How to Store Shoes in a Small Apartment: 13 Great Ideas

Sometimes finding the right pair of shoes takes not minutes but hours. It's time to review your storage system so you never lose anything again.

Set aside a separate shoe cabinet or sideboard: it won't take up much space, and you'll easily find the right pair. It's easier than constantly reaching up to the attic for boots or sandals.

Or use what you already have. It could be anything: an old bookcase or buffet inherited from your grandmother. You won't have to spend time and money buying new furniture. The key is that the cabinet fits into the interior design.

Hang shoe shelves. Place them in a narrow hallway where there's no room for wardrobes or dressers. Just don't hang the shelves too high so you can easily reach them.

Or make them yourself. Use readily available materials: leftover pallets, boards, and boxes from renovation. You can paint them any color or coat them with varnish.

Replace shelves with decorative mesh. A good option for everyone who doesn't want to make holes in the walls. In addition, mesh in wall color will be unobtrusive in the interior.

Use the door of a wardrobe. This saves space in a small hallway. Attach special holders to the door so you don't need a separate stand. The only drawback is that this option works only for summer footwear.

Use the space under the staircase. Here you can store clothes and shoes. The most important thing is that no one will notice anything is hidden under the staircase.

Place a ladder-shelf. Scandinavians love using these in their minimalist interiors. This option is better suited for summer footwear. These ladders also serve as a decorative element.

Purchase functional furniture. For example, a footstool or side table with internal storage space. They add comfort to the hallway and help hide off-season footwear.

Hide everything under the bed. You can pack shoes into boxes or drawers on wheels — it will be easy to retrieve them when needed.

During winter — a tray or tray with low sides. Fill it with gravel. When entering the apartment, place boots in this tray so all water drains inside — the hallway will stay dry, and later the tray can be stored in a cabinet.

Stock up on stickers. You can label what’s in each box. Or photograph the shoes and stick a photo on each box.

Designate a specific spot for boots. Tall boots that take up too much space and don’t fold can be hung on hangers in a cabinet. Or buy a special shelf for boots that prevents them from falling.