How to Organize Storage in a Small Apartment and Stop Tripping Over Things

A small apartment is not a death sentence for order. The Japanese have been living in tiny spaces for decades and manage to store everything they need. We explain how to organize storage in a small apartment and make the space comfortable for living.

The key points from the article:

• Proper storage can save up to 30% of space;

• Vertical storage is more efficient than horizontal;

• Many items can be stored behind doors and in walkways;

• Order starts with getting rid of unnecessary things;

• Proper organization pays off in half a year;

• Universal solutions work worse than thoughtful ones.

Start with a review

Before buying storage systems, get rid of unnecessary items. Often we keep things 'just in case', which never comes. Categorize all your belongings into three groups: needed right now, seasonal, and things you can live without. It's better to get rid of the last category — they take up precious space.

Follow the principle of 'one entry, one exit': bring in a new item — remove an old one. This helps prevent accumulation of unnecessary things. This is especially important for clothing, dishes, and small household items.

Use space to the maximum

In a small apartment, every centimeter matters. Often we don't notice useful space in the most obvious places. Under the bed, you can fit several flat containers with seasonal clothing. Tall shelves above doors are perfect for storing rarely used items.

Doors — an underrated storage spot. Wall-mounted organizers on closet and front doors can store many small things, from shoes to stationery. The key is to install them properly so as not to damage the door.

Vertical storage — your best friend

Narrow tall cabinets are more efficient than wide and low ones. They take up less usable area and allow you to use the space all the way to the ceiling. Vertical storage systems are especially good for the kitchen: narrow pull-out cabinets can hold a supply of grains, spices, and canned foods.

In the bathroom, vertical storage solves space shortage problems. Narrow shelves between the washing machine and the wall, multi-level shelves above the toilet, suspended organizers — all of these create extra storage space.

Smart solutions for different rooms

In the bedroom, the bed should work for storage. A lifting mechanism or sliding drawers can turn the sleeping area into a full storage system. The headboard can also be functional — with built-in shelves or niches.

On the kitchen, ergonomics matter. Place frequently used items at eye level and store rare ones higher or deeper in the cabinets. Use cabinet doors to store cutting boards or pot lids.

Design: Ksenia Ivanova

Multi-functional furniture saves space

Storage ottomans, sofas with drawers, and convertible tables — furniture that combines storage functions with everyday use. But choose items with simple mechanisms — complex constructions often break down and take up more space.

A dining table can be folding or sliding. When folded, it takes up minimal space, and unfolds only when needed. The same applies to workspaces: a wall-mounted desk can free up space when not in use.

Organizing clothing storage

The wardrobe often becomes the main problem in a small apartment. The solution is a capsule wardrobe and seasonal storage. Keep only current-season clothing in the closet, store the rest in vacuum bags and send them to the attic.

Use multi-level hangers and space organizers. Thin hangers save space, and special holders for skirts and pants allow storing several items on one hanger.

Small details that matter

Hooks are underrated in storage organization. They can be placed anywhere — on walls, doors, inside cabinets. They're great for hanging bags, umbrellas, towels, and many other items.

Transparent containers help maintain order. You can easily see what's inside, no need to open every box looking for the right item. Label containers and conduct regular reviews.

Maintaining order

Organizing storage is half the battle. It's important to maintain the system you've created:

• Return items to their places immediately after use;

• Conduct regular reviews;

• Don't hoard unnecessary things;

• Maintain order in storage systems.

Remember: a small apartment requires discipline in storing things. But once the system is in place, maintaining order becomes easy. The key is to plan the organization according to your lifestyle and needs, not copy pretty pictures from the internet.

Cover: Apartment owner