GON Reader Question from...
Barbara Piccininni, Smithtown, NY
“Shoe storage question. I’m decluttering my shoes and boots. What do you recommend as the best way to do this? I have been using
plastic, see-through containers and also some of the original shoe boxes. I have read different reviews on the best way to do this. I have been reading your newsletter for years! Please give your expert advice. Thank you, Maria.”
Maria’s Response
Hi Barbara,
Thank you so much for reading my newsletter for years. I'm so glad you like it and feel blessed to have you as a loyal subscriber!
It's great that you're tackling some shoe decluttering and I’m excited to help. Here’s my advice on the best way to organize your shoes and boots.
1. Declutter First.
Before you focus on storage, take a good look at your shoe collection. Only keep the pairs you truly love, wear regularly, and that are comfortable.
If a pair hurts your feet, doesn’t match anything in your wardrobe, or you’re hesitant to wear them because
you don’t want to ruin them, either start wearing them (they're not meant for the museum!) or donate them.
And if you haven’t worn them in a year, it’s a sure sign they should go.
A good rule is to keep quality over quantity.
2. Skip the Original Boxes. While it might be tempting to store your shoes in their original boxes, it's not the
best choice.
Cardboard is opaque, making it difficult to see what you have. Since shoe boxes are all different sizes, they can give a messy look to your closet.
Plus, cardboard can attract insects and rodents.
3. Airing Out. Be sure to air out your
shoes after wearing them, especially the ones you keep in the plastic boxes.
Let them breathe for a few hours before storing them away to avoid trapping moisture or odors.
4. Shoe Rack Option. For shoes you wear frequently, a simple shoe rack is a great option. It keeps shoes easily accessible and prevents them from piling up in your closet.
To save space, alternate how you place the shoes—put one shoe heel to toe, and the next toe to heel. This allows you to fit more shoes
on your shoe rack.
5. Boot Storage. For boots, you can use cut-up pool noodles to keep them upright and help maintain their shape. It’s an easy and affordable hack that works wonders for keeping your boots looking great.
With these tips, you’ll not only have an organized shoe collection but also a decluttered, stress-free space.
Warmly,
