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11 November 2024

10 Genius Storage Hacks for Small Bedrooms: Maximise Space and Minimise Clutter

Small bedrooms can often feel overwhelming, especially when trying to accommodate all the necessities of daily life. Whether it's a child's room bursting with toys, a teenager's space filled with school supplies and hobbies, or your own bedroom that needs to double as a workspace, the struggle to keep everything tidy and accessible is real.


As a mother of three I've encountered these challenges firsthand. Over the years, I've discovered and developed numerous strategies to make the most of limited space without sacrificing style or functionality.


In this post, we'll explore ten innovative storage solutions that can transform even the tiniest bedroom into a well organised oasis. From clever under bed storage ideas to multi functional furniture and smart wall mounting techniques, these hacks are designed to help you reclaim your space and create a more peaceful environment.


Whether you're dealing with a compact city apartment or simply looking to optimise your existing space, these tips will help you maximise every square inch of your bedroom. Get ready to discover how a few simple changes can make a significant difference in your daily life and home organisation.


Organised small bedroom with clever storage solutions including under-bed storage, wall-mounted shelves, a multi-functional desk and hanging organisers. The room has a modern, minimalist style with white, light blue and natural wood tones.
Transform your small bedroom into a storage haven with these genius hacks


1. Maximise Vertical Space with Wall Mounted Shelves


Floor space is precious so wall mounted shelves are a game changer in small bedrooms. They utilise unused wall space, keeping the floor clear and creating a sense of openness. Consider installing floating shelves above the bed or desk for books, decorative items, or storage boxes. For a cohesive look, choose shelves that match your existing furniture or opt for contrasting colours to create visual interest.

In my youngest's room, we installed colourful floating shelves above his bed. Not only do they store his ever growing book collection, but they've become a fun way to display artwork and school projects. It's like a constantly evolving gallery that keeps clutter off the floor.

Pro tip: Use brackets that can handle significant weight to ensure your shelves can support heavier items like storage bins or books.


2. Utilise Under Bed Storage


The space under your bed is the perfect place for extra storage. If the bed is raised off the floor you can get storage containers on wheels or vacuum sealed bags to store out of season clothing, extra bedding, or rarely used items.

For a more polished look, consider a bed frame with built-in drawers or a hydraulic lift system that allows you to access the entire under bed area easily.

I'll let you in on a little secret: under bed storage has been a lifesaver during the holiday season. We use it to hide presents from prying eyes (you know how kids are). But year round, it's perfect for storing those bulky winter coats and boots that seem to take up half the wardrobe.


3. Invest in Multi Functional Furniture


In small bedrooms, every piece of furniture should earn its keep. Look for items that serve multiple purposes, such as:

  • A desk that doubles as a dressing table
  • An ottoman with hidden storage
  • A nightstand with drawers or shelves

These pieces maximise functionality without taking up additional floor space.

In our eldest's room, we replaced a traditional desk with a fold down wall mounted one. During the day, it's a spacious workspace for homework, but it folds up to provide extra floor space for sleepovers or dancing around the room.


4. Optimise Wardrobe Space

Make the most of your wardrobe with smart organisation tools:


5. Embrace Door and Wall Hooks

Hooks are incredibly versatile for small space storage. Install hooks on the back of your bedroom door, on empty wall spaces, even on the sides of furniture. Use them for hanging robes, bags, scarves or frequently used items. Command hooks are great for renters as they don't damage walls.

It can be much easier for children to hang up their jackets and bags on hooks that put them away on hangers. Hooks can be an easy way to have a clear space for specific items so they don't get lost.  My favourite is the set of hooks at child height by the door where they hang their backpacks when they get home. No more morning scramble looking for school bags.


6. Create a Corner Storage System

Corners are often overlooked but can provide valuable storage space. Consider:

  • Installing floating corner shelves
  • Using a corner desk to create a compact workspace
  • Adding a tall, narrow corner bookcase

These solutions make use of awkward spaces that might otherwise go unused. You could even turn an awkward corner into a mini home office with a corner desk and floating shelves above. 


7. Look Up: Ceiling Storage Solutions

I was skeptical about ceiling storage at first, worried it might make the room feel cramped, but it can be a great way to make use of space in small rooms. Consider these ideas for ceiling additional storage:

  • Install a clothing rack that hangs from the ceiling for additional wardrobe space
  • Use hanging baskets for storing lightweight items like cuddly animals or extra pillows
  • Consider a ceiling mounted shelf above the door for rarely used items or display items

Always ensure ceiling mounted storage is securely installed to prevent accidents.


8. Maximise Space Behind Doors

The area behind your door is often wasted space. Make it work harder with:

  • An over door storage rack for shoes or accessories
  • A full length mirror, maybe even with hidden storage
  • A slim rolling cart that fits neatly behind the door when it's open

Behind our bathroom door, we added an over door organiser for toiletries. It's been so useful that we replicated the idea in the kids' rooms for storing small toys and art supplies. Now clean up time is much quicker - everything has a designated pocket.


9. Make The Most Of Bedside Storage Solutions

Keep essentials close at hand without cluttering your nightstand:

  • Use a bedside caddy that slips under your mattress
  • Install a small floating shelf next to your bed
  • Choose a headboard with built in storage compartments

My bedside caddy is my night time essential. It holds my kindle, my phone and a small bottle of water. It keeps everything within reach without cluttering up my nightstand, which is now free for a lovely family photo and a calming plant.


10. Get Creative with Repurposed Items

Sometimes the best storage solutions come from thinking outside the box:

  • Use a ladder as a unique towel rail or blanket rack
  • Repurpose vintage suitcases as both storage and decor
  • Transform an old dresser into a built-in wardrobe organiser

Remember, the goal isn't just to hide away clutter, but to create systems that work for your family. These solutions have evolved as our family has grown and they continue to change as our needs shift. The key is to stay flexible and have fun with it!

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