12 Space-Saving Hacks for Small Homes That Actually Work

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Traditional seating area with patterned cushions and sheer white curtains, framed by wooden windows letting in natural light

Living in a small home can be a challenge when it comes to finding enough space for your things. You might feel like every corner is already crowded, and it’s hard to stay organized without clutter taking over.

The good news is that with a few smart strategies, you can make the most of your limited space without feeling cramped. These space-saving hacks are designed to help you create more room and keep your home tidy, no matter the size.

Install floating shelves above doorways

Minimalist wooden wall shelves, glass bottles with cork tops, a coffee carafe, a small potted plant, and a book titled "The World Atlas of Coffee"
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You can use the space above doorways to add floating shelves. It’s a simple way to create extra storage without taking up floor space.

These shelves are perfect for books, plants, or decorative items you don’t use every day. Plus, they help keep your room feeling open and less cluttered.

For ideas on stylish and practical floating shelves, check out floating shelves ideas.

Use pegboards for kitchen and tool storage

Neatly organized hand tools on a perforated wall panel, including wrenches, screwdrivers with red and black handles, and hex keys, all arranged by size inside a tool cabinet
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You can save a lot of counter space by hanging utensils and pots on pegboards. They make your kitchen tools easy to see and grab when you cook.

In your garage or workshop, pegboards keep tools organized and off the floor. This makes your space feel less cluttered and more functional.

Adding pegboards to small kitchens or work areas is a simple way to maximize wall space and stay organized. For more ideas, check out clever pegboard uses here.

Add cabinet door organizers for lids and spices

White cabinet door organizer with multiple racks holding baking paper, plastic wrap, and food storage bags, neatly arranged inside a kitchen cupboard
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You can use the inside of your cabinet doors to store lids and spices, freeing up shelf space. Slim racks or magnetic strips easily attach to doors.

This keeps things visible and within reach. Plus, it’s a simple way to add storage without needing more room. For more ideas, check out these cabinet door storage organization ideas.

Opt for fold-out Murphy beds

Wood-framed Murphy bed partially folded down, with light blue bedding and multiple pillows, placed in a room with hardwood flooring and potted plants
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If you’re tight on space, a fold-out Murphy bed can be a game-changer. You pull it down when you need to sleep, then fold it away to free up room during the day. This lets you use your space for other things without feeling cramped.

They come in various styles to match your room. Check out some options for your setup at 14 Best Murphy Beds 2025.

Store shoes and boxes under the bed

Modern compact bedroom with a double bed featuring white bedding and built-in underbed drawers, a mounted flat-screen TV, floating shelf with books and decor, desk with orange-accented chair, and padded headboard wall
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You can use the space under your bed to stash shoes and storage boxes. Slim containers or clear stackable boxes keep things organized and easy to access.

This trick frees up closet space and makes your room look less cluttered. Check out some great options for under-bed storage to fit your needs here.

Mount bike racks on walls

Green road bicycle mounted on a rustic white wall, drop handlebars, thin tires, indoor setting with glass windows and reflections in the background
Image Credit: Mali Maeder/Pexels.
You can save a lot of floor space by mounting your bike on the wall. Wall racks hold your bike securely and keep it out of the way.

Some wall racks even fold flat when you’re not using them, which is perfect for tight spaces. This keeps your home feeling open and clutter-free while storing your bike conveniently.

Check out options like folding wall racks for easy, space-saving bike storage.

Use multi-use furniture like storage ottomans

Bright, traditional living room featuring two white sofas with blue accent pillows, a glass coffee table with books, floral decor, wall art, and a red-cushioned wooden rocking chair
Image Credit: Jean van der Meulen/Pexels.

You can save a lot of space by using storage ottomans. They work as extra seating, footrests, and hidden storage all in one.

This way, you keep clutter out of sight without losing functionality. Storage ottomans are perfect for small living rooms or bedrooms. Check out ideas for multi-use furniture pieces that fit small homes.

Hang magnetic strips for knives and tools

Five kitchen knives with varying handle styles are mounted on a magnetic knife strip attached to a wall
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You can free up drawer space by hanging magnetic strips on your kitchen wall. They hold knives and metal tools securely, keeping them within easy reach.

Magnetic strips come in various lengths to fit your space. Using one helps you organize utensils without bulky racks or blocks. Check out options like this 12-inch magnetic knife strip for compact storage.

Add glass shelves in window recesses

A variety of potted plants and glass hydroponic planters are displayed on clear glass shelves in a window recess, with more plants and crystals on a wooden shelf behind
Image Credit: yakir-panker/ebay.

You can turn window recesses into extra storage by adding glass shelves. They let light through, keeping your space bright and open.

Glass shelves are great for displaying small plants or decor without cluttering your room. They work well if you want practical storage with a subtle look.

This idea is a neat way to use often overlooked space in small homes. Check out ideas for glass shelves for living rooms to get inspiration.

Use stackable clear storage bins

Clear plastic drawer organizer, filled with small colorful toys and trinkets, various compartments holding different items, white tabletop surface, bright and tidy storage solution
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You can save a lot of space by using stackable clear storage bins. They let you see what’s inside without opening them, which makes finding things quicker.

These bins work great in closets, kitchens, or anywhere you need to keep stuff tidy but easy to reach. Plus, stacking them keeps your space neat and organized.

Check out options like these clear organizing bins for a simple way to banish clutter.

Hang hooks on walls for bags and jackets

A cozy vintage corner with a teddy bear sweater, tan trench coat, and two flat caps hanging on hooks above a collection of framed art, shoes, a record player, and a worn travel bag
Image Credit: Bùi Hoàng Long/Pexels.

You can save a lot of space by installing hooks on your walls. They keep bags and jackets off the floor and easy to grab on your way out.

Consider placing hooks at different heights—jackets on top, bags below. This simple idea works great in tight spots near doors or hallways. You can find creative options for small spaces on sites like Pinterest’s coat hanger ideas.

Put in pull-out pantry shelves

Modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, open pantry with white shelves, neatly organized spices and dry goods, pots and pans stored below, light blue curtain dividing kitchen and pantry area, warm wooden cabinets
Image Credit: ASR Design Studio/Pexels.

You can make your pantry way more functional by installing pull-out shelves. These let you easily reach items at the back without digging around.

Pull-out shelves use space efficiently and help you keep things organized. They’re great for small homes where every inch counts. Check out some pullout kitchen storage ideas for inspiration.



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