Storage: We all need it and most of us can't get enough. Between your old DVD collection, books, excess shoes, winter clothes and childhood keepsakes, it's easy to feel like the walls are closing in on you.
If your closets are overflowing and you're having trouble finding places to stash your goods, here are six sneaky ways to conceal them:
Credit: ajc.com
Credit: ajc.com
Try furniture with built-in storage
I remember the first time I was in a furniture store and I stumbled across an ottoman that was hollowed out to store games, blankets and extra remotes. It made me see the world in a whole new light. You can find all kinds of furniture with included storage. If you're in the market for a new bed or ottoman, check out Rooms to Go for a few great ideas.
Credit: designsponge.com
Credit: designsponge.com
Add a shallow shelf
If you're looking for a way to store books in a bedroom, a shallow bookshelf might help you add some unused corner space. If you're handy with a tool belt and big on DIY projects, DesignSponge has some great ideas.
Credit: homedepot.com
Credit: homedepot.com
Give your appliances a lift
While you still have your tools handy, there's one more thing you might want to think about. If you don't have enough space for all of your countertop kitchen appliances, an appliance lift might be the key to clearing up some space. A Rev-A-Shelf from Home Depot can be used as temporary counter space and holds up to 60 pounds.
Shop decorative bins
Depending on the last time you went bin shopping, you may not realize how many options exist in today's market. There are hanging bins, standing bins, bins that go on shelves, plastic bins, cloth bins, wicker bins and almost every other combination you can think of. If you're not sure where to get started, check out Target's guide to taming clutter.
Find out what's really under your bed
A monster isn't the only thing that can hide under your bed. Under-bed storage bags can be a game changer when you've got limited space but tons of extra sheets or clothes. For under $20, you can buy canvas bags at Walmart that fit perfectly under any standard bed. Or, if you're looking to save money, you can reuse the bag that came with your last comforter.
Credit: Text: Julie Hairston/jhairston@ajc.com, Photo: Louie Favorite/lfavorite@ajc.com
Credit: Text: Julie Hairston/jhairston@ajc.com, Photo: Louie Favorite/lfavorite@ajc.com
Add a hook (or two)
Paintings look great on your walls, but so can bicycles, pots or shelves. If your floor space is limited, you can buy a pack of hooks from Lowe's to help make room. If you're not ready to grab your hammer and nails yet, Houzz has a complete guide to all things wall storage for some inspiration.
About the Author
