help organize your closet and make the most of it, Simple Houseware’s Hanging Shoe Storage is the perfect fit. With a three-hook hanging system, which hangs on any standard closet rod, and 24 extra large fabric shelves, this pick is easy to put together with no bulky boxes or complicated setup; all you do is unfold the shoe storage, set the hooks in place, and hang it up.

With holes that are average in size, everything stays securely in place without taking up too much space, giving you more breathing room in your closet. It also features eight robust and spacious tiers, so you can finally bid farewell to all your shoe clutter. Overall, this pick is a great way to store a maximum of 12 adult-size shoes or 24 pairs for kids while taking up minimal space.

Not only does this product help keep your shoes organized and away from dust, but it also makes them easily accessible. Easy to install and compact in size, this shoe storage can fit into most narrow spaces like entries, closets, and corners in your home. Plus, it’s extremely durable and won’t be bowing over with the weight of stacked shoes. As the cherry on top, it comes in many colors, such as black, brown, gray, and turquoise, ensuring there will be something for everyone. 

Pros
  • Equipped with 24 extra large shelves
  • Suitable for narrow spaces
  • Comes in various colors
Cons
  • A bit flimsy
7

Lifewit Shoe Storage

– Maneuverable Pick
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Lifewit’s Under Bed Shoe Storage is a great way to make the most of your under-bed space. Constructed with cardboard sides, reinforced handles, and a seamed bottom, it securely accommodates up to 12 pairs of shoes while keeping them safely in place. The one-of-a-kind design features two handles on each side for easy pulling out, and its folds can be used in horizontal and linear orientations for maximum utility. It also has an added advantage with its PVC (polyvinyl chloride) window that lets you take a peek at the contents inside to identify which shoes are stored. 

Available in sets of two and four, this pick easily provides enough space to keep your shoes organized at home. Constructed with thickened PVC and a non-woven hem divider, it is high-quality and extra durable, which makes it ideal for long-term use. Plus, it’s fortified with reinforced layers and cardboard, ensuring maximum protection for your footwear. As a result, you can have peace of mind knowing your shoes are safe and well taken care of in this shoe storage solution. 

Pros
  • See-through PVC window
  • Seamed bottom and 12 compartments
  • Made with high-quality non-woven fabric
Cons
  • Handles are a little flimsy

People Also Asked

Q: Should my shoe storage have ventilation?

A: Shoe storage should have ventilation for a variety of reasons. Ventilation helps keep your shoes dry and odor-free, which are important concerns when storing them. It also encourages airflow throughout the area to minimize dust and debris buildup, improving shoe storage units' overall cleanliness.  Additionally, ventilation provides extra protection against moisture damage and mold growth when storing your shoes — especially in high-humidity areas, like bathrooms or laundry rooms.

Q: Should I look for corrosion-resistant shoe storage?

A: With something like a shoe storage basket made from corrosion-resistant materials, your shoes will be safely stored away and remain stylishly organized over time. Corrosion-resistant materials provide added protection against humidity and extreme temperature changes, ensuring your shoes are kept safe from damage. 

Q: Is it better to store shoes in boxes or on shelves?

A: When it comes to storing your shoes, boxes and shelves both have their pros and cons. Boxes are great for protecting shoes from dust or dirt while storing them, but take up more horizontal space in the closet. Shelves, however, may leave your shoes vulnerable to elements like dust, but they provide more efficient use of vertical space to maximize storage capabilities better.  Ultimately, it depends on preferences and the environment in which you plan to store your footwear; if you have many different types of shoes, shelves can be a great way to grab the pair quickly you need for any occasion. But, if you want to keep your prized kicks looking pristine for years to come, boxes might be the better choice.

Q: How often should I clean out my shoe storage?

A: It is advisable to clean out your shoe storage at least every six months. This helps clear out dust, dirt, and other debris which can accumulate inside the cabinets and cause you to slip if left unchecked. Also, this is a good time to rotate your shoes that have not been worn in a while, as well as eliminate any pairs that are no longer usable or desirable; this way, you know that you're only storing shoes that are still in working condition.

Q: What are some creative ways to store shoes?

A: There are plenty of creative solutions if you're looking to spruce up your shoe-storage game. You could repurpose crates and line the bottoms with stylish fabric for an effortless, vintage look. For a fun pop of color, try adding hanging shoe organizers to your wall space — this way, you can quickly identify which shoes you’re looking for when opening your wardrobe.  If space is limited, invest in an over-the-door hanger or slim shoe tower. These options can often accommodate up to 10 pairs of shoes, giving you plenty of storage without encroaching on valuable floor space. With a little inventive thinking, any home can become an organized and efficient sanctuary, even when it comes to shoes.

Q: How can I prevent my shoes from getting scuffed?

A: One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent shoes from getting scuffed is to apply a wax-based, protective product like shoe paste or spray. This helps create a strong barrier between the shoe and any surface it may come in contact with.  That said, there are other ways to reduce the chance of scuffing, like going for slip-on shoes instead of lace-ups, wearing clean socks, avoiding rough surfaces, and being mindful of where you're walking. With any luck, these tips will help you extend the life of your shoes.

Q: What are some tips for organizing my shoe storage?

A: Everyone wants an attractive and organized shoe storage solution, but only some know how to achieve it. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your space:  First, take stock of your shoes; count them and make sure you only keep what you need. Next, use stackable boxes or bins that fit neatly on shelves as much as possible. Labeling them is always a good idea, too. You can also try hanging over-the-door shoe organizers for easy access and visibility for those hard-to-reach places. Finally, store out-of-season shoes in containers and bags to protect them from dust buildup. 

Q: What is the best way to store shoes in a small space?

A: Storing shoes in a small space can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Stackable shoe storage is an easy way to make the most of limited storage space. These containers are designed specifically for your shoes and come in various sizes, so you can choose what best fits your area and how many pairs of shoes you need to store. Also, shoe organizers that hang over the door and rotating racks are great options if you’re looking for something more decorative or space-saving.

Q: Can I store my shoes in plastic bags?

A: Storing shoes in plastic bags is a great way to keep them organized and easily transportable. Also, it will help prevent dirt, dust, and mud from ruining the shoes or their packaging if you ever plan on reselling the pair.  When packing your shoes in plastic storage bags, resist the temptation to overpack them, as it could cause excessive damage to the shape of their heels or soles. Lastly, be sure to choose plastic bags that are not too close in size to your footwear. Doing so can lead to excessive rubbing between the pair, which can lead to permanent scuff marks on either shoe.

Q: Is it bad to keep shoes in storage for a long time?

A: Storing shoes for a long time can be okay, but depending on the condition of the shoes, there may be some issues. If they’re made of materials prone to mold or mildew, like some canvas or synthetics, they could deteriorate in damp conditions. Even if your storage area is dry and well-ventilated, you should check up on your shoes every few months to ensure they’re still in good condition and not gathering dust or other debris.  It's also worth noting that with smooth leathers, the lack of regular wear can cause them to stiffen detrimentally over time. So, even if you keep your shoes in their original box and away from potential damage, they still need some love.

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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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