The 10 Best Shoe Storage Benches of 2023

Our favorite is the VASAGLE Shoe Bench

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Best Shoe Storage Benches

The Spruce / Lecia Landis

Why buy a regular bench when you can buy a cool bench with space for shoes? A shoe storage bench in your entryway, mudroom, or garage instantly ups the chances that everyone’s kicks will end up where they should be: off the floor and neatly stashed away.

When it comes to organizational pieces that can double as decor, professional organizers often say to buy what you need and what your household will use, instead of opting for the sleekest or chicest version. This advice rings true when it comes to shoe benches. If you have small kids, for example, a bench with cabinets or drawers may put your little ones at risk for finger pinches. If you live somewhere prone to wet weather, something with space for rain boots might be necessary. Before you make a choice, it's key to consider your lifestyle and how the shoe storage bench will be used.

To help you on your search, we researched the best shoe storage benches, evaluating their sturdiness, capacity, and versatility. We also put some models to the test in The Lab to further assess how convenient they are to set up, use, and clean.

Here, the best shoe storage benches for giving your footwear a practical and functional home.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Vasagle Shoe Bench

4.3
Vasagle Shoe Bench

Amazon

What We Like
  • Efficient design

  • Accommodates shoes of varying sizes

  • Budget-friendly

What We Don't Like
  • Assembly posed some small challenges

  • Flimsier bottom piece

Our top pick for a shoe storage bench is this VASAGLE Shoe Bench, which not only stood out when researched alongside similar styles, but also sailed through our testing process. "This shoe rack has it all," our tester raved in The Lab. "I'd be happy having this in my entryway!"

When it comes to design, it's compact without being too small, and it's efficiently designed so your shoes are never more than an arm's reach away. At just shy of 12 inches deep, the 10-cubby bench can hold one pair of shoes in each compartment, and potentially more, depending on their shape and size (and how comfortable you are with a little squish). The four outer cubbies are taller than the center six, allowing you to store larger shoes, too—a feature that not every bench provides.

Assembly requires two people at some points, though most of the process can be completed by one person. Our tester explained, "The illustrations and labeling were very good. The most difficult process was putting on the bottom that was a very thin, cheap particleboard with no pre-drilled holes." Despite the flimsier piece, the bench boasts a weight capacity of 330 pounds. It felt mostly stable to our tester, earning a solid score in that area due to some slight rocking when they moved. "Overall, it seems like it won't tip over," they added, though, "and the shoes will not fall out."

We also appreciate that the VASAGLE shoe storage bench is fairly priced compared to similar styles. Its price actually rivals our best budget pick. Our tester concluded, "I think it's a great quality for the price, and the extra features like the bench and the adjustable cubbies make it worth the price tag."

Price at time of publish: $96

Capacity: 10 | Dimensions: 18.9 x 40.9 x 11.8 inches | Weight: 35.4 pounds | Material: Particleboard, foam, cotton-linen fabric | Color: White and gray, espresso and brown, or rustic brown and brown | Assembly Required: Yes

Best Budget

Neatfreak Fabric Upholstered Shoe Storage Bench

Neatfreak Fabric Upholstered Shoe Storage Bench

Courtesy of Amazon

What We Like
  • Compact footprint

  • Simple, modern design

  • Cushion included

What We Don't Like
  • Lacks structured compartments

If you're looking for a versatile, budget-friendly storage bench that's equal parts form and function, look no further than this contemporary choice from Neatfreak. It's entirely functional, without being bulky or overwhelming. At roughly 32 inches wide and 13 inches deep, it's slim enough for entryways, smaller hallway-style spaces, or even in a closet alongside the rest of your shoe collection. It has a sleek metal frame that'll easily blend in with modern and minimalist styles, and a matching gray cushion that’s attractive and comfortable to sit on.

With two open shelves underneath the seat, it has enough space to hold up to 10 of your most frequently worn shoes (or your guests' shoes during their visit). Though, it's worth noting that while the storage shelves are open and airy, sometimes it's harder to keep open shelves of shoes looking tidy. The lack of structured compartments may be a major downside for those who want a cleaner look and feel to their shoe storage bench.

Price at time of publish: $80

Capacity: 10 | Dimensions: 19.5 x 31.9 x 12.6 inches | Weight: 15.9 pounds | Material: Metal, fabric | Color: Gray or brushed nickel with gray | Assembly Required: Yes

Best for Entryway

Prepac 60 in. White Shoe Cubby Bench

Prepac 60 in. White Shoe Cubby Bench

Courtesy of Home Depot

What We Like
  • Versatile design

  • Durable

  • Plenty of storage

What We Don't Like
  • Cushion not included

  • All cubbies are the same size

Shoe storage near the main entryway is a must in most homes, and the added comfort of a place to sit while you lace up your kicks is even better. The Prepac Shoe Cubby Bench is our top pick for your entryway, because it is sturdy and attractive, and it has enough cubbies to store a whopping 24 pairs of shoes (or more if you choose to double up your shoes in the cubbies). If you have a shoe-free home, with lots of activity and guests coming and going, then you'd be hard-pressed to find a better choice. Each cubby is 6.75 inches wide by 4.75 inches high, so while flats, heels, and running shoes will fit well, this isn't the bench for rain or snow boots.

While a number of benches do include a cushion, there isn't one with this piece. However, you can easily add a throw pillow or two to cozy up the space, use the firm surface as-is, or even add a basket for extra storage. (We are partial to entryway benches that double as grocery bag holders, too.)

Price at time of publish: $204

Capacity: 24 | Dimensions: 20.3 x 60 x 15.5 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Composite wood | Color: White, black, drifted gray, or espresso | Assembly Required: Yes

Best for Garage

Keter Novel Cushion Box

Keter Novel Cushion Box

Courtesy of Wayfair

What We Like
  • Easy to wipe clean

  • Large capacity

  • Budget-friendly

What We Don't Like
  • Not the most attractive option

  • Open bin is harder to keep organized

Depending on where you live and your lifestyle, the garage is one area where you might want to prioritize durability over aesthetics. After all, this space is more susceptible to fluctuating temperatures, plus it tends to face dirt, dust, and condensation that could damage a nice wooden shoe storage bench designed for the indoors.

With that in mind, we're recommending the Keter Novel Cushion Box for a garage shoe bench. It's designed for outdoor or deck use, so it's hardy and durable, plus it has the added conveniences of seating and storage, too. It’s also easy to wipe clean—perfect for housing dirty shoes like gardening clogs or your kids’ cleats. The inner storage area is one large compartment that could be hard to keep organized, but we're willing to overlook this potentially minor inconvenience for all of the added perks it offers (and the fact that you could opt to separate shoes with your own boxes or bins).

Price at time of publish: $131

Capacity: 90 gallons | Dimensions: 24.61 x 48.82 x 21.65 inches | Weight: 22.7 pounds | Material: Plastic, resin | Color: Beige and brown | Assembly Required: Yes

Best Hall Tree

Gracie Oaks Gracie 60'' Wide Hall Tree with Bench

Gracie Oaks Gracie 60'' Wide Hall Tree with Bench

Courtesy of Wayfair

What We Like
  • Versatile design

  • Complete organization solution

  • Plenty of room for storage

What We Don't Like
  • More expensive than typical benches

For those who ditch their shoes, jacket, purse, and anything else they’re carrying the moment they walk in the door, a hall tree is a practical, attractive option. Think of it as a hybrid of a coat rack and shoe storage bench—the base has room to house shoes, while the upper section holds any hanging items. There’s usually also a bench, perfect for perching a purse or sitting to take footwear on and off. 

This hall tree from Gracie Oaks is an especially great choice for an entryway, mudroom, or hallway—anywhere that’s in close proximity to the door you use to enter and exit your home. With attention to its copious amount of shoe storage, we love this pick for large families, since it has room for 24 pairs of shoes. It also comes in four attractive colors, so there's a version of it to match most spaces and decor styles. It's on the pricey side, but it's an all-in-one solution for organizing shoes and other accessories.

Price at time of publish: $440

Capacity: 24 | Dimensions: 77 x 60 x 15.5 inches | Weight: 126 pounds | Material: Manufactured wood | Color: White, espresso, black, or gray | Assembly Required: Yes

Best for Small Spaces

The Container Store Lotus Bamboo Storage Bench

The Container Store Lotus Bamboo Storage Bench

The Container Store

What We Like
  • Bamboo material

  • Keeps shoes out of sight

  • Divided inner compartments

What We Don't Like
  • Doesn’t accommodate boots or large shoes

  • Slats need to be handled gently

This small, stylish bamboo bench has a compact footprint that works well if you're dealing with limited square footage. The vented compartment door gives it an airy, beach-inspired vibe, and the inner bin is divided into four smaller compartments. Each compartment can stow one pair of standard-sized adult shoes. They're also lined with plastic, so they easily wipe clean. You can access the bins by lifting the cushioned top.

We're fans of the bamboo material for its sleek appearance—and it can be an eco-friendly alternative to less-renewable materials. However, it's worth noting that the slats on the front of the piece are breakable, so you'll want to treat it relatively gently. But, if you're looking for a small, chic bench that's practical, too, this option from The Container Store will be all that and then some.

Price at time of publish: $150

Capacity: 4 | Dimensions: 20 x 20 x 13 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Bamboo, canvas, plastic | Color: Natural | Assembly Required: No

Best Hidden

Three Posts Wynnewood Storage Ottoman

Three Posts Wynnewood Storage Ottoman

Courtesy of Wayfair

What We Like
  • Holds a lot of shoes

  • Concealed storage

  • Multiple colors to choose from

What We Don't Like
  • No divided compartments

Though all shoe storage benches work to solve a common organizational issue, sometimes shelves or open bins aren't enough, especially if you don’t want your shoes on display where everyone can see them. This ottoman, which features a hinged lid that lifts to reveal trunk-like storage, solves that problem—as long as you don't mind keeping your shoes in the same large compartment. It blends in with most decor styles, and has added features like tufted upholstery and nailhead trim. The ottoman is available in several versatile colors, and is nearly assembled when it arrives. All you have to do is attach the legs.

When closed, the bench has an impressive 300-pound weight capacity, so multiple people can sit down to lace up at the same time. And since it's just shy of 47 inches wide, they won't bump elbows, either. What's more, the entire bench weighs less than 38 pounds, especially convenient during assembly or for moving. It's sturdy and stylish, and best of all, the storage is subtle.

Price at time of publish: $180

Capacity: Not listed | Dimensions: 16.73 x 46.9 x 16.73 inches | Weight: 37.4 pounds | Material: Solid wood, MDF, linen, foam | Color: Gray, dark gray, rustic gray, brown, rustic brown, natural, blue, or purple | Assembly Required: Yes, just need to attach legs

Best Large

IKEA TOLKNING Bench with storage

IKEA TOLKNING Bench with storage

Courtesy of IKEA

What We Like
  • Roomy storage

  • Weight limit of 396 pounds

  • Attractive design and texture

What We Don't Like
  • Cushion not included

With a width that's just shy of four feet, this gorgeous rattan bench from IKEA makes a visual impact in any space. While we love it for an entryway or front hall, it would also look great at the end of a bed or nestled in front of a sofa. The rattan is handwoven, so each piece has its own charm. The seat opens to reveal storage space, and the area under the seat can also serve as an extra spot to place shoes, so there's added versatility. Plus, despite its low-key design, it can hold up to 396 pounds of weight. If you're planning to sit on it regularly, you just may want to add a throw pillow, soft blanket, or cushion of choice.

You will need to mount the legs, but that should only take a couple of minutes. The entire TOLKNING line is stylish and versatile, so if you enjoy the chic rattan material, there are plenty of other attractive pieces to go with this shoe storage bench.

Price at time of publish: $150

Capacity: Not listed | Dimensions: 17.75 x 47.25 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 24.81 pounds | Material: Rattan, pine, bamboo, fiberboard | Color: Natural | Assembly Required: Yes, just need to mount legs

Best Upholstered

Urban Outfitters Upholstered Bamboo Storage Bench

Urban Outfitters Upholstered Bamboo Storage Bench

Urban Outfitters

What We Like
  • Curved armrests

  • Hidden seat storage

  • Slatted shelf

What We Don't Like
  • Shallow storage in bench seat

This elegant and cozy upholstered bench from Urban Outfitters is the kind of piece you can move from room to room, and still feel like it belongs in each space it's placed. The built-in cushion ensures there's always a comfy place to sit and tie shoes, or take a breather on your way in or out. It lifts for shallow and subtle storage, too. The slatted shelf underneath keeps shoes off the floor, and it's positioned at just the right height so you can line up shoes beneath it.

Not only is this bench elegant and practical, but it also clocks in at less than 15 pounds, so it's lightweight and not too taxing to move as needed. We appreciate that the curved armrests make it easy to lift, and they keep bags or books from sliding off when it's in use. In a perfect world, the under-seat storage area would accommodate shoes as well, but it would be a tight squeeze.

Price at time of publish: $129

Capacity: Not listed | Dimensions: 19.7 x 35.4 x 13 inches | Weight: 14.55 | Material: Bamboo, textile | Color: Natural, gray | Assembly Required: Yes

Best with a Door

West Elm Mid-Century Shoe Storage Bench

West Elm Mid-Century Shoe Storage Bench

Courtesy of West Elm

What We Like
  • Stylish, mid-century design

  • High-quality materials

  • Made in a Fair Trade-certified facility

What We Don't Like
  • No cushion

  • Pricey

This sophisticated bench from West Elm offers a punch of style and plenty of storage. At 42 inches wide, it's roomy but not overwhelmingly so. You can access the spacious compartment through a front-facing, flip-down door. Added details like a metal drawer pull and angled, beveled legs amp up the style and charm. We also appreciate that it's made in a Fair Trade-certified factory, and that the wood material comes from responsibly managed forests, too.

While this piece is gorgeous on its own, the firm surface won't be the most comfortable without an added cushion or pillow. Even though it's on the pricey side, we think it's worth the investment because of its stunning design, its overall high quality, and the ethical practices behind its production.

Price at time of publish: $649

Capacity: Not listed | Dimensions: 42 x 15.8 x 18.5 inches | Weight: 65 pounds | Material: Eucalyptus wood, engineered hardwood | Color: Natural | Assembly Required: Yes

Final Verdict

Our top pick for a shoe storage bench is the VASAGLE Shoe Bench, which has a moderate price point and 10 cubbies of varying sizes to fit all types of shoes and accessories. In our testing, it felt durable and high-quality, making it a great option for housing your footwear. If that's not quite what you're looking for, consider the Neatfreak Fabric Upholstered Shoe Storage Bench. Despite its low price point, this budget-friendly alternative is a sleek storage solution with a built-in cushion.

What to Look for in a Shoe Storage Bench

Material and Color

Shoe storage benches come in a wide range of materials, which can impact both the aesthetics and the overall durability of your piece. Whether you opt for a metal bench, a wooden bench with cubbies, or an ottoman with a concealed compartment—such as our "best hidden" pick, the Three Posts Wynnewood Storage Ottoman from Wayfair—the type of storage solution you choose is largely a matter of personal style and your lifestyle. Anyone who's looking for an option that's easy to clean and could weather the activity of a garage may want to opt for a metal bench. Someone who is looking for an aesthetic piece for their bedroom or entryway might want to add something to their cart that's made of bamboo or wood.

You should opt for a material and color that will coordinate with your existing decor, and a piece that'll be practical for your everyday routine.

Organization Options

Some shoe storage benches feature open shelving, while others offer more imaginative storage options, such as drawers or cabinet doors. These design features can simultaneously conceal shoes and provide space to stow other everyday items like hats, purses, grocery bags, and even books. Some shoe storage benches also include attached coat racks for families with limited closet space.

When shopping for a shoe storage bench, it’s important to consider the size of your household, as well as your lifestyle. If you only need something for one or two people’s everyday shoes, you can opt for a compact option—such as our "best for small spaces" pick, the Lotus Bamboo Storage Bench from The Container Store. But if you have a large family, complete with kids who tend to leave multiple pairs of shoes by the door, you might consider a more spacious storage bench to better meet your needs.

If you're unsure of what you need, rest assured that many styles are versatile and can be adapted for multiple uses.

Assembly Process

Shoe bench assembly requirements can run the gamut, including some models that arrive mostly assembled and others that need more time and effort to put together. Once you've identified a desirable shoe bench, double-check the assembly instructions before you complete your purchase. The majority of benches mentioned on this list are suitable for assembly by all skill levels. However, if you're not comfortable constructing the shoe storage bench for any reason, consider calling in a handy friend or hiring a pro.

FAQ
  • How do you clean a shoe storage bench?

    Most shoe storage benches can be wiped clean with an all-purpose cleaner, but it’s important to check manufacturer specifics before using any cleaners that could potentially harm the surface of the furniture. If your shoe storage bench has an upholstered cushion, the fabric may require spot-cleaning or professional treatment, though some cushions may be machine-washable.

  • What else can you store in a shoe storage bench?

    It's entirely up to your preferences and the sizing limitations of your bench. Some shoe storage benches have compartments that are too compact for anything other than shoes and small goods, while others have bigger spaces suitable for umbrellas, bags, and other useful grab-and-go items you want by your front door.

    You can also get creative—especially in the case of concealed storage, like drawers, ottomans, and cabinets—and use the bench for school supplies, small sports equipment, or your grocery bags. In the case of hall trees—such as our "best hall tree" pick, the Gracie Oaks 60-inch Wide Hall Tree with Bench—you can also stash coats, dog leashes, and more.

  • Can you put a shoe storage bench outside?

    Many shoe storage benches are better suited for indoor environments because of their material (typically wood, engineered wood, or fabric, for example), but you can indeed find general storage bench options that can stand up to the elements and double as a functional home for your footwear. Consider searching for outdoor storage benches, like the Keter Novel Cushion Box we dubbed "best for garage," for this purpose.

  • How tall should a shoe storage bench be?

    As a general rule, shoe storage benches tend to be between 18 and 20 inches tall, but you'll see that there are plenty of exceptions, even among those included on this list. When it comes to shoe benches, you have some wiggle room, thanks to the dual purpose of storage and seating. As long as it suits your household's needs and your own personal preferences, enjoy flexibility when selecting a shoe storage bench height.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Dena Ogden is a lifestyle and commerce writer who has been writing professionally since 2016 and with The Spruce since August 2022. For this roundup, she thoroughly researched shoe storage benches available at major retailers and evaluated products based on size, features, material, sturdiness, and overall value. Ogden also consulted detailed insights from The Spruce's product testers, who got their hands on several shoe storage options and put them to the test in The Lab.

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