Finding Storage
Space
by Nikki Willhite
Many of us are very concerned right now about
putting up food and other items we might need in case of an emergency. Finding
adequate storage in our homes can be a challenge.
Most homes have storage space that is not being used, either up high or down
low. One of the keys to utilizing storage space is to put items you use on a
regular basis in easily accessible areas, and putting other items in the harder
to reach areas.
Here are some tips for making the most of the
storage space in your home
Place big plastic drawers or boxes in cupboards that are hard to reach. When you
need an item, you can just pull out the whole unit, and nothing gets lost where
you can't reach it. If the cupboard is up high, be sure the items are light
enough that you don't hurt yourself pulling them out or if they fall down.
Remove decorative panels on top of kitchen cupboards
so that you can take advantage of the space on top. However, be sure the
area is clear and without vents.
Add shelves around the tops of rooms. This is great
for kids rooms. They can display dolls and toys that they want to keep, but no
longer want to play with.
Utilize the space under your beds. Many people feel
uncomfortable with low storage- thinking the lower you go, the less sanitary the
storage. If you feel that way, you can always buy storage containers made
specifically to fit under the bed that seal up tightly.
Make mini open shelving between the studs in the
walls of your home. If you have an empty wall in your kitchen, this is great for
storing spices and other narrow items. If you don't want open shelving, you can
add doors.
Your interior walls are usually framed with 2x4
pieces of lumber. If you remove the wallboard (be sure it isn't plaster), you
have all the space until you hit the back of the wallboard of the room on the
other side.
Again, before you attempt this project, make sure
that the space behind the wallboard is free of wires or vents.
Be creative. Blankets can be stored in pillow shams
or pillow cases. Trunks and suitcases can be used as tables. Fabric skirts
around tables and sinks are another area to place items. Decorate cardboard
boxes for display, and use them to store small items.
Use your garage and attic. Keep your items in boxes
and number them. Generate a list on your computer of what you have stored in
each box.
Finally, take a good look in your closets. Most
closets have a lot of wasted space. Think about buying or making a closet system
to take advantage of every square inch of your closet.
You have more storage space in your home than you
think. Take a closer look and you will find it.
About the Author: Nikki Willhite,
mother of 3 and an interior design graduate, has been writing and publishing
articles on the topic of
frugal living for over a
decade. Visit her at
www.frugalhappyfamilies.com
- where you will find hundreds of frugal living tips and articles. Frugal
Happy Families- more than just money! Article first published at
www.allthingsfrugal.com