Small space, big ideas! Genius storage hacks for tiny spaces

Written by: Lisa Salem

As a Professional Organizer, I work in a variety of homes, ranging anywhere from compact and cozy, to incredibly spacious. While it may seem challenging, creating extra storage in even the smallest of spaces is definitely possible, with a bit of creativity and the right products.

When trying to maximize space in your home, the first thing I always advise my clients to do is declutter. If there are any items you no longer use, wear, or love, decide if they are actually worth taking up the space to store them. Memorabilia and sentimental items can also be gone through at this point, but will typically be more time-consuming since there are stronger emotions attached. It's a good idea to have some additional time set aside if you plan to tackle these. Old paperwork can also contribute to a ton of clutter in homes, so shredding or recycling anything that is no longer relevant is a great way to free up more space.

Many homes are also filled with items people hold onto simply because they feel guilty letting go of them. Some of these can include gifts received from friends, family, or colleagues, or items of loved ones who have passed away. Here is your friendly reminder – you are absolutely allowed to let go of any items that do not serve you, no matter who they were from. While this can be a difficult process, it's okay to allow yourself to let go of the guilt. Donate or re-gift anything you don't feel the need to keep, so these items can be put to good use and enjoyed by others. You should really only hang on to things you will actually use, or ones that truly bring you joy.

Some of my favorite space-saving solutions and products

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• Use as much wall space as possible. Add 3M hooks (or other specialty hooks) to any wall in your home to store anything from coats, to keys, purses, towels, backpacks, and more. Install pegboards (or slatwall systems) to storage rooms, garages, or play areas to hang items such as tools, sports gear, rakes, or even NERF guns!
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• Place a hall tree near your front or back door to create extra storage for shoes, backpacks, outdoor gear, and reusable bags. Opt for a narrow style if space is super tight. Cube shelves are also a versatile addition to any room, without compromising on a ton of space. Toy hammocks added to walls in kids’ rooms are also a great way to keep stuffed animals at bay.
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• Rolling carts are incredibly versatile. These carts are nothing short of amazing. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, and can be used in so many different ways. They can further save space by being tucked away under a desk or table when not in use. They are also great for use in kitchens – for storing spices, extra soda cans, snacks, or other small items, as well as in bathrooms (IKEA sells an amazing skinny version) to store extra hair, makeup, or bath products. Rolling carts also work well in playrooms, craft rooms, or even offices.
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• Purchase stacking totes in the same size. When choosing storage solutions, it's ideal to buy bins that are the same size so they can stack neatly on top of each other, especially if you are storing along a wall. If you are going to use shelving units to store totes, make sure to research the measurements before purchasing to ensure a proper fit. Remember to label as you go to avoid re-purchasing something you know you have but couldn't find because it was in an unlabelled bin!
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• Use over-the-door hangers/slim hangers in closets. Instantly create extra storage by adding over-the-door hangers to any room in your home. These work amazing in bathrooms, pantries, and bedrooms, and they come in a variety of styles to store everything from shoes, snacks, hair accessories, ball caps, purses, belts, and scarves. The ones with numerous compartments work great for categorizing small toys. 
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• If you lack closet space, go with slim hangers or ones that can accommodate multiple items on them.
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• Pick up some riser shelves. These work great in any space where you have extra vertical space you want to use such as pantries, cupboards, hallway closets, underneath sinks, etc. They are available in various sizes, and IKEA carries a version that is perfect if you have wire shelving!
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• Choose furniture pieces that have built-in storage. There are so many options these days to purchase beds, ottomans, and benches that contain extra storage. Consider buying a bed with drawers that pull out to store extra clothing and linens, or a front entryway bench that opens up to store your outdoor gear.
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To conclude, the truth is you don't always need more space; you either need less stuff, or simply a better-planned-out space with the ideal products for your current layout to achieve the best results.

Lisa is a mom of two and a Trained Professional Organizer. She is the owner of Light at The End of The Clutter Professional Organizing Services. For more information, visit her Instagram page at - Light at The End of The Clutter or her website, lightattheendoftheclutter.com.

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• Level up your storage room with these organizing tips!
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• Quick Storage Solutions For Everyday Things
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• Stylish storage solutions for your kids' stuff 
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