Home care guide
How to organise your shoe cupboard
Find every pair without a rushed morning search.
Gather every pair first
When you are rushing and already wearing one shoe, searching for its partner can turn the cupboard upside down. Gather all footwear and count each family member’s pairs. Set aside damaged shoes, pairs that no longer fit and shoes that cause blisters. If you do not wear them, they take up valuable space.
Match storage to your collection
For a large collection, use a shoe cupboard or several shelves. Additional organisers can fit inside a wardrobe; some hold up to 20 pairs. Where space allows, open shelving can display shoes as they would appear in a shop.
Boxes and baskets
Keep the original boxes to protect shoes from dust. If these are no longer available, use small transparent boxes, which can hold up to three pairs depending on size. Baskets work well for less delicate flat footwear such as trainers, ballet flats and slippers.
Sort and label
Sort shoes by type and size, and give each family member a dedicated space. Separate occasion heels from everyday shoes, ankle boots from slippers and sandals, and organise other types to suit your needs. Keep frequently worn seasonal footwear on an accessible shelf or in a box. Label boxes or attach a photograph of the pair inside.
Unpleasant odours
Avoid storing shoes next to textiles such as winter coats and duvets, as footwear can develop an unpleasant smell over time. Sano suggests placing fragrance tablets in the shoe cupboard or box.