10 'Zero Dollar' Storage Hacks
Pleasingly functional and eminently user-friendly storage space can be pulled together on the tightest of budgets. Here are ten ways to conquer clutter by repurposing common items that you likely have on hand already. Put these simple DIY tricks to work anywhere from the front hall to the master bedroom, all for no cost!
1. BOXED SET
Photo: casadiez.elle.es
To stow shoes and sweaters, wrap cardboard boxes in pretty paper, then label them. A mix of patterns can look gorgeous—just make sure a single color or motif ties them all together. Stack boxes on closet shelves, or try repurposing a small dresser or bookshelf as seen here.
Related: 17 Creative Ways to Reuse Cardboard Boxes
2. HAT TRICK
Photo: theorderlyhome.blogspot.com
A bunch of baseball caps can easily overwhelm an entryway closet, and their shape makes them difficult to hang or stack neatly. Here’s an ingenious solution. Simply clip plastic shower curtain rings onto the bottom crossbar of a sturdy coat hanger, then thread the caps onto the rings.
Related: 9 Closet Storage Tips from a Professional Organizer
3. BOOT HANG-UP
Photo: browneidgirl.blogspot.com
Tall boots don’t fit into shoe cubbies, and they tend to flop over and create a mess on a closet floor. To tame boot chaos, simply repurpose some pants hangers. Insert squares of felt between the boot and the clip to prevent the metal from leaving marks on delicate leather.
Related: 8 Smart Shoe Racks You Can Make Today
4. SPACE FOR SPECS
Photo: everythingfab.com
With a little DIY action, an old frame can help keep glasses at hand. To make rungs for hanging her shades, this DIYer screwed a few pairs of eye hooks into the back of the frame and strung thin wire between them. Spray-painted black, the frame visually pops out against the white wall.
Related: 25 Cheap and Easy Repurposed Storage Ideas
5. A NEW COAT
Photo: simplicityinthesouth.com
A fresh coat of white paint can give tired storage bins and baskets a clean look and add visual calm to your closet. Take the idea a step further by stenciling a red cross on the front of bins that hold first-aid items, and your family will be able to find bandages and pain relievers in a hurry.
