Americans have more “stuff” than ever, and less room to store it! Organizing and creating storage space can make your home feel larger and make you feel more calm! If you’re on a tight budget (or into saving some cash) here are some cheap and easy storage solutions for the budget conscious family.
New uses for everyday items – The crafty among us can look at a pile of trash and see treasure, but you don’t have to be super-crafty to use everyday objects in unique ways and create interesting and functional storage solutions. The key is to find inexpensive items that can fit in small nooks and crannies, hung on walls or fit into awkward spaces. One idea is to use a tin or metal bucket with holes drilled in the bottom and hang them up on the walls of your garage – you’ll be able to hold items in the bucket and wrap others around the exterior or on top (depending on the shape of your bucket.) This can double your space and make for interesting décor. Use a hanging plastic shoe storage device to store anything from spices in your kitchen (just hang the plastic storage on your pantry door) to bathroom products, cotton balls and wash cloths (hang the storage area on your bathroom closet door.) Need to wrangle your kiddos toys? Use metal baskets, typically used to hang planters, to the walls for sturdy storage.
Self Storage solutions – If you’ve found your closets, attic and garage overflowing with items with which you just can’t part, self-storage might be a great option for you – and cheaper than moving or building on to your house! Self-storage units have a variety of sizes and time frames so you can choose the one that’s right for your needs. When you’re looking for a self-storage unit, make sure you check for security, access and state-of-the-art facilities. Many self-storage units are climate controlled, so your sensitive possessions wont’ be spoiled by the elements. Some include 24/7 security and access – make sure you ask before you sign on and move your things!
Storage systems on the cheap — Not so keen on crafts? Many major retailers offer inexpensive storage system solutions that you can tailor to fit any space. Buy inexpensive stackable storage containers with clear sides so you can see what’s inside at a glance and use them to store anything from Christmas decorations to cereal to towels! If you’re out of space in your dresser, easy to assemble Rubbermaid drawers can fit the bill – they come in a variety of sizes, and most of them include wheels so they are easy to move. When you need to move your wardrobe from summer to winter, buy large, sturdy sweater boxes and store them under your bed. Another option is shelving units, which can be used to organize your garage, kitchen or bathroom. Home center chains often sell them in mix-and-match sets, starting at about $20 and ranging to $75. With a little elbow grease, you can transform your cluttered areas to a organizer’s dream come true. Another option is to buy storage units, shelving or dressers at yard sales or thrift stores (or Craigslist, if you’re feeling lucky!) Check the condition thoroughly for any cracks or damage – if it checks out, you can often get brand-new (or close to brand new!) storage for next to nothing.
About the author: Marty Reardon has written for the storage industry for many years. When he’s not writing, you can find Marty reviewing storage in Peoria or playing baseball with his son.
The author mentioned storage units but did not mention portable self storage. At The Mobile Attic you can have a storage unit placed in your yard and keep it there as long as you need it. Rather than have to drive to a storage unit you can have it brought to you. If you want it stored we will store it. If you want it brought back we will bring it back. Again, much cheaper than building onto your house or anything of that nature and very convenient.