6 Apartment Organization Ideas That'll Get Rid of Clutter
If you want to keep your apartment neat and tidy, there are several things you need to do. Here are our six best apartment organization ideas.
Keyword(s): apartment organization ideas
So you're all cozy in your new apartment, but it's starting to feel a bit cluttered. You have so many things strewn about, and they're making your space seem smaller. Now what?
It's time for you to make a change. Getting rid of clutter (and keeping it from coming back) isn't easy, but it's worthwhile. We're here with a few apartment organization ideas that can help.
Read on to learn all about how to organize an apartment and keep it tidy.
1. Declutter
Whether you're the type of person who's constantly accumulating stuff or you're moving from a larger space into a smaller one, it's likely that you have a fair amount of clutter.
When you're living in a smaller space, clutter is inevitable. Getting rid of clutter will make your apartment look way bigger, so before you get into organization mode, take some time to get rid of the things that are no longer serving you. It's a challenge, but it's worthwhile.
Try to conquer each area one at a time. When you clean, you move through the entire apartment at once. This isn't an effective strategy for decluttering because you won't be able to see your progress.
Have multiple bags or boxes that you can use to separate out your items. Label each bag or box with:
- Throw away
- Donate
- Keep
- Fix or repurpose
Objects that are beyond repair go into the "trash" container. Items that are in good condition that you no longer use should go into the "donate" container. Items that are still in good condition that either you use or have sentimental value go into the "keep" container.
Items that are in bad condition but could be used for other purposes, like torn into fabric for rags or sewing projects, go into the "fix or repurpose" container.
It's also wise to have a container for items that are in the wrong room. This way, you don't have to get up and put them where they belong while you're trying to declutter. That can slow you down.
It's a good idea to have a friend help with the decluttering process. It can be hard to detach from items, even if they don't have any true sentimental value.
2. Maximize Your Closet Space
You don't need to have a full walk-in closet to have enough space for your items. If you're smart about your space, you can make it work.
Buy handy closet divider and organization items. For example, you can get hanging shelves to put in your closet that will allow you to stack clothes and hang clothes on a bar underneath. This doubles the amount of space that you have available.
Get hangers with multiple levels so you can hang several things in the same "slot" of your closet. Hang similar items on each hanger so you can keep them organized.
You can also fill your closet wall space with small storage nooks or containers to further make the most of your space.
3. Use Furniture With Hidden Storage
Multipurpose furniture is a lifesaver when you're living in an apartment. Why settle for things that aren't as functional as they could be?
If you want to get an ottoman or a footrest, make sure it's one that can open up into storage space. These are great for storing blankets, books, or holiday items that you need for only several months out of the year. They also add more seating space to your living room or bedroom.
Look for a bed frame that has storage underneath. Many modern bedframes have shallow drawers that are great for storing smaller clothing items, like undergarments and socks. Some even have full-sized drawers.
If possible, upgrade your kitchen with a DIY kitchen island or bar cart. Not only will this give you more cooking and entertaining space, but it will also add a whole new place to store your kitchen items.
4. Take Advantage of Vertical Space
Are you already using your vertical space? If not, it's time to start. You're wasting a lot of room!
Make sure that you only hang things based on the terms of your lease. When in doubt, talk to your landlord.
Put up hanging shelves for all of your favorite books and knick-knacks. Hang up hooks for you to place your coats and keys so you don't need a bulky coat rack.
Consider using fun shelving options, like a DIY ladder shelf, to make your vertical storage both stylish and functional without taking up too much room on the ground.
5. Raise Your Bed
If you don't have a bed with convenient storage, why not raise your bed to create more storage space?
You have options. If you're really short on room, you could get a lofted bed that has enough room for a shelf or desk underneath. This gives you double the space.
If you're just looking for a bit of extra room to store things, even raising it a foot or so off of the ground will give you ample space for low storage containers. This is a great place to store out-of-season clothing.
6. Get in the Habit of Putting Things Away
This one seems obvious, but it's harder than you'd think. You need to get in the habit of "cleaning as you go." This will dramatically reduce the amount of clutter that you deal with on a day-to-day basis.
Are you done playing a game? Put the console away right away.
Are you cooking dinner? As soon as you're done, put the dishes in the sink or dishwasher and wipe down the counter.
When you get dressed in the morning, make sure that pajamas go right into the hamper instead of on the floor.
Try These Apartment Organization Ideas
Organizing an apartment is tough, especially when you're used to having a larger space to work with! Use these apartment organization ideas to get you on the right track so you can keep your space tidy.
Are you looking for your new perfect apartment? At Morgan Ranch, we have a variety of apartments for every lifestyle. Check out our available floorplans and find your new home today.