Space-Saving Ideas

A little creativity can help you save a lot of space

By Theresa Leschmann

Photo by iStockphoto.com

Creating extra storage space in your home can be accomplished by making some changes or adding some functional furniture to your decor. Adding the right piece of multipurpose furniture or the appropriate storage accessory to a wall, cabinet or room can take it from a cluttered mess to an organized place of comfort and convenience.

Bedroom Storage Ideas

Use the space under the bed with pull-out drawers or storage bins designed to fit in this space. Store seasonal clothing or extra blankets in unused luggage. Wall hangings with pockets or similar ones for over the door are ideal for storing scarves, socks and accessories. In children's rooms, these can also store small toys. Loft beds with dressers and desks that fit under the bed conserve a great deal of floor space. Corner hammocks provide a collection place for stuffed animals. Prop up your bed with bed risers to create more space under the bed.

Kitchen Storage Ideas

Use lazy Susans in corner cabinets to make the rear of the cabinet more accessible. Use decorative crocks on the counter for storing utensils to free up drawer space. Pot racks, grid systems or even a few hooks can make use of wall space for storing cookware or bakeware. Mount under-cabinet racks or shelves for displaying stemware or adding additional shelf space. Hooks under the cabinet can hold everyday coffee mugs. Install pull-out shelves or baskets in deep cabinets to make use of the deepest spaces. Make use of stacking platforms in taller cabinets to use dead space above dishes.

Bathroom Storage Ideas

Locate a toilet tank magazine rack that allows you to keep books and magazines on the side of the tank. Attach storage racks to the inside of cabinet doors to hold cleaners or hairspray and shaving cream canisters. Affix one or two wall-mounted, wire wine racks on the wall. Use each wine bottle opening to store a rolled up bath towel, hand towel or wash cloth. Shampoo and conditioner bottles may fit in the openings as well.

Multipurpose Furniture

Coffee and side tables with drawers or cabinets can store magazines, movies and remote controls. Old trunks and blanket chests can act as tables and store blankets and pillows at the same time. A sleeper sofa can make a living room into a guest room at a moment's notice. Ottomans and benches with hinged tops can provide additional storage spaces. Consider a couch with storage drawers or compartments under the cushions. Armoires can be converted to entertainment units with storage below for accessories or into desks that close up when not in use.