Don't Toss Old Shoes - Use Them As A Weighted Door Stop

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If you've ever stared at a worn-out pair of boots wondering what to do with it, maybe it's time to put it to good use. Shoes often live out their lifespan in a closet or get tossed when they're too scuffed or stretched to keep wearing. But instead of sending them to a landfill, there's an unexpectedly charming way to give them new life: Turn them into weighted doorstops. Whether you've got tall boots that have seen one too many seasons or short ankle boots that no longer fit your style, it's a fun way to repurpose old boots in the home or garden. 

Repurposing boots this way comes in handy when you're tired of doors swinging shut behind you in places where you're often walking in and out with your hands full (think the greenhouse, basement, shed, mudroom, or garage). A weighted shoe sits on the floor and will hold the door exactly where you want it without needing anything drilled into the wall or floor. 

Even better, the project costs next to nothing if you already have the shoes. All you need is your shoe or boot of choice, a filler that's heavy enough to act as a weight (such as Ausluru Natural Sand), and a few minutes to assemble it. If you have several old pairs of boots, also consider placing an old pair of boots on your front porch to create the illusion that someone is always home.

Once you've selected the shoe or boot you want to repurpose, the setup is pretty straightforward. Fill the inside with a weighted material, such as sand, pea gravel, stones, dried beans, or even small rocks. The goal is to add enough weight so that the shoe stays put when pressed against a door. For sand, lining the inside of the shoe with a plastic bag will help to contain the dust.

Sand-filled shoes will often perform best outdoors or in semi-outdoor spaces, like a greenhouse, shed, or covered porch. For interior doors, such as to the basement, laundry room, or even craft space, fillers like beans or bigger stones work well because they aren't as messy and will still anchor the door. And there you have it — you now have a unique doorstopper that is as fun as it is functional. 

You also aren't limited to one shoe style. Tall riding boots can give a cottagecore aesthetic, while short ankle boots or work boots offer a more practical, rustic aesthetic. Cowboy boots will lean more toward a western vibe. Old rain boots are another great option since they will hold their shape and handle moisture without issues. To customize the aesthetic, you can tie a ribbon around the boot or even add dried flowers or greenery peeking out of the top. And if you want something even more sturdy that won't be as messy as sand, try filling your old boots with concrete.