Expand Your Storage Space With Organizing Tips From a Professional Organizer

According to Toronto based Professional Organizer Andrew Neary, one of the biggest challenges faced by homeowners and renters alike is finding sufficient space for storage. ”We’re part of a consumer culture and our buying is out of control. As a result, many people quickly run out of storage options.” It also doesn’t help that the size of some homes, particularly recently built condos and apartments in major Urban areas, is getting smaller and smaller. The solution lies in doing a realistic assessment of belongings (aka “decluttering” ) and in using tried and tested organizing techniques to expand space and store more of what matters. Neary offers these organizing tips for expanding storage space: 1. Declutter. Perhaps the biggest cause of a space shortage is having too much stuff. Assess each item and determine whether it serves a purpose or just occupies space. Make decisions about whether to keep, discard, sell, or donate each item. 2. Use the Space Under the Sink. Over the door baskets, pull out trays, shelves that fit around pipes, and suction cup fastened baskets are some organizing products that can be used to harness space in this area. 3. Harness Space Under the Bed. Use bedrisers and underbed organizers, get a bed with storage under the mattress, or buy a customized bed with drawers. 4. Use Dual Purpose Furniture. Some examples include using an ottoman (or a trunk) with storage inside for a coffee table and small storage cabinets for end tables. 5. Install Organizing Systems. Use custom closet organizers and garage organizing systems to optimize your use of space. 6. Use Stackable Containers. Clear containers that are designed to be stacked and open from the side can significantly expand storage space. 7. Harness Wallspace. Install shelving right to the ceiling. Use baskets, boxes, and bins to contain and protect belongings. 8. Repurpose Furniture for Non Traditional Uses. Examples include placing a dresser in the hall to store towels and linens and using a storage ottoman against a wall outside the bathroom for a clothes hamper. When put into action, these organizing tips can result in a significant expansion of storage space. But be cautioned. “It’s not about cramming everything that you have into your space”, says Professional Organizer Neary. “It’s about getting rid of clutter and organizing the things that matter.”