Whether you own a home or are renting an apartment, storage space is something that most people will consider before signing a contract. Unfortunately, while some properties come with an abundance of storage options, others are severely lacking. And while some people choose the minimalist lifestyle, it’s pretty standard for people to need more storage than a space offers, especially over time. So how do you keep your home organized and beautiful without spending too much?
Storage baskets or containers can be a simple solution to most storage problems. The market offers an array of different sizes, shapes and styles that can match your décor. Storage baskets can organize things within a smaller space and accentuate the room without adding a bulky piece of furniture. For example, a large wicker trunk would serve well as an ottoman or a side table. You could also use a tray to organize displays on end tables or baskets to sort clutter upon shelves or add vertical storage underneath high-legged furniture.
Hallways, Porches, or Mudrooms
The first thing people usually see when they enter a house is the hallway. Unfortunately, this space can be a cluttered mess with things like children’s items, gardening supplies, or shoes. Your entrance way can quickly become a catch-all if you don’t install an organizational system. The first thing you need to do is look at what is already in the space and decide how much storage you need for the things that are causing the clutter.
If you have a lot of things to store, you may want to look into investing in a multi-purpose piece of furniture with a bench that has internal storage and hooks above for coats. If your entry space isn’t large enough to accommodate a huge piece of furniture like this, you still have options. A very affordable option is a shoe rack or a cubby shelf organized with baskets. If you need to hang pet leashes or coats, add a standing coat rack or some hooks above the shoe storage, and make use of the vertical area above the hooks with some floating shelves.
Living Rooms
Living rooms are where most of our guests spend their time, so it’s essential to a lot of people to keep them not just organized but also visually appealing. Small trays with candles, magazines, or decorations on living room surfaces add a homey touch. An ottoman that opens or a wicker trunk in place of an ottoman will add hidden storage without attracting negative attention.
The walls in your living room can also accommodate your storage needs. For example, some people will hang their sports equipment on the wall, such as bikes, skis, or skateboards. Floating shelves or shelves above a door can add more storage to small rooms without interrupting high traffic areas. Some people find that antique furniture can add unique storage options as well.
Kitchens and Dining Rooms
Kitchens and dining rooms need to be organized for easy access and cleanliness, but they also need to be functional. One idea is to keep dry ingredients in labelled glass containers, such as spices, baking ingredients, or cereals. Additionally, you can use inserts to organize drawers. Another trick many people do is use filing organizers to separate their flat pans to make use of the vertical space within a cupboard instead of stacking pans on top of each other.
Hanging items in the kitchen can make room for more space on countertops and cupboards. For example, pots and pans can hang from the ceiling; coffee mugs and fruit can hang under the kitchen cupboards. If you need a shelf for miscellaneous things, such as mail, towels, etc., you can install a shelf with hooks and baskets to catch them instead of putting them in drawers or on the counter.
Dining rooms come in many shapes and sizes, and it can be challenging to decide how to add storage options. For example, if you have a large dining room, adding a hutch or bookshelf can allow you to store extra ingredients, art supplies, or whatever you need without detracting from your aesthetic. On the other hand, try an accent table with baskets for storage underneath or perhaps shelves along the walls for small dining rooms.
Bedrooms
Bedrooms can be very messy, depending on who uses them. You can add a trunk to the foot of the bed if you don’t have under the bed storage. If there is room for nightstands, they can offer different options, depending on what you need. If a nightstand isn’t an option, consider adding a shelf above the bed or on an empty wall. If you have space to fill in your room, consider adding a bookshelf or a desk with multiple storage options.
Bathrooms, Laundry Rooms, & Closets
Think of the vertical space, no matter where you’re trying to add storage. If there isn’t a shelf, but there’s space on the wall, you can add a shelf or hooks, depending on your needs. Hang tools and equipment like brooms and vacuums whenever possible. If you have a towel rack that doesn’t have room for all the towels in the bathroom, consider adding hooks or a wall-mounted coat rack instead.
Add storage to your existing storage by inserting different containers. For example, if you have sizeable space under your bathroom sink, you can add small plastic drawers or shelves to organize the items you keep there. If any shelves are available, break up the space with glass jars, repurposed cans, or baskets.
Other Storage Ideas
No matter how small or large your space is, there’s almost always a way to add storage. Try hanging plants from the ceiling or in wall-mounted containers. A short, decorative ladder is a great way to use minimal space to store blankets that aren’t in use. If you’re storing things for children, make them easily accessible for their owners. Whether you prefer to display everything on shelves or stash stuff in baskets, there’s no wrong way to organize your space.