If you're frustrated by cluttered shoes, try some of these tips to help organize your shoe collection.
Question: Yesterday, I came home from work and promptly tripped over the pile of shoes cluttered around the front door! I have even more shoes stashed throughout the house under beds and dressers and piled into closets. How can I organize this mess without having to toss out some of my favorite shoes?
Answer: First things first, you do need to take a hard look at your shoe collection and decide which ones should stay and which should go. When I last took stock of my own assortment of shoes, I was shocked by how many pairs I own. I used to hold on to things on the premise that I might wear them someday, which is probably why I still had a few pairs of shoes that I distinctly remember wearing back in high school. My new policy is that if I haven't worn something in the past six months, then it goes to the donation bin. The one exception here is for items suitable only for specific events, such as party dresses and other formal wear.
Once you have pared down your shoe collection, sort them based on season and use. For example, separate work shoes, dress shoes, summer shoes, and winter shoes. Next, you will need to decide which organizational system is best for you. Remember to count the total number of shoes you own before you begin shopping for a shoe organizer.
1. Closet Shoe Racks
Closet shoe racks are a great option if you have plent of closet space to devote to your shoes. These shoe racks come in a variety of sizes and can often hold a large number of shoes, depending on which size you choose. Wire racks are good if you need something reasonably light that can be moved, while wooden racks work well as a more permanent fixture.
2. Clear Plastic Shoe Boxes
Clear plastic shoe boxes are inexpensive and allow you to stack your shoe collection just about anywhere you have space. In addition to this, these boxes allow you to see your shoes. Remember, if you can't see your shoes, you're less likely to wear them.
3. Over-the-door Shoe Racks
Over-the-door shoe racks are a great way to organize you shoe collection if you are short on space. These shoes racks hang directly over your closet door, but often can be mounted to a wall as well.
4. Cardboard Shoe Boxes
Don't just throw out the boxes that your shoes came in! Shoe boxes are one of easiest and most affordable shoe organizers available. Simply leave your shoes in the box and stack them in any available space you have. Take Poloroids of each pair of shoes and use the pictures to label each box so you will know what is inside.
