When space is tight, optimizing storage is a good way to keep clutter neatly tucked away and create a feeling of organization. When it comes to small spaces or a lack of proper storage, there are easy steps you can take to maximize storage.

Use the Backs of Doors
Utilizing the space behind a door is not an uncommon concept. For centuries, people have installed knobs and hooks to hang coats on entryways, but utilizing the backs of doors doesn’t have to stop with the front and back entries to your home. Every doorway in your home, from bedrooms and bathrooms to laundry rooms, can serve as a space to store essential items. Whether you use store-bought, over-the-door hangers to hold towels and robes or pre-made shoe racks that hang on the backs of doors, you can easily declutter crowded closets and cabinets. HGTV recommends over the door storage units to stash cleaning supplies and other essential items.

Consider Vertical Shelving
In many houses, apartments, and condominiums, vertical space is typically overlooked. Fortunately, vertical shelving can make quite a difference in optimizing one’s storage according to Good Housekeeping. For instance, floating shelves or decorative shelving units that sit on the floor and rise upward can hold an array of common household items. An over-the-toilet shelving unit is a great space for storing extra toilet paper and toiletries while floating shelves with decorative baskets can hold less used items.

Invest in Multipurpose Furniture
For bedrooms and living rooms, multipurpose furniture is a great way to optimize storage without making your home look sterile. Bedding units with built-in shelving and hollow ottomans make great spaces to keep extra linens, winter clothes, and even DVDs or books. If you’re in need of new furniture, look for items with built in shelves or hollowed spaces to hold light items.

Buy Chic and Decorative Storage Containers
Storage containers don’t have to be drab or sterile plastic bins. According to HGTV, your storage containers can look like decorative vases and vessels. Ornamental wicker baskets can house light items such as dirty laundry or throw blankets. This means that you can place storage virtually anywhere because items are concealed in decorative receptacles.

Place Storage Baskets in Deep Cabinets and Drawers
In deep cabinets or drawers, space is often underutilized and can even become cluttered. To make deep storage spaces more functional, you can use desk drawer dividers or medium-sized baskets to organize items, while also allowing for easy access to items at the back. For those more DIY inclined, Good Housekeeping recommends installing drawers that roll out within deep shelves.

Optimizing Storage for Small Spaces by Lindsey Chamberlain | Coldwell Banker Blue Matter