It's Time To Stop Storing One Unexpected Item In Your Cluttered Closet

If you're on a mission to cut down on the clutter accumulating in your home, you've probably noticed that there's one place that refuses to be tidied no matter how often you try: the closet. This is a common problem because many of us require our closets to hold a lot, including clothes, bags, and accessories. Even random items that are only used occasionally are typically housed here, like your favorite fluffy bathrobe or last year's Halloween mask. Yet what actually causes lots of clutter is quite an unexpected item: it's your shoes.

Whether you have a massive shoe collection or just a few favorites, shoes are undeniably tricky to store. Each is a different size and shape, meaning that their bulk takes up precious real estate in your closet. Instead of keeping your shoes in this space, consider moving them closer to your home's entry points. If you don't have enough room for all your pairs near the door, at least keep a few that you use often in this space. This not only reduces the visual clutter in your closet but it also cuts down on the amount of dirt brought into your home. Plus, it's easier to get out the door in the morning, since shoes are typically the last thing you slip on before you leave.

If you're ready to cut down on closet clutter but you're not sure how to store your shoes outside your closet, there are some great options to choose from. A shoe storage cabinet like IKEA's HEMNES shoe cabinet is compact and slim, making it an ideal choice for tight spaces and narrow entryways. These furniture options are ideal for those who want to tuck their pairs out of sight. Or, consider a shoe storage bench for stylish organization. These can generally hold more shoes and offer built-in seating so you can slide your favorite pair on right there. If you have large hallway closet doors or an empty stretch of wall, add a hanging shoe organizer, like the Gorilla Grip Over the Door Shoe Organizer on Amazon. Finally, if you don't mind possibly doing a little hunting for your matching pairs, a big wicker basket like the CHICVITA Wicker Laundry Basket on Amazon makes it easy to put away your pairs when you get home — just throw them inside.

If you have a large shoe collection or don't want to store your special occasion shoes by the front door, there are some other places to keep them so you can still clear out your closet. For instance, consider relocating those more precious pairs to underneath the bed to keep them safe but easy to access when you need them — here are some under-bed storage solutions. You can really keep your shoes anywhere in your home where you have extra space, including a laundry room or empty corner in your living area.