7 Bedroom Storage Mistakes You’re Probably Making

Here are the seven most common bedroom storage mistakes — with expert advice on how to fix them for a more tranquil and efficient space.

One of the most frequent mistakes is overwhelming your space with too many unwanted, unworn clothes. Overloaded wardrobes not only make it difficult to find what you need but can also lead to wrinkled clothes and a chaotic environment.

Melissa Denham, Interior Design Expert at Hammonds Fitted Furniture, told Country Living: “If your wardrobe is currently home to an abundance of clutter, you’ve likely been putting off the job of sorting it out.

“It’s easy to become attached to our clothes and this can make it hard when attempting to have a proper clear-out. Unfortunately, there’s no way around it — when it comes to clearing out your wardrobe, you must be ruthless.”

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Solution: Declutter by donating or discarding items you no longer wear or need. A top tip is to keep a shopping bag at the bottom of your wardrobe and pop in an item of clothing you no longer want as and when you come across it. Once the bag is full, take it down to your local charity shop and then replace the bag. This is an easy way to keep on top of your unwanted clothes without it accumulating into a massive task.

Melissa said: “It’s not uncommon to still struggle with getting rid of clothes, even after having a good look through. In this case, a technique where you track which clothes you are wearing can be incredibly helpful.

“Firstly, turn your hangers around so that all your clothes hang backwards. Once you wear an item, pop it back in your wardrobe and hang it the right way. When the season comes to an end, remove those clothes that are still hanging backwards.”

You should use slim, non-slip hangers to maximise space and keep your clothing in good condition, and consider adding a second hanging rod or shelves to make use of vertical space.

The space under your bed is often overlooked but can be a valuable storage area for items you don’t need daily access to. Many people miss this opportunity, leaving potential storage space unused.

Solution: Utilise under-bed storage containers for off-season clothing, extra bedding, or shoes.

Melissa says: “You can get a divan, an ottoman or install roll-out drawers to store clothes under your bed stylishly and practically.”

Opt for clear, labelled boxes so you can easily see what’s stored underneath. Bed risers can also provide extra height, allowing for more storage room.

“You can also use the space more creatively. For example, you could store books upright under your bed – just like a bookshelf. You won’t need to go far to grab your evening read, plus you’ll free up space on the shelves elsewhere in your room, making it easier for you to store other items that need a new home.”

Many bedrooms have ample vertical space that goes unused. From walls to doors, there are numerous opportunities to add storage without taking up floor space.

Solution: Install shelves or wall-mounted cabinets to store books, decorative items, or other essentials. Over-the-door organisers are perfect for shoes, accessories, or toiletries. You can also use hooks to hang bags, hats, or scarves, freeing up closet and drawer space.

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A cluttered nightstand can disrupt the tranquility of your bedroom. Many people use their nightstands as a catch-all for books, glasses, electronics, and more, leading to a disorganised and overwhelming space.

Solution: Choose a nightstand with ample storage, such as drawers or shelves. Keep the surface clear, reserving space for essentials like a lamp, clock, and perhaps a book.

Use drawer dividers to keep small items organised and consider a small tray for jewellery or other frequently used items.

Stuffing too many items into dresser drawers can make it difficult to find what you need and lead to wrinkled clothing. This common mistake often results in frustration and wasted time.

Solution: Pare down your clothing to what you truly need and love. Use drawer organisers to keep items neatly separated and easy to find. Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles.

Consider using the top drawers for smaller accessories and the bottom drawers for bulkier items.

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Those four walls can be used for more than just displaying art: they can also be utilised as a means of storage — which can still be stylish with some thought and planning.

Solution: Melissa explains: “Floating shelves are super easy and simple to install yourself. All you need are some stylish planks and some wall brackets and you’re good to go. You can use them on the walls to hold books and other items that take up space in your bedroom.

“Alternatively, install them at waist height as a modern replacement for a bedside table. This provides a minimal look and offers space underneath for storage baskets or containers.

“They can also be used as an entry table by your bedroom door, or even a laptop desk, meaning you can remove any bulky furniture that’s taking up space in your bedroom.”

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Everyone’s storage needs are different, and using generic storage solutions can sometimes do more harm than good. Not customising your storage can lead to inefficiencies and wasted space.

Solution: Assess your specific storage needs and tailor solutions accordingly. Custom closet systems can be designed to fit your wardrobe and lifestyle perfectly.

Adjustable shelving allows you to modify the height based on what you need to store. Consider multi-functional furniture, such as a bed with built-in drawers or a bench with hidden storage, to maximise efficiency.

Melissa suggests investing in built-in storage, as it “creates a seamless finish that removes the need for any niggling pieces of furniture that don’t quite fit into the nooks and crannies of your room”.

She continues: “Getting built-in bedroom storage means going bespoke, and as a result it will be moulded perfectly to your desired room. Built-in storage for small bedrooms is practical as it offers a simple solution for optimising space, without compromising on design.

“It’s a great option for anyone who prefers minimalist or contemporary décor, particularly as it allows you to stow away items, keeping your space neat and tidy. So, if you prefer an open and airy feel in your home, bedrooms with built-in storage are the ideal investment.”

Remember, a well-organised bedroom is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that works for you and enhances your daily life.

Embrace these solutions, and you’ll find yourself enjoying a more peaceful and inviting bedroom. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of country charm or simply want a more organised space, these tips will help you achieve a bedroom that’s both beautiful and functional.

The organisation edit

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