Original ideas for compact shoe storage

You can organize convenient shoe storage in a small apartment. The main thing is to approach this process competently and with imagination.

The endless shuffling of seasonal shoes can cause stress for the most persistent fans of comfortable sneakers, presentable Oxfords and chic stilettos. And how much effort will have to be spent to find the right pair in these ruins! Properly organized storage will immediately solve several problems: it will save space, time and nerves of the owner of shoes and apartment.

Shoe racks and storage in banquets

A shoe rack is one of the best ideas for storing shoes in the hallway. This is a classic option used for boots, shoes and sneakers that are used every day. Based on the type of storage, there are open, closed and rotating (with spacers) structures, as well as slim shoe racks.

The main advantage of open structures is the access of air, which prevents the formation of unpleasant “odors”. Closed shoe racks protect the contents not only from dust, but also from pets, if any. Slim shoe racks are tall and narrow designs that fit perfectly into hallways that are small in area and width. The rotating system holds more shoes than others and provides quick access to any pair.

Today on the market you can find a variety of shoe racks: from classic open options to models equipped with a dryer and an ultraviolet lamp that provides disinfection.

Another popular type of shoe rack is a bench with a shoe storage system. It is a small bench with shelves under the seat.

The advantages of this type of furniture are:

• presence of a seat;
• compact dimensions;
• ease of use;
• extensive model range.

Depending on the size of the seat, the banquettes are single, double and multi-seat. There are also models with and without a backrest. The former require a little more space than the latter, which are perfect for small hallways. The seat itself can be either hard or soft. It would be more expedient if it was upholstered in leatherette, as it is easier to care for.

A bench can look like an ottoman or a wooden bench with a folding seat.The storage system inside the structure is usually represented by shelves, drawers or racks.

Storing shoes in the dressing room and pantry: the best ways

If you have a large area of ​​your house or apartment, the problem of storing shoes (and not only) is solved by allocating a separate room. As a rule, a dressing room is organized in it, where, in addition to clothes, shoes and accessories are stored.

Most often, a number of lower racks are allocated for shoes. They allow you to compactly place your entire existing shoe collection and, if necessary, even organize it by season, color or accessory.

Another way to solve problems is to install a special shoe cabinet. It can be equipped with shelves, roll-out drawers, special hangers for boots and models with high tops. Cabinet doors can be glass, providing a full view of the contents, or solid. Also in the closet, as in the shoe rack, you can additionally install ultraviolet lamps that provide internal disinfection.

Owners of small living spaces should take a closer look at storage rooms. When properly organized, closets make excellent mini-wardrobes. Storage systems, guide shelves, modules - all this will allow you to compactly and conveniently place not only shoes, but also larger items.

Storing shoes in organizers - their advantages and disadvantages

When organizing storage, it is advisable to allocate a separate place for each pair. This insulation will additionally protect against dust and odors. To do this, take both ordinary cardboard boxes and more durable plastic boxes or environmentally friendly textile bags.

The easiest option is to use the branded boxes in which the shoes were sold.If the packaging was lost for some reason, boxes made of cardboard or plastic can be purchased at the store. As a last resort, you can make a box from cardboard or other available materials with your own hands.

Storage in shoe boxes

A factory-made cardboard box is a simple and economical way to store shoes. Its dimensions correspond to the main parameters of the model. In addition, shoes often come with filler in the form of paper, dry deodorant and, in some cases, a textile cover.

It is also worth noting the following advantages of cardboard boxes:

• almost all of them are equipped with ventilation holes;
• do not allow dust and sunlight to pass through;
• cardboard is able to regulate humidity levels, preventing the formation of mold;
• the boxes are convenient to store, they are compact and do not take up extra space;
• cardboard is an environmentally friendly material that can be reused.

The shoe box does not require additional payment. It comes as a free bonus with the main purchase, so there are also cost savings.

The disadvantage of cardboard packaging is its opacity, therefore, in order to determine what is inside, you need to open the box or sign it in advance.

Despite the general shape (rectangle), the boxes have different dimensions, so it is not always possible to arrange them evenly and aesthetically in a dressing room or closet.

At least once a week it is necessary to wipe the boxes from dust, which, although it does not get inside, settles remarkably well on horizontal surfaces. So allergy sufferers may have problems.

Specialized boxes with window

You can replace boxes of different sizes with special boxes that have the same dimensions.And you can solve the problem of recognizing the contents by purchasing cases with transparent window inserts.

Typically they differ:

• budget price;
• practicality and convenience;
• light weight.

Through the transparent window you can determine what is inside without opening the box. The only negative is the window itself. Most often it is made of very thin plastic, which is easily deformed, compromising the integrity of the box.

You can make a transparent box with your own hands from an ordinary shoe box, thin sheets of plastic, tape and glue.

Shoe boxes with photos

The main disadvantage of storing shoes in boxes is the difficulty of orientation. It's difficult to understand where and what lies. There are several ways to solve this problem:

• sign each box, indicating the model, season, size and accessory (if necessary);
• Provide each case with a photo of the couple.

The last option is more convenient, as it clearly demonstrates the content.

Plastic boxes and containers

Transparent plastic boxes also solve the problem of visibility. Today you can find plastic products on sale in a variety of sizes and shapes, so if you want, there is a container for both ballet shoes and long winter boots.

The main advantages of this storage method are:

• affordable price;
• wide range of sizes and shapes;
• clarity (due to the transparency of the material);
• strength;
• long service life;
• versatility (plastic containers can be used for any need).

However, you also need to remember that plastic does not allow air to pass through, so your favorite boots can “suffocate” and become infected with mold or mildew.To prevent this from happening, you need to think through a ventilation system, in other words, make a couple of holes in the containers.

In addition, boxes made of too thin plastic sag and because of this it is impossible to stack them in tiers. They can also break, and the resulting sharp chips often cause injuries or cuts. That is why when purchasing, you should pay special attention to the thickness of the material and the presence of odor. Cheap plastic boxes often have a “chemical” aroma.

It is not recommended to store shoes in plastic boxes on balconies and loggias where direct sunlight penetrates. This leads to fading of the colors and materials from which the shoes are made.

Textile boxes

The main advantage of textile trunks is air conductivity. Due to their soft structure and design, not all shoes can be stored in them. They are ideal for moccasins, loafers, ballet shoes, soft sneakers and pumps.

The main advantages of textile organizers are:

• light weight;
• aesthetic appearance;
• visibility (transparent textiles allow you to see the contents);
• breathability;
• Compact when folded.

However, fabric trunks, like their counterparts made of thin plastic, do not withstand multi-tier placement. In addition, any fabric, especially synthetics, attracts dust well. Therefore, when organizing storage in textile trunks, you need to be prepared for regular cleaning.

How to store shoes in closets and drawers

Storing shoes in a closet is convenient primarily because the shoes are protected from direct sunlight and prying eyes, that is, they do not spoil the aesthetics of the room.As a rule, all of it is located on shelves, which can be lattice or solid, stationary or sliding, made of wood, metal or plastic. It all depends on the microclimate of the room: humidity, lighting, temperature.

In textile bags on open shelves

When storing on open shelves, it is better to put each pair in a separate fabric bag. This will protect your shoes from dust and minor scratches and at the same time prevent them from “suffocating”, because the fabric is highly breathable.

Fabric covers can be solid or with transparent mesh inserts that allow you to see the contents of the bag. The material is not critical, but the more breathable it is, the better. It is not for nothing that branded shoes are packaged only in covers made of natural cotton.

Textile bags are especially convenient for storing high-top shoes. For example, over the knee boots or high winter boots. They are pre-cleaned, then placed in covers to protect them from dust and creases, and then fixed on special hangers with clothespins.

By the way, you can make such covers yourself. The main thing is to choose the right soft, breathable fabric.

Shoe storage rack

Racks are a simple and convenient way to display your favorite shoes. On the one hand, shoes in racks in the closet are protected from dust and light by thick, opaque doors. On the other hand, the open storage system provides quick access to any pair. You can easily make racks with your own hands, and, if desired, change their level and size.

Special shelves for shoes

Shelves for a shoe closet can be made of different materials: from wood to metal. As for the design, the most common types are:

• Stationary.Conventional shelves consisting of a horizontal strip secured with self-tapping screws. Such designs do not have any additional mechanisms and are simple and inexpensive. They can be solid or lattice.
• Retractable. A type of shelves that are fixed using guides and special rollers. Thanks to this, the shelf moves forward if necessary, providing access to the pairs standing in the depths. The main advantages are convenience and noiselessness.
• Folding. Narrow slim shoe racks are most often equipped with such shelves. They have from one to three compartments and a folding mechanism. When opened, they are fixed at a certain angle, so that the shoes do not fall out or become deformed during storage.

Almost all types of shelves can be made independently. Special designs for retractable and folding types are purchased at furniture stores. You can store shoes in a closed closet without boxes.

Storing shoes inside furniture

If you don’t have a closet or closet, you can store out-of-season shoes in other places, for example, in different pieces of furniture, under a sofa or bed.

The easiest way is to place boxes with boots that have been used over the winter under the bed. Oversized boxes can be replaced with more convenient organizers designed for several pairs at once. It’s a big plus if the bed is equipped with a folding mechanism. In this case, you can place the organizer in the laundry storage compartment. The main disadvantage of storing under the bed is the need for regular cleaning, since dust often accumulates in this place.

Poufs with a hinged lid are another convenient option for storing furniture when there is no space.You can easily place several pairs of seasonal shoes inside, having previously packed them in textile covers.

Chests-benches or poufs-benches are most often furnished in hallways and halls. They perform 2 functions at once: storage and the ability to comfortably change shoes. Unlike small poufs, there is much more space inside them.

Hidden storage system and modules for shoes

The hidden storage system consists of closed modular cabinets. They allow you to neatly and compactly place your entire existing “shoe wardrobe”. Moreover, they can be installed in absolutely any room: from the hallway to the bedroom. They are quite aesthetic and look like a cabinet or cabinet with many small compartments.

Is it possible to store shoes on the balcony?

You can store shoes on the balcony, but only if it meets the following conditions:

• is heated;
• attached to the living room;
• equipped with blinds or curtains.

We must not forget that in order to better preserve shoes, it is necessary to maintain a certain microclimate. Most balconies in typical apartments are not heated or insulated, which means that in winter the temperature in this room can reach sub-zero values. In summer, on the contrary, with active lighting, the temperature on the balcony rises, as a result of which the leather and its substitutes dry out, the adhesive sole peels off, and shoe products burn out.

High humidity is also detrimental to shoes, especially winter ones. It significantly deteriorates the quality of leather and fur, making them a real breeding ground for mold and mildew.

Safe storage on the balcony can only be organized by ensuring in this room a microclimate with a temperature of +15 to +25°C and a humidity of no more than 60%.

Unusual DIY storage ideas

With the right level of imagination and practical skills, you can organize very comfortable and original storage.

Hangers with clips

Hangers with clips are used to secure trousers and accessories. However, what prevents you from using them to implement the idea of ​​storing shoes!

To implement the idea, the closet will need to be equipped with a crossbar on which hangers with clips will be placed. This option is best suited for winter and autumn boots, high ankle boots, ankle boots and boots. The main advantage of this placement is the absence of creases and folds on the boot, even after long-term storage.

Another option is to purchase special shoe hangers for drying. They are suitable for summer shoes, sneakers, and moccasins. A big plus of this arrangement is space saving. The space free from clothes can be taken up with out-of-season shoes, and the lower shelves of the closet can be used to store everyday shoes.

Ceiling cornice

The most effective and beautiful shoes deserve to be seen by everyone. Instead of a banal showcase, you can use a more budget-friendly and at the same time original approach - a carved ceiling cornice. Such a creative approach is unlikely to leave anyone indifferent.

Decorative staircase or trellis

Stiletto heels can be stored not only by fixing them on the ledge. An ordinary staircase can be a very unusual way to place your favorite sandals. The main condition is a high heel, with which they will “cling” to the crossbar.

An analogue of a ladder can be a lattice with large cells. It is mounted on the wall or fixed to the floor. If desired, it can be painted in a tone that matches the overall interior.

Wall-mounted pallet storage

Pallets have repeatedly proven the versatility of their use. As it turns out, they are also great for storing shoes. Pallets are compact and convenient. Just paint them in a bright color and attach them to the wall - and your “hanger” for country or grunge style shoes is ready.

Storage in PVC pipes

PVC pipes are available in both price and range. To build a structure for storing shoes from this material, just select the correct diameter and carefully cut the pipes into pieces. They can be used to build excellent shelves in an industrial style of any shape and size (even up to the ceiling.) Due to the open type of construction, dust can accumulate in them, so it is recommended to regularly wipe the inside of the pipes with a damp cloth. By the way, from narrow pipes, fittings, corners and boards you can assemble an equally interesting shelving unit in the loft style.

Metal cans as shoe storage

Using almost the same principle, you can make a structure from aluminum cans, for example, from paint. Of course, insulated over the knee boots are unlikely to fit into such compartments, but sneakers, ballet flats or your favorite sandals purchased specifically for the summer period will easily fit.

Features of storing shoes made of various materials

To ensure that shoes do not lose their external aesthetics, you need to take care not only of storage conditions, but also of preparation for conservation.

Leather

Standard procedures for preparing leather products include:

• cleaning;
• drying (insoles are dried separately);
• disinfection (if there is an ultraviolet lamp);
• processing fur from moths;
• treatment with protective cream (2-3 times);
• re-drying.

Once the cream is completely absorbed into the skin, spacers are placed in the shoes.Tall boots and over the knee boots are stored horizontally or vertically, hanging them on hangers with clips or special vertical organizers. This prevents creases from forming. Low shoes are placed on the sole, covered with thin paper or cloth.

Suede

Before suede shoes are removed, they are treated with special products that preserve the structure of the material. This type of tanned leather does not tolerate moisture well, so special brushes and erasers are used for cleaning, which remove dirt “dry”. The same goes for materials such as nubuck.

Suede cannot be stored in unheated rooms or in vacuum plastic packaging, so it is placed in cardboard boxes or textile trunks, after each shoe has been wrapped in paper or fabric.

Textile

Before storing your favorite textile sneakers or sandals, they must be cleaned and dried well. Store textile shoes in a stuffed state. To do this, use regular paper, polystyrene foam, or special inflatable inserts that take the shape of shoes. The storage location must be dry with a humidity of no more than 50%.

How to prepare shoes for storage

The key to long service life of shoes is proper organization of their storage, which in turn includes preparation. Its rules are quite simple: cleaning, drying, processing. Depending on the type of material, the cleaning method is selected. For example, suede can only be cleaned dry, and white textile sneakers are recommended to be cleaned with toothpaste or powder, which restore the whiteness of cotton.

Drying time is from 2 to 5 days. At the same time, shoes should dry naturally, without the help of heating devices.The last stage is the application of paint, polishing or impregnation, after which the shoes are completely absorbed, they are sent into boxes.

When preparing shoes for storage, you need to determine in advance the place where they will be placed and check that the conditions comply with general requirements (temperature, humidity).

By spending not much time on preparation and storage organization, you can extend the life of your favorite boots by several years, and therefore save a lot of money.