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10 Ideas for Using Your

Space Effectively

by Maria Gracia Updated August 5, 2024 Join our newsletter to be notified when new content is added to our website. Feel like you're running out of space for all your stuff? Here are 10 simple ideas for using your space more effectively. 1. Insufficient or ineffective? Do you have insufficient or ineffective storage space? There's a big difference. Insufficient storage space means you don't have enough room for your things. Ineffective space means you have enough space but aren't making the best use of it. Most closets and cabinets can hold twice as much as they usually do. Plus, you likely have a few nooks and crannies for storage that you haven't even thought of. It's important to make sure you don't keep things you don't like or that are outdated, but it's equally important to have effective storage space for the things you do enjoy. 2. Add-a-rod. Looking for extra storage space in your closet? If your closet has more than two walls for hanging clothes, hang a rod at head height on one wall for long clothing (dresses, pants, etc.). On the other wall, hang two rods—one above the other—for shorter clothing (shirts, skirts, blazers, etc.). You're not limited to just one clothing rod. 3. Install shelves. Most shelves can be moved up or down a notch. If you have three inches of space above your linens, consider adjusting the shelf below to create more space. Or, add another shelf in between. Plastic, multi- level shelves are great for kitchen cabinets. Corner shelves are perfect for picture frames, knick-knacks, and other small treasures. 4. Use storage units. Storage units are great space savers. Place your spices on a spice rack instead of in drawers. Use racks for canned goods that allow the next can to roll forward when one is taken out. Some racks hold over 40 cans! Ice cube trays are inexpensive storage containers for smaller items like earrings. Coffee tables with hidden storage space inside and under-bed containers for quilts and linens are also useful. Be creative and make use of these tools! 5. Don’t forget about wall space. Look around and you'll find plenty of empty wall space. Pots and pans can be hung on walls, freeing up cabinet space. Tools can be placed on pegboards. Install shelves for picture frames and knick-knacks. 6. Place frequently used items within reach. Store regularly-used items where you use them most. For example, keep a toilet paper holder that holds three rolls right near the toilet. Store linens in the bedroom, DVDs near the television, and have two pairs of scissors—one in the office and one in the sewing room. 7. Add-a-drawer or shelf. Many stores carry drawers that can be installed underneath a cabinet, ideal for homes with limited drawer space. You can also install shelves under cabinets that slide out when you need them and slide back in when you're done. 8. Keep your desk clear. A clear desk boosts productivity. You’ll get more done if you're not constantly under a pile of papers and files. A sturdy, full- suspension filing cabinet is essential for any home or office. Portable file boxes that hold hanging file folders are handy, and desk supplies belong in an on-the-desk caddy or trays inside your desk. 9. Rearrange. Make your home or office work for you. One woman I know never used her dining room, not even for company, as her kitchen was big and elegant enough. She also disliked her dark basement office. So, she turned her dining room into her office. Think about your surroundings and make them work for you, even if it seems a bit out of the ordinary. 10. Rotate. If you love many items but lack space, rotate them. Keep some things in storage for a month or two and display others. Then, switch them out. Items on display go into storage, and stored items come out. It's a neat idea! Back to Organizing Strategies Index