Finding extra storage space in the bedroom doesn't have to mean shoving everything into plastic boxes under the bed. From finding furniture suitable for storage to making closets storage friendly there are many ways to efficiently utilize bedroom space. Does this Spark an idea?
Beyond the Armoire--Furniture for Storage
When it comes to creating space in the bedroom, furniture can be key. Whether you are shopping for furniture, or just making the most of what you have, your bedroom furniture can either create space or make less of the space you have.
If you are buying new bedroom furniture, consider the size of your room and your storage needs. If your bedroom is on the small size, but you need storage, don't assume that more furniture with storage is the best strategy. One or two pieces of furniture with ample storage are better than several pieces, which will crowd the bedroom.
Rethinking the furniture you have is also a great way to make the most of your space. While getting rid of any items you no longer need or use is always the best way to free up space, simply rearranging items can often result in more storage space, as well.
Try these tips for finding space in your bedroom furnishings:
- Storing out-of-season clothing and linens in vacuum storage bags that can go in the top of a closet or under a bed easily creates more room in drawers and closets.
- A chest or bench at the foot of the bed is a great place to store linens and blankets in a small amount of space.
- Covering a table or small desk with a piece of fabric creates a vanity with hidden storage underneath for your cosmetics and hairstyling tools.
Space-Saving Shelving
When furnishing a bedroom, many people make the mistake of stopping at storage for clothing and linens, despite the fact that televisions, books, stereos and even computers often find their way into the bedroom.
While shelving is popular in living rooms and dens, it is often neglected in bedrooms. However, if your bedroom is home to an array of electronics, books and other items, then shelving may be the answer to finding more space.
You can use shelves in your bedroom to:
- Store media and electronic equipment, plus books.
- Store and display hats, jewelry and other items that are both useful and decorative.
- Store socks, lingerie and other small apparel items in decorative containers or boxes.
Making the Most of Closets
Closets are a bedroom's best-kept secret--unless they are full of skeletons waiting to come out! Making your closet an asset rather than a liability can help you to find space in your bedroom.
If your closet is overcrowded and unorganized, then you are wasting valuable space. Yes, you will need to clean out everything that you no longer need or want. Be ruthless. If in doubt, throw it out.
Once you've pared everything down to the essentials, consider the way you use your closet before putting everything back. Follow these instructions for simple closet organization:
- If you store mostly clothing and accessories in your closet, then make sure they are easy to reach--i.e., do not put your shoes in difficult to reach boxes in the back of the closet.
- Put the clothing items you wear most in front, and special occasion items in the back.
- A hanging shoe organizer on the closet door is a great place to stash those wallets, scarves and other small items that are always being swallowed up in your closet.
For the ultimate test of your closet organization skills, try opening up your space by opening up the closet. A tiny closet in a small bedroom will often restrict furniture arrangement due to the clearance needed for the door to open and close. By removing the closet door, you free up space in the bedroom, and create an interesting niche in what was once a dark space.
Tags: your bedroom, your closet, bedroom furniture, closet door, closet organization, clothing linens