Making the most of limited living space can be a challenge for anyone, but is especially important for renters who have few options in making permanent changes to their home.
If you are a renter, though, there are still easy, affordable (and fun!) ways to meet your storage needs.
Here are a few storage ideas for renters:
At the entrance: A bench with inside storage is a place to sit and remove boots and slip into to your inside shoes. Underneath, you can store hats, gloves, and other outdoor items you’ll need as you leave. If you like an old-school look, go with a standing coat rack and umbrella stand. A small bookshelf is a handy place to keep daily use items you can grab on your way out! Use the bottom shelf for shoes and boots.
In the living room: Create storage along walls with alternating short and tall bookshelves. Put the TV on a shorter one. Depending on space, deeper shelves work best. Use colorful baskets and boxes inside shelves to organize small items like media. Tables with multiple shelves create extra space too, and a storage ottoman keeps things you need while seated, like game controllers, handy.
In the kitchen: A four- or five-shelf wire rack holds small appliances, a microwave, and bulky cookware when counter and cupboard space is limited. In very small places use a rolling cart. Add wire shelf inserts or baskets in cupboards. Anywhere there is a door (pantry, closet) use over-door shelving or pockets.
In the bathroom: Add space with over-door baskets to hold cleaning supplies, hair dryers, etc. Place open-front stackable baskets under the vanity to organize toiletries, cleaning supplies, linens, and other items. An over-the-toilet etagere holds linens and containers for cosmetics, toothbrushes, and toiletries. Use over-the-door hooks for everyday towels.
In the bedroom: Closet inserts add space for hanging clothes and shelves for folded clothes that are too bulky for drawers. Include a small set of drawers, a cubby for scarves and hats, and shelves for shoes. Use an upper shelf store seasonal clothes out-of-season. Use the space under the bed! Under-bed storage is good for sports equipment and another place for off-season clothes.
Anywhere there is a wall: There are all kinds of removable hangers and hooks. Use them for wall hangings in the living room, for utensils in the kitchen, hair dryers in the bathroom, and bathrobes, hats, etc. in the bedroom.
Make the most of your smaller spaces with creative storage ideas that keep everything tidy while adding character to your rental home!
Related Resources
I Heart Organizing Renter Friendly Organizing Tips
Apartment Therapy No Storage, No Problem: Workarounds for Renters for Every Room