Let's Talk About Shoes (and How to Declutter Them)
Sole Searching
Shoes.
We love them, we need them… and somehow, they seem to multiply when we’re not looking.
If you’ve got heels you haven’t worn since 2015, sandals missing a mate, or sneakers you swore you’d clean “next weekend” — it might be time for a shoe declutter.
Here’s how to tackle it without the overwhelm:
Step 1: Gather Every Pair (Always Gather it All)
From the closet, under the bed, the mudroom, your car trunk — all of them. This step helps you face the full shoe situation head-on.
Step 2: Sort by Type
Group by category:
👟 Sneakers
👠 Dress shoes
🥿 Flats
🥾 Boots
🩴 Sandals
👡 “What even are these?”
Seeing how many you have in each category makes decision-making way easier.
Step 3: Use the “Wear It or Let It Go” Test
Ask yourself:
✅ Do they fit comfortably?
✅ Are they in good condition?
✅ Have I worn them in the last year?
✅ Would I buy them again today?
If the answer is no to any of these, it’s time to let go.
Step 4: Sort into 3 Clear Piles
🟢 Keep: Shoes you love, wear, and that work with your lifestyle.
🔵 Donate/Sell: Gently worn pairs someone else can enjoy.
🔴 Trash: Worn-out, broken, or beyond repair.
Bonus Tip:
If storage is tight, consider seasonal rotation — only keep the shoes you need right now easily accessible. The rest get stored in another location, but remember - if you don’t reach for those out of sight pairs in 6 months, it means you likely don’t need to keep them anymore.
Remember:
You only have two feet. You don’t need 47 pairs of shoes weighing down your space (and your energy).
Decluttering your shoes can actually make getting dressed easier, faster, and — dare I say — more fun.
To lighter steps and happier closets,
I encourage you to start and continue your decluttering journey by checking out our podcast The Declutter Queen, designed to give you tips and tricks on how to declutter your life, physically and emotionally! With our helpful information you can be living clutter free in no time! Link to the podcast here
Crown jewel paid subscriber? You are entitled to a free 15 minute session each month with me - a time to discuss and check in on your decluttering progress! Simply email me at avery@averycundill.com to book your exclusive decluttering session!
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