Ah, the joys of small homes in Scotland. They're intimate and — let's face it — sometimes a bit cramped. But luckily, a world of stylish storage solutions is out there, waiting to transform your wee abode into a clutter-free sanctuary.
Whether you're living in a studio apartment, a small house, or a compact condo, these storage hacks will have you wondering why you ever considered moving into a bigger place in the first place.
Warning Signs That Clutter Has Taken Over Your Home
- You can't easily find things when you start looking for them
- You're embarrassed to invite anyone over
- The cabinets, drawers, and closets are stuffed to the brim
- You step on your stuff all too frequently
- Your car no longer fits in your garage because of all the junk
- You don't even know where to begin to fix the situation
10 Ways To Store Away Items in Your Small Home
There are quite a few helpful hacks for storing items away in your home to give it that lovely modern and minimalist look. Here's how to fool guests into believing you've achieved enlightenment through giving up earthly attachments (even when you've done no such thing).
1. Under the Bed
Let's start with the most underappreciated space in any small home: under the bed. Those inches between your mattress and the floor are a goldmine for storage. Invest in some stylish under-bed storage bins or drawers to stash away extra linens, off-season clothing, or even your secret chocolate stash (we won't tell).
2. More Shelves!
Wall-mounted shelves are about to become your new best friends. They provide extra storage and serve as display space for your favourite books, plants, and decorative items. Get creative with different shapes, sizes, and materials to match your unique style. Floating shelves, ladder shelves, or even corner shelves can sort out storage issues while adding some flair to your space.
3. Multi-Functional Furniture
Small spaces need — nay, demand — furniture that is versatile. You should strongly consider buying a storage ottoman that hides blankets and pillows, a coffee table with built-in storage, or a sofa that converts into a bed for overnight guests. These pieces not only save space but also add fashion and functionality to your home.
4. Pegboards and Hooks Galore
Pegboards are real-life cheat codes for small spaces. Install one in your kitchen, bathroom, or workspace, and watch the clutter vanish into thin air. Hang your pots, pans, cooking utensils, or craft supplies for easy access.
Are you colourful by nature? Use decorative hooks to add a touch of personality to your pegboard storage, turning it into a functional work of art.
5. Mirror Your Items
Mirrors aren't just for checking your outfit; they can also create an illusion of space while providing some much-needed hidden storage. Consider getting mirrored cabinets that blend seamlessly with your decor while offering a discreet place to store jewellery or hobby objects you aren't ready for the world to see yet.
6. By the Bedside
It's time to introduce your small bedroom to the wonders of bedside storage. Use nightstands with drawers or shelves to keep your bedtime essentials within arm's reach. You can also install wall-mounted nightstands to save precious floor space while organising your nighttime necessities.
7. Transparent Furniture
If you're concerned about your furniture making your space feel cramped, consider transparent or glass pieces — they’ll be hiding in plain sight! See-through furniture can give the illusion of more space and light; think acrylic chairs, glass dining tables, or translucent bookshelves.
8. Vertical Storage Solutions
When floor space becomes premium property, it's time to cast your gaze upwards. Tall bookshelves, storage towers, and cabinets can make the most of your vertical space while keeping the floor clear. This will also make your space feel a little more expansive.
9. Roll Things Along
Wheels can turn almost anything into mobile storage. Rolling carts or trolleys can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, or even as a mobile bar (perfect for rewarding yourself after this work is done). They're versatile, functional, and can be easily tucked away when not in use.
10. Behind Closed Doors
Lastly, don't forget the backs of your doors! Over-the-door organisers and hooks can create some much-needed storage space for accessories, cleaning supplies, and clothing. It's a small change that can end up making a big difference.
How To Stay Motivated While Decluttering Your Home
With the right mindset (and some strategic help), you can turn decluttering into a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Keep the following in mind when you declutter your home and pack your belongings away into your new stylish storage.
- Set Clear Goals: Before diving into decluttering, take a moment to define your goals. What do you want to achieve? Whether it’s creating a more organised living space, reducing stress, or making room for new experiences, having clear objectives will help keep you motivated.
- Start Small: Decluttering an entire house in one day can be overwhelming. Instead, break the task into smaller, manageable chunks. Begin with one room or even a specific area within a room. Completing these smaller tasks will give you a sense of accomplishment and motivate you to continue.
- Use the Four-Box Method: When decluttering, it's helpful to have four boxes or bins on hand: one for items to keep, one for items to donate or sell, one for throwing away, and one for storage. As you sort through your belongings, place each item into one of these boxes.
- Visualise Your Ideal Space: Imagine how your space will look and feel once it's clutter-free and organised. Visualising the end result can inspire you to make tough decisions about what to keep and what to let go of.
- Set a Timer: Sometimes, the idea of decluttering for hours on end can be what discourages us the most. Instead, set a timer for a specific amount of time, like 15 or 30 minutes, and declutter in focused bursts. Knowing that you have a defined work period can make the task less daunting.
- Enlist Help: Don't do it alone if you don't have to. Get help from a friend or family member. Having someone to share the process with can make it more enjoyable and help keep you accountable when your attention starts wandering off.
- Reward Yourself: Treat yourself along the way to maintain motivation. For each decluttering milestone you reach, whether it's finishing a room or storing away a certain number of items, reward yourself with something you enjoy. It could be a favourite snack or an episode of the latest series you're watching.
Self Storage Solutions for Small Homes
Limited space often means making tough decisions about what to keep and what to let go of. That's where self storage comes to the rescue, offering adaptable solutions for those needing extra space without the commitment that upsizing demands.
Self storage is a versatile and cost-effective solution for people living in small homes. It provides the freedom to declutter, stay organised, and improve your living space without the hassle and expense of relocating to a larger home. So if you're feeling the squeeze in your petite place, it's time for self storage!
Try our useful space estimator to figure out how much space you'll need, and we'll give you a quick quote to get you started.
