Who couldn’t use a bit more space? If you’re feeling like you’re running out of room in your Des Moines home, sometimes all it takes is a re-think of your storage systems to help open things up. Especially after we’ve lived in a home for a while, it’s easy for things to accumulate, and it’s easy to get used to storing things a specific way. Often though, the storage systems we default to aren’t necessarily the optimal ones. So, what are some things buyers can do to maximize their storage possibilities? Let’s take a look:

Stake Out Unused Space

You might feel like your closets are bursting at the seams or that there’s simply nowhere else to put things, but maybe you’re just not looking outside of your current system. Rather than trying to free up a few inches in your closet, a better place to start is by scanning your house for any unused spaces. If there are any corners or other nooks and crannies you don’t use on a regular basis, these can often be great places to bring in additional storage. Whether it’s a corner shelving unit or a system of drawers, sometimes you may need to create more storage options in the space you have.

Go For Double Function

Whether it’s an ottoman that also stores winter blankets or a shelf that serves as wall art, Looking for items that give you storage and another use can be a great way to create new storage space. A bench in the entryway, for example, could be a convenient place to sit while putting your boots on, and it could also store out-of-season shoes.

Think Vertically

Wall space is often underutilized, but it does provide several storage options. Whether it’s installing additional cabinets or simply putting up a few shelves, utilizing your walls can help homeowners get a handle on their storage systems. While some things you’d rather hide away in a closet, there are many things that can be stored on an open shelf - like extra linens in a bathroom or a set of handmade mugs in your kitchen.

Do a Routine Clean-Out

Most of us have that drawer or closet or corner of the basement that’s full of stuff. We’re not even sure what it is anymore. It’s easy to allow things to accumulate and assume that you’ve kept them for a reason. But often, homeowners have many things they could let go of that are taking up valuable storage space. Getting in the habit of doing a routine clean-out a few times a year can help you stay in control of your storage systems.

Do you feel like you need more storage in your Des Moines home? Have you found any useful solutions? I’d love to hear your thoughts!