Organizing Small Spaces: 10 Tips to Maximize Storage Space

BY KAILEY BRINKER

Achieving organized spaces often presents a common challenge: a lack of space. If you live in a small home or apartment, navigating how to make everything work with limited space can seem impossible.

There’s often far more storage space in your home than you realize-even in the smallest of spaces. Having a small space doesn't mean you have to compromise storage. It just takes a little out-of-the-box thinking. Here are 10 organizing solutions you can incorporate in your home to create additional storage and maximize space.

Image- Kailey Brinker

10 tips to help you make the most out of your space

1. BUT FIRST, PURGE

As for any organization project, start by getting rid of items you no longer use or need. The less amount of stuff, the more amount of storage space. Once you've decluttered your space, then you can begin implementing storage solutions.

2. UTILIZE WALL SPACE

One of the best ways to maximize your small space is to fill a blank wall with some form of storage. Hanging floating shelves and storage racks can help clear out space in your cabinets/closets and provide much-needed storage.

3. OVER-THE-DOOR ORGANIZERS

The back of a door is like a blank canvas when it comes to home organization; you are truly only limited by your imagination. Using over-the-door organizers, you can store:

• Shoes

• Gift wrap supplies

• Laundry room essentials

• Bathroom products

• Cleaning supplies

• Hats and accessories

4. UNDER-BED STORAGE

If there is floor space underneath your bed, you can take advantage of this space for storage. Utilizing under-bed storage is perfect for hiding seasonal clothes, costumes, or even bedding. To maximize space, use compact clothing bags.

5. CABINET DOOR STORAGE

Out of storage space in cabinets? Think again. Utilize the inside of your cabinet doors as a space for additional storage. Add hooks, over-the-door baskets, and adhesive storage bins to store items such as:

• Ziplock bags and kitchen wraps (Adhesive bin)

• Cleaning brushes/sponges (Hang on hooks)

• Trash bags (Adhesive bin)

• Dishwasher pods (Adhesive bin)

• Paper towels (Hang on over the door holder)

6. ADD RISERS

Put shelf risers in your cabinets and place them on top of counters to double up on storage space where you can.

7. LOOK AT UNEXPECTED PLACES

Closed doors and closet shelves aren't the only way to effectively store items. Smaller spaces may necessitate using spots that are in plain sight. Magnetic organizers are a great way to create additional storage for your items. They can attach directly to a fridge or the side of a washing machine.

8. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR CABINETS

Organizing a space that includes few cabinets can be challenging, but with the help of a few smart storage solutions, you can boost any cabinet space. To maximize storage inside your cabinets, you can:

• Use stackable bins + drawers

• Add vertical storage racks for pans and lids

• Use a lazy Susan for easy access to condiments and baking items

• Add under-cabinet storage racks

9. UTILITY CARTS

Rolling carts have a variety of uses and can act as a great storage solution in almost any room. With their narrow design, you can easily slip one between your washer and dryer to store laundry essentials. In a bathroom, you can create an additional spot for bath products, extra towels, and toilet paper.

10. USE ITEMS FOR DECORATIVE DISPLAY

Get creative with your organizing ideas by blending style and function. Style some of your items on countertops and shelves as a decorative display. Here is some inspiration:

• Create a coffee station using a kitchen tray to display accessories

• Use matching canisters to store kitchen staples

• Display everyday kitchen items such as cooking utensils, oils, and salt and pepper on a decorative tray

• Display spa items on floating shelves

• Use jars/canisters to store items such as q-tips and cotton balls

• Fill a basket behind the toilet with bathroom essentials

Applying these tips can help you efficiently organize your small spaces. I hope this post inspires you to turn your small space into a functional space you love!