Keeping a small bedroom space organized can present a number of challenges, especially if you have an extensive wardrobe, are an avid accessory collector, or have a huge supply of makeup and other personal items. However, with some thoughtful planning and through the use of smart and functional storage solutions, you can refresh your compact space, turning it into an inviting, clear, orderly sanctuary.
Here are some practical and easy to follow tips to help you get any small bedroom perfectly organized, making the most of every square inch, while still allowing your unique personality to shine through.
1. Prioritize Your Belongings
The best place to begin is with a good deep clean. Declutter your bedroom by getting rid of things you no longer need or use. It’s time to be really selective, only keeping essentials that truly bring you joy and letting go of old trinkets and knick knacks. This will immediately open up more space and create a more calm environment. Make this your primary task, one that you spend some time on, as everything else will become significantly easier once you’ve cleared up your belongings. It can be difficult to let go of things, but try to keep in mind that just because you are letting go of the physical item doesn’t mean you’re letting go of the memories attached to it. Try to focus on keeping essential items and items that really bring you joy. Do you really need that third grade binder filled with multiplication homework?
2. Maximize Available Storage Space
It’s time to get a little creative with this one because you may have access to more storage space than you think. You can use under-bed storage by opting for bed frames with built-in storage drawers or find suitable containers you can use to organize seasonal clothing, extra linens, shoes, and more under that space. Bed risers can help create extra space under your bed so you can maximize the empty space underneath.
3. Utilize Empty Wall Space
Consider installing wall-mounted shelves or floating shelves to help give you more storage and display room. These are perfect for displaying decorative items and holding books, or personal mementos while keeping other areas clear. You can also use hooks or hanging organizers on walls or the back of your door for items like bags, scarves, or jewelry. Be mindful of how much of your wall space will be dedicated to organization, as having too many shelves or organizers can create the opposite effect and actually add to clutter. Remember to think in terms of minimalism.
4. Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture
Choose furniture pieces that serve multiple purposes to help save space. For instance, you can choose a bed frame with built-in storage, a nightstand with drawers, or a hollow ottoman that you can store throw blankets in. A desk or vanity with drawers can double as a workspace or storage for office supplies or beauty products. You may also consider a loft bed approach, where you can utilize the underneath space as an office or workspace.
5. Use Closet Organizers
Make the most of your closet space by using organizers such as hanging shelves, shoe racks, or closet dividers. These can help you maximize the available space and keep your clothes and accessories neatly organized. Consider using thin hangers or ones that offer space for hanging multiple items on each hanger. This will help keep things looking tidy and give your closet a uniform look. Instead of just tossing underwear and socks into drawers in piles, an expandable silverware drawer organizer can actually double as a great choice for organizing underwear, socks, cosmetics and any other small items – it’s not just for cutlery! We also highly recommend using shelves or storage cubes to help sort items in the closet so that belongings don’t end up stacked on top of each other on the closet floor, creating disorder.
6. Get Creative with Storage Solutions
When you have a small bedroom, you need to think beyond traditional storage options and explore more creative solutions. Use decorative baskets or fabric bins to store items on shelves or in closets. Use over-the-door organizers for shoes, accessories, or other small items that easily get jumbled together. Consider wall-mounted hooks or pegboards to hang hats, bags, or decorative items, but keep your decoration minimal to keep the space looking open and bigger than it actually is. When choosing organization items like storage bins or baskets, try to keep them alike in theme/color/design so that you create a uniform aesthetic that automatically looks more orderly than a mismatched rainbow of assorted storage containers would.
7. Section Your Bedroom to Create Functional Zones
Designate specific zones within your small bedroom to maximize functionality and efficiency. Create one specific area for sleeping, another for studying or working, and a separate space for relaxation. This will help you maintain a sense of organization and purpose in your limited space and create a productive flow. Keeping your sleep area separate from your study area will be helpful on a mental level as well, as you will not associate the space with any type of busy work and your body will be better able to unwind, turn off, and rest.
8. Make Use of Natural Light
Proper use of natural light can create an airy and spacious feel in your small bedroom. Use sheer curtains or blinds that allow light to filter through while still providing privacy. Hang mirrors on the wall to reflect light and make the room appear larger, opening up the space. Natural light also helps increase your focus, so if you use your bedroom to study or do any work, let the sun in for a natural energy boost. For smaller bedrooms with limited windows, another way to maximize the natural light you are able to bring in is by choosing lighter paint colors for your walls, which will reflect, rather than absorb light, giving you the illusion of a much brighter space.
9. Maintenance is Key For Your Clutter-Free Environment
Small bedrooms can quickly feel cramped and chaotic if not kept tidy. Take ownership of your space and make it a habit to put things away in their dedicated space after each use and regularly declutter to prevent the accumulation of unnecessary items. This regular maintenance will prevent you from starting to collect trinkets and knick knacks all over again, falling back into chaos. Use storage containers or boxes to organize smaller items like accessories or electronics. If you find that you’re unable to find a home for certain items, evaluate its necessity before deciding to keep it.
10. Personalize with Minimal Decor
Keep your small bedroom visually appealing by minimizing personal decor elements. Select a few key pieces that reflect your style and personality, but avoid overwhelming the space with decorative pieces. You can also choose multifunctional decorative pieces, such as a geometric wall piece that doubles as a succulent shelf or a cork board to keep your schedule that also doubles as an area to hang some personal photos. A clutter-free and well-organized bedroom will feel more spacious and peaceful.
Organizing a small bedroom is all about maximizing space, reducing clutter, and creating a balanced environment. By implementing these organizational tips and choosing your furniture and storage solutions wisely and creatively, you can transform your small bedroom into a functional and inviting retreat that feels larger than it actually is. Enjoy your newly organized space and embrace the cozy charm of your small but stylish sanctuary. It’ll quickly become the place you can’t wait to come home to after a long day.