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All Shoes are Not Created Equal
Posted by Closets To Go in Closet Systems on August 12, 2014
All Shoes are Not Created Equal
We understand that not everyone has the same taste or budget. Some desire a professional look, as others love the creative aspect of the DIY (Do-it-yourself) options. In our articles, we like to represent both sides of the coin to help you make the best choice for your needs. Happy decorating!
Shoe storage is tricky. Not all organization methods work for all shoes. You wouldn’t store your gardening shoes with your heels and you wouldn’t store your boots the same way you store your flats. According to Glamour magazine, the average woman will buy 469 pairs of shoes in her lifetime. All together, she will end up spending approximately $25,000! If we are spending this much on shoes, then we had better find a great way to store them. Now men, shoe storage is not just a topic for woman. Men can benefit from this How To article as well. Let me explain the 5 W’s of shoe organization; who, what, when, where and why.
Who: who is wearing these shoes? Are they yours or your partners? Once you have decided who’s shoes are who’s, we can tackle the location of the closet.
WHAT: what are my storage options? You need to analyze your closet size in relation to your collection of shoes. Do you have many pairs of one style? (i.e. tennis shoes, heels, flats etc.) Knowing this will help you to determine which unit or system would work for you. For example;
High Heels and Wedges
Tilt shoe shelves are a fantastic option for heels. Shelving keeps the shoes off the floor and on display.
DIY Option: turn an old bookcase into a display for your heels or use an old dresser drawer for an under-the-bed secret storage spot.
Flats, Tennis Shoes and Flip Flops
If you are a collector in this category then shoe cubbies will serve you well. Shoe cubbies are a simple way to stay organized with little effort. Plus, the cubbies hold a large number of shoes, maximizing your space.
DIY Option: cut PVC pipes to size and attach them to make your own shoe cubbies.
Dress Boots
Boots are often hard to store because they are lighter on the top and fall over easily. Boot hangers are a great solution to your flopping boots to prevent creasing in the material.
DIY Option: roll up a magazine or cut a pool noodle and tuck them into your boots. This trick will also keep your boots from creasing and it’s quick and inexpensive. You can also hang your boots with pant hangers with the clips
Cowboy/Cowgirl Boots
Now cowboy boots are great, as they don’t bend and fall over however, they are still large and awkward to store. Shelving above your closet could be an option for boot storage, as well as adjustable shelving on a shoe shelf to accommodate for their height.
DIY Option: Turn an old armoire into a boot closet!
WHEN: when are these shoes actually worn? Are they seasonal or are they worn everyday? How often you wear each pair will determine the place best to store them.
WHERE: where are these shoes worn? Are they outdoor shoes? Date night shoes? Running shoes? If they are used for yard work, you might want to keep them by the door, in the garage or in the entry closet, to keep from tracking the elements indoor.
WHY:: why do I still have these shoes that kill my feet? Or why do I hang on to these, I will never wear them again? If you haven’t worn a pair of shoes that season more than once, it could be time to donate them.
*For additional organization tips, please visit our website at www.closetstogo.com and www.organizetogo.com