Maximize the storage space in small bedrooms by installing versatile shelving units. Take advantage of unused areas to hang shelves for books and other items. Use shelves to maximize floor space in small bedrooms and clear clutter from closets. Create economical shelving from wooden boxes or milk crates.
Maximize space
Small bedrooms pose a challenge for shelving because of their physical dimensions, but shelving still can be considered a viable option for storage. Shelves positioned 12 to 18 inches below the level of the ceiling can take advantage of space around the perimeter of the room without interfering with bedroom furnishings. Use scrap pieces of lumber or lumber sized to fit the dimensions of the room and hang with decorative brackets attached to wall studs. Shelves positioned at the top of the walls provide the benefit of storing books, small storage boxes and decorative items out of the way. Shelves hung at the top of walls also create a focal point inside the room and place things far out of the reach of children and animals.
Clear closets
Hang shelves over closet or bedroom doors to help get shoes and other items off the floor. Areas inside closets can also be maximized by adding shelves that allow you to store books, clothing and blankets in spaces that are currently unused. Replacing the traditional hanging rod in the closets of small bedrooms and replacing with multipurpose closet units can provide additional shelving for bedroom items.
Ditch the nightstand
When space is an issue, get rid of unnecessary furniture pieces that can occupy too much floor space. Instead of a traditional nightstand, install a small shelf to hold alarm clocks, glasses or reading materials. By replacing the nightstand with a shelf, you gain valuable real estate in the layout of a small bedroom.
Use boxes
Take advantage of used wooden boxes or milk crates and turn them into shelving for your small bedroom. Stack milk crates in unused corners of bedrooms from the floor to the ceiling. Secure the crates together with heavy-gauge wire and anchor to the wall using large eye hooks secured with drywall anchors. Use the crates to store everything from clothes and shoes to DVD's and video games. Wooden boxes also can be used to create economical shelving solutions. Stack wooden boxes or hang on the wall over beds, dressers or desks to provide multilevel shelving for small items.
