Materials Used for Closet Shoe Shelves

There are different kinds of materials that can be used to make shelves for storing shoes. The material needs to be durable and strong enough to support the weight of the shoes. Whether wanting shelves that hang on the interior closet walls or shelves that freely stand on the floor shelves can be found made out of wood, metal or wire. Storage options can be purchased in pre-assembled kits from home improvement centers.

Wood Materials

Different types of wood materials can be used for shelving for shoes such as pine, oak and cedar. Cedar is more commonly used inside of the closet, to help prevent moths and other insects from damaging your clothes. Cedar has a strong odor all of its own that is immensely attractive. By using cedar wood for the shelves the cedar helps neutralize the foot odor smells from the shoes. Cedar is a durable wood product that lasts for years.

If you want a more rustic look to match your decor, pine or oak can be used inside of the closet for shelves. The wood can be protected with a high-sheen polyurethane to prevent scratching or scuffing of the wood.

Wire

Rubberized wire racks can also be used for shelves. These racks work exceptionally well for shoes that have a heel such as dress shoes. Pick a rack that has enough width between each wire slot that holds your largest heeled shoe. When hanging the rack tilt the shelf at a slight angle, this helps keep the shoes in a stable position. Slip the heel of the shoe through the rubberized wire slots; the rubberized coating protects the shoes from scuffs. The rubberized wire racks can be found at home improvement centers, Wal-mart and dollar stores.

Metal

Metal shelves come in a variety of sizes, colors and finishes. The metal shelves attach with brackets to the inner wall of the closet and are durable enough to hold your shoes. Assorted metal shelves can be found at home improvement centers.