How To Turn An Old Mini-Fridge Into A Unique Shoe Storage Solution

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Many people are content with placing their shoes at the bottom of a closet or on a shoe rack. They don't mind too much if things get a bit messy. Maybe they keep a special pair or two stored in the original shoe boxes, but those take up quite a bit of space. If you are a lover of shoes and want to keep your favorite pairs in prime condition, then even the genius shoe storage ideas that are game-changers for small closets may not be enough for you. Instead, you need a dedicated solution that is more organized, protective, and, as an added benefit, stylish. Give your storage a major upgrade with this creative DIY project that transforms an old mini-fridge into the perfect shoe cabinet.

The main thing you need for this super customization repurpose is a mini-fridge. There are plenty of ways to get a mini-fridge without overspending — whether you have an old, unused fridge in the garage or find a cool retro one at a secondhand store. It doesn't need to be functional, but it does need to be suitable. The appliance should have built-in shelving and a durable and protective exterior. Consider size, too. To accommodate the average shoe sizes of women (size 7) and men (size 8.5), you will need a fridge at least about 10.5 inches deep. Larger shoe sizes and taller shoes, like high-tops and boots, will require more depth and height. You will need cleaning supplies, including a bucket, soap, a sponge, and a screwdriver. Additionally, to customize the fridge and tailor it to suit your storage needs, have some paint, painting supplies, contact paper, shelf liners, adhesive wall hooks, stencils, and LED lights on hand.

Luckily, you don't really have to worry about the state of the fridge you find for this project because you're going to clean it. Start by unplugging the fridge, if it was plugged in. Now, it's time to deep clean the interior. Remove all the shelves and drawers, using your screwdriver as needed for the door and handles. Wash these fixtures individually with hot water and dish soap. Then use a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water to wipe down the fridge's interior. If there are any lingering food smells, wipe the interior using a solution made by dissolving two tablespoons of baking soda in one cup of hot water. Avoid using harsh cleaners, which can damage the interior of the fridge. Wipe the exterior clean with a rag or sponge soaked in hot water and dish soap.

You may encounter rust when cleaning your fridge, particularly if it has been sitting disused for a long time. Gentle homemade cleaners using pantry staples through to commercial cleaners like Bar Keepers Friend are the best ways to banish rust from the exterior of your white fridge. You can, for example, sprinkle some baking soda over the areas of corrosion, spray them with vinegar, and then scrub the mixture into the spots. Let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes, scrub using a slightly abrasive sponge, and wipe it clean. Allow all parts of the fridge to dry completely, and then replace the shelves in an arrangement that works best for your shoes.

Once all the parts of the fridge — inside and out — are clean and dry, it's time to decorate. In this case, more is better. The cabinet will look like a fridge no matter what you do; adding décor makes it look intentionally eclectic rather than silly. A shoe-storing mini-fridge is going to be a statement piece of furniture in your home. Don't shy away from vibrant paint colors or peel-and-stick wallpaper in dramatic patterns, like vintage vibes Orainege Blue Floral Wallpaper. Alternatively, if you prefer a neutral color palette in your interior design, choose matching hues to help the cabinet blend in. For example, CiCiwind White Shiplap Wallpaper channels modern farmhouse. Inside, add adhesive hooks for spare shoelaces. Adorn the exterior with magnets, just as you would in the kitchen.

If you want to take this mini-fridge DIY up a notch, install interior lights to show off your gorgeous shoe collection. Consider yourself a sneakerhead? Use sleek, cool self-adhesive LED strip lights to show off your rarest, most coveted kicks. Amazon Basics Stick-On LED Puck Lights create a spotlight effect that you can use to highlight your favorite designer heels. Finally, for the sake of your shoes and your nose, install a deodorizer to absorb moisture (mostly sweat and rain) and smells from your shoes, preventing mold. It doesn't have to be expensive. Use activated charcoal bags, or stock up for free on the common household throwaway you should be reusing to prevent funky shoe odors: silica gel packets.