When it comes to home organisation, one size definitely doesn't fit all. The storage solution that works brilliantly in your bedroom might be completely wrong for your kitchen, and what keeps your lounge tidy could create chaos in your home office. Understanding which storage works best in each room is the key to creating organised spaces that actually stay that way.
The kitchen: function first
Your kitchen storage needs to work as hard as you do. This room demands solutions that can handle daily use, frequent cleaning, and the reality of cooking in a hurry.
Essential kitchen storage
Drawer organisers are non-negotiable for cutlery and utensils. You can choose expandable versions that can adapt as your needs change.
Pull-out drawers in base cupboards make accessing items at the back effortless – no more rummaging around on hands and knees (cause ouch! right?).
Clear containers work beautifully for dry goods like pasta, cereals, and baking ingredients (and they kinda look like that ‘pin’ on your board *wink-wink). They keep food fresh whilst allowing you to see at a glance what needs replenishing.
Lazy Susans (or turntables) transform awkward corner cupboards into accessible storage for oils, vinegars, and condiments.
Wall-mounted solutions like magnetic knife strips and spice racks free up precious worktop space.
Over-door organisers on cupboard doors can hold cleaning supplies, bin bags, or frequently used spices.
What to avoid
Skip fabric storage boxes in kitchens – they're difficult to clean and can harbour bacteria. Avoid purely decorative containers that don't seal properly; your flour will thank you when it's not stale or full of unwanted visitors.
The bedroom: for some easy rest
Bedrooms should be sanctuaries of calm, which means storage solutions need to maintain a peaceful atmosphere, whilst maximising space in what's often the most cramped room in the house.
Bedroom storage essentials
Under-bed storage boxes utilise often-wasted space perfectly, for seasonal clothing, spare bedding, or shoes. Choose ones with wheels for easy access.
Wardrobe organisers like hanging shelves, shoe organisers, and drawer dividers transform chaotic wardrobes into functional dressing areas.
Bedside storage should be both practical and attractive. Bedside tables with drawers keep personal items tidy, whilst floating shelves provide display space without taking up floor area in smaller rooms.
Hooks on the back of doors provide homes for dressing gowns, handbags, or tomorrow's outfit.
Bedroom storage to reconsider
Unless you’re a laundry aficionado, avoid open shelving for clothing – dust accumulation and visual clutter work against the restful atmosphere you're trying to create. Skip storage solutions that require you to move other items to access what you need; bedroom mornings are hectic enough.
The bathroom: keep it dry
Bathroom storage faces unique challenges: limited space, high humidity, and the need for items to be both accessible and hygienic.
Bathroom storage solutions
Over-toilet storage maximises vertical space without interfering with daily routines. Choose a solution with a door you can close, so that you can keep the contents clean.
Shower caddies and suction cup organisers keep toiletries accessible, but contained.
Medicine cabinets provide secure storage for pharmaceuticals, whilst keeping them away from humidity.
Drawer organisers designed for bathrooms help separate small items like hair accessories, makeup, and grooming tools.
Towel ladders add storage whilst creating a spa-like aesthetic.
Under-sink organisers with pull-out drawers make the most of awkward plumbing spaces.
Magnetic strips inside medicine cabinets can hold tweezers, nail scissors, and other small metal grooming tools.
Bathroom storage mistakes
Avoid wooden storage solutions unless they're specifically treated for bathroom use or get ready to see some mould. Don't store medications in bathroom cabinets if they get steamy – heat and humidity can affect their efficacy.
The lounge room: hidden and harmonious
Living room storage should blend seamlessly with your décor, whilst providing homes for the miscellany of family life.
Lounge storage ideas
Storage ottomans and coffee tables with drawers hide remotes, magazines, and children's toys, whilst maintaining the room's aesthetic.
Built-in shelving or modular units can display books and treasures, whilst concealing clutter in cupboard sections.
Baskets are perfect for throws, cushions, or children's toys – they're attractive enough to leave on display, yet practical for quick tidy-ups.
TV units with storage keep media equipment, games, and DVDs organised and dust-free.
Side tables with drawers provide handy storage for chargers, reading glasses, and other frequently needed items.
Wall-mounted shelves display decorative items, whilst keeping surfaces clear.
What doesn't work
Avoid purely functional storage that looks out of place with your décor. Skip open storage for items you'd rather not display – nobody wants to see a tangle of charging cables or a collection of old magazines.
The home office: productivity-focused organisation
Whether it's a dedicated room or a corner of another space, your home office storage needs to support productivity and creativity.
Office storage essentials
Filing systems are crucial, whether traditional filing cabinets or desktop organisers for current projects.
Drawer organisers keep pens, paper clips, and other small supplies sorted and accessible.
Shelving systems should accommodate both storage and display items, such as reference books, archive boxes, and personal touches that inspire you.
Desk organisers and in-trays manage daily paperwork and prevent important documents from disappearing.
Mobile storage like rolling carts can hold frequently used supplies and move where needed.
Cable management solutions keep technology tidy and prevent the dreaded cable tangle.
Office storage pitfalls
Don't rely solely on decorative storage – functionality must come first in a working space. Avoid storage that's difficult to access when you're busy; if filing paperwork is a hassle, it won't get done.
The kids’ rooms: adapt as they grow
Children's storage needs change rapidly, so flexibility is key alongside durability and safety.
Kid-friendly storage
Low, accessible storage allows children to tidy up independently.
Bins and baskets make toy storage simple – specific categories work better than one giant toy box.
Cube storage systems grow with children and can accommodate everything from nappies to textbooks.
Under-bed drawers utilise space efficiently, whilst wall hooks at child height encourage independence with coats and bags.
Open shelving displays favourite books and treasures where children can enjoy them.
Kids' storage considerations
Avoid anything with sharp corners or small parts that could be hazardous. Skip complicated organisation systems that children can't maintain independently – simple is always better.
In conclusion: adapt for your needs
The best storage solution for any room is one that matches how you actually live, not how you think you should live. Consider your daily routines, the items you need to store, and the atmosphere you want to create. Storage should make your life easier, not add another task to your day.
Remember, the most expensive storage solution isn't necessarily the best one. Sometimes a simple basket does exactly what an elaborate system promises, at a fraction of the cost and complexity.
When in doubt, start simple and build complexity only if needed. Your future organised self will thank you for choosing storage that actually works with your lifestyle, not against it.