There are few things more frustrating in a home than a lack of storage space. Homes with little storage space can feel cluttered, confusing, and even stressful, and this becomes even more of an issue when you are dealing with a small house or apartment with little floor space. Luckily, storage space is often more of a matter of ingenuity than expense, and there are plenty of ways to boost your space and beautify your home without breaking the bank.
1. Make the Most of Every Gap
There is probably more storage space in your home than you realize, even if your cupboards and wardrobes are overflowing. For example, are you using all the space underneath your furniture? HGTV has some great suggestions on maximizing under bed storage, but even dressers, desks, and end tables may be hiding some valuable space. If your sofa is due for an upgrade soon, look for discount models that have built-in storage for maximum efficiency.
2. Get Hacking
IKEA hacking is a DIY trend where people take cheap flat-pack furniture and “hack” it to suit their specific needs and tastes. The result is storage that is not only made to measure for your home, but that doesn’t actually look like something you picked out at IKEA. Some of these projects are more elaborate and suited to someone who can handle a power tool, but even something as simple as spray paint can make your budget storage solutions look expensive. This article by The Spruce has 21 IKEA hacks to boost storage in a small bedroom, ranging from practical tips to full plans worthy of a home magazine. However, the possibilities are endless here, so this is your opportunity to get creative. And while IKEA is already a more reasonably-priced furniture retailer, they still have special offers and scratch-and-dent sections in their stores. A little extra digging online or in person can yield some great deals.
3. Don’t Neglect the Major Retailers
Of course, budget-friendly storage solutions don’t necessarily have to be DIY. You can shop for stylish and convenient options at major home retailers and still get a great deal. You can get plenty of coupons and discounts at stores like Bed Bath & Beyond or Target, not to mention cashback rewards and in-store deals, by looking online.
4. Declutter
While there are plenty of ways to maximize your storage space on a budget, you shouldn’t neglect the option of reducing the amount of stuff you need stored, either. Cutting down on clutter is probably the easiest way to make your space feel bigger, so set aside a day to get rid of anything you don’t use, want, or need.
For items you decide to keep, opt for streamlined storage that works with your space. Retailers like The Container Store and Crate and Barrel have plenty of decorative storage solutions that provide extra bang for your buck. Just be sure to boost your purchase savings by checking out sales and online promotions before you buy.
5. Put Up Shelves
If it feels like you are running out of floor space, start thinking vertically. A few shelves on your wall can serve as both useful storage and pretty decoration, as long as you choose items that you want to highlight. This can be especially useful in kitchens and bathrooms if your cupboard space is limited, but it does come with its downsides. You’ll have to dust the items on your shelves more regularly, and there is more potential for spills and breakages, so think about these potential risks before you start drilling. When shopping for shelving, look for sales on at home improvement stores like Home Depot or Lowes. Some quick research can yield additional savings if you check out weekly sales and top deals before you shop.
As you can see, improving your home’s storage doesn’t have to be expensive or even difficult. All it takes is some planning, research, and clever thinking to get the storage space you’ve always dreamed of. Before you know it, you’ll be itching to flood your Instagram feed with pictures of your perfectly organized shelf wall or bargain vintage-style storage trunk.
Article by Julian Lane
Photo by: Pixabay
