ᐅ IKEA Besta – How can I modify it to use as a shoe rack?

Hello everyone,
I am planning to modify my IKEA Besta shelving unit to use it as a functional shoe rack. I’m thinking of adjusting the compartments to accommodate different types of shoes – from sneakers and boots to elegant leather shoes. My goal is to optimize storage space, ensure good air circulation, and keep the unit sturdy enough to hold heavier boots or multiple pairs of shoes. Does anyone have experience with repositioning or replacing shelves? Is it possible to use different inserts or install special dividers? What about ventilation or material considerations? I look forward to ideas and tips to help me make my Besta as practical and durable as possible.

fonar30 schrieb:
My goal is to use the storage space optimally, allow air circulation, and keep the shelf stable enough

Those are definitely important considerations! For converting the Besta into a shoe rack, I would suggest the following:

- Remove some shelves to adjust the compartment heights for different types of shoes. For example, create more space for boots and less for sneakers.
- For ventilation, you can either install wire-mesh shelves or partially remove the back panel and replace it with a perforated panel.
- Stability will be maintained if you don’t alter the main frame—so avoid modifying the side panels.
- Alternatively, you can support the shelves with thin slats underneath, placed crosswise, to create more gap for air circulation.

If the appearance matters, small plastic feet or rubber pads can help keep the shoes off the wood surface, allowing air to flow.

If you like, I can also recommend specific shelf dimensions based on the types of shoes you mainly want to store.

Simply install the shelves at wider intervals, preferably using spacers. To ensure air circulation, partially remove the back panel or drill ventilation holes. This keeps the storage space flexible.

Good morning!

Here is a brief step-by-step tutorial for converting a Besta unit into a shoe rack:

1. Planning: Measure the shoes you want to store and determine the required height for each shelf (e.g., about 30 cm (12 inches) for boots, 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) for sneakers).
2. Remove the existing shelves and carefully detach the back panel from clips or screws.
3. Install new shelves with spacers, adjusting for the different heights needed.
4. For better airflow, I recommend replacing the back panel with perforated sheet metal or at least adding ventilation holes in that area.
5. For smooth shelf surfaces, you can also use purchased shoe mats or non-slip foam pads to protect the shoes.
6. Check: After the conversion, double-check the stability. Screw connections should be tight.

Common mistakes:
- Shelf heights too narrow for tall shoes
- Lack of ventilation causing musty air
- Unstable shelves due to incorrect mounting

If anyone has specific requirements, feel free to ask for more details!

fonar30 schrieb:
I’m looking forward to ideas and tips on how to rebuild my Besta to be as practical and durable as possible.

From a technical perspective, I recommend:

- Use sturdy shelves made of multiplex plywood or phenolic-coated plywood as replacements for the thin original shelves, as they can support more weight.
- Drilling holes for air circulation is advisable; 4-5 small holes per shelf side are sufficient.
- Check the maximum load capacity of the shelves according to the manufacturer to avoid overloading.
- Possibly securing or inserting shelves using metal brackets underneath the compartments can increase the load-bearing capacity.
- Use spacers made of plastic or wood, which can also be attached later.

These measures ensure the functionality and durability of the shelving unit under shoe storage conditions.

Ramon4 schrieb:
Remove some shelves to adjust the height of the compartments for different types of shoes.

This is the most important tip. Simply choose the height flexibly and store larger shoes on the top. If necessary, use foam padding for stability.