Creative Storage Solutions
Storage in a rental property is often insufficient. Finding a place to put everything you own can be a big challenge. Even if you go through and get rid of all the things you no longer use, you may still find yourself with more things than space. This is especially true if you are downsizing into a smaller space such as after the kids are all out on their own. It’s possible to find a space for everything by utilizing creative storage solutions.
Under the Bed
One of the most underutilized spaces is under the bed. There are many storage containers designed to slide right under the bed so you can make use of this space. But under the bed is not usually a very tall space so the items you can fit there are limited. However, you can buy risers for the bed frame that will add height by raising the bed. This will increase your storage space. Just be aware if you have monkeys that like jumping on the bed, they will potentially have farther to fall.
Extra Blankets
One woman I know lays out her extra blankets and puts them between the mattress and box springs. That way she doesn’t need to take up valuable closet space with these bulky items. If you have high ceilings, consider adding an extra shelf above for blankets, extra pillows, or off-season clothing.
In the Kitchen
If you have the space, consider adding an island to increase storage and counter space. Other options include adding spice racks or hangers for measuring cups on the reverse side of cabinets to utilize what is normally dead space. Adding shelves to your shelving can make it easier to fit multiple items in smaller shelf space and is easier to access than when everything is stacked. These are especially nice for things like coffee cups that don’t stack well.
Furniture as Storage Space
End tables and coffee tables can add storage space as well as style. There are multiple coffee tables and ottomans that double as storage space and still look great. You could also utilize a cedar chest or trunk at the end of the bed for sitting space and storage. A hope chest used to be popular for potential brides to store their trousseau in preparation for marriage. While they are rarely used for that purpose any longer, they can still be an attractive and useful place to store your treasures.
Shelving Ideas
Shelves are a great way to make use of blank walls. If you have a lot of knick-knacks, this is a great way to display them. You can also make use of otherwise empty corners by adding corner shelves. Shelves can be as simple as a board laid across a couple of cinderblocks or as elaborate as a glass-fronted cabinet. Ladder shelves often work well in smaller spaces.
Organizing
You can buy organizers at most stores but you can also make them yourself. Cut off the end of a cereal box and cover it with contact paper to make your own organizer boxes. You can store small office supplies or other small items like nail polish, make-up, or kitchen gadgets. This is one way to make your items more accessible.
Making the Most of Your Closet
Closet Organizers can expand the amount of stuff you can fit in your closet while also making it easier to find what you are looking for. These come as small as tie or belt racks. You can also find cloth shelves and other organizers that will hang from a closet rod for things you usually fold instead of hanging. If you are very ambitious, you can buy a full closet organizing system. The trick is to find something that works for you and fits into your budget.
Add a Rod
Expandable rods can be used for more than curtains. You can use them under the sink to hang spray bottles on. Place them in a cupboard vertically to make dividers for cookie sheets or cutting boards. Or horizontally to hold lids for your pots and pans.
Don’t Overlook a Simple Hook
Hooks are a great place to hang your keys so you can find them again. Hooks near the doors are a great place for the dog leash, your purse, hat, coat, or a backpack or two. They don’t take up much space and depending on how they are installed, can often hold quite a bit of weight. Hooks in the ceiling can be used to hang plants and/or some kinds of lighting.
As always, if you are hoping to make permanent changes to your rental, get your landlord’s permission first. You may need that for some closet organizing systems or for hooks that will stay after you move out. They usually leave too big of holes to remove so plan on them being permanent. If you are looking for a rental in the Durango Colorado area, give The Property Manager a call. We can help you find just the right space to fit your needs.
Resources
https://www.bhg.com/decorating/small-spaces/strategies/creative-storage-ideas-for-small-spaces/
https://www.rentometer.com/articles/how-to-increase-storage-options-in-small-rental-properties
https://www.architecturaldigest.in/content/increase-storage-space-home-ideas-solution-small-house/
