The size of the room doesn’t matter, whether it is a small apartment, a cozy bedroom, or a studio; there is always a way to achieve an enlarged impression. The secret lies in choosing the right furniture pieces and maximizing the use of the square footage. The most practical and cost-effective solutions can be made with the materials at hand.
This article lists the best DIY storage ideas to help organize a small space and make it look much bigger.
DIY Storage Ideas for Small Spaces
1. Add Floating Shelves
Install floating shelves to create extra storage space and free up the countertop or bedroom surface. The shelves can be made of wood or any other material and painted in the desired color. Store books and personal items on the shelves and hang them vertically to gain extra square footage.
2. Maximize the Space Beneath the Bed
Use large plastic storage boxes or old drawers to stockpile seasonal clothing and bedding underneath the bed. The space can also be used to store shoes and accessories. Add wheels to the boxes for easy access and use label printed stickers for quick identification. A bed skirt can also be used to disguise the storage boxes.
3. Display Items in Mason Jars
Mason jars can be used in various ways. They can be stored on the shelves or hung vertically with hooks below the shelf. The jars can contain cotton pads, paper clips, brushes, or spices. The matching lid can also be attached to the bottom of a piece of wood with a hole in the middle for a space-saving storage solution.
4. Make a Pegboard Organizer
A pegboard is an incredibly versatile storage tool. From the kitchen to the entryway and beyond, pegboards can hold all sorts of things, including pots and pans, office supplies, etc. All kinds of accessories can be added to a pegboard, including baskets, small shelves, and hooks.
5. Use the Space Above the Door
Many homeowners fail to make use of the space above the door. That’s why you should put some extra towels or books there. You can install a shelf right above the bathroom or bedroom. But not too heavy things should be placed there since the area is not very convenient for access. The things stored there should be used rarely.
6. Make a DIY Storage Bench
A storage bench is a must-have in the house since it provides extra seating area and plenty of storage space underneath. You can put a storage bench near the front door to store bags and shoes. Another bench can be placed near the window to hold extra blankets and pillows. A storage bench can be made from a wooden chest with a lid or a wooden bench with space below it.
7. Add Hooks on the Back of the Doors
The storage space behind the doors can be maximized using over-the-door organizers. Various items, such as bags, scarves, and robes, can be stored there. The organizer can also hold cleaning supplies or keys. Hooks can also be placed on the back of the doors if the organizers are too bulky. However, the weight should not be excessive, and the organizer should not permanently damage the paint.
8. Repurpose Old Wooden Crates
Wooden crates can be repurposed as bookshelves, wardrobes, and storage space under the desk. The crates can also be placed one on another or horizontally as a desk organizer. The edges need to be sanded, and the crates painted or stained to match the home décor.
9. Make Hanging Organizers
In case the wardrobe space is limited, several hanging organizers can be added to the wardrobe. A shoe organizer can also be repurposed to hold folded clothes, folded socks, accessories, and any other items. All the organizers should have tags for easy identification.
10. Add Extra Storage Space in Cabinets
Extra storage space can also be added in the cabinets. The space can be maximized by putting stackable shelves, baskets, and tension rods. The rods can hold cleaning supplies and other items. The cabinet doors can also be used to add more storage space by putting hooks and holding small objects on them. All the items put in the cabinet should be light to allow the doors to open freely.
11. Make a DIY Rolling Storage Cart
The best space-saving tip, and it is especially suitable for the kitchen, is to make a rolling storage cart. The cart can be placed along the counter or the toilet, and it will be used to hold extra cleaning or cooking supplies. The cart can be made of a rolling cabinet or a small shelf with wheels. It is essential to choose the right size that will fit in the desired place and have a locking feature.
12. Store Extra Items in Baskets
Baskets provide a flexible and space-saving solution that is perfect for storage and has a good look. Several baskets can be placed on shelves or hidden behind furniture in order to store magazines, toys, and other things. It is important to choose woven baskets to get a rustic appearance or fabric baskets for a comfy style. All the baskets should have labels for easy identification.
13. Make a Ladder Storage Rack
An old ladder can be repurposed as a storage rack. First and foremost, a stable ladder needs to be chosen and placed against the wall. The ladder can be used to hold extra towels, robes, and scarves on the rungs. A purposeful storage ladder can be bought and mounted on the wall to hold magazines, books, and other decorations. It is essential to avoid putting heavy items on purposeful storage ladders as they can cause them to bend.
14. Mount a Magnetic Strip
Magnetic strips are an excellent addition to a kitchen or any other space that requires extra storage. A magnetic strip can be mounted on the cabinet doors to hold metal items. The items should always be put on the strip to free up the cabinet space. The strip should only be removed when necessary.
15. Create a Foldable Desk with Storage Compartment
A foldable desk can be put up on the wall to provide room for storage. The desk can have more drawers added to store writing pads and stationery. The desk can also be made invisible when not in demand. However, it has to be ensured that only the good pieces of equipment are used to ensure that the desk wouldn’t fall off.
Conclusion
As seen from the examples above, there are many ways to maximize the storage space in a small apartment. Some minor construction projects, such as floating shelves, can also help rearrange the furniture. A few old items can also be repurposed to create extra storage space or unique organizational solutions. Organize the cluttered space in the home using this guide and some minor home improvements.
