In the Closet: The Magic of Hangers and Hooks
The key to an organized closet is maximizing vertical space — hang items wherever possible. Hangers aren't just for clothes; they can store belts, scarves, ties, and even jewelry. Add hooks inside your closet doors to hang bags, hats, or robes. This Scarf Hanger is the perfect solution for freeing up drawer & shelf space by maximizing vertical space. I prefer this one because it is metal and will not snag your material. It also has various size hoops for various size items.
There are several space-saving hangers out there to choose from. The one thing to be mindful of if you decide to use space-saving hangers is to ensure your closet rod can adequately support the extra weight added. I highly recommend using a space-saving hanger for lighter items such as yoga pants, leggings, or dress pants. I prefer to use a Space Saving Hanger such as this because it allows for easier access to the items, and again, this one is snag-proof.
Storage cubbies that hang from closet rods can also be a game-changer for storing shoes, sweaters, or other bulky items. I love this Hanging Closet Organizer because the cubbies are large enough to store a variety of items and the material is durable and good quality. It also has small side pockets for storing odd items such as lint rollers or shoe-shining kits that make sense to be in the closet rather than a junk drawer.
For individuals who are handy with a sewing machine, DIY hanging pockets are a creative option for storing smaller items such as belts, socks, and underwear as well.
In the Kitchen: Utilize Wall Space and Vertical Racks
A common problem in many kitchens is insufficient space, but when was the last time you considered using your walls for storage? Mount a pegboard to hang pots, pans, utensils, and more — it's a great way to keep the items you use daily within reach. This Wall Mounted Rail Wrought Iron Hanging Rod with Removable S Hooks is also a fantastic option! I have several of these around my house. I use them in my kitchen to hang potholders and kitchen aid mixing supplies. I also use them in my itty bitty "master closet" to maximize my storage space, hanging my purses and various handbags.
Another way to organize your kitchen vertically is with the use of racks - spice racks, pot lid racks, stacking shelves, and even a magnetic knife strip. This way, you're not only utilizing vertical space but also keeping your items neatly categorized. This 8-Tier Over-Door Pantry Organizer is great for storing different sizes of spice jars, dry goods, and other snacks. It’s also extremely easy to assemble and comes with adhesives and screws for added stability and the top hook is attached with an anti-scratch sponge to protect your door.
Another game changer, I use in my kitchen is this Simple Wall Door Mounted Pot Lid Rack. I like this one because it looks sleek, and it also fits a variety of lid handles. My cupboards are tiny! This rack allowed me to make adequate use of the space and eliminate any frustration of rummaging through my pots and pans to get to what I needed. I also vertically stack my pots and pans and protect them with these Pot and Pan Protectors. They come in a set of 12 in three different sizes. They could also be used to vertically stack and store your other cookware, glassware, stoneware, or plates and bowls to avoid locking or chipping extending their life and protecting them from scratches.
Using an Adjustable Pots and Pans Rack such as this, may also be a good option for you. I like this one because its height is adjustable, and you can use it either horizontally or vertically. I use a similar rack to this to stack my plates & bowls in my awkward corner cabinet in my kitchen.
In the Office: Vertical Files and Shelves
In an office setting, your desk can quickly become cluttered with files, office supplies, and electronics. To solve this, introduce vertical file holders and shelving. I would recommend this Hanging Wall Mount Document Organization Stand as a great option if you have wall space. I like this one because it gives you a small section in the corner to add a label for categorized organization which I love! You can, however, find more aesthetically pleasing hanging wall mounts at places like Home Goods or TJMaxx for an affordable price.
Vertical file holders are ideal for sorting mail, bills, and important documents, while shelving can help keep your workspace clear. Consider installing floating shelves above your desk and use them to store books, decor, or other items that would otherwise take up valuable desk space. I purchased these Floating Shelves from Amazon as a nice way to display décor and free up space on my desk. They are not meant to hold any more than 20 lbs, but they worked for what I needed. If it is in your budget, I would recommend finding higher-quality shelves made from real wood. Lowe’s and Home Depot have some great options!
I am a big promoter of essential oils for health and wellness. Essential oils come in numerous varieties, leading to an assemblage of individual bottles. If you have a sizable collection like mine, you can understand my need for a storage option that enabled me to make a quick selection as well as protect them from direct sunlight to help maintain their quality. This Wall Mounted Essential Oils Display Shelf was not only affordable, but it was also a breeze to assemble and looks so good on my office wall. I purchased two of these shelves to maximize capacity. I hung them so they were out of direct sunlight and organized them alphabetically for quick inventory. Not only are these shelves functional, but they also offer the perfect aesthetic to my home office and have become a visual highlight for me.
Get Creative: Use Vertical Space in Unique Ways
The sky truly is the limit! Get creative. With a touch of creativity and a nudge towards vertical solutions, boring walls, doors, and corners can be converted into practical storage havens.
You'd be amazed at how much storage potential is behind the back of your doors. Utilizing over-the-door hangers or shoe organizers can provide extra pockets for various items such as cleaning supplies, toiletries, or even pantry items.
Moreover, if you have a particularly empty stair wall, consider installing floating shelves here or a bookshelf ladder. These can be decorative as well as provide much-needed storage space. I also love a decorative ladder for vertical storage. I’ve used ladders to store blankets as well as extra towels in the bathroom which helps free up shelf space for other items.
Vertical organization can revolutionize the way you store and find your belongings. When surfaces become full, remember to look up. A wealth of storage potential lies in the space above you.
Disclosure: This blog may contain Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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