Inexpensive Storage Ideas
© Terri Seymour

Storage space is a problem for a lot of us. We tend to accumulate more stuff than we could ever hope to have room for. Before you throw everything out, get creative and find storage space in the least likely of places.

Use a chest or wooden box as a coffee table. Decorate to match your living room decor. Great for storing blankets, books, pillows, magazines, etc.

Build a smaller version of the coffee table, add a cushion and use it as a footstool. Great for storing tapes, CDs, cards, etc.

Inexpensive plastic tubs can be used in kids rooms as a toy chest, or storage for games, clothes, art
supplies, etc. I have two stacked by my bed and they serve as a dresser for lesser worn clothes. Saves me tons of room in my closet!

Suitcases can be used for storage also. Stack a couple to double as a nightstand. Cover with pretty fabric for a coordinating look.

You do not have to follow "the rules"
when it comes to
decorating your own house!

Put shelves above your doorways and windows. These shelves could be used for books, movies, pictures, collectibles and much more.

Baskets are a wonderful invention for home storage. Use them in the bathroom for cosmetics, toiletries, towels, etc. In the kitchen they can hold utensils, recipes, or food items. Try them for magazines, books, or movies in the living room or bedroom. In the kids' room they make great places for toys, books, video games. The possibilities are endless!

Use a file cabinet as a nightstand and/or end table. Great way to hide all your papers, bills, files, old magazines, etc.

Canning jars also make for good storage. They can be used for make-up, craft supplies, spices, pet food, small toys, etc.

Kids' rooms usually need a lot of storage for toys, games, art supplies, books, etc. Some stuff to use for storage could
be inexpensive laundry baskets, decorated coffee cans, plastic shoe bags, and stackable plastic boxes in a variety of
colors. Make your kid's room fun, easy for them to clean and interesting.

Take advantage of the space under your bed. Buy the under the bed plastic containers to store just about
anything.

If you have an available corner or unused space, a dresser makes a great addition to your kitchen. The drawers are great for storing napkins, towels, utensils, foil/bags, odds and ends, etc. It can also double as a microwave stand!

Use your imagination and be creative. You do not have to follow "the rules" when it comes to decorating your own house! Do what you like and what works for you!