Smarter Storage Solutions For Renters

It’s quite common for renters to feel they don’t have enough space or storage. Maybe you’re downsizing from a larger house or maybe over the years your possessions have outgrown the available space to keep them tidy. You might also find your landlord is wary if you want to drill holes for shelving, or reluctant to remove fittings that don’t suit your lifestyle.

While renting has its advantages in terms of flexibility, it can come with challenges too, storage being one of them.

If you’re renting and finding storage a bit tricky, here are a few ideas to make the most of your living space when you really could do with a bit more room.

Smarter Storage Solutions For Renters

Maximise Vertical Space

One of the easiest ways to create more storage without taking up floor space is to think vertically. It doesn’t hurt to ask your landlord if you can install floating shelves above your bed, desk, or sofa. If they’re reluctant, maybe the offer to put things back as they were when you eventually leave would help. On shelves you can display books, plants, and other decorative items but if you’re definitely not allowed, bookcases at different heights can serve the same purpose.

Your vertical space can extend to behind doors into rooms or closets and at the end of kitchen cabinets. Over door hangers or self-adhesive hooks can work wonders to help keep items off the floor and accessible.

Invest In Multi-Functional Furniture

When every square metre counts, furniture that serves double duty is worth its weight.

• Ottoman storage benches give seating whilst concealing blankets, magazines, or kid’s playthings.
• Beds with built-in drawers offer hidden storage for spare bedding, shoes, or hobby item collections.
• Nesting side tables, drop-leaf dining tables, folding chairs, bunk beds for shared bedrooms are brilliant for creating workable spaces without permanent fixtures.

Not only do these pieces save room, but they’re also renter-friendly since they don’t require permanent alterations.

Use Under-Bed Storage Strategically

The space under your bed is prime real estate that often goes either unused or as a general dumping ground. Give it some intention by investing in shallow storage boxes or bags designed specifically for underbed use. These slide effortlessly in and out, making them perfect for storing just about anything from toys and games to spare shoes or bed linens. Clear plastic is great because you can see what’s inside without opening them, but it also helps to have a label on the side if you’re stacking boxes.

Start with a Clear-Out

Before buying more storage, take a look at what you already own. Cupboards and drawers have a way of filling up with things we no longer use, need or even particularly like.

Work through one area at a time, deciding what to keep, donate, sell or recycle. You don’t have to part with everything you rarely use. Sentimental belongings and things you enjoy bringing out occasionally can still deserve a place in your life.

For belongings you want to keep but don’t need at home all year, self storage can help free up space. Winter coats and boots, for example, can go into storage over summer, then swap places with your summer clothes when the weather turns.

Choose somewhere close enough that collecting things won’t become a chore. If you live in Newcastle, Cinch’s Newcastle storage facility is one option. Wherever you’re based, easy access will make it simpler to get what you need when you need it.

Use Cupboard Space Fully

Things like tiered plate racks or under-shelf baskets in kitchen cupboards can eliminate dead space without stacking items and making them hazardous to reach.

Drawer dividers are useful all over the house to help keep small items separate and neat so things stay organised and easy to find.

A tension rod could double as an extra hanging rail for lighter items in a wardrobe, or a plastic drawer tower under shorter hanging clothes can offer hidden storage for shoes, smalls or accessories.

Add Mirrors to Create Depth

Strategically placed mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of a larger space. Place a large mirror opposite a window to maximise natural light, or put smaller mirrors throughout to brighten darker corners. Once you’ve got things tidy and organised, this little trick makes your living space feel brighter and more spacious without adding a single storage box.

Keep It Accessible

Whatever storage solutions you choose, whether at home or in a self storage unit, keep frequently used items easily accessible.

• Save the high shelves and inconvenient spaces for things you use seasonally or rarely.
• Keep everyday items within easy reach to save on frustration and make daily living less stressful.

When you’re renting, there’s bound to be some compromise just as there is in all aspects of life. But whether you’re allowed to drill a hole or not, there’s always a solution to every storage problem. You just have to sometimes get a bit creative.