To help you make your storage and organizational dreams a reality, we’ve compiled some of the most useful and clever storage options currently available. We assessed their overall functionality, practicality, and ability to serve in a designated area (or in some cases, ability to perform throughout your home). We also weighed their value and design, especially for super stylish pieces that double as decor. As our favorite pick, the Yamazaki White Magnetic Kitchen Organization Rack offers multiple storage solutions in one practical unit. It’s simple and sophisticated, too. And although the name says “kitchen,” you can easily put it anywhere in your home. But if you prefer something specifically for your living room or that small sliver beneath your bed, we’ve got picks for that too. Check out what we found below! We especially like how it includes more than one type of storage. Use the bar for paper towels or for hanging a wash cloth, take advantage of the hooks by looping oven mitts, utensils, or even small baskets for pens and other odds and ends. And the shelf can even accommodate books, mail, or other taller items. The simple, contemporary design will suit multiple decor styles, but note that the only available color is white. The other detail worth noting is that unlike other storage options that arrive intact, this rack requires assembly. Still, we love this useful organizer and how it conveniently takes advantage of vertical space! Price at time of publish: $42
If you’re looking to utilize wall space and could use hidden storage and a functional work surface, we think it’s a great choice. Just plan accordingly for some care and caution, and block off some time for setup and installation. Price at time of publish: $80
This particular set includes two or six rods, the latter of which will be enough to try all of these projects. Two size options, and three color choices are offered, too. We like the current offerings (white, black, wood grain) although they might stand out against certain decor styles (unless you opt to paint or style them). Price at time of publish: $17 for 6
We love it as a living room piece that’s both form and function—or we could also see it as an extra bench and shoe holder by the front door. The top is padded, so it’s comfortable either way, and the weight capacity is 250 pounds. Note that the inner compartment is not divided, so you’ll want to be careful that small or loose items won’t get lost inside. Plus, while we see this as an overall good value, some of the materials used that allow it to be reasonably priced aren’t as durable, and it could be prone to damage with regular and constant use. You’ll definitely want to observe the weight limits and be careful not to overfill it. Price at time of publish: $80
It has adjustable shelves, offers left or right opening, and has added conveniences like an included key, and cable holes. The brand also makes matching basked to help you organize the interior but they’re sold separately, so you’ll want to budget accordingly. Also, plan to spend some time putting it together, as it ships flat. Price at time of publish: $150 Speaking of buying multiples, you can purchase them one at a time, or as a pack of six. Though, at $30 apiece, they can quickly add up. If you’re short on space and not seeing a need for six bins, keep in mind that they’re just 6.5 inches tall. Depending on the clearance of other furniture in your home, you might have more space for them than you think. Options without wheels are available, too. Price at time of publish: $30 This magnetic strip does include hardware for mounting, or you might opt to use adhesive. Also, because no weight limit was available at time of publish, you’ll want to exercise good judgment in the amount you store to make sure nothing sharp is in danger of falling. Price at time of publish: $10 The smart design and high-quality materials do come at a higher price, but given the overall versatility and functionality, we think the value is there to warrant the higher price tag. Price at time of purchase: $145 Once you set it up, it’s easy to adjust and re-adjust as necessary, too. Just keep in mind that the nature of the design means it’s not quite as stable as built-ins or other closet systems, and it could swing or wobble. But, the simplicity, effectiveness, and overall ease of use still make it a savvy selection in our book. Price at time of publish: $17 With larger pieces like this, it’s not uncommon for it to ship unassembled, which means it’ll be your job to put it together when it arrives (or you can enlist the help of a handy friend or family member). We think it’s well-worth the effort though and could see it being an attractive solution in bedrooms of all sizes, or even as a makeshift hall closet if your entryway is without one. Price at time of publish: $30-$100, depending on style selected With six or 12 stands to a set, it averages to less than $4 per shoe holder, so we’re glad to see that they’re a cost-effective option, too. The one potential downside we see is that they don’t accommodate boots or taller shoes. But, If your shoe collection tends to have lots of flats, low heels, and sneakers, they’ll likely be a game changer for you. Price at time of publish: $22 for 6 Though, speaking of the design options, the container itself only comes in white, and the lid color is the only thing that varies. While white makes sense since it matches lots of popular charge cords, it may not suit everyone’s space (though, it may make for a fun and easy DIY-project if you have another color in mind). Price at time of publish: $23 It’s also worth noting that these are lightweight, so you may want to consider securing it in place. Another note about setup is that assembly is required, so make sure to set some time aside. Price at time of publish: $21 This is a pricier option than others we’ve mentioned, but given how versatile and reliable this storage system is, we’re still big fans. It may take some time to get it fully installed (a previous tester, who was overall very pleased with the system, discussed this at length) but once you have it set up, we think you’ll love it. Price at the time of publish: $150+ As easy it is to enjoy styling this set, setting it up will take some extra effort since hardware isn’t included. The brand’s response mentions the reason being different walls have different requirements, so be sure to look into what your space will need. Once you have it up, we think you’ll get tons of use out of it. Price at time of publish: $56
Size
When size is a limiting factor for your storage-related purchases, the measuring tape is your friend! Be sure to double-check that potential storage products should meet your space’s requirements. If you find yourself adjusting the layout of your home regularly, or you anticipate a future move, you can also lean toward pieces that are adjustable. We featured a number of pieces that can grow (or shrink) based on your needs, including the SimpleHouseware Adjustable Hanging Rod, and the Kimwason 6-pack Spring Tension Curtain Rod.
Materials
You’ll find household heavy-hitters frequently appearing in your storage solutions, including wood, plastics (like acrylic and polypropylene), bamboo, and metal. Each option brings something different to the table (or shelf, or wall). Plastics tend to be lightweight and less expensive, woods and bamboo can be more aesthetically pleasing, and metal can be especially durable. To narrow down the pieces that will work best for you, consider what you need from your storage solutions. Do you need them to be super durable to suit a busy household, for example? Or will it be something that’s kept out in the open and needs to blend in with your decor? After narrowing down what’s most important, you’ll find that sweet spot of form and function, which will then allow you to peruse material options and factor your budget, too.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Dena Ogden is a lifestyle and commerce writer who’s been writing professionally since 2016, and with The Spruce since August 2022. For this story, Dena researched small space storage options currently available at major retailers and evaluated products based on size, features, material, design, and overall value. Her current favorite storage solution for a small space in her home is a folding desk with built-in compartments.
