Crushed by clutter? Try these DIY storage ideas

by Ann Hayward 04/10/2023

If your home is feeling cramped and cluttered, it might be time to consider some DIY storage ideas. DIY solutions help you save space, stay organized and remain within your budget. Finding the right DIY project can help you shape up your storage space to operate at top efficiency. 


DIY storage table

A bar-height DIY storage table can provide a storage solution and other useful purposes in your kitchen or dining room. This project consists of combining a small bookcase with a tabletop to add a usable surface. Use whatever size or shape of tabletop to fit your personal style, and you'll have a unique, multi-functional piece of furniture.


Stacked bath storage

Simple wooden containers make excellent bathroom storage. One storage idea is to stack crates or containers to make box-style shelves. You can make your container storage free-standing or attach each box to the wall. If you opt for a moveable storage shelf, make sure it has sufficient supports to prevent it from toppling over.


Hidden storage

Another table idea involves using a tablecloth or curtain to hide the storage beneath your table's surface. Simply cut a piece of your chosen fabric to the right size, and attach to the sides using hooks or fabric tape. You can also use fabric tape to make a simple, no-sew hem for a more refined aesthetic.

While it often feels like we need more space at home - especially to store things like office supplies and craft supplies - there are plenty of ways to create storage solutions in the space you already have.


About the Author
Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]