As the New Year begins, many of us are looking for ways to bring order to our homes. That’s particularly true for bedrooms, which are supposed to be a peaceful place to rest and recharge, but often double as a storage hub, home office or – when it comes to your kids – a chaotic dumping ground for toys, sports equipment, homework and more.
With a few smart storage strategies, you can improve the form and function of your family’s bedrooms, giving everyone a space that fits their style and all their stuff.
Low-cost solutions
- Under-bed storage. One of the easiest ways to maximize space is to utilize the often-overlooked area under the bed. Invest in affordable storage bins or fabric storage bags to stow away seasonal clothing, extra linens, or shoes. For a budget-friendly option, repurpose cardboard boxes and cover them with decorative paper for a clean look.
- Over-the-door organizers. Over-the-door organizers are perfect for storing shoes, accessories, or even office supplies. Choose ones with clear pockets for easy visibility or opt for sleek fabric designs to complement your bedroom decor.
- Floating shelves. Wall-mounted floating shelves can turn unused vertical space into functional storage. Use them to display books, plants, or decorative boxes that can hold small items like jewelry or stationery. Floating shelves are both stylish and inexpensive, making them a great addition to any bedroom.
- DIY closet dividers. Maximize your closet’s storage potential by adding tension rods or hooks to create zones for different items. For example, hang scarves, belts, or bags on small hooks. Add a second rod below your main clothing rack to double your hanging space.
- Stackable storage. Look for stackable bins or drawers that can fit into corners or under desks. These modular systems allow you to customize your storage and are ideal for small bedrooms doubling as home offices.
Custom storage solutions
- Built-in wardrobes. If your budget allows, built-in wardrobes offer a sleek and efficient way to manage bedroom storage. Tailor the design to include hanging rods, drawers, and shelves for a mix of storage options. Include dedicated compartments for office supplies if your bedroom doubles as a workspace.
- Custom headboards with storage. Headboards with built-in shelves or compartments are a stylish way to add functionality to your bedroom. They provide an easy-to-reach space for books, gadgets, or decorative items without taking up extra floor space.
- Murphy beds. For bedrooms that serve multiple purposes, a Murphy bed can be a game-changer. These wall-mounted beds fold up when not in use, freeing up floor space for a desk or other furniture. Add built-in shelves around the Murphy bed for additional storage.
- Sliding door closets. Upgrade your standard closet doors to sliding doors with built-in mirrors or additional shelving. This saves space while enhancing the room’s functionality and aesthetics.
- Custom desk solutions. In bedrooms doubling as home offices, a custom-built desk with integrated storage can help keep your workspace tidy. Look for designs that include pull-out drawers, cable management systems, and shelves for office supplies.
Tips for making the most of your space
- Declutter regularly. Before investing in storage solutions, go through your belongings and donate or discard items you no longer need.
- Use multi-functional furniture. Opt for ottomans with hidden compartments, beds with storage drawers, or desks with built-in organizers.
- Label everything. Use labels or color-coded systems to make finding items easier and keep your space organized.
- Maximize vertical space. From wall-mounted hooks to tall shelving units, vertical storage is key in small bedrooms.
- Keep essentials accessible. Store frequently used items in easily accessible areas while tucking away less-used belongings.
Whether you’re working with a small space or a room that serves multiple functions, these ideas will help you create a more functional and serene environment. Embrace the New Year with a refreshed and organized space that works for you.