We've all been there. You open a cupboard, drawer, or wardrobe, and you're met with a chaotic jumble of belongings. Finding extra storage space at home can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack – impossible!
Even the smallest homes can benefit from clever storage solutions, however, so you can soon transform cluttered spaces into organised havens.
The Power of Vertical Space
Often overlooked, vertical space is a goldmine for extra storage. Instead of sprawling items across shelves, think upwards! Tall, narrow shelving units can fit into tight spaces, maximising storage without taking up much floor space. Consider using the space above your door or installing extra shelving above or inside your wardrobe.
Under-Bed Storage
The area under your bed is a treasure trove of untapped storage potential. Use under-bed storage boxes with wheel for easy movement, drawers, and vacuum- sealed bags to store out-of-season clothing, bedding, or rarely used items. Better still, use self storage for out of season items you’re not currently using. This keeps your floor space clear and your belongings organised.
Wall-Mounted Storage
Walls are often used for little more than picture galleries. But wall-mounted shelves, floating shelves, or pegboards can add significant storage without taking up valuable floor space. This is particularly useful in hallways, kitchens, or bathrooms, where space is often limited. Pegboards are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customise your storage based on your specific needs, especially if you have lots of smaller items to keep together neatly.
Clever Closet Organisation
Wardrobes and closets are often chaotic black holes. Transforming them into organised spaces is key to maximising storage and generally making life easier, especially in the mornings when you’re getting ready to go out. Consider using drawer dividers, hanging organisers, and extra hanging rails to keep clothes neatly organised and prevent creasing. Vertical hanging organisers can double or even triple your hanging space, making the most, again, of vertical space. Consider using shelf risers to create extra shelving space in your wardrobe. Don’t forget the area behind the door. You can install hooks or even an overdoor organiser for accessories or shoes.
Multi-Functional Furniture
Invest in furniture that serves multiple purposes. Ottomans with storage, coffee tables with drawers, and divan beds with built-in storage are all excellent choices. These items not only provide seating or sleeping space but also offer valuable storage, keeping your belongings out of sight and your space clutter-free. If you prefer a bed frame over a divan, go back to tubs and containers to help coral stuff that would otherwise litter the floor.
Repurposing Items
Get creative and repurpose existing items to create additional storage. Old suitcases can become stylish storage units, while decorative baskets can hold blankets and toys. Repurposing not only saves money but also adds a unique, personal touch to your home. Scour the internet for repurposing ideas if you’re unsure how to start. There are loads of creative ideas out there to inspire you.
Decluttering is Key
Before getting started with new storage solutions, declutter ruthlessly. It liberates your mind as well as your house. Get rid of anything you don't need, use, or love. This will significantly reduce the amount of storage space you require and make it easier to organise the items you choose to keep.
Maximising Kitchen Storage
Kitchens are notorious for accumulating clutter. Use drawer dividers, spice racks, and shelf organisers to maximise storage in your cupboards and drawers. Install hooks under your cabinets to hang mugs or get a magnetic strip to keep sharps out the drawers. A lazy Susan is great for making the most of corner cupboards, and also very useful in the fridge if you like to keep jars and bottles fresh in there.
Bathroom Storage Solutions
Bathrooms are often small and cramped. Make good use of over-the-door organisers, wall-mounted shelves, and drawers or a vanity unit to maximise storage. Use clear containers to store toiletries and keep everything neatly organised. If you don’t already have one, a mirrored cabinet adds storage space as well somewhere to shave or do makeup.
Regular Purging
Finally, don't just declutter once then forget about it. Regularly purge your belongings to prevent clutter from building up again. A seasonal declutter can help you maintain the tidy organisation you worked hard to achieve in the first place. Find out how self storage works so you can put the out of season or out of use items, discarded hobby stuff, bulky DIY or forgotten toys somewhere safe that’s handy to get to. You’ll really enjoy the feeling of spaciousness you get from keeping less stuff in the house, and what you do keep neat and organised.
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