Ten Ways to Maximize Space and Minimize Clutter in a Small Apartment

Living in a small space, such as an apartment or dorm room, presents the tricky challenge of finding adequate storage. Even the neatest of occupants encounters the problem of accumulating clutter when there is limited space. In order to maximize living area and minimize the build-up of unsightly clutter in a small apartment, it's necessary to employ some creative organization methods.

Ten Ways to Organize and Hide Clutter #1 - Find Tables with Underneath Storage Compartments

There are many attractive coffee tables, end tables, and bedside tables with storage compartments built underneath. Take advantage of the added storage space offered by these covered cubbies and open shelves to house items such as photo albums, books, and other small objects.

Ten Ways to Organize and Hide Clutter #2 - Contain Loose Items in Baskets and Boxes

Place messy-looking items (bills, magazines, paperwork, loose photos, etc.) in small baskets or boxes before storing on shelves, on the floor, or under tables. Be sure to create a system for remembering where essential items are placed, such as bills and other important paperwork.

Containers are available in an assortment of materials, such as metal, plastic, wicker, canvas, and wood. Since these containers will most likely be visible, choose colors and textures that will enhance the décor of the room.

Ten Ways to Organize and Hide Clutter #3 - Utilize Unused Space Underneath the Bed

Elevate your bed with bed risers and increase the usable storage space beneath. Buy thin, plastic containers that slide under the bed and hide away extra blankets, shoes, clothes, and other personal items. Hang a bed skirt below the mattress and your items will be concealed underneath the bed.

Ten Ways to Organize and Hide Clutter #4 - Hang Over-the-Door Racks

Turn the backside of a door into a functional area by hanging a storage rack. One can find over-the-door racks for holding towels, organizing shoes, and holding small miscellaneous items. Take advantage of this otherwise unused storage space.

Ten Ways to Organize and Hide Clutter #5 - Drape an Ugly Built-In Shelf or Closet with a Fashionable Curtain

Some apartment closets and built-in shelves are rough and well-worn. To give a quick, inexpensive face-lift to an unattractive storage space like this, cover it with a fashionable curtain. Not only will this serve as a screen for hiding clutter and ugly storage areas, it will also add a striking fabric element to the space. Hanging the curtain from the top of ceiling will provide the illusion of a higher ceiling and a bigger space.

Ten Ways to Organize and Hide Clutter #6 - Use Closet Organizers to Expand Clothing Storage

Make the most of closet storage by using closet organizers. Hook a double clothes rack over the existing clothes rod (it simply slides on much like a hanger). This will provide twice the hanging space for clothes. Also, consider adding shelf dividers to hold folded items and shoe organizers to corral all your shoes in one tidy area. Adding organization to a small closet will make it more efficient and supply more storage space for clothing.

Ten Ways to Organize and Hide Clutter #7 - Shield Unsightly Items Behind a Decorative Screen

There are some instances when items or equipment need to be stored in a room but aren't attractive to view. Why not set up a freestanding decorative screen to block them from sight? In addition to hiding the unattractive items, the decorative screen will also add an interesting piece of art or architecture to the room.

Ten Ways to Organize and Hide Clutter #8 -- Make Use of Vacant Corners

Corners make awkward spaces to furnish, and therefore, often become neglected areas in a room. Find or build a small shelf or cabinet to fit a room or hall corner. Decorate with attractive baskets, canvas bins, books, knick-knacks, photos, etc. This furniture piece will provide extra storage, as well as, add balance and purpose to an otherwise awkward and unused space.

Ten Ways to Organize and Hide Clutter #9 - Furnish with Dual-Purpose Furniture

Look for furniture that functions as both seating and storage. There are many styles of benches and ottomans that open up to offer additional storage area. Use these hidden spaces for tucking away spare blankets, sheets, and pillows.

Ten Ways to Organize and Hide Clutter #10 - Don't Overlook Walls for Storage Use

Many apartments offer limited floor space in square footage but have very high ceilings. That also means there's plenty of wall space just waiting to be used. Recognize that walls aren't just for decorating with pretty pictures and take advantage of the walls for storage.

Mount shelves, wooden boxes, pot and utensil racks, etc. on walls to create plenty of functional storage space. Also, furnish rooms with free-standing shelving units that are vertical instead of horizontal. They will take up less floor space but still provide needed storage area.

*WARNING: Always check with dorm/apartment regulations before drilling holes in walls to ensure the return of your deposit when you move.

Living in a small residence poses the obvious problem of not having much room, for living and for storage. Through the use of some creativity and organization, it's possible to discover potential storage space, minimize clutter, and make the most of the space in your home.