Boots are essential in many households. From snow boots to rubber boots, hiking boots to rain boots—these hardwearing shoes do a lot of work. But they also take up space. Without a good system, boots clutter entryways, pile up in closets, and get lost in garages. To avoid the mess, you need smart boot storage ideas.
We’ve outlined 17 of the best ideas to help you store boots in every part of the home. Whether you’re working with a small space or a full-size mudroom, these suggestions help you keep floor space clear and your footwear in order.
Boot Storage Ideas for the Mudroom
For storing boots, the mudroom (if you have one) is your first line of defense. It’s where muddy boots come off and organization begins.
1. Wall-Mounted Boot Racks
Wall-mounted boot racks lift footwear off the ground and use vertical space effectively. Mount them at staggered heights to fit kids’ and adults’ boots.
2. Custom Mudroom Cubbies
If you’re planning a custom mudroom, add cubbies built specifically for boots. Open storage makes it easy to see and grab what you need without digging through piles of shoes.
3. Built-in Benches With Storage Below
A bench with open shelves or boot drawers underneath adds function without taking up extra room. Use this to stash regularly worn footwear neatly out of the way.
4. Rubber Trays Near Entry Doors
A rubber tray is a simple shoe storage solution. Use one to contain wet and muddy boots. They’re easy to clean and help protect.
Related Article: 25 Custom Mudrooms Ideas to Maximize Closet Space and Keep Your Home Tidy
Entryway Boot Storage Ideas
Not every home has a mudroom. Entryways often become default drop zones. These boot storage ideas add order and make use of limited space.
5. Narrow Boot Rack With Hooks Above
Place a boot rack in a corner or next to the front door. Hang coats, hats, and bags above it to create a practical entry zone.
6. Slim Shoe Racks With Tall Sections
Many store-bought shoe racks work great for sneakers or flats but fall short for boots. Choose a rack specifically designed with taller compartments for standing boots upright.
7. Lined Baskets With Hard Bottoms
A lined basket works well for hiding boots in plain sight. Choose one deep enough to hold pairs vertically, and strong enough to avoid collapsing under weight.
Tip: Organize by Season
Keep in-season boots near the door and move out-of-season pairs to the bedroom or garage storage. This rotates inventory and limits daily clutter.
Closet Boot Storage Ideas
Closets—even small ones—can store more than clothes. With a few adjustments, you can create a space where boots stay visible and accessible.
8. Custom Closets With Vertical Dividers
Custom closets make storing boots straightforward. Add vertical cubbies sized for boots; these maximize storage space and prevent collapsing.
9. Sliding Boot Trays
Pull-out boot trays are ideal in custom setups. They give each pair a home and make cleaning easier. You can even add ventilation to reduce moisture buildup.
10. Over-the-Door Organizers for Short Boots
An over-the-door organizer designed for shoes can do double duty for short boots. While tall boots won’t fit, ankle styles and rain boots slide in easily.
11. Clear Boot Boxes for Top Shelves
Place boots you rarely wear in clear plastic bins. Label each box and organize by frequency of use or season. Use open shelves in your closet to keep them in order.
Bonus Tip: Use Boot Shapers
Boot shapers help tall boots keep their structure. They also stand better on racks or shelves when they’re not folding at the ankle.
Related Article: 5 Creative Ways to Upgrade Your Custom Shoe Closet
Bedroom Boot Storage Solutions
When closet space runs low or you rotate boots by season, the bedroom can pick up the slack. These solutions add function without disrupting the room’s flow.
12. Under-Bed Boot Boxes
Store infrequently worn or seasonal boots in under-bed boxes. Many come with covers to keep dust out. Choose ones with a flat shape to make the most of your floor space.
13. Vertical Boot Stand Near the Dresser
A slim boot stand can hold several pairs in a tight footprint. Place one near your dresser or inside a corner, especially for boots you wear often.
Living Room Boot Storage Ideas (for Open Homes)
In open floor plans, the living room often blends naturally with the entry. Instead of letting boots spread out across the floor, use hidden storage options.
14. Storage Ottomans With Compartments
A storage ottoman provides a place to sit and hide boots when guests drop by. Choose one with divided sections to keep pairs upright and separate.
15. Decorative Baskets by the Entry Wall
Neutral-toned baskets made from canvas or woven materials help store boots without looking out of place in your living room décor. Stick to open storage when possible to encourage use and cut down on clutter.
Garage Boot Storage Ideas
The garage offers extra space for seldom-worn boots like work gear, snow boots, or backup pairs. Just because it’s out of sight doesn’t mean it shouldn’t stay organized.
16. Wall-Mounted Boot Hangers
Seek out sturdy metal racks designed to handle heavy-duty boots. For messy or seldom-worn pairs, waterproof bins are the way to go. Label each bin and stack them on open shelves along the wall.
17. Industrial Boot Racks or Plastic Bins
Wall-mounted boot racks lift footwear off the ground and use vertical space effectively. Mount them at staggered heights to fit kids’ and adults’ boots.
Why Custom Organization Helps
If boot clutter is an ongoing challenge, built-in organization can offer lasting relief. A custom closet, mudroom cabinetry, or garage setup can manage volumes of footwear in compact areas.
When you opt for custom:
- You gain boot racks made to fit your space and boots
- You use vertical space more effectively
- Every pair has a home—reducing clutter and time spent looking
- You control how much storage space goes to each shoe or boot type
Working with a custom closet company allows you to build around your real habits. Whether you pull on boots daily or only during winter, your storage setup can match your needs.
Cut the Clutter and Give Every Boot a Place
Boots shouldn’t create chaos. No matter the size of your home, there’s a practical way to store them. Whether it’s slim shoe racks in your hallway or custom open shelves in a mudroom, these 17 boot storage ideas offer plenty of ideal solutions.
Take a room-by-room approach and rethink how boots enter—and leave—your home. The right solution keeps muddy boots contained, clears your floor space, and helps every pair last longer.
Use the space you have. Plan it well. And keep your entry, bedroom, and beyond clutter-free.
