Introduction
Warm weather is here, and my teenage son recently mowed our yard for the first time this season. I reminded him, “Don’t wear your good tennis shoes!” To which he replied, “Where are my old shoes?!” I referred him to the shelf just outside the door to our garage (like he didn’t already know that!).
Figuring the best outdoor shoe storage solutions has been something I have worked on over the years. I like the idea of keeping dirty, muddy, and wet shoes out of the house. But the last thing I want is to put my foot into a pair of shoes and feel a spider or something crawling around. Ewwwww!
This guide will help you think about 7 different outdoor shoe storage solutions, so you can pick what’s best for you!
Slim Shoe Cabinets
Space-Saving Design
Slim shoe cabinets are great for outdoor shoe storage because, just like the name sounds, they don’t take up much space. They fit perfectly in narrow spaces like entryways and porches and provide a lot of storage without taking up too much room.
Benefits for Narrow Spaces
These cabinets come in various sizes and designs, each intended to take advantage of vertical space rather than horizontal. With their compact profiles, slim shoe cabinets are ideal for smaller areas where traditional storage might be impractical. Imagine no longer tripping over shoes that have piled up by the door! Instead, each pair has a designated spot, which lessons the chaos you might otherwise feel as soon as you step through the door.
Materials and Design
When selecting any shoe cabinet, consider materials such as metal, wood, or durable synthetic options that complement outdoor aesthetics. Metal and plastic cabinets are particularly suited for outdoor environments as they resist moisture and withstand various weather conditions. Wooden varieties, especially those treated for outdoor use, provide a more natural look and can seamlessly integrate with other outdoor furniture. There are so many styles. Choose a design that fits your personal style!
Be sure and also check out my article, 15 Innovative Shoe Storage Cabinet Ideas.
Weatherproof Shoe Racks
Importance of Weather-Resistance
Outdoor environments subject outdoor shoe storage to the elements, so be sure and choose one made out of weather-resistant materials. A good outdoor shoe storage solution should protect your footwear from rain, snow, or excessive sunlight, which could otherwise damage or deteriorate your shoes over time. High-quality, weatherproof shoe racks are designed to withstand these conditions while ensuring that your shoes remain in optimal condition.
Styles of Weatherproof Racks
Weatherproof shoe racks come in a variety of styles, from open racks that allow air to flow and keep shoes dry to covered options that provide protect from rain and direct sunlight. I use an open rack in my garage. It’s easy access and we can easily see what’s on the shelves at a glance. I think open racks also help encourage people to put shoes back on the rack before going into the house. Hey, a mom can hope!
Protecting Your Shoes
To effectively use a weatherproof rack, place it in a sheltered area such as a porch or under an overhang to maximize shoe protection. You might also want to add a cover. It’s also a good idea to put a protective spray on the shoes to make them weatherproof.
Multi-Functional Benches
Description and Functionality
Multi-functional benches can be pretty and useful because you have seating and outdoor shoe storage. These benches typically have integrated compartments underneath the seating area, which can be used to store shoes neatly in or out of sight.
Dual Purpose: Seating and Storage
The main advantage of a bench with shoe storage is pretty obvious — you have a place to sit down you put on or take off your shoes right where you are storing your shoes. Super convenient! This solution is particularly useful for entryways or porches where you want to maximize the space. Rather than a traditional bench or shoe rack that serves one purpose, these multi-functional units keep your area uncluttered and efficient.
Customization and Aesthetic Benefits
Multi-functional benches come in many styles, materials, and colors to suit all décors. From chic contemporary designs made of metal and fabric to rustic wooden benches that blend with natural settings, these storage options can be customized for nearly any preference. Some designs even offer removable covers or cushions, which can be changed seasonally or according to your design, making them a super versatile choice for creating a tailored look in your space.
Stackable Outdoor Shoe Storage Bins
Modular Organization with Stackable Bins
Stackable outdoor shoe storage bins offer a great adaptable solution for anyone needing shoe storage. These bins can be arranged vertically or horizontally, providing customizable setups that meet varied storage needs. These are perfect for people with fluctuating shoe collections or those who love frequent reorganization. They offer the flexibility that static storage solutions cannot. Another nice thing about using these bins is when you move, they easily move with you and you can move them around to adapt to new space dimensions.
Outdoor-Appropriate Materials and Designs
When selecting stackable bins for outdoor use, make sure you choose materials that are both durable and weather-resistant. Opt for bins made of heavy-duty plastics or resin, which can withstand moisture and resist fading from UV exposure. The design should allow for sufficient ventilation to prevent mold and odor buildup, particularly in humid conditions.
Tips for Labeling and Layering
To ensure easy access and organization within stackable storage bins, I have a couple of tips for you. First, you need to label the bins. Use labels that clearly show what type of shoe is in the bin or even who the owner of the shoe is within the family. Another idea is to place less frequently used shoes at the bottom and daily footwear higher up can make your stackable setup both practical and efficient. Both of these tips make it so much easier to find what you need when you need it and save time (and frustration!) searching.
You might also like my article, 19 Top Easy Storage Ideas.
Wall-Mounted Solutions
Overview of Wall-Mounted Outdoor Shoe Storage
I love saving floor space whenever possible. When things end up on the floor, the odds of piles beginning to accumulate is very high. Wall-mounted outdoor shoe storage solutions save floor space while still providing easy access to your shoes. Racks and shelves that attach directly to walls are increasingly popular for their ability to declutter the floor area and utilize vertical space effectively.
Maximizing Floor Space and Accessibility
Installing wall-mounted racks and shelves means less reliance on floor space, making them perfect for small outdoor areas or entryways where every inch counts. These systems allow shoes to remain visible yet organized, which is going to reduce the time you spend looking for matching pairs. Additionally, wall-mounted solutions can often be arranged at various heights to accommodate different shoe sizes and types, enhancing accessibility no matter what your shoe collection may include.
Installation Tips and Ideal Locations
When setting up outdoor shoe storage on the wall, always use screws and fittings designed for heavier loads to make sure the racks don’t fall under the weight of the shoes. Look for unused areas of your home that you can better utilize the space like maybe an entryway alcove or protected porch wall.
Also, think about who will be using the shoe rack when you choose where to install it. Small children will learn to put their shoes away only if they can reach the shoe rack!
Outdoor Shoe Storage Cabinets with Doors
Protection through Enclosed Storage
The best way to truly protect shoes is to use enclosed storage. I’ve already mentioned a few but shoe storage cabinets with doors are a classic choice. These cabinets are especially ideal for outdoor shoe storage where maintaining shoe conditions against dust, moisture, and sunlight is a priority. Beyond protecting shoes, these cabinets keep them out of sight, promoting a sleek and clean aesthetic.
Styles and Materials for Outdoor Use
These enclosed cabinets come in various styles and materials like metal, wood, or a combination of both. This helps if you want your outdoor shoe storage to match them with existing outdoor furniture. Metal cabinets are particularly durable, providing exceptional resistance to weather, while wood variants, when properly treated, resonate with a more natural outdoor setting. Consider the cabinet’s design as well; louvered doors can enhance airflow to prevent odors, while solid doors offer a minimal aesthetic ideal for modern spaces.
Creative DIY Solutions
Inspiration for DIY Projects
There are tons of other DIY ideas for outdoor shoe storage if you don’t want to invest in bins or furniture to store your shoes. You can repurpose old furniture into shoe racks or using 2-liter plastic bottles in a drawer like the picture above. You could repurpose an old wooden pallet as a stackable shoe rack or transform an unused bookshelf with weatherproof varnish and mount for outdoor use. Doing projects like this gives you control over materials and finishes, ensuring your shoe storage is both stylish and perfectly suited to what you need. Use your creativity to customize what’s right for you!
Conclusion
Being organized with outdoor shoe storage is going to help you keep your home neat and clean and also extend the life of your footwear. Each storage solution we discussed—from slim cabinets and weatherproof racks to DIY setups—offers unique advantages well-suited to various style preferences and spatial needs.
Select the option that best aligns with your home and personal style!
Be sure and check out 97 Best Organization Ideas.