Ventilation is one of the most important features in any shoe rack.
The problem: Shoes trap moisture and bacteria. In a sealed cabinet, that moisture builds up into musty odours and, over time, mould.
The fix: Ventilated doors — slats, mesh, or perforations — let air circulate so moisture escapes.
What to check: Look for visible ventilation gaps on the doors or sides, not just a sealed front. If you've ever opened a shoe cabinet and been hit with a musty smell, poor ventilation is usually the real cause.