Small Space Hacks: 18 Smart Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

When dealing with smaller living spaces, where square footage is measured in the hundreds rather than the thousands, creative storage solutions become essential. Fortunately, there are many organization strategies available for compact areas.

In smaller spaces, storage options are limited, so innovative thinking is key. While it may not always be easy to declutter or embrace minimalism, many of us still value our possessions and need effective storage solutions.

Below, we’ve highlighted some of our favorite small space storage ideas that you can incorporate into your home to maximize your living area.

1. Substitute Closet Space

Many homes lack adequate closet space, especially near entryways. To address this, consider adding a combination of hooks and open shelves to create a customized drop zone for your family. Use bins or baskets on the shelves to organize belongings by family member or item type.

2. Conceal Your Storage

Not all items are suitable for display. For a cleaner look, opt for hidden storage solutions that keep things out of sight but still accessible. For instance, a flip-top upholstered storage bench can stylishly conceal items you’d prefer to keep hidden.

3. Add Incremental Storage

To maximize storage in small spaces, consider simple add-ons to basic storage solutions. A narrow, notched-back shelf, for example, offers just enough room to store frequently used items in glass canisters, keeping them close at hand.

4. Don’t Ignore Nooks

Shelves don’t always need to span long walls. Short shelves can effectively utilize minimal space. For instance, a narrow stretch of wall with open shelves can provide easy access to dishes and cooking essentials that are frequently used.

5. Clear the Floor

Clutter is a common challenge in small spaces, but clever storage solutions can help keep your rooms tidy. Consider mounting small cubes or rectangular shelf units on the wall for open storage, freeing up floor space. A wall-mounted light fixture can also keep tabletop surfaces clear for other essentials.

6. Stagger Shelves

Uniform, boxy shelving units can make a small room feel even smaller. Instead, opt for ladder-style shelves with narrower tiers toward the top. This design lightens the room’s atmosphere and provides versatile storage for items of varying sizes.

7. Scale Down Shelves

Small spaces often can’t accommodate large furniture, especially in tight areas like bathrooms. Look for compact storage pieces, such as a three-shelf unit, that offer ample storage potential without taking up too much space.

8. Embrace Open Storage

Closed doors and drawers aren’t the only storage options for small spaces. Consider using open storage solutions that blend with your room’s decor. For example, a mesh file can neatly organize kitchen wraps and other essentials while keeping them easily accessible.

9. Opt for Double-Duty Furniture

Furniture that serves multiple purposes is ideal for small spaces. For example, strategically placed bookshelves can double as storage and desk space in a home office. A small stool can tuck under the work surface, while bins and baskets keep essentials organized.

10. Explore Helpful Add-ons

Innovative storage solutions can address a variety of needs in small spaces. Look for specialized storage items, such as hairdryer holders or clothes bins, that help keep clutter under control and make daily items easily accessible.

11. Mix Cabinet Types

Different types of storage—cabinets, drawers, and open shelves—serve different purposes. In high-traffic areas like bathrooms, combining these options can help you store items more effectively, making the most of your limited space.

12. Use Vertical Spaces

Make the most of vertical space, such as behind-the-door storage, to store small items that might otherwise clutter your rooms. Slim wire baskets can be mounted on the back of a door to organize essentials, like gift-wrapping supplies, and keep them within reach.

13. Declutter

Living in a small space often encourages you to pare down to the essentials. By reducing the number of items you need to store, you can use your space more effectively. Declutter by keeping only what’s necessary, like a set of towels per person, and replace items as they wear out.

14. Open Up Storage

Cabinet doors can take up valuable space in small rooms. Instead, consider narrow open shelves that provide extra storage for frequently used items, such as plates and glasses. Be strategic about what you store on these shelves to keep the area looking tidy.

15. Smarter Jewelry Storage

Small items like jewelry and makeup can be challenging to organize, even in larger spaces. Instead of using traditional storage solutions, consider creating vertical storage on walls. For example, an empty frame outfitted with cork or metal can serve as a stylish display for necklaces and bracelets, while a magnetic board can hold makeup.

16. Discover Hidden Storage Potential

Maximize small spaces by choosing furniture with hidden storage features. For example, a bathroom stool with a pull-out drawer can store extra towels, washcloths, and bath products, making it a functional and space-saving addition.

17. Hide Electronics

In small spaces, countertop and work-surface areas are often at a premium. Large tech items like printers and scanners can take up valuable space, so consider storing them in drawers to keep them out of sight until needed.

18. Utilize Window Space

Natural light can brighten a room and make it feel larger, but windows can also reduce wall space that could be used for storage. Consider installing shelves or racks across windows to maximize both light and storage capacity, keeping everyday items like pots and pans within easy reach.