Cleaning Up the Clutter
When things pile up in a small space, it's hard to find ways to reorganize. Books, toys, and other household items start to create clutter, which makes your house look messy and cramped. So, what are some hacks you could do to make room? From fold-down tables to pegboard walls, here are 20 ways to save space in your home.
1. Floating Shelves
Whether it's stacking shelf crates or installing wall-mounted shelves for a floaty look, this helps to get the clutter off the ground and up on a ledge. Plus, these shelf ideas are easy to install and create a sleek, minimalistic look.
2. Basket Organizers
Using baskets, cubbies, or even plain boxes as organizers can tidy everything up and store important things together. Even if items aren't rearranged neatly, these containers can be tucked out of sight, like under the dresser or above laundry machines.
3. Under-the-Bed Storage
Is your room always messy? Opt for a bed that offers various functions, like one with built-in drawers underneath. That way, you can move your clunky dressers out—or store other items in there—and create more space. Better yet, get a storage bed that also includes a bookshelf so you can add some literature or greenery to your room.
4. Fold-Down Tables
For those who work from home, it might be worth adding a fold-down table (or two) in your home.
This can double as a work desk and a place to have a late lunch. When not in use, simply flip it back up and out of the way.
5. Kitchen Island
These islands add a bit of flair to your kitchen, and they're also great for stowing away extra pots and pans. And if you're currently without a dining table, grab some stools and eat your meal right where you made it.
6. Ceiling Mounts
Got a bike you're not sure where to store? Hang it on the ceiling. You can go as fancy as installing a decorative frame or as simple as drilling in small hooks. Just make sure the mount is secure and safely out of harm's way.
7. Over-the-Door Coat Racks
If you don't have a big closet and need a place to hang all your jackets, try an over-the-door coat rack. You can add these anywhere in your home, and they can be used to hook anything from clothes and towels to accessory pieces.
8. Wall Mounts
If you're not keen on letting your bike dangle from the ceiling, you can also mount it on the wall instead. In fact, you can mount just about anything on your walls—even a tool shelf or a floating bench. They'll make for some interesting conversation starters with guests beyond just merely pinning up artwork.
9. Pegboard Wall
For another stylish piece to make your walls pop and help declutter your space, install a peg board. Now, you have the perfect spot to place all your mugs, pans, utensils, condiments, and anything else. The design also makes for easy rearrangement.
10. Drawer Organizers
To keep your clothing tidy and in order, invest in organizers for your drawers. This will help separate your undergarments from your socks, shirts from your trousers, and scarves from your hats. You can also use them to sort utensils or any other items.
11. Under-the-Stairs Storage
If you have a space under the stairs, put it to good use. If tall enough, you can hang up your jackets and sweaters or store away bins. Or, if you're feeling creative, nail up a few shelves to make more storage room.
Collov Home Design on Unsplash
12. Window Nook
Roll out a blanket and fluff up a few pillows to turn your window ledge into a cozy nook. Not only will this save furniture space, but it makes for a great reading alcove where you can curl up with a view of the outdoors.
13. Ottoman Storage
A regular glass coffee table might look pretty, but when trying to save space, pick out furniture pieces that can serve different roles. An ottoman can do just that:
it can be used as an extra seat, a footrest, or a hidden storage place for throws and toys.
14. Makeshift TV Stand
As opposed to mounting your TV on the wall, you can also stack up boxes, crates, or luggage to create a makeshift stand. Voila: you have a place for your TV, and your clutter is put to better use.
15. Storage Ladder
Propping up a ladder in your home might look odd, but it can be great for hanging towels and blankets, and can even double up as a shelf. To make it more chic, string fairy lights around the rungs or showcase some artwork.
16. Collapsible Furniture
In addition to fold-down tables, collapsible pieces like chairs and couches can also be a great idea for saving space. Sofa beds can turn your living room into a guest room, and foldable seating can be pulled out when needed or stowed away when not.
Stanislav Kondratiev on Pexels
17. Corner Nooks
Those corners around your home can be turned into little quiet nooks. Just add a fold-down desk and chair, and you're all set. Or you can add a coat rack, floating shelves, or just about any other tip from this list to put your storage skills to the test.
18. Magnetic Organizers
If you're lacking wall space, try tacking some magnetic hooks or shelves onto your refrigerator instead to put up paper towels, seasonings, or utensils.
This can clean up any clutter you have around the kitchen and make space for you to focus on cooking.
19. Over-the-Door Shoe Rack
Too many shoes lying around? It's hard to vacuum and sweep when your shoes are scattered everywhere. To make room, use an over-the-door shoe organizer to keep your footwear in place and up off the floor.
20. Storage Above Cabinets
Don't overlook the space above cupboards and cabinets—you can store away things on the tops of those, too. Just don't go too overboard and end up creating more clutter. It might help to organize your items first into respective baskets before shelving them away.
