Shoe Racks Blog

The Ultimate Shoe (and grout) Cleaner:  A Grout Brush

Yes, it turns out that one of the best shoe cleaners around is a grout brush!  But first, here are some other methods for cleaning your shoes. I’ve spoken before about shoe polishes.  This is great for leather shoes, vinyl, suede and patent leather.  But, in keeping with the true spirit of mud week, we are going to talk about another kind of dirty shoe problem:  muddy shoes!  Muddy shoes require much more than shoe polish, first you really have to get the mud off of them. 

One method is the washing machine.  I wouldn’t do this if you either really love your washing machine or really love your shoes.  But if you aren’t completely attached to either one, it actually works pretty well.  Not for boots so much, but tennis shoes can be thrown in the washing machine.  You can expect some damage to the leather and possible washing machine damage, but I’ve done it before with older gym shoes and it turned out fine.  <b>Bonus Tip:</b> Really old shoes can be tossed in the dryer with your down pillows and comforters when you are drying them – this is how to make sure they stay fluffy and dry evenly. 

Another method of washing really muddy shoes is to soak them and hand wash.  Again, don’t do this if you really care about the leather or the quality of your shoes, but for older shoes that you wear out in the mud anyway, this might be a good solution for you. Simply soak them in warm water with a tiny bit of hand washing soap (used for delicates and lingerie) until the mud loosens up.  Then you should be able to finish up with a washcloth removing the rest of the debris. 

For really caked on mud, I have found that a grout brush works really well.  These are much stiffer brushes than a regular dish brush, so they can come up against tough caked mud and still win!  Tie a string through the hole in the brush and then loop it over the end of your shoe rack, especially great for outdoor shoe racks or in the mud room, to remind folks to de-mud their shoes before entering your house! 

Here are some more great shoe cleaning tips I found.

Product of the Week:  A Shoe Rack Specially Designed for the Mud Room

You’ve probably heard me go on and on about mud, muddy shoes, mud on the carpet, etc.  And, yes, you guessed it – I’m a neat freak!  In fact, I am hereby declaring this to be MUD WEEK!  It has been raining buckets where I live on the beautiful Northern Coast of California, and since we live out in the country, buckets of rain eventually just means buckets of mud.  We have mud flowing down the driveway, into the front yard, then around the house and down the backyard and into a creek, where, no doubt, it meets up with its muddy friends! 

If it were up to me, I probably wouldn’t venture outside, but you know kids and mud.  Since they’ve been cooped up for about a month now, there are no more excuses, it’s time to visit the world that exists outside our cozy home.  The question then becomes:  How do we keep the mud outside?  I can’t possibly allow mud on the carpets, especially since we are renters, so I have to think of a way to trap it at the door. 

That’s where this week’s product of the week comes in:  It’s a great new shoe rack designed specifically for mud rooms.  Even if you don’t technically have a mud room, this is still a must have mud control shoe rack that can be kept at the entryway to your front or backdoors.  At the front, it begs visitors to take their shoes off before entering your home, and, at the back, it begs your kids to take off their muddy boots!  A win-win, either way!  There is nothing really that different about this shoe rack except that whoever invented it had the great idea of putting a metal tray on top for muddy shoes.  It’s a nice looking shoe rack, made of solid beech wood and stained an elegant walnut.  When the weather turns better, simply remove the tray and use it as a regular old shoe rack in your closet! 

Now get outside and make some Mud Pies!

Shoe Trees provide Revolving Shoe Storage and Much More!

On a whim, I decided to give this Shoe Rack a try.  It is known as a shoe tree, because it is basically a chrome tree with branches and everything, just like a real tree.  Except instead of leaves, this tree grows shoes (sort of).  Actually first I buy the shoes, and then decorate the tree with them.  You get the idea. 

The main reason I was interested in this shoe tree is that it is revolving.  It’s really a great space saving idea, here’s why:  On a normal shoe rack, the storage you use is really only two dimensional, up to down and side to side.  This shoe rack, however, is able to make use of all three dimensions!  The reason it can do this is because it rotates.  That way you can put this shoe rack in the corner of your closet and still use the storage space on the back – basic physics, if you ask me!  A regular freestanding shoe rack can’t use the space in the back because you could never get to those shoes.  But since this one spins, you can make use of the whole rack, while taking up very little room.  And, since it is over four feet high, you know that you are in the maximum shoe storage potential zone. 

Here are some observations after using it: 

• Spins Great!  It’s easy enough to spin and doesn’t topple over because it has a weighted base 
• Adjustable height between racks accommodate some larger shoes, however it is really not designed to hold large athletic shoes or boots 
• Chrome – Love it! 
• 24 pair capacity – this is a pretty good capacity for a shoe rack that only takes up 12” in diameter 

All in all, I really like this shoe rack and give it two thumbs up!  Available at StacksAndStacks.com.

Cool Shoe Tool of the Week:  Shoe Pops, An Inexpensive Fix for Crinkled and Wrinkled Shoes!

Shoe Pops!  That’s right, just like a Popsicle for your shoe!  Well, not exactly like a Popsicle (can you imagine what would happen if you put a frozen Popsicle in your shoe – just ask my son!).  Shoe pops are kind of like shoe stretchers, but without the stretching part.  They are great for keeping your shoes shapely, and wrinkle free, but they won’t stretch them.  They are very inexpensive, compared to shoe stretchers, and are usually sold in sets so that you can protect a few pairs at once.  They work great in high heels, sandals, pumps, you name it!  If you have expensive shoes that you plan on using for many years, this is an important investment.  Shoes, especially natural material shoes, like leather, suede, and, to a certain extent, plastics and vinyls, have a tendency to deteriorate when you are not wearing them. 

When your foot is in a shoe, it keeps everything filled out, so there is no sagging which inevitably leads to crushing, creasing and wrinkling.  And if you have experienced this before, then you know that once you have wrinkled leather, there is no going back, you simply can’t fix that problem. So, prevent it before it happens with a set of shoe pops.  This set of shoe pops is very inexpensive, and comes in a set of four so you can take care of two pairs of shoes.  When you take them out of the shoes, you can simply leave them in place of the shoes on your shoe rack so that you will remember to use it again when you get home.  Another bonus of these tools is that they are very lightweight, so traveling is not a problem.  They will keep your shoes free from crushing in your tightly packed suitcase. 

BONUS:  And, here are some tips on how to Travel with Shoes.

What to do with Athletic Shoes and Sports Equipment!

Everyone is getting in shape these days!  For kids, sports are a natural form of play, along with which comes piles and piles of sports equipment.  For grownups, fitness and sports involvement are on the increase, and, just like with kids, so are the athletic shoes and equipment!  An obvious place to keep all this sporting goods equipment is in the garage, but without the right organizer, you are still going to be losing shoes, tripping over ski poles and slipping on skateboards! 

So, to organize your athletic shoes in the garage, a great way to start is with a sports storage rack, many of which include a shoe rack with them, since most sports require shoes (many requiring special shoes, like cleats, golf shoes and boots).  A shoe rack in the garage ensures that your sports shoes can remain muddy, dirty and smelly, without ruining interior carpets and flooring.  It’s also great for kids because they will see that their sports equipment goes on the rack, and putting two and two together, they will realize that their muddy shoes need to go there too. 

There are many different types of sports racks.  For golfers, a golf storage rack keeps golf bags upright, and usually has some kind of shelves for shoes, hats, gloves and more accessories.  If you are into bikes, this garage sports and shoe rack holds bikes, shoes and more sporting goods.  Two bikes can mount to the side of it, while the shoe rack underneath holds every type of athletic shoe.  Hang backpacks from the hooks, and keep skis in the upright position.  And, for multi sports and outdoor enthusiasts, a tension pole allows you to customize your sports storage with snowboard hooks, ski racks, bike racks, tennis and even general baskets for shoes.

Shoe Racks on the Go!

Since I’ve had so many comments lately asking whether a shoe rack is portable or not, I decided to explore this idea of a portable shoe rack.  First, some reasons that you would need a portable shoe rack and, second, what type to look for! 

Many of you may be asking, why on earth would you need a portable shoe rack?  If you are asking this, you obviously have never traveled with me.  I know that traveling is a lot easier if you can keep the amount of stuff you bring to a minimum.  But, I just can’t ever decide ahead of time what I’m going to need.  So I usually pack up about one pair for each day I’ll be gone and stuff them around my clothes in a bag.  I know it seems excessive, but this is the only way I can be sure that I will have the right shoes at the right time.  There is a tradeoff, though – I usually end up skimping in the clothes department. 

Another reason someone might want to have a portable shoe rack is if they sell, make or decorate shoes, then they may need to take a rack with them to shows. 

What kinds of racks can be considered “Portable”? 

• Rolling Shoe Racks – Technically these are portable, but only from room to room.  You can’t take these in the car or (worse) a plane, and expect your shoes to stay on the rack. 
• Plastic Bin – These are very portable but they don’t really keep your shoes organized, just in one big pile, so I don’t think they count as a rack in this scenario. 
• OTD Shoe Rack – This is by far the best option.  You can put your shoes in them and then roll them up and throw it in your suitcase. When you get to the hotel, unroll it, hang it over the nearest door and voila!  you have your travel shoe organizer! 

Bonus:  Here is an article on how to purchase shoes for travel.

Find More Shoe Storage Space in the Closet!

If you can find just five inches of hanging space (that’s right, just 5 inches), then you have great potential for getting a little extra shoe storage in your closet!  An over the rod shoe rack is, in some ways, even easier to use than a freestanding shoe rack.  This is because many of the shoes are at eye level or just below, making it a cinch to find the pair that you are looking for. 

Another benefit of these shoe organizers is that, as long as you don’t completely overload them, you won’t have shoes falling on the floor – a common problem with bar style shoe racks.  They come in all different sizes, the smallest ones being 5 inches wide, and the larger ones at 12 inches. 

The 5 and 6 inch Hanging Shoe Racks have a great space efficient design, because they make use of vertical space, which is often wasted in most closets.  When you hang your clothes on a closet rod six feet off the ground and don’t put anything underneath it; that is a no-no in the organizing world.  An over the closet rod shoe bag solves this problem by really only taking a few inches of space that you were likely to be wasting anyway. 

If you choose one of the wider racks that are up to 12 inches wide, you can greatly increase your storage potential for shoes and other things too.  These wider over the rod shelves can hold accessories, including scarves, belts, and small purses, making them an all in one closet organizer.  Stacks & Stacks has a great selection, with everything from basic canvas organizers to cedar lined models.  If you want something with a little more pizzazz, the striped shoe organizers are very cute, and come in blue or pink tones.

Imagine having a million pairs of shoes, just piled up in the closet, some in the kitchen some in the living room and a few by the bed. You get the occasional “would you pick up your shoes!” and even you get a few stubbed toes from your own shoes. The truth is, you know that when you put those shoes back in the giant pile in the closet, you may never find them again.

The answer to this problem is simple - a discrete shoe cabinet.  I love the whole idea of shoe cabinets. Not only does it keep your shoes out of the way, it keeps them organized and eliminates that scary pile in the closet.

This particular shoe cabinet is from StacksAndStacks.com. It holds up to 36 pairs of shoes and has three separate pull out sections. The sections open allowing you to easily see your shoe selection.   The best part about a shoe storage option such as this one is that your shoes are out of sight. There is no clutter in the closet, no expensive storage units to keep stacking - just one unit that would actually be able to go anywhere in your house.

There are other styles that are smaller in size or different styles. Not only does storing your shoes keep them off the floor but it also keeps them in good condition. By storing them in a unit such as this one, you keep the shape of the shoe, they get proper ventilation and they stay clean. When your shoes are in a giant pile in the closet they scuff each other and get in weird shapes from laying in every direction.   Shoes are not cheap, so invest in a storage system that will help you maintain and take care of your shoes.

A Shoe Rack with Drawers – A Fresh Idea for Shoe Storage

I’ve heard of Shoe Racks.  I’ve heard of Shoe Cubbies.  And I’ve even heard of Shoe Closets.  But I’ve never heard of Shoe Drawers.  The concept actually makes sense – A drawer is just as easy to use as a cubby, and, depending on the style, it can be a lot more affordable. The other nice thing about storing shoes in a drawer is that your shoes will be protected from dust, insects and light.  This is a great idea for storing out of season shoes, or just older shoes that you don’t want to get rid of.

If you have a great collection of shoes and they cost you a pretty penny, it’s really hard to part with them, and this can be a great way to organize them.  If you have an empty dresser or a drawer or two that you don’t use already in your bedroom, by all means, use these for your shoes!  If not, you may want to invest in either a multiple drawer unit, or single, stackable drawers.

Here are some ideas and tips about what and how to make your selection:

• Wicker Drawers – This is definitely the most attractive option.  A nice wicker drawer unit looks great in the corner of the bedroom or hallway, so you don’t have to worry about tucking it in the back of the closet.  Use this stylish storage rack for shoes, purses and accessories that you use frequently.
• Plastic Drawers – It’s very easy to find plastic drawer systems, and they are pretty cheap.  These, however, should be used in the garage or in the closet, so you (and your guests) don’t have to look at them.  A cheap set of printer mailing labels can help you sort by season, designer, purpose or color!  TIP:  Since plastic drawers are not breathable, you will want to use a natural freshener, such as cedar in each drawer to keep odors to a minimum.
  

Find Shoe Storage in the Unlikeliest Places!

Do you feel like you’ve already filled every single inch of every shoe rack in your home?  I do!  If you’re not ready to part with your important footwear, but you are fed up trying to find places to put it, have you looked under your bed lately?  The under side of a bed is a great storage place, but is often overlooked in homes.  You can put virtually anything under the bed for storage, and specially designed underbed boxes make this a cinch!

Here are tips for different types of under bed storage for shoes, how to choose them and how to use them!

1. Under the Bed Storage Boxes – these are storage boxes that can be used for anything, from sweaters and shoes to holiday decorations.  They are usually long and pretty flat, so they will slide under the bed easily.  They sometimes have lids and wheels, some are rigid plastic and others are canvas, or vinyl.  These are all great for holding shoes, except for an underbed storage drawer, because the shoes tend to get caught when pulling the drawer out (the underbed drawer is great for other items, though, including towels and linens).
2. Under Bed Shoe Chest – this is a great box, designed just for shoes.  It holds up to 16 pairs of shoes, each is divided by a plastic divider.  I like the fact that it is crystal clear, so you can see what is in there without opening it.  It is also a nice, flexible vinyl material, which is really easy to pull in and out from under the bed!

Tip: If your boxspring is on the floor, and you don’t have underbed storage space, a set of bed risers can help.  Bed Risers raise your bed, when on a frame, from 4 to 15”, giving you tons of storage options underneath.  Most underbed storage boxes are about 6” high, so you will need to have at least that much clearance.  Check all measurements on the boxes and risers before purchasing.

Additional Resources:
Bedroom Organization Tips