Living in a small space doesn’t have to mean living in a cluttered space. In fact, with the right tools and hacks, you can transform your tiny abode into an organized, spacious-feeling sanctuary. In this post, we’ll share 16 clever decluttering hacks specifically designed for tiny spaces.
Whether you’re downsizing, moving into a micro-apartment, or just trying to make the most of a small room, these tips can help you maximize your space and minimize your clutter.
1. Utilize Vertical Space
When floor space is at a premium, it’s time to think vertically. Shelves, hooks, and wall-mounted storage systems can provide plenty of additional storage without compromising your living area.
For example, you might install floating shelves above your desk or bed to hold books, decorative items, or baskets full of miscellaneous items. Hooks on the back of doors or inside closets can hold anything from jackets and hats to jewelry and scarves. And wall-mounted racks can keep everything from kitchen utensils to bathroom products neatly organized and easily accessible.
2. Choose Furniture with Built-In Storage
When space is limited, it’s essential to make every piece of furniture count. That’s where furniture with built-in storage comes in handy.
Think ottomans with hidden compartments, beds with drawers underneath, or coffee tables with shelves or cubbies. These pieces not only serve their primary function, but they also provide additional storage to help keep your space clutter-free. You could store anything from blankets and pillows to books and games in these hidden spaces.
3. Use Multipurpose Items
In a small space, versatility is key. The more functions a single item can serve, the fewer items you’ll need overall, which can significantly reduce clutter.
Consider investing in items like a futon or sofa bed, which can serve as both seating and a guest bed, or a dining table that can double as a workspace. Even small items, like a stool that can serve as a side table or extra seating, can make a big difference.
4. Use Door Space
Don’t overlook the backs of your doors when it comes to storage. Over-the-door organizers can be a real lifesaver in a small space.
For example, a simple shoe organizer on the back of your closet or bedroom door can hold much more than just shoes. Use it to store anything from accessories and toiletries to cleaning supplies and craft materials. Similarly, an over-the-door towel rack in the bathroom can provide extra storage for towels, robes, and even jewelry.
5. Opt for Stackable or Foldable Items
Stackable and foldable items can be a game changer when it comes to saving space. When not in use, these items can be condensed and tucked away, freeing up valuable room.
For example, consider using stackable storage bins for off-season clothing or seldom-used items. Or opt for folding chairs and tables that can be put away when you’re not entertaining. Even items like collapsible kitchenware or foldable laundry hampers can make a significant difference in a small space.
6. Use Drawer Organizers
Drawers can easily become a dumping ground for miscellaneous items. However, with the help of drawer organizers, you can create a designated spot for everything.
For example, use a desk drawer organizer to separate office supplies like pens, sticky notes, and paper clips. Or use a utensil tray to keep your kitchen drawers tidy. Even a simple divider in your underwear drawer can make a big difference in keeping your space organized and clutter-free.
7. Use Under-Bed Storage
The space under your bed can provide a significant amount of storage, particularly if you’re in a small apartment or studio. By using flat storage bins or drawers, you can easily store items like off-season clothing, shoes, or linens.
For example, you could use a large, flat bin to store your summer clothes during the winter months. Or use smaller bins to organize shoes, bags, or other items. Just be sure to label everything clearly so you can easily find what you need.
8. Use Baskets and Bins
Baskets and bins are not only practical for storage, but they can also add to the aesthetic of your space. They can be used in just about any room and can hold a wide variety of items.
For example, a large wicker basket in the living room could hold throw blankets or magazines, while smaller bins in the bathroom could hold toiletries or towels. Even in the kitchen, baskets and bins can be used to store and organize items like spices, baking ingredients, or tea bags.
9. Use a Magnetic Strip
A magnetic strip can be a handy tool for storing small items. It can be used in the kitchen for knives, in the bathroom for tweezers and nail clippers, or in the office for scissors and paperclips.
For example, a magnetic strip in the kitchen can free up valuable drawer space by providing a spot for knives and other metal utensils. Similarly, a magnetic strip in the bathroom can help keep small items like tweezers, nail clippers, and bobby pins organized and easily accessible.
10. Use a Pegboard
A pegboard is a versatile storage solution that can be used in just about any room. It can be customized to fit your specific needs, and it can easily be changed or updated as those needs change.
For example, a pegboard in the kitchen could hold pots and pans, utensils, or dish towels. In the office, it could hold stationery items, a calendar, or even a small shelf. And in the craft room, it could hold tools, yarn, or other crafting supplies.
11. Use Rolling Storage
Rolling storage is a flexible and movable solution that can be especially useful in small spaces. It can be tucked away when not in use, and easily rolled out when needed.
For example, a rolling cart in the kitchen could hold extra pantry items, cookware, or small appliances. In the bathroom, it could hold toiletries, towels, or cleaning supplies. And in the office, it could hold office supplies, paper, or a printer.
12. Use a Hanging Closet Organizer
A hanging closet organizer can provide additional storage space without taking up any extra room. It can hold a variety of items, from clothing and accessories to shoes and bags.
For example, you could use one to organize your sweaters, jeans, or t-shirts. Or use one to hold your shoes, freeing up valuable floor space in your closet. You could even use one in the bathroom to hold towels, toiletries, or hair styling tools.
13. Use a Bedside Caddy
A bedside caddy is a handy tool for keeping essentials within reach without cluttering up your nightstand. It can hold items like your phone, glasses, a book, or a water bottle.
For example, instead of crowding your nightstand with these items, you could keep them neatly tucked away in a caddy. This not only keeps your essentials organized and easy to find, but it also frees up valuable space on your nightstand for a lamp, alarm clock, or decorative items.
14. Use a Shower Caddy
A shower caddy can help keep your bathroom organized by providing a designated spot for your toiletries. It can hold items like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, a razor, and a loofah.
For example, instead of cluttering up the edges of your bathtub or shower with these items, you could keep them neatly organized in a caddy. This not only keeps your bathroom looking tidy, but it also makes your morning routine more efficient.
15. Use a Lazy Susan
A lazy Susan is a great tool for maximizing storage in tight spaces. It can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, or even the office to provide easy access to items.
For example, in the kitchen, you could use a lazy Susan in a cabinet to store and easily access spices, condiments, or baking ingredients. In the bathroom, it could hold toiletries or makeup. And in the office, it could hold office supplies like pens, sticky notes, or paper clips.
16. Use a Trunk or Chest
A trunk or chest can provide a significant amount of storage while also serving as a decorative piece. It can be used in the living room to store blankets, pillows, or board games, or in the bedroom to store off-season clothing or extra bedding.
For example, a vintage trunk in the living room could hold extra blankets and pillows, while also serving as a unique and stylish coffee table. Or a wicker chest in the bedroom could store extra bedding or off-season clothing, while also providing a seat for putting on shoes.
