10 Hacks To Maximize Storage Space
If limited storage solutions are making you feel like your beloved possessions are slowly closing in around you, you’re not alone. There’s a reason why storage is always top-of-mind for home buyers and renters seeking their next abode. But for those of us who can’t (or don’t want to) simply move house to escape our storage woes, we’ve got 10 ways to a) free up storage space, b) optimize the storage space you already have, and c) create additional storage space that will stop that clutter from closing in around you once and for all and ensure your home inspires rest and relaxation, not stress and anxiety.
Let’s get going, we’ve got space to save and surfaces to declutter.
Purge
One thing to consider if you’re lacking sufficient storage space is how much room is being consumed by things you no longer need or that no longer serve a purpose for you and your family. Instead of looking at it as having too little space, consider the idea that you may have too much stuff. It’s officially Spring, so what better time than now to do a deep cleanse and purge those items that are collecting dust? Not only will you free up valuable storage real estate, you’ll feel liberated by letting those unused things go from your possession and hopefully finding them a better home via donation or giveaways.
Organize & Label
Once you’ve unburdened your household from clothing, toys, and other items you no longer need, it’s time to organize. You may be surprised just how much space you can save by creating specific homes for each item and storing them in dedicated bins or baskets that help conserve space by offering the option to stack in closets or slide under beds. Don’t forget to label! Unmarked storage bins leave room for confusion and future disorganization, which can, in turn, result in inefficient use of storage space.
Go Digital (Or Borrow)
We’re living in a digital age, so think about which of your possessions can make the leap to the world of electronics. Can your files be securely stored on your computer? Can you donate some of those books of yours and use an e-reader for your reading needs? Alternatively, can you utilize a library membership instead of purchasing books? This option will save you money and space. What about other media? Do you have CDs or DVDs that are merely duplicates of what you have available to stream?
Hang It Or Mount It
Look around your home and assess which of your items are currently taking up valuable counter space, shelf space, or end table space. Can any of those items be hung or mounted? If picture frames are taking up a lot of real estate on your bookshelves, can you hang them on the wall? If you could use more counter space in your kitchen, consider alternative ways to store the items currently occupying that valuable space. Can you purchase a hanging tiered fruit basket to get that produce up off the counter? Instead of a knife block, can you utilize a wall-mounted magnetic knife storage strip? In the living room, can that TV be mounted on the wall? What else can you lift off of surfaces to free up space?
Optimize Closet Shelving
In your closet, consider ways you can tailor shelving and racks to your needs. Can you add additional shelving or drawers for shoes and pants? Can you convert that single hanging rod into a top and bottom rod for double the hanging space? Check out CBM Mart’s wardrobe solutions for more ideas on how you can optimize your wardrobe.
This also goes for pantries, linen closets, and other supply closets. If your shelving is too spaced out, doesn’t go all the way from floor to ceiling, or simply doesn’t suit your storage needs, consider ways you can restructure it to make the most use of the space and maintain organization.
Install Built-In Shelving
If you’re dealing with a limited footprint, consider built-in or wall-to-wall shelving units, like this one, to take advantage of wall space without invading too much of the living space. There, you now have a whole wall of floor-to-ceiling storage.
Utilize The Space Under Your Stairs
A lot of times, the area beneath the staircase is not optimally put to use. In some cases, it’s dead space all together. Assess your stairs and consider whether the space beneath can be converted into a desk nook, a built-in bookshelf, a closet, or a pantry. If you’re looking to make more drastic architectural changes to your space, you may consider a new staircase all together (a floating staircase that allows for the space beneath to be better utilized, or a spiral staircase that frees up more square footage in your living space).
Choose Furniture With Storage
Furniture can offer amazing storage solutions if you get creative, and there are a number of options out there for multi-purpose furniture pieces. An ottoman can also be storage for blankets. A headboard for your bed can also be a shelf. Another tip when it comes to furniture? While minimalist table desks may be on-trend at the moment, be careful of prioritizing style over function when choosing the right furniture for your workspace. To ensure you have the practical storage you need, opt for a desk with drawers, cabinets, or built-in shelving.
Add Under-Bed Drawers
Most of us use the space under our beds for some type of storage, but you can optimize that space by installing drawers that allow quick access to and easy organization of the clothing or other items you choose to store beneath the bed. There are a number of options when it comes to under-bed storage, from specialized bedframes with built-in drawers, to individual drawers on wheels for purchase, to DIY projects. None of those in your budget or scope? Opt for flat storage bins designed for stowing beneath beds. The key is to make this space easily accessible and efficiently utilized.
Look For Dead Space
Last but not least, assess your home for space that’s currently unused that could be put to task. Is there space above your kitchen cabinets where decorative baskets could store lesser-used items? If you don’t have room for a full bookshelf in your space, could you install a floating shelf along the ceiling for out-of-the way storage with a decorative touch? Look at your available space and get creative!
