11 Clever Storage Ideas for Tiny Homes or Small Spaces
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Looking to maximise storage space in a tiny home or small space can be a daunting task. With limited square footage, it's essential to get creative and think outside the box.
Fortunately, there are a few ways that can help you make the most out of your compact living space.
One of the first things to consider is utilising vertical space. Installing shelves or cabinets that reach up to the ceiling can provide ample storage without taking up valuable floor space. Got under bed storage? Rolling under bed bins or built-in drawers can keep extra linens, clothing, or shoes out of sight while still easily accessible.
Another option is to use furniture with built-in storage. For example, a storage ottoman can serve as both a footrest and a place to store blankets or books. A bench with hidden storage can provide a place to sit and put on shoes while also holding extra items.
By incorporating multi-functional furniture pieces, you can maximise storage while minimising clutter.
Understanding Space in Tiny Homes
When it comes to tiny homes, space is a precious commodity. To make the most of the limited space available, it is important to understand the layout of the home and how to use it efficiently.
One of the first steps in maximising storage in a tiny home is to declutter and get rid of unnecessary items. This not only frees up space but also makes it easier to organise what is left. Once the clutter is gone, it is time to get creative with storage solutions.
One popular option is to use multi-functional furniture. For example, a bed with built-in drawers or a sofa that doubles as a storage unit. Another option is to use vertical space, such as installing shelves or hanging baskets on walls.
In addition to furniture and wall storage, there are several other storage ideas that can help make the most of a tiny home. Some of these include:
- Utilising under-bed storage with rolling bins
- Installing pull-out pantry shelves
- Using corner shelves for additional storage
- Hanging a pegboard for tools and other items
- Incorporating a fold-down desk or table for added workspace
Understanding the layout of your tiny home will help you make the most of the limited space. With a little planning and organisation, even the smallest of homes can feel spacious and comfortable.
Maximising Vertical Space
One way to make the most of limited floor space is to maximise vertical (up and down) space. Here are a few storage ideas for tiny homes that will help you do just that.
Wall Shelves
Wall shelves are a way to add storage to your tiny home without taking up any floor space. They can be used to store anything from books to kitchen utensils. For example:
- Use floating shelves to create a clean, modern look.
- Install shelves above doorways or windows to make use of otherwise wasted space.
- Use shelves with built-in hooks to hang items like keys or towels.
Hanging Baskets
Hanging baskets are another great way to add storage to your tiny home. They can be used to store anything from fruit to toiletries. Here's some ideas:
- Use wire baskets to create a rustic look.
- Hang baskets from the ceiling to make use of otherwise wasted space.
- Use baskets with built-in hooks to hang items like utensils or towels.
Utilising Furniture with Storage
Furniture with storage is a great way to maximise space in tiny homes or small spaces. (This is one of my favourite ways to utilise small space!)
Storage Beds
Storage beds are a great option for tiny homes because they provide extra storage without taking up additional floor capacity. These beds have built-in drawers or compartments that can be used to store clothing, bedding, and other items.
But which storage beds to use? Try platform beds with drawers, lift-up beds with storage compartments, and/or captain's beds with built-in drawers and shelves. Remember to consider the amount of storage space you need and the style that best fits your decor.
Ottomans with Storage
Ottomans with storage are another great option for tiny homes. These versatile pieces of furniture can be used as a footrest, extra seating, or a coffee table, and they also provide hidden storage.
You can get small cube ottomans, large rectangular ottomans, some with removable lids, and some with hinged lids that open to reveal a secret storage compartment.
Storage beds and ottomans with storage are just two examples of furniture that can help you keep your living space organised and clutter-free.
Incorporating Hidden Storage
Tiny homes and small homes require creative storage solutions to maximise space. One way to achieve this is by incorporating hidden storage. Here's some ideas on that:
Under Floor Storage
Under floor storage is a clever way to utilise space that is often overlooked. This type of storage is perfect for items that are not needed on a regular basis, such as seasonal clothes, camping gear, or extra bedding.
To create under floor storage, a section of the floor is cut out and hinged so that it can be lifted up. The space underneath can then be used for storage. To make it easier to access the storage, a handle can be added to the top of the hinged section.
Staircase Drawers
Staircase drawers are another way to incorporate hidden storage in a tiny home or small house. The space underneath a staircase is often wasted, but by adding drawers, it can be turned into valuable storage.
To create staircase drawers, the stairs are designed with built-in drawers that pull out from the sides. This type of storage is perfect for items that are needed on a regular basis, such as clothes, shoes, or kitchen utensils.
Staircase drawers can also be designed with different depths to accommodate different types of items. For example, shallow drawers can be used for shoes, while deeper drawers can be used for clothes.
Optimising Kitchen Storage
When it comes to tiny house storage, optimising kitchen space is crucial. Here are two nifty storage ideas that can help maximise space in a small kitchen:
Magnetic Spice Racks
Magnetic spice racks are a great way to save space in a tiny kitchen. They can be easily mounted on the side of the fridge or on a wall, freeing up valuable counter space. Plus, they keep spices organised and easily accessible. (Great if you like to cook!)
Need ideas? Try the Magnetic Spice Rack by Kamenstein. It comes with 12 pre-filled spice jars and has a sleek, modern design. Or the Magnetic Spice Tin Set by Gneiss Spice. This set includes 24 empty tins that can be filled with your own spices, and can be mounted on any magnetic surface.
Pull-Out Pantries
Another way to optimise kitchen storage is to use pull-out pantries. These are narrow shelves that can be pulled out from between cabinets or walls, providing extra storage space for canned goods, spices, and other kitchen essentials.
One option is the Rev-A-Shelf Pull-Out Pantry. It comes in a variety of sizes and can be installed between cabinets or against a wall. Or try the Hafele Pull-Out Pantry which can be mounted on the side of a cabinet or wall.
By using magnetic spice racks and pull-out pantries, a tiny kitchen can become more functional and organised, without sacrificing valuable space.
Effective Bathroom Storage Solutions
When it comes to small homes, storage can be a challenge, especially in the bathroom. Here are two creative bathroom storage solutions that may help:
Over-The-Toilet Shelves
Over-the-toilet shelves are an excellent way to add storage space in a small bathroom. These shelves (available in wood, metal, plastic etc) are designed to fit over the toilet and utilise the vertical space above it.
When choosing over-the-toilet shelves, it is essential to consider the size of the bathroom and the items that need to be stored. For instance, if the bathroom is tiny, opt for a slim and narrow shelf.
Additionally, if the shelf has open shelves, it is advisable to use baskets or bins to keep the items organised and prevent clutter.
Corner Shower Caddies
Corner shower caddies are another excellent storage solution for a small bathroom. These caddies are designed to fit into the corner of the shower and provide storage space for shampoo, soap, and other shower essentials.
Make sure you consider the size of the shower and the items that need to be stored. For instance, if the shower is tiny, go with a small and compact caddy. If the caddy has open shelves, use baskets or bins.
Outdoor Storage Ideas
When it comes to tiny homes and-or small homes and modular cabins, outdoor storage can be a lifesaver. Here's how you can maximise your outdoor space:
Storage Benches
Storage benches are a great way to add seating and storage to a small outdoor area. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, so finding one that fits your space and aesthetic shouldn't be too difficult.
Some benches even have built-in storage compartments that can be used to store gardening tools, outdoor games, or even extra blankets for those chilly nights.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a storage bench:
Size: Make sure the bench fits comfortably in your outdoor space.
Material: Look for benches made from weather-resistant materials.
Storage capacity: Consider how much storage space you'll need and choose a bench accordingly.
Style: Choose a bench that complements your outdoor decor.
RELATED:
Read about how you can finance your small home here.
Need a small space toilet? Have a look at these compost style toilets.
Conclusion
Overall, with a little creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to make the most of limited storage space in tiny homes and small homes. By incorporating some of the clever storage solutions on this page, you can enjoy a clutter-free and functional living space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some creative ways to store kitchen items in a tiny home?
Consider using magnetic strips to hold knives and metal utensils, hanging pots and pans from a ceiling rack, or installing pull-out shelves in your cabinets to make accessing items easier.
How can you maximise storage space in a small modular home?
Think vertically! Utilise wall space with shelves and hooks, and consider installing a lofted bed to free up floor space. Additionally, choose furniture pieces that have storage built in, such as a bed with drawers underneath or a table with hidden compartments.
What are some clever storage solutions for a tiny house closet?
Use hanging organisers to store shoes and accessories, and install a tension rod to create extra hanging space. Additionally, use slimline hangers to maximise closet real estate and consider adding shelves or cubbies to store folded clothing and other items.
What are some space-saving features commonly found in tiny homes?
Tiny homes often feature space-saving features such as built-in furniture, multi-functional pieces, and hidden storage compartments. Murphy beds that fold up into the wall, tables that convert into beds, and stairs that double as storage are just a few examples!
Where do people typically store their clothing in a tiny house?
In a small home, clothing storage can be a challenge. Some people opt for a small closet or wardrobe, while others use under-bed storage or hanging organisers. Some tiny homes feature built-in storage solutions such as drawers under seating areas or shelves above the bed.
How do designers optimise space and storage in tiny houses?
Designers optimise space and storage in tiny homes by using every inch of available space and incorporating multi-functional furniture. They also prioritise storage solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, such as built-in shelving and hidden compartments.
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