ᐅ How can I use IKEA BESTA as practical shoe storage in a small space?

Hello everyone, I recently purchased several IKEA Besta units and would like to use them as space-saving, practical shoe storage. The problem is that my hallway has limited space, and traditional shoe racks are either too large or not practical for my needs.

My question to the community is: How can I best modify or organize IKEA Besta furniture so that it serves as functional, clear, and space-efficient shoe storage? I am especially interested in concrete tips on interior layout, possible additional purchases (e.g., shelf dividers, baskets, drawers), as well as ideas for making the most of the depth and width of the Besta units.

Perhaps someone has experience with adjustments specifically suited for shoes or unusual solutions to maximize limited space. Thank you in advance for your helpful responses!

For an efficient repurposing of the IKEA BESTA units as shoe storage in small spaces, the following approaches are recommended:

- Use drawer fronts or doors to create a neat overall appearance and protect against dust.
- Install shelves inside the BESTA units with a spacing of about 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches), as this is the optimal height for storing shoes.
- Use shallow plastic containers or storage baskets to better organize individual pairs of shoes and make them easy to pull out.
- If the depth of the BESTA units is not sufficient for tall boots, consider dividing the space into different compartments: lower compartments for sneakers and shoes, taller compartments for boots.
- To make the most of limited space, it is advisable to stack the BESTA units vertically when possible and safe to do so.
- It may be possible to install runners for pull-out shoe storage drawers (similar to kitchen drawers) inside the units.

In general, it is important to measure the internal elements precisely so that carpet liners or drawer fronts can be installed accurately and the storage space is used optimally.

Enrico4 schrieb:
Install shelves inside the BESTA units spaced approximately 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) apart, as this is the optimal height for storing shoes.

I can only confirm this and would like to add a short guide to help anyone organize their BESTA shoe storage effectively:

1. Planning: Take precise measurements of your hallway and available space. Also measure the shoes you want to store – for example, boots require more height.

2. Configuration: Purchase adjustable shelves or use the ones available from IKEA to create multiple levels.

3. Additional Elements: I recommend using shallow boxes that you can slide into the compartments. This prevents shoes from being thrown around and makes it easier to keep track of them.

4. Labeling or color-coding can be helpful, especially if multiple family members share the same shoe storage.

5. For very limited space: Use the back panel of the BESTA unit to mount hooks for hanging keys or small bags, for example.

6. Optional: For installation, I suggest securing the BESTA units to the wall to increase safety, especially if stacking them vertically.

This way, you create a functional piece of furniture perfectly tailored for shoes that takes up minimal space.

Jan69 schrieb:
How can I best modify or organize IKEA BESTA furniture so that it serves as functional, clear, and space-saving shoe storage?

For limited space: Use many shallow shelves so the shoes can be stored lying down. Make compartments taller for boots. Add doors to keep dust out.