Not A Cabinet, Not A Closet: The Affordable Solution To Hide Shoe Clutter

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A cluttered open shoe storage can gradually become an eyesore, but if you want to keep your shoes out of sight, a simple, affordable fix is to install a curtain. Compared to doors or drawers where you'd have to keep your shoes perfectly lined up to prevent overspilling, the benefit of using a curtain is that it hides your assortment of shoes while also keeping them accessible. This will work for any open storage system for your footwear, such as a wall-mounted rack, a standalone open cabinet, or the space underneath your entryway bench.

If you already have a spare set of curtains and a curtain rod for this project, you need not worry about additional expenses. Depending on the look and feel of your interiors, you can choose between plain or patterned curtains, or go for a timeless curtain material that offers an elegant touch to any space. Otherwise, you can source inexpensive curtains at any second-hand market or thrift store. Depending on what type of curtain rod you will install, you may also need to prepare a power drill, screws, measurement tape, a pencil to mark your drill spots, and a cutter or a mini hacksaw if you need to cut through material to fit your space.

Your curtain setup will depend on where your shoe storage is positioned and how much coverage it will need. The easiest option is to use tension rods, since they require no drilling or any complicated form of installation, and are readily available on platforms like Amazon for less than $15. Flexible curtain tracks are another option, along with L-shaped or U-shaped curtain rods, which work well for bulky shoe cabinets or racks situated in corners.

Beyond aesthetics, you will also need to choose the best type of curtains for your shoe storage. For convenience and ease of movement, avoid heavy fabrics like velvet or brocade. Try not to use sheer or thin curtains, too, as the fabric would not be able to hide the clutter and even the odor completely. Work with cotton or linen, which are both relatively lightweight and breathable, and can give off a soft, casual finish without looking too flimsy. 

Next, consider the type of shoe storage and match it appropriately to the curtain's length. For wall-mounted racks placed in corners or recessed sections of your home, opt for full-length curtains you can install on your ceiling or a few inches from the top of your wall. If your shoe storage is shorter than the typical length of a curtain — like a rack underneath a bench or a table — simply adjust the curtain to the furniture's height by cutting the bottom edges.