Stowing it Away: Where to Put It

The longer we live in a home, the more belongings we accumulate. Each day it may seem that our home organizing is a little less effective than it was the day before. Stuffed closets, crammed cabinets, and a basement jammed full of who-knows-what, but there is still more we want to stow! All those piles can be pretty daunting. Of course, if we've got money to burn, we can always buy a larger house or build an addition, but most of us are looking for a less expensive solution. Fortunately, the problem of clutter can be tackled without a huge investment; the following home storage ideas are sure to reduce clutter and improve appearances, no matter what your price range!

Home Storage Idea #1: Streamline Your Belongings
Getting rid of items you don't need is a great way to make the storage spaces you already have more effective, and it won't cost you a thing! Though going through the entire house in one day is a daunting (and rather unrealistic) idea, it is relatively easy to tackle one or two rooms a weekend and get the job done over a month or so.

As you go through your belongings, you may find that your resolve starts slipping. If this happens, take a moment to reflect on the reason you're doing this in the first place (protecting the things you really care about, beautifying your living spaces, etc). There are many reasons why we are reluctant to get rid of old things. They may spark good memories, or we might think they would prove valuable to others. Sometimes, we simply remember how much we paid for the item. Other times, we think we just might need the item in the future.

Think about what is holding you back. If memories are the reason, pick a few items that best evoke a set of memories — kind of like designating ambassadors from another time in your life. By narrowing the quantity of memorabilia, you'll find it much easier to take good care of the few special items you choose to keep. Choosing someone specific to give the things to can also make parting easier. If you end up giving it to charity, you not only enjoy the pleasure of giving to those in need, but also stand to earn helpful tax deductions.

Home Storage Idea #2: Storage Furniture
In cluttered bedrooms and living rooms, storage furniture is one of the most beneficial investments you can make. While once only available to those who could afford custom builders, many commercial furniture makers are beginning to see the benefits and high demand for furniture that doubles as a storage space. Today, storage furniture is available in many familiar stores, and is often no more expensive than non-storage furniture. If you are due for a new coffee table, headboard, or even ottoman, much needed storage space can be included in the cost of the replacement piece.

If you do have a little extra money hanging around, custom built storage furniture is certainly worth considering. Make no mistake: the cost will be high! In return, however, you'll be able to have a builder construct the piece to your exact specifications and to the exact measurements of your home. A perfect fit is hard to come by, but when it does, there are very few complaints!

Home Storage Idea #3: Utilizing Neglected Space
Of our three best home storage ideas, utilizing neglected space is probably the one that will do the most good with the least effort. Empty corners, dead spaces above cabinetry, and even the space above your head can often be used to store items that would otherwise be in the way. For example, a very cluttered kitchen can often be left with plenty of extra cabinet space if you install an overhead rack to store pots, pans, and utensils. A bathroom that's overflowing with toiletries can be transformed into a clutter-free environment by the addition of a simple, over-the-toilet set of shelves. To better use the neglected space in your home, you have to find it first. Take a walk around each room and examine it carefully for areas that contain nothing, then imagine what you could put there!

While utilizing neglected space can certainly be a cheap (or even free) home storage idea, if you have some funds to play around with, you can really go to town in closets, attics, and basements. Attics can be made more useful with added flooring, better lighting, and pull-down stairs. Get more effective use out of the basement by installing shelves and improved lighting. Also, consider improving basement air circulation to help guard against moisture damage. Add shelves, extra rods, and bins to increase the usable space in closets. While super-efficient systems are sold and installed by closet specialists, you can also buy a full range of accessories at the local hardware store and install them yourself or with the help of a handyperson.

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