2017

Eight Storage Fixes for Your Home

Learning to use space more effectively can make your house roomier. These tips should help you clear theclutter by finding new, creative spaces for storage.

1. Underneath the Bed

There's a huge amount of space under the bed, but because it's wide and not very deep it isn't easy to use. Large, flat boxes are perfect for this space. Some beds come with built-in storage and may be built slightly higher than normal to maximize the space.

2. Under the Stairs

To make better use of the wasted space under the stairs, fit it with shelves or open it up to create a deep bookcase. More work is required to open up the void under the stairs and fill it with drawers or shelves, but the investment can be worthwhile because you'll get a design highlight and additional storage.

3. Folding Chairs and Tables

Folding tables free up space when they're not in use. Built-in folding tables are easy to install. Folding chairs can also save on space if you need extra chairs only for occasional events; some are designed so you can hang them on the wall when not in use.

4. Wall Hooks

Hooks in the hall are good for hanging up coats and umbrellas; hooks in the kitchen can hold mugs, cooking equipment, and tea towels. But you can be much more creative than that; hang a musical instrument, such as a guitar, on the wall to keep it out of the way and provide decoration at the same time. Beautifully and efficiently organize necklaces on hooks in your bedroom.

5. Behind the Door

Don't forget to use the back of cupboard doors. In the kitchen you can add spice racks, hooks, or racks for pot lids. Awkward things like vacuum cleaner attachments can be clipped onto the back of closet doors to keep them tidy.

6. Storage on Wheels

Storage on wheels can be easily moved or pushed away under a table when it isn't needed. It's much easier to wheel out a chest of drawers when children want to play than to drag a trunk full of toys around the house.

7. Pack Away Unused Items

Alternate your winter and summer wardrobes to free up closet space. In summer, pack away your sweaters and jackets in long-term storage, for instance under the bed or in sealed boxes in the loft. Do the reverse when cooler weather arrives.

8. Organize under the Sink

Put small drawers or even re-purposed organizers inside the cabinet under the bathroom or kitchen sink to better organize your things. No longer will you have to pull everything out to find that spare scrubbing brush.

The Militello Team