17 Ways to Organize a Small House with No Storage
In every small house, there’s hidden potential for incredible storage solutions. You just need to know where to look and how to make the most of every inch. Whether you’re wrestling with a lack of closets or simply trying to find a spot for everything, I’ve got you covered.
From clever furniture hacks to savvy use of vertical space, these 17 tips will transform your small home into an organized, clutter-free haven. So, let’s dive in and unlock the secrets of organizing a small house with no storage. No more feeling overwhelmed; it’s time to make your space work for you!
Declutter Your Belongings
Identify unnecessary items; be ruthless. Sort through belongings categorizing them into keep, sell, donate, or discard. Utilize clear, stackable bins to visibly organize what you’ve chosen to retain. Maintain a clutter-free zone by regularly reassessing possessions and adhering to a one-in, one-out rule.
Make Your Furniture Pull Double-Duty
In a small house, optimize your space by choosing furniture that offers additional storage. A storage ottoman can keep your items hidden and serve as a seating option. Consider a sofa with built-in drawers for spare linens, or a bed with drawers underneath for clothing. Your coffee table could feature shelves or cubbies, ideal for books or decorative items. Turn to a mirror that doubles as a jewelry cabinet to stylishly conceal valuables.
Hang Large Wall Hooks
Enhance your small space by installing large wall hooks. They’re perfect for hanging coats, bags, and even chairs. Align them strategically to utilize vertical areas efficiently, crafting an organized look. Choose hooks that complement your decor to add both style and function.
Use Wire Shelves in Closet Nooks
Transform unused nooks in your closet by installing wire shelves. Maximize vertical space by adjusting the shelves to fit different item heights. Store your accessories, shoes, or folded clothing neatly categorized. This efficient use of space lets you organize effectively, keeping your items accessible and your small house clutter-free.
Build Shallow Shelves Behind Doors
Maximize your storage by installing shallow shelves behind doors. Firstly, measure the space between the door hinge and the wall, leaving a gap of about one inch for clearance. Use 1×4 lumber to create a frame that fits snugly into this space. To accommodate various items, opt for adjustable shelf heights, assembling them with shelf pins or brackets. Remember to account for any baseboards that might require removal and cutting. Finish the shelves with your chosen paint or stain to blend with your room’s decor.
Store Seasonal Clothes in Suitcases
Maximize your space by storing seasonal clothing in suitcases. Vacuum-seal bags can compress garments, making room for more. Label each suitcase for easy identification, and tuck them under beds or stack in closets. This approach keeps your items dust-free and organized without requiring extra storage furniture.
Build a Display Shelf Over the Door
Maximize your space by installing an over-the-door shelf. First, measure the door’s width to cut a shelf board, like a 2×8, to fit snugly above it. Wrap the cut board with trim—consider base cap molding for a polished look. Attach triangular brackets to the wall or door casing for support. Secure your new shelf with screws placed discreetly from above, ensuring stability. You’ve created not just storage, but a decorative display area to organize and stylize your belongings with ease.
Install a Shelf and Clothes Rod in The Laundry Room
Maximize your laundry space with a shelf above your washer or dryer. This creates additional storage for essentials and keeps items within reach. Below, a clothes rod enables you to hang garments as soon as they leave the dryer, preventing wrinkles and saving on ironing time.
Clear Flat Surfaces
In organizing a small house with minimal storage, maintaining clear flat surfaces is crucial. You enhance both functionality and aesthetics by keeping counters, tables, and other flat areas clutter-free. Follow these strategies:
- Prioritize Items: Only keep everyday essentials out.
- Storage Containers: Utilize decorative baskets or containers to group items.
- Regular Maintenance: Allocate time daily to clear and wipe down surfaces.
This disciplined approach creates a more spacious and welcoming environment in your home.
Utilize Vertical Space
Maximize your wall real estate by installing high shelves. They offer out-of-the-way storage and free up the floor. Consider wall-mounted hooks and racks; they are perfect for hanging clothes and accessories. Use stackable bins to categorize items and draw the eye upward, enhancing the perception of space. Keep the look coherent with matching or complimentary colors and materials.
Organize Cabinets and Closets
Cabinets:
- Maximize vertical space by installing tiered shelves.
- Use clear bins to group items and remove visual clutter.
Closets:
- Assign items to specific zones; hang daily outfits at eye level.
- Install hooks on the back of doors for accessory storage.
Develop a Plan for Future Purchases
When living in a small space, each purchase deserves careful consideration. Adopt the one in, one out rule: for every new item you bring home, ensure an old one departs. Strategically plan your shopping with the following guidelines:
- Essentiality: Prioritize items based on necessity.
- Size: Opt for compact, multifunctional pieces.
- Frequency of Use: Infrequently used items should rarely make the cut.
Consider Adding a Short Dresser or Plastic Drawer Units
In a small house with scarce storage, a short dresser offers both a surface for décor and essential drawers. It can slip under windows or into closets, maximizing unused space effectively. Meanwhile, plastic drawer units are affordable and versatile; they can be tucked into tight spots or even hidden away in existing furniture. Select clear drawers for easy content identification or opt for colored ones to add a personal touch to your space.
Use Shelf Dividers with Totes in Between
Maximize your shelf utility by inserting shelf dividers to create distinct sections. Place totes snugly between these dividers, transforming them into makeshift drawers that conceal clutter. This not only organizes items but also facilitates easy retrieval. Remember to label each tote for quick identification.
Make Zones in Larger Rooms
In your spacious room, designate areas for distinct functions. Use room dividers, furniture placement, or area rugs to demarcate the sections. Your combined spaces — such as a half office, half relaxation nook — will be visually distinct yet flow seamlessly.
Choose Multifunctional Furniture
In a small house, every inch counts, so opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes. A sofa bed transforms your living space into a guest room in seconds. Consider a coffee table with drawers for hidden storage, or select ottomans that open up to keep linens or books. For dining, a drop-leaf table can expand for meals and shrink back down to free up space. Choose pieces that work hard for your home, maximizing utility and style.
Use a Storage Ottoman that Doubles as An End Table
In your small home, every piece should be functional. Choose a storage ottoman that serves as an end table. Inside, hide blankets or books. Strategically place it beside your sofa to maximize utility and aesthetics, ensuring a clutter-free and cozy space.
