A buyer's guide to shoe storage boxes

Do you have a pile of shoes in the bottom in of your cupboard? Shoes under the bed? One shoe in hand with no hint of where its partner is? Or perhaps you have tried to be organised but are running out of space. Shoe storage boxes are a perfect solution.

Types

Purpose-designed shoe boxes Using shoe storage boxes is a convenient way to keep your shoes in pairs, to keep them protected and clean (that is if you clean them before you store them). With a wide range of shoe storage options there is bound to be one that is suitable for you. Clear shoe boxes
Clear plastic boxes are a popular option. These are essentially stackable shoe drawers and are a perfectly practical option as you can see the shoes inside the boxes, and retrieve them easily. Many of these boxes come with a flexible carry handle, which allows for easy transportation. Different types of boxes Variations on this concept include cardboard boxes with and without windows (if you select a box without a window, it would be a good idea to take a photo of the shoes you are going to store in them to stick on the box for easy identification). Another type is a box with a canvas and mesh flap. These are easy to see into, and you simply lift the flap and reach in to retrieve your shoes.

Variations

Pretty boxes If you need the extra space in your cupboard, you could use ordinary decorative cardboard boxes. These pretty boxes could be used to add colour or pattern to a room, stacked on open shelves or the floor. Woven baskets can be used for the same purpose in place of the decorative boxes, and these come in weaves that are loose and casual, or tight and ridged so are perfect for most bedroom looks. Else you can try wire baskets for a contemporary edge. These have not been designed for shoe storage and retrieval, so you will need to remove any boxes that are stacked on top of the one you need before getting to your shoes. Alternatives to boxes Under bed storage boxes are another great space saver or you could try a hanging canvas shoe cubby that can be attached to the hanging rail in your cupboard, or fitted to a door. Stackable plastic pigeon holes work well too.

Where to get them

Shops like Ikea and Homebase have several shoe storage options. There is a far wider selection of storage solutions online. Try online stores such as Aplaceforeverything.co.uk, Argos.co.uk, tszuji.co.uk and Theholdingcompany.co.uk. Order online and your new storage boxes will be delivered directly to your door.