The Best Shoe Shelves
You told yourself you wouldn't need a shoe shelf for your backdoor. You told yourself you would slide off those kicks every night and carry them back to your closet. Your roommates, partners, and kids told you they'd do the same. You were wrong. It's okay — we've all been there, but now it's time to get your organization back on track with a small but practical investment in a shelving unit. Some are small enough to keep in your coat closet, while others are nearly closets in their own right, complete with protective coverings. Whatever your storage needs, read on for our top picks to keep your kicks in order.
What to Look For
To simplify your search for shoe shelves, consider three questions: How many shoes would you like to store on these shelves? How much space do you have for the shelving unit? And what kind of environment will the shoes be in? If you have a large collection of shoes that you’re looking to store long-term, a highly protective shelving unit like the one from Songmics might be perfect. But if you’re looking for something for everyday use, the options we highlighted from Simple Houseware and Seville Classics are fantastic picks. They all have their respective merits, whether it be a space-efficient design, rust-resistant materials, or a nifty expandable frame. To find out more, keep on reading.
Simple Houseware 4-Tier Shoe Rack
It's a shoe-in
This four-tier shoe rack from Simple Houseware lives up to the company’s name. The sturdy metal framing is complemented by durable polyester fabric to create shelves that can hold up to 30 pounds each, which is more than enough for most of us. Though you won’t be able to fit most shoes underneath the first rack, it makes a perfect storage space for slippers, shoe horns, or a small tray of polish. And if you end up showing your shelving unit a lot of love — and by love, we mean consistent use — feel free to give the fabric a wash to remove any built-up dirt.
Pros:
- Sturdy metal frame with fabric shelving
- Can fit 12 to 20 pairs of adult shoes
- Polyester fabric is easily washable
- Non-slip rubber grips on the legs
Cons:
- Limited color options
Seville Classics 3-Tier Iron Mesh Utility Shoe Rack
Do more with less
If you’re tight on space, you’re probably prone to maximizing organization to minimize clutter. Seville hears you loud and clear, hence this iron mesh shoe rack that keeps your kicks in order without eating up precious floor space. The iron body may be a tad shiny for some, but it promises durability and corrosion-resistant storage for up to 9 pairs of shoes. You’ll have to be okay utilizing the ground as part of your “shelf,” but it’s far better than leaning all your shoes up against the wall.
Pros:
- Iron body is corrosion-resistant in dry environments
- Ideal for small households of one or two people
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- Aesthetically “industrial” looking, which may be off-putting to some
Songmics 10-Tier Shoe Rack with Dustproof Cover
No dust nor rust
If you’re moving between houses, utilizing your basement for storage, or your shoes have just been relegated to the garage, you’ll want to make sure your footwear is properly protected from unwanted dust and water. Songmics’ 10-tier shoe rack should be at the top of your list, thanks to stable metal tubing, strong plastic connectors, and a non-woven, waterproof fabric that encases the whole unit. The zipper closure keeps everything out, while the hook-and-loop fastening makes it easy to roll up the fabric for access. Each rack should accommodate 4 adult shoes, making this one of the largest shoe shelves on our list.
Pros:
- Dust and waterproof fabric ideal for basement or garage storage
- 40-shoe capacity is considerable for the price
- Zipper closure provides easy access
Cons:
- Fabric covering lacks elegance
Seville Classics 3-Tier Expandable 24-Pair Shoe Rack
Stretch your dollar
You promised you wouldn’t buy any more shoes, but suddenly you’ve found yourself drowning in more kicks than your small shelving unit can handle. Not to worry, since this three-tier expandable shoe shelf from Seville Classics can stretch to accommodate up to 24 pairs of adult shoes. As your buying habits ebb and flow, your storage unit can adjust to meet your needs. The shelves aren’t fully filled in, but the gray horizontal poles are finished with a rough, non-slip coating to keep wet shoes and heels in their place. Just screw the poles into the two frames and kick your feet up without worrying about a complicated installation process.
Pros:
- Non-slip coating on horizontal poles for secure shelving
- Easily expandable body to accommodate growing shoe collections
- Straightforward assembly
Cons:
- Shelves aren’t filled in, meaning some smaller shoes may slip through
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I put my shoe shelf?
Some shelving units are small enough to fit inside coat closets, which is a great way to make use of the extra space below your jackets. Many are designed to stand alone in mudrooms or along the entryway of your home. Be sure to look at depth and width measurements to ensure your shelving isn’t going to do more decorative harm than good, and choose your construction materials carefully to maintain aesthetic consistency in your particular space.
Can I put wet, dirty shoes on my shelving unit?
While this depends on the construction of your unit, most are designed to withstand the regular dirt of weather-worn shoes. You shouldn’t have to clean your shoes every time before shelving them. However, we do suggest cleaning your shelves frequently to maintain finish quality and prevent the build-up of water or dirt stains — especially if you live in a snowy climate where salt is frequently used to prevent ice.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.