These 20 Small-Space Storage Ideas Are So Smart (and Easy to Copy)
Living in a small space means getting creative with storage — and sometimes the best ideas are also the simplest. From smart furniture swaps to surprising ways to use everyday items, these are tried-and-true solutions we’ve featured on Apartment Therapy that show how even the tiniest corners of your home can be put to work. Here are some of our favorite small-space storage ideas to try in every room of your home.
All Around the Home
Repurpose everyday hardware for storage.
Some of the smartest storage solutions come from rethinking everyday fixtures. A toilet paper holder, for example, can be mounted just about anywhere and used far beyond the bathroom. In the kitchen, it’s perfect for hanging paper towels, dish towels, or even lightweight baskets for produce. In a closet, it can corral scarves, belts, handbags, or small bins for accessories. And in any room that needs a little extra storage (like laundry closets, entryways, or craft corners) this simple wall-mounted piece offers an easy, low-profile way to get items off surfaces and onto the wall.
Utilize vertical storage.
Take advantage of your wall space by going vertical. Pegboards, floating shelves, stacked cube organizers, or even tall bookcases can instantly give you more room without eating up square footage. The higher you go, the less clutter you’ll encounter at eye level.
Store things behind doors (including cabinets!).
The back of a door is prime real estate. Add an over-the-door rack, a hanging pocket organizer, or even adhesive hooks to hold everything from cleaning supplies to hair tools. Cabinet doors can also stash cutting boards, lids, or foil boxes.
Use furniture that doubles as storage.
Opt for pieces that pull double duty: an ottoman with a hidden compartment, a coffee table with drawers, or a bed frame with built-in cubbies. These choices cut down on clutter while keeping everyday items close at hand.
Think outside the box when it comes to storage.
Some of the best organizing ideas come from reimagining everyday items in totally new ways. A garden hose holder, for instance, can become a storage caddy, or a toilet paper holder can serve as a kitchen storage gem.
Use a storage ladder.
Leaning ladders aren’t just decorative — they’re practical. Use storage ladders to drape throw blankets in the living room on it, hang towels in the bathroom over it, or clip baskets onto the rungs for entryway catch-alls.
Hang hooks.
Hooks are one of the simplest ways to add order. Try adhesive hooks inside closets, Command strips for seasonal gear, or wall-mounted versions to corral bags and coats. They can be temporary or permanent, depending on your needs.
Bathroom
Add a rack for towels.
Mounted towel racks, ladder racks, or even towel organizers that expand can free up drawer space and keep towels from piling up. Go vertical to make the most of a small bathroom wall.
Use a slim rolling cart.
A slender cart tucks neatly between the sink and toilet, offering a spot for toilet paper, extra toiletries, or cleaning supplies. Wheels make it easy to slide out when needed.
Utilize over-the-toilet space.
The area above your toilet is a forgotten zone that’s actually perfect for shelving, baskets, or cabinets. It’s the best way to add serious storage without sacrificing floor space.
Bedroom & Closet
Use storage bins for the closet top shelf.
The highest shelf in your closet doesn’t have to be wasted space. Organize your closet by lining the top shelf with sturdy bins or baskets; it’s the perfect spot for storing out-of-season clothes, extra linens, or accessories. Matching containers make it feel intentional while keeping everything easy to grab.
Add a tiered rack (for shoes and anything else).
Tiered racks aren’t just for shoes — they can hold sweaters, handbags, or folded jeans. They instantly multiply surface area inside a closet or along a wall.
Use vacuum bags to store seasonal items.
Bulky coats and bedding shrink down dramatically in vacuum bags. Stash them under the bed or on a closet shelf until next season rolls around.
Utilize under-bed space.
Don’t let this hidden zone go to waste. Low bins, rolling drawers, or fabric under-bed storage bags are perfect for shoes, linens, or out-of-season items.
Rethink your bedside table.
Instead of a standard nightstand, try a small dresser, bar cart, or wall-mounted shelf. You’ll gain more drawers and surfaces without crowding the room.
Boost your bed’s storage potential.
Beds with built-in drawers or lift-up frames turn sleeping space into storage gold. They’re especially useful in studios or rooms without big closets.
Kitchen
Repurpose kitchen cabinets for storage.
If you’re lucky enough to have extra cabinet space, put it to work beyond cookware. Cabinets can hold hosting supplies (like extra vases), craft bins, or even cleaning products — giving you bonus storage where you need it most.
Install pull-out shelves in deep cabinets.
Sliding shelves bring items out into the light, so you’re not digging through the back of a dark cabinet. They’re a game-changer for pots, pans, and pantry goods.
Stick magnetic organizers to your fridge.
The sides of your fridge can double as storage with magnetic shelves, hooks, or spice racks. They free up counter space and keep everyday items right where you need them.
Maximize your storage with stackable bins.
Stackable bins provide you with more room in cabinets or on counters to store things like produce or snacks. Clear or wire versions let you see everything at a glance.