NAPO Michigan Blog / Media Center

The Michigan Chapter of the National Association of Professional Organizers invites you to explore this blog so you can be informed of the latest news, events and trends in the organizing industry.

March 15, 2013

ORGANIZING SMALL SPACES

Do you have a small room or closet that’s stuffed because you think it’s “too small to be organized?” 
Even though organizing small spaces is a challenge, remember that every cubic inch is valuable real estate for you to make organized use of.

There are tricks to getting a small space organized that can make that room or closet really work for you despite its “tight footprint.”

1.  In small spaces, go vertical whenever possible.  Use a tall bookcase or tower with multiple shelves to take advantage of the wall space.  Watch the depth of storage items to ensure space is maximized and the flow is good.  By doing this, you’ll get big bang for the little bit floor space used.   

In the bookcase or tower, place labeled bins, baskets or fabric drawers so everyone knows what’s in them.

2.  Another place for great storage is above the door in that room.  Install a shelf at that height to use for memorabilia storage, stuffed animals, seasonal decorations, etc.

3.  Hooks are a good way to hang items on the wall and use NO floor space.  Labeled tote bags on hooks can hold many types of things.

4.  In small spaces, lazy susan turntables can be a great tool.  On a refrigerator shelf, it can hold condiments.  In a pantry, it can hold canned goods.

5.  Limit the number of items stored in a small space.  For example, only keep two extra rolls of toilet tissue beneath the bathroom vanity with additional overflow rolls stored nearby.

So the next time you open the door to a small room or closet, look at it differently and you’ll be shocked at how much an organized small space can hold.

For more organizing tips visit http://www.napomichigan.com/.

Article submitted by Chapter member Cindy Greenleaf, Chief Organizing Officer of New Leaf Organizing LLC.