Living in a small space doesn’t have to mean constantly dodging clutter. Smart storage and organization can make even the coziest space feel more spacious, whilst performing more functionally. Naturally, if you feel overwhelmed by debris, decluttering is always a good first step. However, there are plenty of items you’ll need to keep, even if they’re not used daily. For example, that camping tent you break out twice every summer, the oversized casserole dish that’s perfect for holiday lasagna, or seasonal clothing will all still need to find a home. But, with a few creative strategies and storage solutions, you can make the most of every square inch of your home. Here are our top tips to live big in a small space.
Think Vertically
One of the simplest ways to maximize storage in a small space is to look up. Walls and vertical spaces are often underutilized, but can offer some incredible storage opportunities:
- Add a Second Shelf in Closets: Many closets have unused space above the existing shelf. Installing a second shelf provides extra room for bins, boxes, or folded items. (It also helps keep the tower of folded sweaters from toppling!)
- Bookcases Hold More Than Books: A tall bookcase can double as storage for decorative items, baskets of essentials, or even folded linens.
- Install a Shelf Over a Doorway or Window: This often-overlooked space is ideal for storing items you don’t need every day like a pretty soup tureen or oversized serving bowls.
- The Top of an Armoire: Place attractive baskets or fabric covered boxes on top of tall furniture to disguise clutter and still keep items accessible.
Utilize Odd Spaces
Small homes and apartments (especially older ones) often come with nooks, crannies, sloped ceilings, and odd angles that, with some thought, can become functional storage areas:
- Nooks in Hallways or Landings: Add shelves or narrow cabinets to awkward corners for extra storage without crowding the space.
- Closet Corners and Bump Outs: Transform slivers of unused closet space by using shelving for shoes, handbags, baskets of belts, or folded clothes.
- Above the Toilet: Install shelves or a slim cabinet to store toiletries and hand towels, reducing visual clutter.
- Blank Kitchen Wall Space: Add a narrow hutch or shelving to store pretty dishes and add cup hooks for mugs. Or, use decorative hooks directly to the wall to stash cutting boards, kitchen aprons, or serving trays.
- Back of the Door: Over-the-door organizers work well in many rooms, from spices in the kitchen, to toiletries in the bath, to stuffed animals and small toys in a child’s room.
Hang It Up
Hanging storage frees up floor and counter space, while keeping items visible and within reach:
- Hanging Storage for Toys: Use tiered wire fruit baskets or hanging net “hammocks” to corral a plushie collection.
- Pot Racks: Install a pot rack on the wall or suspend from the ceiling to keep cookware accessible (and add a decorative touch to your kitchen). A smaller rack on the backsplash can also hold cutting boards, utensils, or mugs.
- Inside Cupboard Doors: Attach specially designed narrow racks to the inside of cupboard doors for spices, lids, or cleaning supplies.
Hide it Underneath
Furniture with space underneath can double as hidden storage:
- Under the Coffee Table: Use oversized baskets to store blankets, books, or magazines.
- Nightstands with Legs: Add a wooden crate or basket for books, phone chargers, and magazines.
- Underbed Boxes: Invest in slim storage boxes or drawers on wheels for off-season clothing, shoes, or extra linens. (Don’t forget a sleek dust ruffle to keep boxes out of sight!) Or, invest in furniture with built in storage drawers.
Maximize Closet and Cupboard Space
Closets and cupboards often have untapped potential. Use these strategies to optimize your storage:
- Multi-Tiered Hangers: Take advantage of previously wasted vertical space with hangers that hold multiple items.
- Velvet-Covered Hangers: These are thinner than tubular plastic hangers, allowing you to fit more clothing in your closet. (Stick with heavy-duty wooden hangers for coats and heavy items, however.)
- Closet Racks and Risers: Inside-cupboard risers prevent leaning stacks of dishes or clothing, keeping everything organized and easy to access.
- Stackable Kitchen Drawer Inserts: Gain twice the storage by using specially stacking dividers for silverware.
Garage or Shed Storage
If you’re lucky enough to have a garage or shed, utilize the space wisely to keep less frequently used items organized:
- Hanging Shelf Storage: Use ceiling-mounted shelves to store camping gear, holiday decorations, or other bulky and rarely used items.
- Clip-On Hooks: Hang tools such as rakes and shovels on the wall to keep the floor clear. Use sturdy hooks or racks for bikes, sleds, and scooters.
Overall Organization Tips
To make the most of your storage solutions, consider these general tips:
- Easy Access for Regular Items: Store frequently used items in easily reachable spots, while seasonal or rarely used items can go on higher shelves or under furniture.
- Label Everything: Use labels for boxes and bins in longterm storage, so you can find what you need at a glance.
- Proper Folding Techniques: Take an extra moment to fold clothes and linens neatly to save space in drawers and on shelves.
- Decant with Care: Although transferring pantry items into matching containers looks Instagram-worthy, only do this if it saves space. For overflowing cupboards, it’s better to prioritize practicality over aesthetics.
With some creativity and a little planning, you can turn your small space into a storage haven. By thinking vertically, utilizing odd spaces, and investing in smart storage solutions, your home will feel comfortable, functional, and even spacious.
A place for everything and everything in its place? Absolutely!
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Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style and was named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone. You’ll find everything from fashion, jewelry, beauty and accessories, to gorgeous gardens and stunning interiors and DIY projects, plus the latest ideas events of all kinds. Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait!
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