Summer Storage Ideas To Clear Up Space Around Home

Getting your home organized for summer can feel a bit tricky, especially if you’re new to decluttering. You might look around and wonder where to even begin with all the extra stuff that pops up during warmer months. Don’t worry, it’s a common challenge, and we’ve got a super simple, step-by-step plan to help.

We’ll show you exactly how to make the most of your space and get that fresh, open feeling. Let’s see how Summer Storage Ideas to Clear Up Space Around Home can make a big difference.

Key Takeaways

• Learn easy ways to store seasonal items so they are out of sight.
• Discover smart storage spots you might not have thought of.
• Get tips on how to sort and pack things safely for storage.
• Find simple tricks to make your living areas feel much bigger.
• Understand how to keep your stored items in good condition.

Smart Summer Storage Solutions

When summer rolls around, things tend to pile up. From beach gear and outdoor toys to seasonal decorations and extra blankets, our homes can quickly feel cramped. Many people find that getting a handle on these items is a big task.

This section will help you tackle that by looking at different ways to store your summer things. We’ll explore how to make space feel bigger and keep your home tidy all season long. This is all about making your home a calm and organized place to enjoy.

Decluttering Before Storing

Before you even think about putting things away, it’s super important to get rid of anything you don’t need. This is the first step to making more space. Think about clothes you won’t wear this summer or items that are broken.

Sorting through your belongings helps you decide what to keep, what to donate, and what to toss. This makes your storage efforts much easier and more effective.

• Sort and Purge: Go through your closets, garage, and other storage areas. Decide what you truly need and use.

This means looking at every item and asking yourself if it served a purpose last summer or if you plan to use it this year. If it’s broken or you haven’t used it in years, it’s probably time to let it go. This step saves you from storing things you’ll never need again.

• Donate Unwanted Items: Give away good quality items to friends, family, or charities.

Many people have items they no longer use but are still in good condition. Donating these things helps others and clears your space. It’s a win-win situation that also feels good.

• Dispose of Trash: Throw away anything that is broken, stained, or unusable.

Don’t let trash take up valuable storage space. Make sure to properly dispose of any items that are beyond repair or use. This keeps your storage areas clean and free from clutter.

Maximizing Your Storage Space

Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to think about where everything will go. Making the most of the space you have is key to a tidy home. This involves using clever storage solutions and looking at often-overlooked spots.

We’ll cover how to use vertical space, under-bed storage, and even wall space to keep things organized and accessible.

Utilizing Vertical Space

Think upwards! Walls are often unused real estate. Adding shelves, wall-mounted organizers, or tall shelving units can greatly increase your storage capacity without taking up much floor space.

This is especially helpful in smaller rooms or tight areas like entryways or kitchens.

• Install Shelving: Add shelves to walls in your garage, closets, or even living areas.

Shelves are a fantastic way to store books, decorative items, or boxes of seasonal goods. You can find shelves in many sizes and styles to match your home’s decor. They help keep things off the floor and organized.

• Use Wall-Mounted Organizers: Hang hooks, pegboards, or specialized racks on walls.

These are great for tools, sports equipment, or even coats. They keep frequently used items handy and off surfaces. Pegboards are especially versatile as you can rearrange hooks and containers easily.

• Tall Bookcases or Cabinets: These offer significant storage in a small footprint.

Tall units draw the eye upward, making a room feel larger. They can store everything from toys and games to linens and pantry items. Ensure they are securely anchored to the wall for safety.

Underneath It All: Under-Bed Storage

The space under your bed is often a goldmine for storage that’s out of sight. Low-profile bins and drawers are perfect for stashing things like extra bedding, off-season clothing, or even shoes. This keeps your bedroom looking neat and tidy.

• Storage Bins with Wheels: Easy to pull out and push back in.

These are ideal for heavier items or things you need to access often. The wheels make it simple to retrieve your stored items without straining. Look for bins with lids to protect contents from dust.

• Drawer Units: Create more organized compartments.

If your bed frame allows, consider fitting rolling drawer units underneath. These can hold a surprising amount of folded clothing or accessories. They offer a more permanent and integrated storage solution.

• Vacuum Seal Bags: Save space for bulky items.

For bedding, duvets, and bulky clothes, vacuum seal bags are a miracle. They compress items down to a fraction of their size, making them easy to fit under the bed. Just be sure items are clean and dry before sealing.

Creative Use of Doors and Corners

Don’t forget about the back of doors and often-empty corners. Over-the-door organizers can hold shoes, cleaning supplies, or accessories. Corners can be filled with corner shelves or tall, slim storage units.

• Over-the-Door Organizers: Great for small items.

These pocketed organizers are perfect for a variety of items. Think shoes, toiletries, craft supplies, or even snacks. They are easy to hang and can be moved from door to door as needed.

• Corner Shelving Units: Make use of awkward spaces.

These units are designed to fit neatly into corners, providing extra shelving without jutting out into the room. They are ideal for plants, books, or decorative items.

Storing Seasonal Items

Summer brings specific items we use for a few months and then want to put away. Think about patio furniture cushions, gardening tools, pool toys, and summer clothes. Proper storage for these items ensures they last longer and are ready for next year.

We’ll look at the best ways to pack and store these seasonal goods.

Packing Outdoor Gear and Toys

Outdoor equipment and toys can be bulky and sometimes dirty. It’s important to clean them before storing to prevent damage and mold. Dry everything thoroughly.

Toys that can be deflated or disassembled should be handled that way to save space.

• Clean and Dry Everything: Remove dirt, sand, and moisture.

Before storing patio cushions, outdoor toys, or sports equipment, give them a good clean. Wash off any mud or sand. Let everything dry completely in the sun to avoid mold and mildew.

This step is crucial for longevity.

• Deflate and Disassemble: Save space by making items smaller.

Inflatable pool toys, small wading pools, and even some bikes can be partially deflated or taken apart. This makes them much easier to store in bins or boxes. Keep all the small parts together with the main item.

• Use Durable Storage Bins: Protect items from the elements.

Plastic bins with secure lids are ideal for storing outdoor gear. They keep items protected from dust, moisture, and pests. Label each bin clearly so you know what’s inside without having to open it.

Storing Summer Clothing

When summer ends, it’s time to pack away shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses. Washing them before storing is a must to remove any stains or body oils that could attract pests or cause damage over time. Use breathable storage solutions for fabrics.

• Wash and Dry Clothes: Remove any dirt or stains.

Always wash summer clothes before storing them for the off-season. This removes perspiration, sunscreen, and any other residues that could attract insects or cause fabric to degrade. Ensure clothes are completely dry to prevent mildew.

• Use Breathable Containers: Avoid plastic bags for long-term storage.

Fabric garment bags or breathable storage bins are best for clothes. They allow air circulation, which helps prevent musty smells and damage to natural fibers. Avoid sealing natural fibers in airtight plastic for long periods.

• Consider Vacuum Seal Bags: For bulky items like sweaters or jackets.

While not ideal for all fabrics, vacuum seal bags are excellent for compressing bulky items like sweaters or fleece jackets. They save a significant amount of space. Just be sure the items are clean and completely dry.

Putting Away Patio Furniture Cushions

Patio cushions can take up a lot of space. Cleaning them and storing them properly will keep them looking fresh for next year. Look for dedicated cushion storage bags or large, waterproof bins.

Storing them indoors is best if possible.

• Clean and Dry Thoroughly: Prevent mold and mildew.

Dirt, pollen, and moisture can lead to mold and mildew on outdoor cushions. Wipe them down with a mild soap and water solution, and ensure they are bone dry before storing. Sunlight can help dry them quickly.

• Use Cushion Storage Bags: Protect from dust and water.

Specialized cushion storage bags are designed to fit multiple cushions and offer protection from dust, dirt, and water. Look for ones made from durable, weather-resistant material.

• Store Indoors if Possible: A garage, shed, or basement is ideal.

While outdoor storage is an option, indoor storage is always better. This protects cushions from extreme temperatures and moisture, extending their lifespan. If stored outdoors, ensure the storage unit is waterproof and elevated off the ground.

Smart Storage for Home Essentials

Beyond seasonal items, some things just need a tidy home year-round. This can include extra linens, pantry overflow, or hobby supplies. Finding clever spots for these essentials keeps your main living areas clear.

We will look at how to organize common household items so your home feels spacious and calm.

Organizing Linens and Towels

Extra sheets, blankets, and towels can quickly take over linen closets. Folding them neatly and using shelf dividers can make a big difference. Consider storing seasonal bedding in separate, clearly labeled bags.

• Neat Folding Techniques: Space-saving folds for sheets and towels.

Learning efficient folding methods can significantly reduce the space your linens take up. For sheets, folding them into a flat rectangle and then tucking the corners in can create a neat package. Rolled towels also take up less space than folded ones.

• Shelf Dividers: Keep stacks from toppling.

These simple tools can keep stacks of folded linens or towels from falling over. They create defined sections on your shelves, making it easy to see what you have and keep things tidy. This helps maintain order in your closet.

• Storage Bags for Seasonal Bedding: Keep them fresh and organized.

Store winter duvets or summer quilts in breathable fabric bags. This protects them from dust and ensures they are ready to use when needed. Labeling the bags clearly makes finding the right bedding effortless.

Pantry and Kitchen Overflow

When your pantry gets full, or you buy in bulk, extra items need a home. Look for under-shelf baskets or stackable containers. Using the space inside cabinet doors can also add extra storage for small items like spice packets or wraps.

• Stackable Containers: Maximize vertical space in cabinets.

Clear, stackable containers are excellent for dry goods like pasta, rice, or flour. They keep food fresh and allow you to see what you have at a glance. Stacking them utilizes the height of your pantry shelves.

• Under-Shelf Baskets: Create extra storage levels.

These slide onto existing shelves, adding a whole new layer of storage. They are great for items like napkins, cleaning supplies, or smaller food packages. This prevents items from getting lost at the back of the shelf.

• Cabinet Door Organizers: For small, frequently used items.

Small racks or pockets that attach to the inside of cabinet doors can hold items like seasoning packets, foil rolls, or small cleaning brushes. This uses often-wasted space and keeps items easily accessible.

Hobby Supplies and Craft Materials

Hobby items, whether it’s crafting, painting, or building, can get spread out. Dedicated storage boxes, clear bins, and drawer units help keep everything together. Labeling is crucial so you can find what you need quickly.

• Clear Storage Bins with Lids: See contents easily.

For craft supplies, clear bins are ideal. You can easily see the colors of yarn, types of beads, or sizes of buttons without opening each container. The lids protect items from dust and keep them contained.

• Drawer Units for Small Items: Keep things sorted.

Small plastic drawer units are perfect for organizing small items like beads, screws, or threads. Each drawer can hold a different type of item, keeping your workspace tidy and organized. This is great for preventing tiny pieces from getting lost.

• Label Everything: Quick identification of contents.

This is a golden rule for any storage system. Clearly label each bin, box, or drawer with its contents. This saves you time and frustration when searching for a specific item.

It also helps others know where things belong.

Creating a More Open Living Space

The ultimate goal of good storage is to make your living areas feel more open and less cluttered. This isn’t just about hiding things away; it’s about intentional organization. Simple changes can make a big impact on how spacious your home feels.

We’ll explore simple tricks to achieve this.

Furniture Placement and Multi-Purpose Items

How you arrange your furniture can affect how big a room feels. Avoid blocking pathways. Using furniture that serves multiple purposes, like ottomans with storage or sofa beds, can also save space.

• Keep Pathways Clear: Ensure easy movement.

Arrange furniture so that people can walk through rooms easily without bumping into things. This creates a sense of flow and makes the space feel larger. Avoid pushing all furniture against the walls; sometimes pulling it out slightly can open up the room.

• Ottomans with Hidden Storage: A dual-purpose solution.

These are fantastic for storing blankets, magazines, or toys. They serve as a footrest, extra seating, or even a coffee table, while discreetly holding your belongings. This reduces the need for extra furniture.

• Nesting Tables: Save space when not in use.

Nesting tables consist of a set of smaller tables that fit underneath a larger one. You can pull them out when you need more surface area for drinks or snacks, and push them back in to save space. This is a very flexible storage solution.

The Power of Vertical Displays

Drawing the eye upward can make a room feel taller and more expansive. Tall bookshelves, wall art that goes high, and pendant lighting can all contribute to this effect. Even arranging items on shelves can create a sense of height.

• Tall Bookshelves: Draw the eye up.

A tall bookshelf not only stores books but also adds visual height to a room. Decorate the shelves with items that are taller rather than shorter to emphasize the vertical aspect. This makes the room feel grander.

• Wall Art Placed Higher: Create an illusion of space.

Hanging artwork slightly higher than eye level can make ceilings appear to rise. This is a simple trick that can significantly impact the perception of space in a room. Consider gallery walls that extend upwards.

• Hanging Plants: Add life and vertical interest.

Plants placed in hanging baskets bring greenery at different levels. This adds visual interest and draws the eye upwards, making the room feel more dynamic and spacious. They also improve air quality.

Decluttering Visible Surfaces

Surfaces like coffee tables, countertops, and dressers can quickly become dumping grounds. Keeping these areas clear makes a huge difference in how tidy and spacious your home feels. Use decorative baskets or trays to contain items.

• Use Decorative Baskets and Trays: Group small items.

For items that need to be kept out but don’t have a designated spot, use attractive baskets or trays. This corrals clutter and makes surfaces look intentionally styled rather than messy. It’s a quick way to tidy up.

• Regular Surface Sweeps: Daily tidying routine.

Make it a habit to quickly clear off surfaces at the end of each day. Put items back in their proper homes. This simple routine prevents clutter from building up and keeps your home feeling open and organized.

• Limit Knick-Knacks: Less is often more.

While decorative items add personality, too many can make surfaces look crowded. Choose a few favorite pieces to display and keep the rest stored away. This allows your chosen decor to stand out and reduces visual noise.

Storing for the Long Haul

Sometimes, you need to store items for extended periods, perhaps due to moving or simply having too much stuff. This requires a bit more care to ensure items are protected from damage, pests, and the elements. We will cover best practices for this type of storage.

Choosing the Right Storage Location

The environment where you store items is crucial. A cool, dry, and dark place is generally best. Avoid attics or garages that experience extreme temperature swings.

Basements or climate-controlled storage units are often good options.

• Cool and Dry: Prevent damage from heat and humidity.

Extreme temperatures can warp plastics, fade fabrics, and damage electronics. High humidity can lead to mold and mildew growth. A consistently cool and dry environment is ideal for preserving most items.

• Darkness is Key: Protect items from light damage.

Direct sunlight or even strong artificial light can cause colors to fade and materials to degrade over time. Storing items in a dark place helps maintain their original condition.

• Pest Control: Keep unwanted visitors out.

Ensure the storage area is clean and free from any signs of pests. Consider using natural deterrents like cedar blocks or peppermint oil if necessary. Regularly check on your stored items for any signs of infestation.

Protecting Your Belongings

Using the right materials can make a big difference in protecting your items. Sturdy boxes, acid-free paper for delicate items, and pest-resistant containers are all good choices. Never store food items in long-term storage with other belongings.

• Use Sturdy Boxes: Opt for plastic or reinforced cardboard.

When packing, use strong boxes that can support the weight of your belongings. Plastic bins are durable and resistant to moisture. If using cardboard, opt for heavy-duty ones and ensure they are sealed well.

• Acid-Free Materials for Valuables: Preserve photos and documents.

For photographs, important documents, or heirlooms, use acid-free paper and archival boxes. This prevents the materials from yellowing or deteriorating over time. It’s a small step that has a big impact on preservation.

• Avoid Storing Perishables: Food attracts pests.

Never store food items, even non-perishables, in long-term storage with other belongings. They can attract pests, spoil, and create an unpleasant odor or damage other items. Stick to storing household goods, furniture, and seasonal items.

Creating an Inventory List

For long-term storage, it’s a smart idea to create a detailed inventory list. This helps you keep track of what you have stored and where it is. It’s also useful for insurance purposes if needed.

• Document Contents of Each Box: Be specific.

When packing, jot down a list of everything inside each box or container. Be specific about the contents. For example, instead of “Kitchenware,” write “Pots, pans, and baking dishes.”

• Note Condition of Items: Especially for valuable or delicate items.

If storing valuable or delicate items, it’s wise to note their condition before storage. This can be helpful if you need to make an insurance claim or simply want to remember the state of the item when you stored it.

• Keep a Digital Copy: Accessible from anywhere.

Store your inventory list digitally on your phone or computer, and perhaps even in cloud storage. This way, you can access it easily from anywhere, which is helpful if you need to recall what you have in storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the best way to store blankets and pillows during the summer?

Answer: Wash and thoroughly dry them first. Then, use breathable fabric bags or large plastic bins with tight-fitting lids to keep them protected from dust and pests. Store them in a cool, dry place, like a closet or under a bed.

Question: How can I make my small living room feel bigger with storage?

Answer: Use vertical storage like tall bookshelves or wall-mounted shelves to draw the eye upward. Opt for furniture with hidden storage, like ottomans or coffee tables with drawers. Keep surfaces clear by using decorative baskets to contain small items.

Question: Should I store my outdoor furniture cushions indoors?

Answer: Yes, storing outdoor furniture cushions indoors in a cool, dry place is best. This protects them from harsh weather, dirt, and pests, helping them last longer. If you must store them outside, use a waterproof cover and elevate the storage bin off the ground.

Question: What’s a good way to store seasonal sports equipment?

Answer: Clean and dry all equipment thoroughly. Disassemble anything that can be taken apart to save space. Use durable, labeled bins or bags to keep items protected and organized.

Store them in a garage, shed, or basement.

Question: How do I prevent my stored clothes from smelling musty?

Answer: Always wash and completely dry clothes before storing them. Use breathable storage containers like fabric garment bags or bins. Avoid plastic bags that trap moisture.

You can also add cedar blocks or sachets to help absorb odors and deter pests.

Wrap Up

Implementing these Summer Storage Ideas to Clear Up Space Around Home transforms your living areas. You learned how to declutter, maximize your space with smart solutions, and protect your seasonal items. Enjoy a tidier, more open home this summer!