Organize and Merchandise Your Handbags & Shoes
- wildlycleanclosets

- Oct 26
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 26
Protect your investments and showcase your style! Discover closet organization tips for handbags and shoes, ensuring your collection remains beautiful and functional.

Handbag Storage and Display Solutions:
Dust bags or cloth covers for protection
Stackable shelves or cubbies for display
Hanging handbag organizers with pockets
Hangers that hold bags by the handles Wall Hooks and valet rods Multipurpose furniture pieces Coat rack/ hat rack Over-the-door hooks
Wall Shelf to display Magazine holder for clutches
Dividers

Shoe Storage and Display Solutions:
Shoe Stands
Built-in shoe wall
Wall shelf to display Bookshelf for multipurpose storage
Stackable shoe cubbies or drawers
Rotating shoe trees for easy selection
Over-the-door shoe racks for maximum space Under bed storage for extras/ out of season Multipurpose furniture pieces
Shoe Rack

Care Tips for Your Handbags:
Always Handle with Clean Hands
Oils, lotions, and dirt can easily transfer — wash or wipe hands before grabbing your bag, especially lighter colors.
Stuff & Store Properly
When not in use, keep your bag filled with tissue paper, bubble wrap, or purse inserts to maintain its shape. (Avoid newspaper — the ink can transfer!)
Keep Them in Dust Bags
Most quality bags come with dust covers for a reason. Use them! They protect from dust, sunlight, and humidity.💡 Pro tip: clear dust bags let you see what’s inside while staying organized.
Avoid Hanging Heavy Bags
Hanging a filled handbag by its straps can cause stretching and warping. Store structured bags on a shelf or in a cubby instead.
Rotate Regularly
Switch your bags seasonally or even weekly. Rotation prevents overuse, keeps styles fresh, and gives each bag time to “rest.”
Wipe Down After Each Use
Use a soft microfiber cloth to remove dirt and oils. For leather, a damp cloth works — just don’t oversaturate.
Condition Leather Every Few Months
Use a gentle leather conditioner or cream (test on a hidden spot first). This prevents cracking and keeps the leather buttery soft.
Watch Out for Color Transfer
Dark denim and clothing dyes can stain light-colored bags. When wearing new jeans, choose a darker purse or spray fabric protector.
Keep Bags Away from Direct Sunlight & Heat
Prolonged exposure can fade colors and dry out leather — store in a cool, shaded area.
Use Purse Organizer Inserts
They protect the lining, keep interiors clean, and make switching bags effortless. Plus, it keeps your bag’s shape strong and supported.
Clean Spills Immediately
Blot (don’t rub) with a soft, dry cloth. For serious stains, it’s worth sending to a professional cleaner.
Avoid Overstuffing
Even designer bags can lose their silhouette if crammed. Keep the load light and chic.

Care Tips for Your Shoes:
Clean After Every Wear
Wipe down shoes with a soft, damp cloth after wearing. For suede, use a suede brush or eraser — never water!
Use Shoe Trees or Stuff with Tissue
Help your shoes keep their shape by inserting cedar shoe trees or tissue paper. It’s especially important for leather heels and boots.
Rotate Your Shoes
Wearing the same pair every day breaks them down faster. Rotate between a few favorites to extend their lifespan (and keep your style fresh).
Protect Soles and Heels
Add sole protectors or take new heels to a cobbler for rubber taps on the bottoms. It prevents slipping and wear on expensive pairs.
Store in Dust Bags or Boxes
Dust bags keep your shoes protected and clean — clear stackable boxes are perfect for visibility and that Wildly Clean aesthetic.
Keep Shoes Dry & Fresh
After wearing, let shoes air out before putting them away. Add cedar blocks or silica packs to absorb moisture and prevent odors.
Avoid Overcrowding
Give your shoes room to breathe! Overstuffing shelves or bins can cause scuffing, bending, and creasing.
Polish and Condition Leather
Use a gentle conditioner or polish to maintain shine and prevent cracking. Always match polish color to the shoe.
Use Heel Caps & Toe Protectors
Small details, big difference — heel caps stop the metal from showing, and toe protectors prevent damage on pointed styles.
Treat Suede Before Wearing
Spray suede protectant before your first wear to guard against water and stains. Reapply every few months for best results.
Keep Flats & Sneakers Structured
Don’t toss them in piles! Use dividers, acrylic bins, or roll-up shoe organizers to keep them neat and visible.
Travel Smart
Pack shoes in soft pouches or drawstring bags to prevent scuffing in your luggage. Stuff heels with socks or lingerie to save space and shape!

Organization Hacks:
MERCHANDISE YOUR STUFF! Store out-of-season items separately
Use dividers for categorization (e.g., heels, flats)
Consider a shoe and handbag rotation schedule
Swap out displayed bags monthly — it makes your closet feel “new”!
Keep only what’s in season visible; store the rest in labeled bins.
Keep your prettiest heels or sneakers displayed on open shelving.

Merchandising Like a Pro
Mix Heights & Textures For example: Pair a tall boot beside a small clutch or perfume tray for visual balance.
Use Lighting Strategically For example: A soft glow or LED strip elevates even basic shelves.
Add a Statement Accent For Example: A mirror, framed photo, or mini floral arrangement makes your display feel curated.
Keep It Seasonal For example: Feature cozy boots and totes in fall, or pastels and sandals in spring.
Don’t Overcrowd Leave space between items so your favorite pieces can shine.

Elevate your handbag and shoe collection with thoughtful closet organization! Check out the shop to see what solutions are in store to create your own boutique! ✨💕





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