18 Genius Entryway Shoe Storage Ideas to Remove Clutter and Save Space
If you’ve ever lived in a small apartment, you know that every square inch matters—and shoes have a funny way of multiplying.
IMAGE BY PIXABAY
I remember moving into my first apartment and thinking, “Where did all these shoes even come from?” I was tripping over sneakers, boots, sandals—every kind of shoe you can imagine. That’s when I realized: my entryway needed a serious makeover.
Thankfully, Pinterest became my best friend. I spent hours collecting the smartest, most space-saving entryway shoe storage ideas that actually look good.
Whether you’ve got a narrow hallway, a tiny mudroom, or zero built-in storage, these genius ideas will help you create a clutter-free, welcoming entryway you’ll love coming home to.
Modern Shoe Bench That’s Small-Space Friendly
SOURCE BY AMAZON
One of my favorite upgrades was swapping my messy pile of shoes for a sleek shoe bench. It added storage, gave me a spot to sit while putting on shoes, and honestly just made my entryway look put together.
Tip: Look for a bench that fits your space and includes a cushioned top and shelves underneath.
Hidden Shoe Compartment Bench
If you’re going for clean lines and a clutter-free vibe, a storage bench with a lift-top is a game-changer. It holds 10–12 pairs (depending on the style), and you can tuck away gloves, hats, or even your keys.
✅ Great for renters or first-time apartment dwellers looking for multi-functional furniture.
Baskets + Chalk Labels = Easy DIY Chic
This rustic look is a win for families or roommates. Use labeled baskets under an open bench—one per person—and boom: instant organization.
Bonus: Chalk labels are easy to update as needed.
Compact Bench with Drawer
Have just a few feet to spare? A tiny bench with a built-in drawer can hold 4–5 pairs of shoes, a pair of boots, and your everyday grab-and-go items.
Try a white version for a bright, modern look.
IKEA-Inspired Entryway Table with Hidden Storage
Love IKEA aesthetics but want faster shipping? Amazon has plenty of sleek dupes. These are narrow, stylish, and come with lift-up lids for shoes and top space for keys and plants.
Functional + beautiful = a Pinterest-worthy entry.
Large Shoe Storage Cabinet (Holds 30+ Pairs!)
If you’ve got the room, don’t waste it! A tall, multi-tiered rack fits in open entryways or hallway closets.
Ideal for condos or large families with lots of shoes.
Go Vertical with a Tall Shoe Tower
Running out of floor space? Use your wall height! Tall cabinets or cubby-style towers make it easy to store dozens of pairs.
Great behind a door or in a closet nook.
Lightweight + Washable Storage Cabinet
Try a fabric shoe cabinet that’s breathable, easy to clean, and surprisingly sturdy. Bonus points if it has side pockets for accessories.
Side pockets are great for umbrellas, gloves, or even dog leashes.
Wall-Mounted Shoe Cubbies
Mount cubbies directly to your wall to save space and give your entryway a custom built-in look.
Choose sizes based on your shoe types—heels need less room than boots.
Budget-Friendly, Slim Shoe Rack
Tight on space and money? A slim, metal-and-fabric rack is lightweight, easy to move, and holds 30+ pairs.
I used one like this in my first apartment—it lasted 3 years!
Corner Shoe Tower
Unused corner? Turn it into gold. A tiered corner rack adds function without eating up your floor space.
Comes in lots of colors to match your vibe.
Sleek White Corner Cabinet
Minimalist but bold—this design makes a statement. Perfect for small, modern apartments that need storage without bulk.
Easy to wipe clean and surprisingly sturdy.
Farmhouse Hall Tree with Shoe Storage
Dreaming of cozy vibes? A hall tree gives you hooks for jackets and shelves for shoes—all in one neat package.
Best if you’ve got a slightly wider entryway.
Entryway Bench + Coat Rack Combo
This duo looks great in any apartment and combines functionality with rustic charm.
Pro tip: Look for versions with hidden compartments for even more storage.
Coat Rack + Shoe Shelf Combo
This popular Pinterest idea keeps everything off the ground. Coat hooks up top, shoes down below—it’s organization heaven.
Perfect for families or busy households.
Closet Shoe Storage Solutions
Use the Top Shelf
Keep less-used shoes up high. It keeps them out of the way and helps declutter the floor.
Use labeled boxes to keep pairs together.
Hanging Shoe Shelves
A classic space saver—especially in narrow entry closets. I use these in multiple rooms!
Bonus: Add cedar blocks to keep shoes smelling fresh.
Shoe Hangers (Yes, It’s a Thing!)
These clever hangers hook shoes vertically—freeing up space and making pairs easy to see.
🧵 Great for heels or flats. Not ideal for chunky sneakers.
DIY + Budget Entryway Shoe Storage Ideas
The Trusty Shoe Rack
Never goes out of style. Pick a finish that matches your décor and keep it tidy.
Coat Hooks for Shoes
Mount a row of coat hooks lower on the wall and hang shoes by their heels. Smart, simple, and creative.
DIY Cubby Shelf
Stack crates or wood planks to create your own cubby shelf. Paint or stain for a custom look.
Milk Crate Wall Storage
Channel your inner Brooklyn-loft vibes with plastic crates mounted on the wall. It’s edgy, unique, and totally functional.
Build a Shoe Storage Bench
If you’ve got tools (or a handy friend), building your own bench can be affordable and totally custom.
Even More Ideas!
Under-the-Stairs Shoe Drawers
Floating Shoe Shelves
Industrial Pipe Shoe Rack
Minimalist Wood Planks
Decorative Baskets
Drop-Front Shoe Boxes
Final Thoughts
No matter how small your apartment or entryway is, there’s a smart, stylish way to store your shoes. With a little creativity—and maybe a late-night Pinterest scroll—you can turn clutter into calm and chaos into cozy.
Which idea are you trying first?
📌 Don’t forget to pin this for later!
Image Credits:All images are used for informational or inspiration purposes only. Some images used in this post are sourced from royalty-free websites like Pixabay or created using Canva Pro. If you are the copyright owner of any image used here and would like it removed or credited, please contact me.