The Top 47 Small Apartment Storage Ideas
Just because you live in a small apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a stylish and well-designed home. You just need to get creative with your decorating and storage solutions.
Because you are working with a small space, you can’t just buy a storage unit or piece of furniture and call it a day. Instead, you need to look for multiple functional pieces, look for hidden storage, and wasted space.
These small apartment storage ideas will help you make the most of your small apartment.
1. Standalone Bathroom Shelving Unit
Living in a small apartment can be a challenge, especially when it comes to finding adequate storage space. Fortunately, there are several creative and affordable solutions available, including a small standalone bathroom shelving unit.
These compact and versatile units can be easily placed in a corner of your bathroom or bedroom to store towels, toiletries, and other essentials. The vertical design allows for maximum storage space while taking up minimal floor space, making it a perfect option for smaller living areas.
With a variety of sizes, colors, and styles available, you can find a shelving unit that complements your decor and provides the storage you need. So if you’re looking for a simple and effective way to organize your small apartment, consider investing in a small standalone bathroom shelving unit.
2. Floating Shelves
Another solution that is both practical and stylish is to install floating shelves in your bathroom. Not only do they add valuable storage space, but they can also be a decorative element that adds character and charm to your bathroom.
These shelves can be installed above the toilet or next to the sink to provide a place to store towels, toiletries, and other bathroom essentials. Additionally, floating shelves create an illusion of a bigger space by keeping the floor area free from clutter.
3. Fitted Furniture With Toilet & Tap
One storage solution that can help maximize your bathroom’s space is fitted bathroom furniture with a toilet and tap. By incorporating this feature into your bathroom design, you can add functional storage space for your toiletries and other bathroom essentials while also saving valuable floor space.
Fitted furniture can be customized to fit your specific needs and can include features like shelving, drawers, and cabinets that can keep your bathroom organized and clutter-free. Additionally, having a toilet and tap built into the furniture can save space and create a streamlined and cohesive look in your bathroom.
This storage solution is not only practical but can also add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your bathroom design.
4. Bedroom Drawer With Countertop
A drawer with a countertop is a functional piece of furniture that can serve as a dresser and a small workspace or vanity area. The drawer provides ample storage for clothes, while the countertop can be used for displaying decorative items or as a place to get ready in the morning.
By using vertical space, you can create a functional and stylish storage solution that doesn’t take up too much floor space. This is perfect for those living in small apartments or those who simply want to make the most out of their available space.
5. Under-The-Bed Storage
By investing in storage containers or drawers that fit neatly under your bed, you can utilize this often-overlooked space to store items such as clothes, shoes, bedding, and even seasonal decorations. Not only does under-the-bed storage provide a practical solution for maximizing your storage space, but it also keeps your belongings out of sight and reduces clutter in your living space.
Plus, with a wide range of under-the-bed storage options available, from plastic bins to woven baskets, you can choose a style that fits your aesthetic and keeps your small apartment looking stylish and organized.
6. Bay Window Shelf
By adding shelves or cubbies to the window, you can create a functional and stylish storage solution that doesn’t take up any floor space. Use the shelves to store books, plants, decorative items, or anything else that you want to display. Not only does this make use of otherwise wasted space, but it can also add a charming and unique touch to your living area.
The bay window shelf is an excellent solution for small apartments because it maximizes the storage space while also enhancing the overall aesthetic of your living area. So, if you’re struggling with limited storage in your small apartment, consider transforming your bay window into a practical and stylish storage solution.
7. Overhead Storage
Overhead storage is an excellent way to make use of the vertical space in your apartment. Install floating shelves or hanging baskets above doors or in corners to store items you don’t use every day. Another smart storage idea is to use your bedroom headboard as a storage unit.
Choose a headboard with built-in shelves or cabinets to keep your books, alarm clock, and other nighttime essentials within easy reach. In the kitchen, consider adding extra cupboard space by installing a wire basket shelf under your upper cabinets or attaching a spice rack to the inside of a cabinet door.
These simple and effective storage solutions can make a big difference in your small apartment, allowing you to keep your home organized and functional while making the most of your limited space.
8. Wicker Baskets
Wicker baskets are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they’re also a practical way to store items that might otherwise clutter your living space. For example, under-the-bed wicker baskets can be used to store extra linens, clothes, or shoes, while wicker baskets on the shelf can be used to store books, magazines, or decorative items.
By incorporating wicker baskets into your small apartment’s decor, you can create a cohesive and stylish look while also maximizing your storage space. Plus, wicker baskets are lightweight and easy to move around, making them a versatile storage solution that can adapt to your changing needs.
So, if you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to add more storage to your small apartment, consider using wicker baskets to keep your living space organized and clutter-free.
9. Tiered Metal Rack Organizer
Living in a small apartment can be a challenge when it comes to finding enough storage space for all your belongings. However, there are several storage solutions that can help maximize your space, such as a tiered metal rack organizer.
This organizer is perfect for walk-in closets or open closets, as it can be used to store clothing, shoes, and other accessories. The tiered design allows you to easily see and access all your items, while the metal construction ensures durability and stability.
Not only is this organizer functional and space-saving, but it can also add a stylish and modern touch to your storage area. With the added bonus of being affordable and easy to install, this storage solution is a no-brainer for small apartment living.
10. Open Closet Storage
If you’re struggling to find space for all of your daily items and coats, consider using open closet storage. By installing a wall-mounted open closet system, you can easily hang your coats and store your daily items in an organized and accessible manner. Not only is open closet storage practical for small apartments, but it can also add a stylish and modern touch to your space.
To make the most of your open closet storage, try adding shelves or cubbies to store shoes and accessories. You can even use baskets or decorative boxes to keep smaller items organized and out of sight. By utilizing open closet storage in your small apartment, you’ll be able to create a functional and stylish storage solution that maximizes your space and keeps your daily items within easy reach.
11. DIY Crate Shelf
With a little creativity and a DIY attitude, you can make the most out of your space by creating your own storage solutions. One great idea is a DIY crate shelf that can be easily mounted as a floating shelf on any wall. Simply collect some wooden crates or boxes and attach them together in a way that creates a sturdy and functional shelving unit.
This is a great way to display your favorite items or store everyday essentials in a way that is both practical and stylish. By using floating shelves, you can also save valuable floor space, making your small apartment feel more open and spacious.
12. Under-The-Stairs Storage
One creative and effective solution is to take advantage of under-the-stairs storage. This often-overlooked area can be transformed into a practical and space-saving storage solution for shoes, or even a pull-out closet to maximize space in your apartment.
By utilizing this space, you can keep your home organized and clutter-free without sacrificing style or comfort. With a little creativity and some DIY skills, you can build custom shelving or cabinets that fit perfectly under the stairs, providing you with a hidden storage area that blends seamlessly into your decor.
Not only will you be maximizing your living space, but you’ll also be adding a stylish and functional feature to your home that will make your daily routine easier and more enjoyable.
13. Cube Shelf
If you live in a small apartment, you know that storage space can be at a premium. One clever solution to this problem is a cube shelf. Cube shelves offer a symmetrical and neat look to any space while providing numerous dividers to keep your items organized and easy to access.
Whether you’re looking to store books, magazines, or decorative objects, cube shelves are an ideal storage solution. Not only do they come in a variety of sizes and finishes to suit any style, but they can also be used to create a stylish and functional room divider that can separate different living areas within your small apartment.
14. Spice Rack
A floating spice rack or shelf can be mounted on any empty wall space, and it provides a convenient and accessible spot to store spices, seasonings, and other small items. This not only frees up valuable counter space but also helps you stay organized and keep your kitchen clutter-free.
Plus, by using a floating rack, you can add a stylish and decorative touch to your kitchen decor. Whether you prefer a modern or rustic style, there are plenty of spice rack options that can fit your aesthetic.
15. Kitchen Soffit Shelf
Soffit shelves are small shelves that are installed on top of the kitchen cupboard, making use of the unused space above the cabinets. These shelves can be used to store items that are not frequently used, such as large serving platters, seasonal dishes, or extra kitchen appliances.
By installing a soffit shelf, you can clear out space in your cabinets and countertops, allowing for more organized and efficient use of your kitchen. This clever storage solution is not only practical but can also add a decorative element to your kitchen, allowing you to display your favorite items or decorative pieces.
16. Open Pantry Shelf
With an open pantry shelf, you can easily see and access your items, which can help reduce clutter and make your kitchen feel more organized. Plus, by using movable shelving units, you can adjust the height and position of your shelves to accommodate items of different sizes and shapes. This is a great solution for renters who need flexibility when it comes to their living space.
So, if you’re looking for a simple and effective way to add storage to your small apartment, consider installing an open pantry shelf that’s both accessible and movable. It’s a practical and stylish solution that can help make your apartment feel more spacious and organized.
17. Under-The-Sofa Storage
If you’re struggling to find space for storage in your small living room, consider utilizing under-the-sofa storage options. This often overlooked area can provide a surprising amount of hidden storage that can help you stay organized and clutter-free.
One option is to use a storage drawer that fits under the sofa to store books, magazines, or even extra blankets and pillows. Another creative option is to use wooden crates or baskets that can easily slide under the sofa and hold small items such as remotes, coasters, or other small items that tend to clutter up your living room space.
With under-the-sofa storage, you can keep your living room looking tidy and organized while still having easy access to the items you need.
18. Labeled Pantry Storage
A small kitchen can quickly become cluttered and disorganized, but with the right storage solutions, you can maximize your space and keep your kitchen tidy.
One effective way to achieve this is by incorporating labeled pantry storage. By labeling your pantry shelves, drawers, and containers, you can easily locate specific items and maintain order in your kitchen. This is particularly helpful for small kitchens where every inch of space matters. Utilize clear containers to store food items such as pasta, rice, and cereal and label them with the contents and expiration dates.
This way, you can easily keep track of what you have and when it needs to be replenished. Additionally, you can also install shelving units to store canned goods, spices, and baking supplies, all neatly organized and labeled for easy access. With labeled pantry storage, you can transform your small kitchen into an efficient and well-organized space, making meal preparation a breeze.
19. Modular Pantry Shelves
With a modular pantry shelf, you can maximize your storage space and keep everything neatly organized. These shelves come in various sizes and are adjustable, allowing you to customize them to fit your kitchen’s layout and the items you need to store.
With a modular pantry shelf, you can add additional storage space without sacrificing your precious counter space. Plus, the adjustable shelves make it easy to organize your pantry items so that you can easily find what you’re looking for.
Whether you need to store canned goods, spices, or baking supplies, a modular pantry shelf is a great solution to keep everything in order.
20. Crate Bookshelf Organizers
One idea to maximize storage and minimize visual clutter is to use a crate bookshelf organizer. These can be purchased or DIY-ed using wooden crates, and provide ample storage space for books, papers, and other knick-knacks that tend to clutter up small living spaces.
The open design of the crate bookshelf also helps to create a sense of visual space, making your small apartment feel larger and more inviting.
The neat and organized look of the crate bookshelf is not only practical but can also be visually appealing, as you can choose to style it with decorative pieces or simply leave it as is for a minimalist look.
Small Apartment Storage FAQs
Ultimately, the less stuff that you own, the more space you have. However, not all of us are ready to commit to the minimalist lifestyle. In this case, scaled-down and multifunctional furniture will be your solution. Scaled-down furniture will fit into the small space better, preventing it from feeling cramped or overstuffed. Look for unused space, like vertical space that’s up high.
Look for the hidden space in your room. This could be on the floor or the up-high shelf in your closet. You could have space under the bed. Replace your furniture with hidden storage compartments.
Plastic storage bins are convenient, but they aren’t attractive. Try decorating them with washi tape or contact paper. Paint them using a stencil to give them a decorative design. Just be sure to use the right type of paint or a super fine-grit sandpaper, or the paint won’t stick to the super smooth plastic. If you can sew, you could make a slipcover for them. Another option is finding a woven basket that the plastic bin can fit inside. This gives you the looks of the decorative bin but the durability and easy care requirements of the plastic bin.