Downsizing? Here are 10 Clever Storage Solutions for Small Spaces

While downsizing may mean living a more simplified life, the actual process of moving to a smaller home is anything but simple. In fact, it often involves a good deal of preparation. From deciding what to bring and what to toss to planning out the actual move itself, downsizing to a smaller home comes with its own set of challenges. Fortunately, storage doesn’t have to be one of them. Despite having less square footage to work with, there are still plenty of storage solutions for small spaces that you can try when downsizing. Here are 10 easy tips for storing your belongings when moving to a smaller home.

Storage Solutions for Small Spaces

Wall racks behind doors

Shelving above toilets

Storage beds

Hooks

Bins and baskets

Ottomans that double as storage bins

Hanging bike racks

Drawer organizers

Stackable toy storage

Wall mounted utility holders

More Tips for Downsizing to a Smaller Home

  • Study the floor plan carefully – Before moving to a smaller abode, be sure to obtain a copy of the home’s floor plan with the correct measurements. This will help you figure out what goes where. It should also give you a good idea of what not to bring when you move. For instance, if your current couch is too big for the new living space, you’ll need to ditch it before the move.
  • Purge your belongings – Speaking of ditching furniture, make sure you conduct a pre-move purge when downsizing. This means donating, selling or tossing all unnecessary items. When donating furniture and clothing, consider dropping it at Goodwill, Dress for Success, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Baby2Baby, local food banks and Salvation Army. If you intend to sell your items before moving, try hosting a garage sale or selling through a local consignment store.
  • Invest in a storage unit – Of course, you can always rent a self-storage unit when downsizing. These storage facilities are a safe, secure and convenient way to store belongings either temporarily or long term. Storage units also tend to be very affordable, with most facilities offering contracts on a month-to-month basis. To find storage in your area, use Moving.com’s Storage Center. Just type in the zip code or your city and state of residence and click the ‘find storage’ button. Moving.com will pull quotes from the closest storage unit facilities near your new home to compare.

Moving Soon?

When downsizing, you may need the help of a professional moving company. To find the best moving company to move your belongings, check Moving.com’s extensive network of reputable and reliable movers. All relocation companies in our network are licensed and insured, so you can rest assured that your move will be in good hands.