13 Affordable Ways To Add More Storage To Your Apartment
July 21, 2021 3:51 pm Leave your thoughtsMost renters are looking for ways to add more space and storage to their apartments. Apartment layouts can often vary in size and places where you can keep your belongings. It isn’t fun to live in a space that feels highly cluttered, and chances are you will feel better when things are organized. Plus, with rent becoming more expensive in most places, you may have had to end up in a smaller apartment.
The good news is that it doesn’t take costly furniture to add more surface area to your square footage. There are simple and easy ways to upgrade your space with more room. From the proper storage bins to organizational hacks, there is a combination of things you can do to ensure that your area has a bit more space to offer.
Trying different apartment storage and design ideas can transform even the tightest corners into useful spaces. This guide offers innovative, budget-friendly solutions to transform cramped spaces into organized, stylish havens.
1 – A Storage Bed
One of the best and most effective ways to store more in your apartment is to invest in a storage bed. Investing in space-saving furniture for apartments can double your living area without compromising style. There are a variety of designs and options available, so you can find one that works for you and your budget. The benefit of a storage bed is that it frees up a lot of room for extra belongings that will also be completely hidden.
Consider the multifunctionality of storage beds beyond just space savers. Foldable storage solutions are perfect for seasonal items, offering easy access when needed and minimal footprint when not. Opt for models with built-in charging stations or fold-out desks to add utility.
These features maximize space and also cater to the modern, tech-savvy individual, ensuring your bedroom serves multiple purposes in a compact footprint. It will allow you to store the items that you don’t need access to daily. Not to mention, there are a lot of trendy and modern storage beds that make the perfect addition to any space.
2 – Behind The Door Storage
Creative storage ideas for small apartments often involve thinking vertically, using walls and ceilings to free up floor space. Don’t underestimate the storage space that can be utilized behind your doors! Behind-the-door storage options are a great way to create more room. There are a variety of behind-the-door hooks, racks, and bags that you can use. This type of storage is perfect in the bathroom for towels and toiletries. It’s also a good idea to store shoes or extra clothing items behind your bedroom door. A perk of behind-the-door storage mostly appears hidden, making everything feel more tidy and spacious.
Expand your storage strategy to include custom solutions like adjustable shelving units that fit snugly behind any door. This personalized approach allows you to tailor storage for specific items, from crafting supplies in your workspace to spices and pantry goods in your kitchen, making the most of often-overlooked spaces.
3 – Bathroom Ladder Shelf
Bathroom ladder shelves are a new way to elevate the storage in your bathroom. Incorporating a vertical storage option into your decor can help keep your floors clear and your belongings neatly organized. It’s likely that if you live in a small apartment, your bathroom doesn’t have many storage options. Bathroom ladder shelves are built to go directly above the toilet and utilize the vertical area above. These shelves are an aesthetic way to create more storage! If you want to enhance your bathroom with extra space, look into these types of possible options.
Elevate your bathroom’s ambiance by selecting ladder shelves made from materials that resist humidity and water damage, such as bamboo or treated wood. Adding plants or aromatherapy candles on the shelves can transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat, blending functionality with relaxation.
4 – Additional Clothes Racks
Clothing is often the culprit of taking up a lot of space! If you’re finding that you have clothing everywhere, consider an additional clothing rack. Clothing racks can add another option for clothes storage and also make for a great decoration piece.
They can be styled to fit the feel of your apartment and realistically look good in any room. Not to mention, they’re super affordable! Avoid being annoyed with your closet daily and purchase an additional clothing rack.
5 – Add Extra Hooks
A hack for adding more storage and avoiding clutter is to add more hooks to your space. Most disorganization or lack of storage can come from not having enough options to hang objects. With hooks like Command Hooks being so inexpensive, they are a fantastic option for becoming more organized.
You can also use these for keys, kitchen items, bags, and more! If you’re finding that your belongings regularly end up on the floor, you may need to install more hook options.
Beyond the typical uses, install hooks in unexpected places like inside cabinet doors or beneath shelves to hang mugs, utensils, or even small baskets for additional hidden storage. This approach maximizes unused spaces and keeps essentials within easy reach.
6 – Use Rolling Storage Racks
One massive advantage of rolling storage racks is that they’re portable and can be moved around if needed. Mobile storage is brilliant because it can allow you to move it where you need more space. If you’re planning a dinner party or having a group of friends over, you will love having this as an option! Certain occasions and circumstances may require more space, so having a rolling storage rack on hand is highly beneficial. Plus, if you don’t need it, you can store it away until next time.
Select rolling storage racks with adjustable shelves and modular components to customize storage solutions as your needs change. This adaptability makes them perfect for everything from kitchen storage to a mobile bookshelf or craft station, offering versatility in your living space.
When relocating, consider portable storage solutions that can easily transition to your new space, ensuring a seamless move without sacrificing organization.
7 – Categorize & Organize Your Belongings
It becomes much easier to store things when your belongings are sifted through and organized. Categorizing everything together will help you know what needs to be stored away and what needs to be accessed daily. It’s challenging to create more storage space if you aren’t sure what you need to use and when you need it. The reality is that we all have belongings that we could get rid of to make more space. Consider doing a deep clean and organizing what you have to create more room.
Creating extra storage spaces under furniture or in closet corners can make a big difference in small apartments. Implement a color-coding system for your storage bins and labels to quickly identify contents at a glance. This visual organization method not only streamlines finding and storing items but also adds a decorative element to your closets and storage areas.
Target and Walmart carry a range of stackable storage bins that can be used to organize closets, pantries, and under-sink areas. These bins come in various dimensions and materials, allowing for customization based on specific needs and spaces.
8 – Add Bed Risers
With bed storage being a fantastic option for extra space, look into using bed risers! Bed risers can essentially work on any bed to lift if further above the ground. This extra space will allow you to place more things underneath your bed. A higher bed can also look better, as it creates a more elevated feel! Even if you don’t need more storage space, you might love this addition just for the look.
Choose bed risers with built-in outlets or USB ports to turn the space under your bed into a charging station, keeping cords neatly tucked away and devices within reach. This practical upgrade enhances the functionality of your bedroom without sacrificing floor space.
9 – A Storage Couch
If you’re going to be investing in a new couch soon, look into storage couch options. Exploring space-saving apartment furniture ideas can lead to finding multifunctional pieces that serve more than one purpose. There are so many stylish storage couch options! A storage couch is another way to hide items that may not be accessed daily. It’s also the perfect spot to store extra blankets and pillows. You will love that it’s a hidden storage compartment, and it will free up even more space. Regardless of what you’re going to store in it, it is the perfect option for anything.
For those with a keen eye for design, select a storage couch with reversible cushions or modular sections that can be rearranged for guest seating or a makeshift bed. This flexibility makes your living area adaptable for various occasions, from movie nights to accommodating overnight guests.
Another option is to invest in multi-use furniture pieces, like ottomans with storage, which is also an affordable apartment storage idea without compromising style.
10 – Use Wall Space
Don’t underestimate how you can go vertical to create more storage space! The more you can get things off the ground and up into a vertical space, the better! Using more wall space will ensure that your furniture pieces and floors don’t get too overcrowded. Consider how you’re using your wall space and get creative with a few new ideas! Utilize your walls with shelves, hanging pictures, hooks, and more.
Transform your walls into versatile storage showcases by installing magnetic strips or pegboards. This approach not only declutters your drawers and countertops by elevating tools, kitchen gadgets, or art supplies but also infuses your space with an interactive, ever-evolving gallery.
11 – Implement Floating Shelves
Floating shelves do wonders for a small space! If you need several more areas to place your belongings, you will want to incorporate floating shelves into your layout. The beauty of floating shelves is that they can be easily installed and make your space appear much bigger. They don’t take up the space of standing shelving units. It’s also very convenient for getting your belongings off the ground and into a higher area.
Add under-shelf lighting to floating shelves for a warm, inviting glow that highlights decorative items and creates ambiance. This subtle enhancement brings depth to your decor and can illuminate dark corners, making your space feel larger and more welcoming.
Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer floating shelves in various sizes and finishes, catering to different styles and storage needs. Floating shelves can be used in living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens to store and display items, thereby freeing up floor space.
12- Master Decluttering
Regularly sort through your belongings to keep only what you truly need and love. This isn’t just about tossing things out; it’s about making room for your life to flourish. Start by setting aside some time each week to go through different areas of your home. You’ll be surprised at how much you can part with, and even more so at how liberating it feels.
Once you’ve pared down your possessions, categorizing and labeling them is your next move. Think of it as putting together a puzzle where every piece fits perfectly. Use clear bins and labels to store items logically—seasonal clothes, holiday decorations, or sentimental keepsakes.
This method doesn’t just save you time when you’re looking for something; it also keeps your space tidy and stress-free. Imagine opening your closet or looking under your bed and knowing exactly where everything is. Remember the old saying, ” a place for everything and everything in its place.”
13- DIY Storage Hacks
Let’s look at DIY hacks that are not only budget-friendly, but also bring a personal touch to your residence. Implementing DIY apartment storage ideas can add a personal touch to your space while solving storage dilemmas. Consider this: old wooden crates that were once destined for the garbage have been turned into stylish bookshelves or plant stands. With a little sanding and some paint, these crates may become the focal point of your living room or balcony, providing both storage and flair. It’s all about seeing the possibilities in everyday objects and repurposing them with a little imagination and elbow grease.
Consider empty jars and cans, which are frequently discarded without a second thought, being repurposed as trendy organizers. Wrap them in colorful fabric or rope to create a set of elegant containers for keeping kitchen utensils, pens, or even beauty brushes. This method not only eliminates waste but also allows you to tailor your storage options to your apartment’s aesthetic. It’s a simple yet practical solution to add more storage without sacrificing style or breaking the money.
Hidden Storage Treasures for Apartment Residents
Maximizing Under-Sink Storage: Did you know that the space under your sink can be transformed into a highly organized storage area? With the use of tension rods installed horizontally, you can hang cleaning supplies and free up the bottom area for stackable bins.
Magnetic Spice Racks: Imagine reclaiming your kitchen counter space by moving your spices to a magnetic board on the wall or the side of a refrigerator. This innovative storage solution not only saves space but also turns your spice collection into a visually appealing display.
Over-the-Fridge Storage: The top of your refrigerator might be an underutilized space that’s perfect for storing less frequently used items or bulk purchases. By adding a shelf or cabinet above the fridge, you can make use of this vertical space, keeping your kitchen more organized and your counters clutter-free.
Convertible Furniture: Furniture that transforms and serves multiple purposes can be a game-changer in small apartments. Did you know there are coffee tables that convert into dining tables or desks? This type of furniture allows you to adapt your living space to your needs without requiring additional square footage for each function.
Vertical Garden Towers: For those who love plants but lack the floor space, vertical garden towers offer a solution that beautifies while saving space. These towers allow you to grow herbs, flowers, or even vegetables in a compact vertical structure, adding greenery and freshness to your apartment without sacrificing valuable floor area.
These creative and useful storage ideas for apartments can help apartment residents organize, make their homes more efficient, and look better. These tips offer creative ways to use every inch of storage space. These methods may turn tiny apartments into big, orderly houses, illustrating that with a little imagination, you can improve your living space. This technique increases quality of life and enables customization and personalization in small places, making your flat seem like home.
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Categorised in: Apartment Living
This post was written by Isabella Housel
Isabella Housel is a passionate and versatile professional writer with a deep love for words and a commitment to crafting compelling content that engages, informs, and inspires. With many years of experience in the industry, she has honed her skills across various genres, from creative storytelling to informative articles and technical documentation.