11 Storage Products That Make Your Home Look Bigger and Cleaner

I don’t know about you, but I’ve spent plenty of mornings digging through messy closets, rummaging under tables, and wondering why my home feels so chaotic despite having “enough space.” Over the years, I’ve realized that organizing isn’t just about buying pretty bins or fancy shelves—it’s about creating systems that actually make your life easier. When you have smart storage solutions in place, every item has a home, every surface feels open, and the stress of clutter slowly disappears.

In this article, I want to walk you through 11 storage solutions that don’t just look good—they work. You’ll find practical ideas for every room, clever ways to use your space, and a few tricks that professional organizers swear by. By the time you finish reading, you’ll not only see how to organize your home but also feel motivated to take action. Let’s turn that cluttered chaos into a clutter‑free, calm space you actually enjoy living in.

How to Think About Storage: Beyond Just Buying Containers

I used to think organizing meant buying every cute bin I could find online. But the truth is, adding more containers to a cluttered space often just moves the mess around. Over time, I’ve learned that smart storage starts with a strategy, not stuff. Before you buy anything, take a step back and really look at your home: where does clutter build up the most, and what items do you actually use every day?

Here’s how I approach it:

• Define zones: I like to divide my home into functional areas—kitchen, living space, bedroom, and so on. Once you know which zone needs what, it’s easier to choose storage solutions that actually work.
• Declutter first: Ask yourself, “Do I really need this?” It sounds simple, but removing unnecessary items before adding storage is a game-changer.
• Leave breathing room: I follow the 80/20 organizational mindset I read about in Better Homes & Gardens—you store 80% of your items and leave 20% free. This prevents overstuffed drawers and shelves, and it keeps your home feeling open and calm.

By taking this approach, you’re not just hiding clutter—you’re creating systems that make it easier to find, use, and maintain your things. Once you have a plan, storage containers and solutions become tools, not crutches.

Room‑By‑Room Storage Overview

Breaking your home into rooms and addressing each one individually is something I find incredibly helpful. Every room has its quirks and common clutter spots, so a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Let me walk you through what I do in each space.

Kitchen Storage Solutions That Work

Your kitchen is often the hardest to keep tidy because so many items are constantly in use. Here’s what has worked for me:

• Pantry organization: Clear containers are lifesavers—you can see what you have at a glance, which reduces waste and stress. I also use vertical racks to make the most of small shelves. This Wallpics guide on room-by-room home organization has some great examples that inspired me.
• Over-door and under-shelf organizers: These little additions turn wasted spaces into usable storage for spices, small appliances, or even cutting boards.

Entryway & Living Room Essentials

The entryway and living areas are the first impression of your home, but they’re also where clutter tends to pile up. Here’s how I tackle it:

• Drop zones: A small tray or bowl for keys, wallets, and mail keeps things from spreading across tables. I’ve also invested in benches with hidden storage underneath—they’re perfect for shoes or bags.
• Wall hooks: Simple but effective. Hooks for bags, coats, or even hats keep surfaces clean and make things easy to grab. Life Uncluttered has some great tips on this approach.

Bedroom & Closet Storage Ideas

Bedrooms can feel serene or chaotic depending on how you store clothing and personal items. My tips:

• Under-bed storage: Sliding drawers or low-profile bins help hide seasonal clothes or extra linens.
• Closet systems: Custom organizers with sections for hanging clothes, drawers, and shelves make mornings so much smoother. Even just adding dividers can change the way your closet feels.

Bathroom Storage That Reduces Counter Clutter

Bathrooms are small but essential spaces, and clutter here can feel overwhelming quickly. I focus on:

• Wall-mounted shelves: Keep everyday items like toiletries or towels off the counter but within reach.
• Clear organizer trays: Group your items by category—skincare, hair tools, or makeup. It not only looks neat but saves me time every morning.

Storage Solution #1: Vertical Storage and Wall Space

One of the simplest ways I’ve transformed cluttered rooms is by looking up instead of around. So much space above eye level or along walls goes unused, and yet it can hold so much. Vertical storage not only clears your surfaces but also makes a room feel more open. If clutter tends to build up in utility areas too, you’ll find these easy DIY garage storage hacks especially useful—they apply the same vertical storage logic to garages and workspaces.

• Floating shelves & pegboards: Great for books, plants, kitchen utensils, or even office supplies. You can mix open shelves with pegs for hooks, creating both display and storage.
• Wall hooks: Perfect for bags, jackets, hats, or tools. I have a section in my kitchen where I hang frequently used utensils—keeps them visible and easy to grab.
• Think like a wall: Even corners and narrow walls can host racks or hanging organizers. It’s about using every inch smartly.

By taking advantage of vertical space, you’ll notice surfaces stay clearer, and clutter doesn’t pile up in random corners.

Storage Solution #2: Multifunctional Furniture

I’ve always loved furniture that does double duty. It’s one of my favorite ways to combine storage with style. When you invest in pieces that store things inside, you immediately reduce visible clutter without sacrificing design.

• Ottomans with compartments: Store blankets, toys, or magazines inside while keeping seating available.
• Coffee tables with hidden storage: Perfect for living rooms where surface clutter tends to accumulate.
• Benches + drop zones: A bench with a lid or drawers works in entryways and bedrooms—seating and storage in one.

The key here is to think about functionality first, aesthetics second. You want pieces that solve problems every day.

Storage Solution #3: Baskets, Bins & Uniform Containers

Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. Decorative baskets, bins, and containers aren’t just pretty—they create visible order. I’ve found that when I group items together in matching containers, it’s easier to maintain organization.

• Decorative baskets everywhere: Living rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms all benefit. Use them for throw blankets, toiletries, or toys.
• Stackable bins with labels: Helps you see what’s inside without opening them, especially in closets or pantries.
• Uniform storage: Using similar shapes and sizes across a room creates a sense of calm. It’s not just aesthetics—it helps you maintain order without constant rearranging.

This is the type of solution that works across every room and for almost every household.

Storage Solution #4: Smart Drawer and Cabinet Organizers

Drawers and cabinets can quickly become black holes if left unmanaged. I like to add a few smart organizers to make life easier.

• Dividers for utensils & office supplies: Keeps everything separated and instantly accessible.
• Lazy Susans & clear bins: Perfect for corner cabinets or deep drawers where items tend to get lost.

Once I organized my drawers this way, mornings became smoother—I could find what I needed without digging around or emptying the entire drawer.

Storage Solution #5: Hidden and Built‑In Solutions

If you want your home to feel truly clutter-free, some storage needs to be invisible. I’ve learned that hidden or built-in options make a huge difference in both function and aesthetics.

• Under-stair storage: Perfect for shoes, cleaning supplies, or seasonal items.
• Built-in alcove shelves: Great for books, decor, or everyday items, blending storage seamlessly into the room.
• Hidden bins inside furniture: Coffee tables, benches, or headboards can hide items you use frequently but don’t want on display. If your living room still feels crowded, these hidden living room storage ideas you haven’t tried yet explore even smarter ways to store everyday items without changing how your space looks.

This approach makes your space feel cleaner while giving you the flexibility to store more without thinking twice.

Storage Solution #6: Seasonal and Off-Use Storage Techniques

Some clutter isn’t everyday clutter—it’s seasonal. I learned the hard way that if you don’t have a plan for off-season items, they take over your home.

• Rotate seasonal items: Store winter coats, holiday decor, or summer gear elsewhere when not in use.
• Off-site storage for bulky gear: For items like camping equipment or sports gear, consider storage solutions outside your home to free up space.

By planning for the long term, you avoid the frustration of constant decluttering and keep your home consistently usable.

Storage Solution #7: Labels and Categorization Systems

I’ll be honest: when I first started organizing, I didn’t think labels mattered much. Then I realized that labels are the secret ingredient that keeps systems working long‑term. Once everything has a name, it’s easier to put things back in the right place.

• Label makers for drawers & bins: I use mine in the pantry and laundry room. It’s reassuring to see exactly what goes where.
• Color‑coding systems: I assign a color for kids’ toys, another for office supplies, and a different one for hobby gear. It makes visual scanning so much faster.

Labels turn organization into a habit, not a guess—and your house stays neat without constant thought.

Storage Solution #8: Everyday Habits That Maintain Order

Here’s what most storage guides skip: your behavior matters every bit as much as the bins and shelves you buy. I learned early that good habits prevent clutter from sneaking back in.

• Put‑back habit: If I take something out, I make it a rule to immediately return it when I’m done. It sounds small, but over time it saves hours of cleanup.
• Daily quick tidy routine: I spend about 10 minutes each night straightening high‑traffic spots like the entryway table or kitchen counter. It keeps small messes from becoming big ones.

These habits make your storage solutions stick—you won’t slide back into clutter as easily. If you want to stay consistent beyond the first few weeks, these storage resolutions to finally get your home organized can help turn simple habits into long-term routines.

Storage Solution #9: Small Space Specific Strategies

If your home feels cozy (read: small), you already know every inch counts. I learned strategies tailored for compact spaces are totally different from big‑house organizing.

• Micro shelving: Instead of chunky furniture, I use narrow shelves above doors or along awkward walls to store books, accessories, or décor. It frees up valuable floor space.
• Foldable and convertible furniture: Things like fold‑away desks or tables that tuck into the wall instantly add storage and functionality. This is especially helpful if a room must do multiple tasks (like work + living).

Small space solutions are about not just storing more, but storing smarter so your home feels bigger and calmer.

Storage Solution #10: Tech & Tools Used by Pros

I love learning what professional organizers use because it often sparks ideas I wouldn’t think of on my own. These tools don’t have to be expensive—they just make everyday organization easier.

• Bluetooth label makers: These let you create labels from your phone while you’re actually organizing. It’s faster than typing on tiny keypads.
• Specialized organizers: Adjustable drawer dividers, modular shelf inserts, and multipurpose racks can change how a space functions without much effort.

For real inspiration on clever, practical storage ideas that pros and designers use in small homes, you can check out this Apartment Therapy small‑space storage idea roundup — it’s full of everyday hacks that people love.

Storage Solution #11: Quick Wins You Can Do Today

Sometimes you just need instant relief from clutter. These quick wins give you that satisfying “done!” feeling and help build momentum for bigger organization projects.

• 15‑minute declutter: Pick one drawer, shelf, or corner and clear it completely. You’ll be amazed how much difference a tiny win makes.
• Quick swap: Grab a see‑through bin and move things you always use into it, then place it where it’s easiest to access. There—that zone just became more functional.

These simple actions are great when you want results now, not weeks later.

Closing Thoughts — Keep Your Home Functional and Clutter‑Free

Over the years, I’ve learned that a clutter-free home isn’t just about having the right bins or shelves—it’s about creating systems, forming habits, and thinking strategically about every space you use. From using vertical storage to adopting small daily routines, every little step makes a real difference.

Now it’s your turn. Which of these storage solutions do you think will make the biggest impact in your home? I’d love to hear your thoughts and any tips you’ve discovered—drop a comment below and share your experience.

If you want more practical, step-by-step guidance on turning your home into a clutter-free, organized space, check out Build Like New. We share real strategies, room-by-room ideas, and actionable hacks that make your home feel fresh and functional every day.

Remember: small changes today make a big difference tomorrow. Start with one solution, see the result, and build momentum. Your future clutter-free home is closer than you think.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general home organization and storage guidance. Results may vary based on individual spaces and needs. Build Like New is not responsible for any damage, injury, or loss resulting from implementing these ideas.