Home Storage on a Budget: 5 DIY Solutions
Are you tired of clutter, but not thrilled about the cost of store-bought storage solutions? Fear not! Clutter-busting and storage can be tackled with creativity and the use of everyday items you have lying around.
If you love to organize or just want to reclaim some precious space in your home, these 5 budget-friendly DIY storage solutions will help you do just that. Not only are these ideas simple and economical, but they also serve as clever, decorative additions to your home.
1. Repurpose Old Crates for a Vintage Look
Materials Needed: Wooden crates, sandpaper, paint (optional), and screws for mounting (optional)
Got a few wooden crates lying around? These make excellent storage solutions when you’re on a budget. Give them a clean and a light sanding to smooth out any rough edges. Then, consider painting them if you’re looking to add a pop of color or to match your decor. Once they’re dry, hang them on the wall or stack them to store books, toys, or craft supplies. The best part? You can usually find crates at secondhand stores or even up for grabs on community websites.
2. Utilize Tension Rods for Vertical Storage
Materials Needed: Tension rods, baskets or hooks
Tension rods – they’re not just for hanging curtains! Install these in various spots throughout the house, such as in closets, under sinks, or in the laundry room. Then, hang baskets or hooks from them. You’ve instantly created vertical storage for items like cleaning supplies, shower essentials, or even pots and pans in the kitchen.
3. Create Floating Shelves from Old Books
Materials Needed: Books, brackets, screws
If you have books that are too old or damaged to keep reading, repurpose them into floating shelves that are as creative as they are functional. Remove the covers so that you have one solid rectangular shape. Then, drill a couple of holes into the book spine and attach decorative brackets. Mount them on the wall for a unique storage solution that’s perfect for small items like keys or even spices in the kitchen.
4. Design a Pegboard Wall Organizer
Materials Needed: Pegboard, pegboard hooks, paint (optional)
Pegboards offer one of the most versatile storage systems and can be customized to fit any space or need. Purchase a pegboard and hooks from your local hardware store, then cut it to fit your desired area. You can even paint it to match your decor. Use it in the kitchen for pots and pans, in the garage for tools, or in the craft room for supplies. The best part is that you can always rearrange the hooks as your storage needs change.
5. Turn an Old Ladder into a Standing Shelf
Materials Needed: Old ladder, sandpaper, paint or sealant (optional), screws for support (optional)
Got an old wooden ladder? Give it a new life as a free-standing shelf. Sand it down to remove splinters and rough areas. Then, you can choose to paint it for a fresh look or apply a sealant to protect the wood. Lean it against the wall in your bedroom for a stylish blanket ladder or in your bathroom for towels and toiletries.
By implementing these DIY storage solutions, not only will you save money, but you’ll also add a unique and personal touch to your living space. Organization doesn’t have to be boring or expensive—sometimes, it’s the creative process of repurposing everyday items that makes it the most satisfying.
