The Obvious Shoe Storage We Should Have Been Using All Along

Shoes: We love them, we need them, but let's be real, they can take over your space. No one likes tripping over loose sneakers or piling them up on top of each other. Keeping them neat and organized is difficult ... that is, until you figure out how to maximize your shoe storage. One way to do that is by placing your shoe rack on your closet's top shelf instead of on the floor or by the front door.

Of course, using a shoe rack to organize all your shoes is nothing groundbreaking. But most people place theirs on the floor near the entryway, where they can make your foyer look cluttered and messy. Instead, keeping your shoe rack on a high shelf keeps your shoes neatly stored, frees up floor space, and prevents that dreaded pile of ugly sneakers by the door. With this hack, you can (literally) elevate your shoe storage game.

The top shelf of your closet is an awkward, tall spot that often ends up being used as a catch-all for random items or a messy pile of clothes. With a shoe rack, you can avoid letting this space go to waste. This Romguar Craft Bamboo Shoe Rack comes in different sizes so that you can choose the perfect fit for your closet. If your top shelf is long, opt for the 35-inch rack, while a 27-inch version works well for smaller closets. Whichever way you go, it can cost less than $40 for two or three tiers.

This method works best if the top shelf of your closet is a flat surface. If your closet has a wire shelf, you can still use this hack by placing a plank of wood across it. In any case, attach some Velcro command strips to the back of the shoe rack. Place one on each end of the top shelf, against the wall, to prevent your setup from toppling over by accident when you grab a pair. Also, invest in a step stool to make accessing your shoes effortless, like this Taranta 2 Step Ladder that you can fold and tuck away when you're not using it.

One thing to consider with this hack is what you'll store underneath the shoe rack. Since shoes often bring in dirt and debris, be mindful of what's underneath. If there's a clothing rod, it's best to avoid hanging clothes right below your shoes. If possible, shift your clothes to the other side. If that's not an option, consider which items can handle a bit of debris — think ski jackets rather than cashmere sweaters.

If the idea of storing shoes above your closet makes you uneasy, try using this shoe rack hack for other purposes. A shoe rack is essentially a small shelf, which means it can be used for purses, organizing boxes, or even folded blankets. It's a great way to keep your space clutter-free. And the best part is that, unlike some more permanent DIY closet shelves, this is all temporary and renter-friendly.