Ready to tackle all that clutter? Learn 16 practical & damage-free storage ideas for small rental apartments that'll save you tons of precious space!
Living in a small rental apartment can pose unique challenges when it comes to storage, we all know that.
Limited space and the need to maintain organization can often leave you feeling overwhelmed. Not to mention the fact that you HAVE to do it all without damaging the property!
However, with some creative thinking and strategic planning, you can optimize your storage options and make the most of every square inch available!
In this post, I'll be teaching you practical and innovative storage ideas specifically designed for small rental apartments. From utilizing under-bed space to cleverly using walls, corners, and even the space above cabinets, these smart storage solutions will help you maximize your living space, stay organized, and create a clutter-free environment -all without upsetting your landlord!!
THE BEST STORAGE IDEAS FOR SMALL RENTAL APARTMENTS
01. Under-Bed Storage is a game-changer!
Under-bed storage is a valuable and often underutilized space! But once you figure out how to properly make use of it, you're a winner!
One easy way to utilize all that space under your bed is to find storage solutions that can easily be slid under there!
Invest in a bed frame with built-in storage compartments, even clear stacking bins or under bed drawers with wheels! These containers are perfect for storing off-season clothing, extra bedding, or bulky items that are not frequently used.
Make sure to label the boxes for easy identification.
RELATED: { 18 Useful Apartment Bedroom Organization Ideas To Declutter Your Space }
02. Multi-Purpose Furniture will save you space
Tiny apartment, no problem!
Maximize functionality by choosing multi-purpose furniture with hidden storage compartments! Not only will you be able to store some of your less aesthetic items, keeping them out of sight, but you'll also be able to save TONS of precious space with multi-purpose pieces!
There are tons of available designs to choose from, but for limited space, I suggest the following ideas:
- Opt for ottomans or benches that can double as seating and provide storage space for blankets, pillows, or books.
- Look for coffee tables with lift-up tops or side tables with drawers to store small items like remote controls or magazines. If you'd rather DIY one, read this practical guide from Chisel & Fork!
- For those living in small studio apartments, a sleeper sofa or a sectional sofa with storage might also be super useful!
03. Utilize All your Closet Space
One of the most practical storage ideas for small rental apartments is to learn how to maximize your closet space with smart, space-saving solutions!
Using hanging organizers, space-saving hangers, under shelf clip-on drawers shoe racks, and stackable storage bins is a MUST if you're short on space in your rental, because these storage solutions let you provide more space for yourself without damaging the property!
RELATED: { Apartment Closet Storage : 16 Life-Changing Storage Solutions You’ll Need! }
04. Make your doors useful
One of the HARDEST surfaces to utilize in any rental apartment are the doors! You've probably thought about making use of them, but didn't know how to get started, am I right?
It's super easy & renter-friendly though! Use over-the-door organizers or over-the-door hooks. These storage solutions don't require any drilling or damaging the property in any other way, you simply need to put them over the door! Such a hassle-free way to expand your space!
These can be used in various rooms to store items like shoes, accessories, cleaning supplies, or even towels in the bathroom. I STRONGLY believe you should have them in every room!!
05. Utilize Wall Space with pegboards or wall grids for hanging items
Let's admit it: in a tiny rental, the most promising storage surface would be those bare, empty walls. I get it though, you're afraid of having to drill holes or put a nail in the walls, therefore risking losing your security deposit!
However, utilizing all that wall space is easier than you'd think!
You're better off without wall shelves here, unless you have permission to drill holes into the walls directly from your landlord! Installing pegboards or wall grids for hanging items is a much better idea, because you can securely attach them to the walls with some double sided tape!
Pegboards are versatile and allow you to customize the arrangement of hooks, shelves, and baskets according to your storage needs, that's why you'll LOVE them! They are great for organizing kitchen utensils, craft supplies, or tools.
Wall grids with hooks can be used in bedrooms or entryways to hang hats, scarves, or small decorative items, so they're just as practical!
06. Foldable Furniture are practical
When it comes to ACTUALLY useful storage ideas for small rental apartments, I need to mention foldable furniture! They're game-changers, honestly!
Folding chairs, tables, or wall-mounted drop-leaf desks are excellent options for small apartments! For the latter one, you'll need to get permission from your landlord to drill, BUT a few strips of heavy duty Velcro tape might also do a good job in keeping the desk on the wall!
You'll love these pieces in your own home! They can be folded and tucked away when you need more floor space or when guests come over, but they provide just as much practicality as their regular counterparts!
07. Stackable Storage Containers maximize vertical space.
To maximize vertical space in cabinets or closets, use stackable storage containers!
Whether in your bathroom cabinet, in your kitchen cabinets, in your closet or even in your entryway, these containers are great for storing items in a visible & accessible way!
Store things like pantry staples, toiletries, or office supplies in them, or put your shoes on display in your entryway! Opt for clear containers so you can easily see the contents and label them for efficient organization!
08. Utilize Kitchen Cabinets like a pro
In the kitchen, utilize the inside of cabinet doors with adhesive hooks or small organizers! This is honestly such an underrated surface for storing things, but it'll save you TONS of precious cabinet & countertop space!
First, you'll want to hang some adhesive hooks on the insides of the cabinet doors, as so! This will make sure you leave no permanent changes behind once it's time to move out!
Then, hang your measuring spoons, oven mitts, or small pans on the hooks. This provides for easy access.
To further utilize those cabinets, make use of corner shelves, under shelf mug hooks & under shelf clip-on drawers, as well as Lazy Susans & water bottle organizers. It's your time to get creative!
RELATED: { 16 Insanely Good Kitchen Storage Ideas for Renters You Should Know About! }
09. Get Magnetic spice racks for Your fridge
Undoubtedly one of the most effective, yet not widely known storage ideas for small rental apartments is to take advantage of magnetic storage solutions!
One of my most favourite, insanely space-saving magnetic storage solutions are magnetic spice racks! You can place these on your fridge, instantly providing yourself with more storage space without needing to drill!
RELATED: { Apartment kitchen storage : the top 26 storage solutions to maximize your space }
10. Magnetic stovetop shelves are great for storing everyday cooking essentials
Another super practical magnetic storage solution for your tiny kitchen is a magnetic stovetop shelf!
With one, you'll be able to not only store a bunch of everyday cooking essentials right where you need them, BUT you can also free up a bit of your precious countertop space!
No more rummaging through drawers just to find the spices, oils or cooking utensils you need! This way, you can keep them within easy reach!
11. Make use of tension rods in kitchen cabinets
Tension rods are versatile tools for organizing various items in cabinets! They're superheroes both for small spaces AND rental apartments. You'll need their superpowers, that's for sure!
In your kitchen, place tension rods in your cabinets vertically to create dividers for cutting boards, baking sheets, or lids.
They can also be used horizontally, attached to the sides of your cabinets to create additional storage space for kitchen towels or small pots and pans.
Tension rods are adjustable and easy to install without damaging cabinets, so you can EASILY use them for whatever purpose you need them for!
12. Rolling Carts provide extra space & mobility
Invest in rolling carts or portable storage units for extra storage and mobility, if you want the best for yourself in your tiny rental apartment!
These carts can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, or any other room where additional storage is needed. That's EXACTLY why I think getting at least one is one of the best storage ideas for small rental apartments, like ever!!
They have multiple very practical advantages you'll love! They can hold items like cleaning supplies, toiletries, or crafting materials very aesthetically & they can be easily moved around and tucked away when not in use!
13. Under-Sink Storage is a must-have!
Have you ever felt overwhelmed with your under sink cabinet? All that storage space and you can't find a way to utilize that space in a clean & organized way. (I know you probably just throw in all the stuff you want to hide, no need to lie! And we all do!)
However, this idea will change your life: utilize the space under the sink with adjustable shelves or stackable bins, or my personal favourite, a handy an under sink pull out organizer!
These solutions help you make the most of this often-neglected area like a dream! Store cleaning products, dishwashing supplies, or extra toiletries in them!
14. Command Hooks are great for hanging lightweight items
Command hooks are a handy solution for hanging lightweight items on walls or cabinet doors without damaging the surface! Trust me, you'll need a few if you're tight on space & therefore can only resort to using the walls as a storage space!
Use them to hang keys, small tools, or lightweight decor! They can also function as a coat rack!
All in all, command hooks are easily removable, making them ideal for rental apartments. So you gotta get a few!
15. Use Clear Storage Bins or containers for easy visibility and organization
For efficient organization, opt for clear storage bins or containers!
Clear bins allow you to see the contents at a glance, making it easier to locate and access your belongings. No more endlessly searching for one single item & completely ruining your organizational system!
Label the bins for further clarity and organization. Clear storage solutions are particularly useful in areas like pantries, closets, or storage cabinets, but you can also use them as under bed organizers or as a substitute to a shoe rack.
RELATED: { 8 Insanely Good Apartment Pantry Storage Ideas That'll Finally Organize Your Pantry! }
16. Utilize the Space above Cabinets
All of us apartment dwellers often overlook the space above cabinets. However, although whatever you put up there is visible and might not provide the most aesthetic finish ever, BUT it's still one huge surface in your tiny apartment that lets you store more!
Use it to store less frequently used items such as large serving dishes, small kitchen appliances, or decorative items!
If you're really bothered by the poor aesthetics, definitely utilize decorative baskets or bins to keep these items organized in a stylish way, and also to prevent dust accumulation!
One of the most underrated storage ideasfor small rental apartments, if you ask me! But now you know about it, so let's start using it to your advantage!
This post was all about the best storage ideas for small rental apartments.
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