Maximizing Storage Space in Small Homes

Maximizing Storage in A Small Home: 18 Simple Strategies For Compact Living

Living in a small home can be challenging, especially when space for storage is limited. There are countless creative ways to maximize the available storage space in your home, however, so you can use these 18 simple strategies to make your small dwelling more liveable:

1. Utilize Vertical Storage

Consider installing shelves, cabinets, and nooks to give yourself more vertical storage. Common items such as books and DVDs can be stored vertically to save important floor space. Make sure the cabinets are securely fastened to the wall, and use only light items on the upper shelves to keep the unit from tipping over.

2. Add Baskets and Cabinets in Unused Corners

Take advantage of the often-unused corners of your home by installing lightweight storage baskets and cabinets to tuck away items such as extra toiletries and spare bedding. In addition, if you have an alcove or niche within a wall use it for hidden storage.

3. Add Hooks and Racks

Adding hooks and racks around the house can give you much-needed extra storage for coats, keys and other items. Place a motivational quote near the hook board to provide a decorative touch.

4. Use Over-the-Door Storage Units

Over-the-door storage units are a great way to make use of empty wall space. These inefficient storage units are perfect for lightweight items, such as towels, notecards and jewelry.

5. Utilize Dead Spaces

Dead spaces, such as underneath stairs or behind the refrigerator, can be easily transformed into much-needed storage space. You can use shelves and drawers to create an efficient storage space in these areas. For an extra bonus, install lighting in these hard-to-reach spots to make them more accessible.

6. Install Drawers Underneath the Bed

Beds are often one of the largest furniture items in a home, so it makes sense to use the space under them for additional storage. Use drawers, flip-top storage, or even just old-fashioned shoe boxes to keep items tucked away and out of sight.

7. Utilize Shelves

No matter the shape or size of your home, shelves are an ideal way to maximize storage space. Bookshelves, whether mounted on the wall or placed on the floor, can help you declutter and add storage.

8. Choose Multi-Purpose Furniture

Look for furniture that is both stylish and offers dual benefits such as ottomans or coffee tables with built-in storage or a bed frame that includes shelves.

9. Use Walls for Open Shelving

If you don’t have the budget to purchase built-in furniture, open wall shelving can be a great way to add needed storage. Consider flush-mounting wall cubes with adjustable shelves to house items such as books and smaller decorative items.

10. Invest in Beds With Storage

Storage beds are a terrific way to make use of wasted space, and there are many stylish options with built-in headboards containing pocket shelves and drawers. There are also daybeds with concealed storage that can be used as a sofa during the day and a bed at night.

11. Hang a Bicycle on Wall

If you’re a cycling enthusiast, hanging your bike on the wall is a great way to keep it out of the way and double as wall art. You can also look for wall hooks specifically made for bikes.

12. Install Pegboards

Pegboards are an affordable and stylish way to create storage in your home. They offer flexibility since you can customize the number of pegs and their distance from each other. Pegboards come in many sizes, so you can choose the one that fits the size of your home and install it in any wall.

13. Use Wallpaper To Cover Storage Items

If you’d like to keep your storage items discreet, you can use removable wallpaper to hide the clutter. This type of wallpaper is designed to come off easily – it’s perfect for creating temporary storage for items such as purses, scarves and jewelry.

14. Roll Away Storage Boxes

Roll away storage boxes are a great way to keep items tucked away and out of sight. If you don’t have much room to spare, look for space-saving options that can fit well underneath furniture or in a closet.

15. Hang a Pant Rack

 If you need to store multiple pairs of pants, a freestanding or wall-mounted pant rack is a great solution. It’ll provide an easy-to-access wardrobe option and keep your garments organised.

16. Use Trunks

Trunks are great for storing oversized items such as extra blankets and comforters. There are many vintage options you can choose from, as well as modern designs.

17. Choose Foldable Furniture

You can free up space in your home by investing in furniture that folds away. Folding chairs and tables provide additional surface area for computers, eating or additional office space.

18. Utilize Door Storage

One of the most overlooked surfaces in the home is the door. From over-the-door ironing boards to hanging shelves and pockets, there are many ways to take advantage of this extra storage space.

Making use of storage space in small homes can be a challenge. However, there are many creative solutions out there. By taking the extra time to design a unique storage solution that fits the size and layout of your home, you’ll be able to keep your belongings organised and make the most of the space you have.