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Say Goodbye to Clutter: 10 Easy Organization Tips for Small Living Spaces

Blog | February 19th, 2025

Picture of a small apartment


Living in a small space has its challenges, but it doesn’t mean you have to live in clutter! With a few smart strategies and the right storage solutions, you can make your home feel more spacious, tidy, and functional. Whether you live in a cozy apartment, a tiny house, or just a home with limited storage, these tips will help you stay organized and stress-free.


Woman organizing clothing into keep, donate, and discard boxes


1. Declutter First, Organize Second


Before you start organizing, take a good look at what you own and declutter! Ask yourself:
  • Do I use this regularly?
  • Do I truly love this?
  • Can I live without it?

If the answer is “no” to any of these, donate, sell, or toss it. Decluttering makes organization so much easier because you’re only working with the things you actually need and enjoy.

🛍 Donation Tip: Consider donating to local shelters or charities like Goodwill or The Salvation Army.


Table that opens for storage in a living room


2. Use Multi-Functional Furniture


When space is tight, every piece of furniture should serve multiple purposes. Look for:
  • Ottomans with storage – Great for storing blankets, magazines, or kids’ toys.
  • Bed frames with built-in drawers – Perfect for keeping seasonal clothes or extra bedding.
  • Folding dining tables – Ideal for small apartments where space needs to be flexible.

🛒 Product Pick: Try the HOMCOM Lift-Top Coffee Table with Storage – available on Amazon.


Floating shelves with books


3. Maximize Vertical Space


If you don’t have a lot of floor space, think UP!
  • Install floating shelves for books, décor, or kitchen essentials.
  • Use hanging organizers for shoes, accessories, or cleaning supplies.
  • Mount a pegboard in the kitchen to hang pots, pans, and utensils.

🛒 Product Pick: Check out the Wallniture Floating Shelves Set of 3.


Image of an over the door shoe holder used for multi purposes


4. Utilize Door and Wall Space


Doors and walls are often overlooked, but they can provide great storage solutions.
  • Over-the-door shoe racks can store more than just shoes—think scarves, cleaning supplies, or pantry items.
  • A wall-mounted desk can create a functional workspace without taking up floor space.
  • Hooks behind doors can hold jackets, towels, or bags.

🛒 Product Pick: The SimpleHouseware Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer.


Clear totes


5. Invest in Clear Storage Containers


Clear bins make it easy to see what’s inside without digging through everything. Use them for:
  • Pantry items
  • Seasonal decorations
  • Craft supplies
  • Bathroom essentials

Labeling the containers helps keep things even more organized.

🛒 Product Pick: Try the IRIS USA 19 Qt Stackable Storage Bins.


vacuum storage bags


6. Rotate Seasonal Items


Storing off-season clothes, shoes, and holiday decorations in vacuum-sealed bags or under-the-bed storage containers keeps them out of sight until you need them.

🛒 Product Pick: The Spacesaver Premium Vacuum Storage Bags are a great space-saver.


shelf drawers


7. Think Outside the Box for Closet Space


Not enough closet space? Try:
  • Hanging a tension rod in the closet for extra hanging space.
  • Using stackable storage bins for shoes or accessories.
  • Adding under-shelf baskets to make use of unused space.

🛒 Product Pick: Check out the SimpleHouseware Under Shelf Basket.






8. Create “Zones” for Different Activities


Even in a small space, defining different zones for activities (sleeping, working, eating) helps keep things organized. Use area rugs, room dividers, or furniture placement to create separation.

🛒 Product Pick: Try the FDW Room Divider Panel for an affordable way to create privacy and organization.


Image says one in one out


9. Adopt the “One In, One Out” Rule


For every new item you bring into your home, remove one. This keeps clutter from piling up over time and ensures you only keep what you truly need.


Woman organizing linens


10. Make Organization a Habit


Staying organized isn’t just about having the right storage—it’s about maintaining it! Spend 5-10 minutes each day tidying up and putting things back where they belong. It’s much easier to keep a small space neat when you stay on top of it regularly.






Small spaces don’t have to feel cramped or chaotic. With smart storage solutions, a little creativity, and regular upkeep, you can keep your home feeling organized and inviting. Which of these tips will you try first?


Related: The Best Apps To Keep You Organized