16 Small Space Storage Ideas To Try In Your Home

News.com.au

24-04-2025

Master the art of keeping small spaces tidy and minimal with our roundup of the best storage options that are available right now.
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There's a lot of creativity and precise planning required when it comes to effectively maximising any room that's limited in space.
These small spaces can easily look overcrowded, cluttered and overall messy – however, nowadays there are a number of versatile storage solutions that will house all your bits and bobs without affecting the look of your space.
So whether you live in a small studio apartment or a house with a tiny kitchen, bathroom or bedroom, you can Marie Kondo your space with these genius storage ideas including the genius Giantex Wooden Rolling Kitchen Island Storage Cart Trolley that doubles as a storage cupboard and kitchen island. Thrilled shoppers say it's 'worth it' and 'very functional'.
There's also the popular SONGMICS Over The Toilet Storage 3-Tier Organiser that 'fixed the problem' of having a small bathroom with no storage.
Scroll on for more space-saving storage ideas.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST STORAGE IDEAS FOR SMALL KITCHENS
Giantex Wooden Rolling Kitchen Island Storage Cart Trolley, $199.95 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Can easily be moved around; doubles as storage and a kitchen island; adjustable shelves; smooth and waterproof surface.
What to consider: Heavy.
Dimensions: 40D x 116W x 85Hcm | Weight: 27.8kg | Capacity: N/A | Colour: Grey, Black, White
What You Need To Know
This rolling kitchen island might be the ultimate big brain piece you could invest in if you have a small kitchen. Made from premium MDF and engineered wood – it doubles as a storage organiser and table. It also features a towel rack, spice rack, drawer and two cabinets with adjustable shelves. The four wheels make it easy to move around and two lockable rubber casters keep it in place.
Five-star reviewers say it's 'worth it' and 'awesome'.
'We live in a studio apartment. This item added very much needed storage space and bench top for our kitchen area. Being on wheels means it can be moved to where it needs to be. It was delivered fairly quickly and is of reasonably good quality. Very functional and very glad we purchased it,' one wrote.
Why we love it: Adjustable; sturdy and durable; great for holding spices, jars, cans and more.
What to consider: Some reviewers say the assembly instructions were a bit hard to follow; bottom shelf isn't big enough for large bags of flour; ships from the US.
What You Need To Know
This over the door organiser is perfect for keeping your pantry goods, spices and everything in between organised. It has six tiers that can easily be adjusted to accommodate shorter or taller products, and it's incredibly sturdy – it's made from metal!
It has over 1000 five-star ratings with one shopper writing: 'This belongs on my top 10 smart purchases list. Fits over pantry door and holds all the spices and then some.
'No more digging around in the cupboard looking for spices. Sturdy and durable. I should have bought this a long time ago. This is the way to go, great value for the money. I just love it!'
Why we love it: Great for deep cupboards; adjustable width; decent weight capacity.
What to consider: Some reviewers say they wish it had a rail in the front in case things tip over; check the dimensions to see if it will fit your cabinet.
Dimensions: 53D x 31W x 7.5Hcm | Weight: N/A | Capacity: up to 31.7kg | Colour: White
What You Need To Know
Make accessing the contents in your cupboard (yes, even the things that you've forgotten in the back) easy with these pull out cabinet organisers. These highly-durable metal organisers can easily be installed in any cabinets, so you no longer have to unload items stored in the front to access items in the back – which is a total game changer.
The drawers are adjustable, so you can make them as wide as you'd like to fit your items and it's so versatile – you can use it for spices, pots and pans, mugs and more.
One shopper says it 'makes finding things in my kitchen cupboard so much easier', writing: 'I've used this pull out organiser in my lower kitchen cupboards that are sometimes hard to see everything in.
'It has adjustable width so I was able to size it to the cupboards I have put them in and can now pull it out and see everything that is in there and get things out without worrying about knocking over other items that may be in front. Pulls out smoothly and makes keeping everything organised and in reach a lot easier.'
VASAGLE Baker's Rack for Kitchen with Storage, $135.99 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Great for holding appliances; durable.
What to consider: Some reviewers say it can be a bit wobbly; while some say the screws don't line up.
Dimensions: 40D x 80W x 167Hcm | Weight: 21kg | Capacity: 13.6kg (top shelves) / 45.3kg (middle shelf) / 72.5kg (bottom shelf) | Colour: Black, White
What You Need To Know
If you own many appliances and simply don't have the counter space for them all, why not try out this rack? Perfect for housing kitchen appliances and utensils, it's made from sturdy particle board and steel and has six shelves. The rack measures 167 centimetres tall and has multiple compartments for pots, an air fryer, microwave, toaster, mugs, jars – you name it, as well as hooks on the side to hold utensils.
One five-star reviewer says it's 'great value', writing: 'Love this shelf! Easy to set up and very happy I was able to make some counter space! For now I'm using it as a microwave stand and storage but I could also see this shelf being used for liquor and glassware storage/set up and I think it would look sharp too! Surprisingly pretty sturdy and doesn't feel/look cheap!'
Another shopper raved: 'It is the perfect mix of style and storage! It has plenty of space for your coffee maker, mugs, and accessories, plus extra shelves for snacks, cookbooks, or decor. The sturdy frame and rustic design add a cozy touch to any kitchen. Assembly is easy, and the storage options are super practical. Whether you're a coffee lover or just need extra kitchen space, this rack is a total win!'
5 Drawer Unit with Wheels, $39 at Target Australia
Why we love it: Can easily be moved around; great storage; five drawers; affordable.
What to consider: May not be the highest quality.
What You Need To Know
If you're after an easy storage option to keep things like clothes, underwear and socks separated and organised, this drawer unit is perfect. It has five drawers, each with a 4kg capacity that effortlessly slide in and out, along with wheels to move the unit from room to room if needed.
Why we love it: Conveniently stores under the bed; stackable; sturdy and solid structure; comes with two storage boxes.
What to consider: Some reviewers say they wish the boxes were taller; suitable for lightweight items.
What You Need To Know
A no-brainer for saving space – under bed storage boxes are the perfect solution for keeping things out of sight and out of mind but easy to access. This two pack from Amazon Australia can be stored under the bed, on top of a cabinet and more. It features a removable three-piece velcro lid so you can easily view the contents, three handles for easy manouvreablilty and transparent label pockets.
Five-star reviewers say it's a 'great space-saver' that 'fits perfectly under the bed' and 'helped declutter my bedroom and keep things organised'.
Why we love it: Great for saving closet space; holds up to six pieces of clothing; can be used vertically or horizontally.
What to consider: Some reviewers say it doesn't make much extra space.
Dimensions: 26W x 8.5Hcm | Weight: 0.328kg | Capacity: 13.6kg | Colour: Black
What You Need To Know
These cleverly designed coat hangers have six wavy slots to hold six pieces of clothing without any worry of slipping – it's perfect for small closets as they're all held on a single yet durable hanger. The clothes are held vertically to increase closet space, however, it has a hook at each end so you can also hang your clothes up horizontally if desired.
One five-star reviewer insists the hangers are a 'must-have' for limited wardrobe space and another reviewer says they are 'so good', writing: 'We have a tiny wardrobe in our apartment and these space-saving hangers are perfect for our needs.
'They're metal so they don't bend under the weight of our clothing. We will order another pack for the rest of our clothes.'
Why we love it: Can be hung behind the door or in your closet; multiple compartments; holds its shape well.
What to consider: Some reviewers say they wish the boxes were taller; suitable for lightweight items.
Dimensions: 8D x 20W x 39Hcm | Weight: 0.948kg | Capacity: 22.6kg | Colour: Ivory, Baby Blue, Baby Pink, Dark Grey and Light Grey
What You Need To Know
Conveniently hanging up behind your door, this storage organiser is sturdy, durable and features multiple compartments. It can hold up to 22.6kg and can be used to store anything you can imagine from clothes and shoes to toiletries and more.
One five-star reviewer wrote: 'I am absolutely thrilled with the OMELUX THEORY Heavy Duty Over the Door Organiser! It's exactly what I needed to help declutter my space. The organiser is incredibly sturdy and can hold a lot of items without feeling flimsy.
'I've been using it for shoes, hats, and even some accessories, and it does a great job of keeping everything organised and within easy reach. The installation was a breeze — just slipped it over the door, and I was good to go.
'The design is sleek and doesn't make the door feel heavy or awkward when it's closed. Plus, it doesn't scratch or damage the door, which is a nice bonus. The pockets are spacious, so I can store multiple items in each one without any trouble.'
Studio Home Dawson 2 Door TV unit, $199.99 (down from $259.99) at Temple & Webster
Why we love it: Great TV and storage unit; offers ample storage; adjustable shelves.
What to consider: Heavy.
Dimensions: 59.3H x 147W x 40Dcm | Weight: 32.41kg | Capacity: 45kg | Colour: White
What You Need To Know
Investing in a TV unit with storage compartments is one of the easiest solutions to maximise small living spaces. This item in particular has two cabinets with shelves along with a middle shelf compartment – it's great for housing any random items like decor, boardgames, tech items, gaming consoles and more.
'Very stylish and easy to put together! Perfect for our small loungeroom with plenty of storage!' one five-star reviewer wrote.
Why we love it: 3-in-1 sofa, bed and storage unit; versatile; great for small spaces.
What to consider: Heavy; may be dangerous if you have young children or pets that might crawl under; some reviewers say the cushions are a bit too hard; on the firmer side.
Dimensions: 86 x 227 x 146cm | Weight: 90kg | Capacity: 200kg | Colour: Grey, Black, White
What You Need To Know
A small space doesn't mean you can't have a couch – this clever three-seater triples as a sofa, double bed and storage unit. It's made with an eucalyptus wood frame, plastic legs, polyester fabric upholstery, foam seat padding and cotton back padding.
There's generous storage space within the chaise for bedding and cushions, removable back cushions and it can easily convert into a double bed by pulling out the mattress like a drawer.
'This lounge is perfect for my granny flat. Folds out really easy to make into a bed and I love the extra storage in the chaise. Couldn't be happier. Love it!' one five-star reviewer wrote.
'A great sized, versatile couch for our holiday home. Storage under the chaise and pull out bed are great features,' another wrote.
SONGMICS Over The Toilet Storage 3-Tier Organiser, $119.99 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Convenient way to maximise space in bathrooms; easy to access shelves.
What to consider: Make sure to measure your bathroom and toilet before purchasing; one reviewer says it was not tall enough for them to be able to open the toilet lid fully.
Dimensions: 169.9H x 63W x 25.9Dcm | Weight: 5.5kg | Capacity: 15kg | Colour: White
What You Need To Know
Ever thought about how much wall space there is above your toilet? This over-the-toilet storage shelf is the perfect solution to fill out that space. It measures 170 centimetres tall and features three shelves and hooks for holding toilet paper and other bathroom essentials.
The middle shelf is adjustable to accommodate different item sizes and the bottom bar is also adjustable to fit different heights of pipes.
'Rented an apartment with a REALLY small ensuite bathroom and no storage. This product fixed the problem. Only challenge I had was that it was not tall enough for me to be able to open the toilet seat lid fully so had to prop it up on some small white storage boxes to raise the height but once that was done it was perfect!' one five-star reviewer wrote.
Why we love it: Offers ample storage; slim design so it fits anywhere easily.
What to consider: May need to be wall mounted for security; assembly may not be as quick and easy for some.
Dimensions: 180H x 20W x 20D cm | Weight: 12kg | Capacity: 25kg | Colour: White, Black
What You Need To Know
This tall bathroom cabinet is a great storage unit for a variety of items like toilet paper, towels and other bathroom essentials. Featuring a slim and modern design, it's built with one drawer, five storage compartments and two cabinets, and measures 180 centimetres tall. Plus, all the shelves are adjustable to fit any sized products.
Holding over 2000 five-star ratings, shoppers say it's 'perfect for limited spaces' and 'sturdy and useful'.
'Great for small spaces, offers a lot of storage. My bathroom is built in a way that doesn't offer a lot of horizontal storage, so this was the perfect solution. Good height offering a lot of shelves and generous depth. Building process is straight forward, it can be SLIGHTLY confusing because there are a lot of pieces but nothing unmanageable, it took about 30 mins total and was well worth it,' one reviewer wrote.
'We have a rather small bathroom with very little storage. This fits great and though it is narrow, it still holds a lot! It took a bit of time to put together but is sturdy,' another wrote.
Why we love it: Comes with adhesives to stick on the wall; offers great storage and has hooks; great reviews.
What to consider: Some shoppers say it can rust.
Dimensions: 180H x 20W x 20D cm | Weight: 0.37kg | Capacity: 18kg | Colour: Black
What You Need To Know
Keep your bathroom necessities organised with this handy caddy shelf organiser. Made from metal, the shelf can be mounted on the wall in the shower and can hold up to 18 kgs of products. It comes with two shower caddy hooks and two adhesive tabs to seamlessly mount it onto any wall.
It has received over 18,000 five-star ratings with shoppers describing it as 'brilliant' and 'the best stick on shower caddy I've ever used'.
'This was exactly what I needed to organise my bathroom. It was easy to install, and it had great grip. I started using it almost immediately and it held well. I love it. It deserves 10 stars,' one shopper wrote.
Another shopper says they had their 'doubts' in the beginning but was 'surprised with the quality and strength'.
SimpleHouseware Wall Mount Ironing Board Holder Over The Door Hanger, $33.87 (down from $45.99)
Why we love it: Conveniently keeps ironing supplies in one compact space; hangs over the door or can be wall mounted.
What to consider: Some shoppers say it can rust.
Dimensions: 51.3L x 31.7W x 13.9H cm | Weight: N/A | Capacity: N/A | Colour: White
What You Need To Know
We all know ironing boards can be bulky, however this handy buy is a great solution to keeping it organised and out of the way. Made from alloy steel, this ironing board mount can be hung over-the-door or on the wall and features two hooks to hold the ironing board or hang clothes, and a little shelf for your iron and other laundry essentials.
'Very sturdy and functional. I hung mine over the door and it fits perfectly without hindrance to opening or closing the door. The iron and board fits on it perfectly. I even added my three-seat step ladder. The unit is stable and enabled me to clear items off the floor. The unit definitely helps my laundry room to look neater!' one five-star reviewer wrote.
Joseph Joseph Pocket Folding Space-Saving Compact Table-top Ironing Board, $117 (down from $159.95) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Compact little ironing board; foldable; can be hung over the door or mounted on the wall.
What to consider: Some reviewers say the short legs can be a bit of a hindrance.
Dimensions: 34L x 15.5W x 45.5H cm | Weight: 2.6kg | Capacity: N/A | Colour: Grey/Yellow
What You Need To Know
Speaking of ironing boards, if you're after a compact board then this one from Joseph Joseph is perfect. It's foldable and small enough to use atop a table, has its own built-in iron storage compartment and can be hung over the door.
Five-star reviewers say it's 'compact and sturdy'.
'Set this up in our laundry and we just take it out when needed. Very convenient and saves a lot of space compared to a full sized board. Used on top of a bench top, the height is great as well …' one wrote.
'Best purchase, very compact and perfect quality, ironing clothes have never been easier, just set it up on top of my coffee table and iron clothes while watch a movie,' another wrote.
Joseph Joseph Tota Trio 90-litre Laundry Separation Basket, $149 (down from $219.95)
Why we love it: Sleek and minimal design; three compartments makes it easy to separate laundry; has carry handles so that it's easy to take the individual baskets out.
What to consider: Some reviewers say it was difficult to assemble; the baskets aren't very big; expensive.
Dimensions: 39.5L x 59.1W x 71H cm | Weight: 2.8kg | Capacity: 90L | Colour: Ecru
What You Need To Know
If you're sick of having multiple baskets in the laundry, maybe it's time to invest in this chic and sleek laundry basket that has three compartments in one – say what?!
Perfect for separating your laundry by colour and fabric, each compartment has a removable bag with handles that makes it so easy to take to and from the laundry room. It also has a lid to mask any smells and make your laundry room less of an eyesore. What's more, there's a dual version that holds up to 60L and has two compartments.
One five-star reviewer say it 'saves so much time', writing: 'In my household, we really don't put a lot in the dryer, so finding a laundry solution that could let us easily sort through laundry was clutch. Honestly, it saves so much time to just grab a bag and go, knowing exactly what you're washing …
'The bags are a little on the smaller side so this is probably best used by 1-2 people max, as opposed to a family. But I will say a full bag often equals a full load in the washing machine. The handle on the bottom of the bags is most useful for people shaking laundry into a top-loading machine; for front loads, it's not helpful as I end up shaking laundry onto the floor and then shoving it in.
'Overall though, (I'm) super happy with my purchase – practical, timesaving, and nice design.'
These are a few factors to consider when looking for storage ideas for small spaces:
Size: Obviously, if you're working with a small space to begin with, you don't want something that will take up too much space. Rather, you'd want an item that is still relatively compact but has a great storage capacity.
Capacity: Storage capacity makes all the difference when it comes to small spaces. Decide whether you want to have multiple different storage solutions, or one or two main items that have decent storage space like cabinets and shelves or small attachments that can easily fit into cupboards.
Purpose: Look into products that are versatile and double as storage like a TV unit with cabinets, a couch that has storage, a bedframe with underbed storage, an Ottoman etc.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
We know how stressful it can be trying to find creative ways to maximise storage in small spaces, so our team of experienced writers spent hours researching products to include in this article. We found out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW DO I MAXIMISE STORAGE IN A SMALL SPACE?
There are actually multiple ways you can maximise storage in a small space, some common ways include:
Find Space Everywhere: Desperate times call for desperate measures. To master the art of maximising storage in small spaces, you need to get creative. Find space everywhere that you could potentially use for storage – could you add floating shelves to the bathroom or laundry room? What about a hanging shelf system in your closet? Is there space to add shelves to the side of the fridge? Can a skinny rolling shelf cart fit right next to your toilet? You'd be pleasantly surprised at how much storage space you actually have.
Vertical Space: Using vertical space to your advantage is honestly a great way to create more storage space. Hanging shelves and organisers at the back of your door or on the walls really helps as they're off the floor and fill out the wall space.
Furniture: If you have the means, furniture that is designed with built-in storage compartments can really help. For example, bed frames with underbed storage drawers, couches with storage compartments and a TV unit with cabinets and shelves.
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