Best storage options for excess clutter

Stop wondering where to put everything away and add some storage options for excess clutter to your home.

storage options
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Without proper storage options, keeping your house tidy can be a never-ending adventure, especially if you have kids, lots of guests, or a busy lifestyle. Shoes can pile up at the entryway, toys can become hazards in walkways, and even pantries can be found in disarray. Whether it’s new shelves, bins, or a hanging organizer, we’ve found lots of storage options for excess clutter in your home. Read on to find the ones that are right for you.

Staff pick

storage options

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SimpleHouseware over-the-door hanging shoe organizer

Turn your door's surface into storage

Clear pockets make it easy to match items.

Pros:

  • Lots of pockets for organizing 
  • Three colors 
  • Lightweight

Cons:

  • Shape of pockets can be limiting

Designed for shoe storage, this lightweight organizer can be hung on the back of almost any door. However, you don't need to stick to the intended purpose; instead, it can be used for kitchen spices, bathroom extras, or craft supplies. It comes in three colors and is 64-inches tall and 19-inches wide, providing a total of 24 pockets to store your items.

Wooden appeal

storage options

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ClosetMaid Cubeicals organizer

Display collectibles or add storage bins

Uniform cube storage available in three formations.

Pros:

  • Many finishes to match décor
  • Works with ClosetMaid fabric drawers

Cons:

  • Each cube only holds 15 pounds

Your favorite collectible items can be on display in a three, six, or nine cube pattern with this option from ClosetMaid. There are several finishes to choose from, which can bring warmth or a modern touch to any wall space. Each cube can hold up to 15 pounds and pairs nicely with fabric drawers from the same company. Assembly is straightforward and requires only a screwdriver and hammer.

For the kitchen

storage options

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SimpleHouseware stackable kitchen organizer

Stack up cabinet and shelf items

Organization for the heart of the home.

Pros:

  • Lightweight 
  • Three color options

Cons:

  • Assembly may be difficult

Kitchen cabinets and pantry shelves can be difficult to navigate if you have a lot of open vertical space. These stackable organizers let you add an extra shelf to your current storage without making any permanent modifications, and they're available in three colors. They're a great option for separating cups and plates or spices and canned goods. 

Hide away

storage options

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mDesign extra wide dresser storage tower

A lighter approach to clothing storage

Generous drawer space for any type of clutter.

Pros:

  • Colors to accent or match 
  • Plenty of space for clothes

Cons:

  • Top surface may scratch easily

Store clothes and other accessories in the five drawers of this mDesign storage tower. It comes in more than a handful of colors to match your current bedroom, hallway, or closet setup. The drawers are lined with fabric and have pull handles on the front. You can also avoid scratches on your floors thanks to the plastic feet.

In plain sight

storage options

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NISUNS folding storage ottoman

Ideal for kids’ toys

Rest your feet and hide your clutter.

Pros:

  • Soft linen exterior 
  • Seven color options 
  • No tools needed for assembly

Cons:

  • Small interior storage

Want to hide your clutter but still have it readily accessible when you're lounging on the sofa? This ottoman storage option can keep kids' toys, pet toys, extra reading material, or even TV remotes within reach. No assembly is required, as all you need to do is unfold it and then place the lid on top. When not in use, the ottoman can be folded back down into the lid.

Shoe stack

storage options

(Image credit: Amazon)

Simplify stackable shoe rack organizer

Store sneakers, flats, and sandals

Keep a neat appearance with this covered shoe rack.

Pros:

  • Stacks for more storage 
  • Assembles without tools 

Cons:

  • Not suited for work boots

Stash sixteen pairs of shoes in this rack that also features a cover to hide them away. Once it's full, you can stack a second rack on top of it for even more storage. Choose from beige, black, or grey color options to match your entryway or closet.

Keeping your space tidy

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Now that you know about our favorite storage options, which one should you pick? For most people, we think the SimpleHouseware over the door hanging shoe organizer is a great starting place. It doesn’t require you to clear a spot for setting it up since it hangs on your door. The 24 pockets can hold more than shoes, meaning it can be used in almost any room where you need more organization.

However, if you want to keep stored items away from view, consider the mDesign extra wide dresser storage tower. Items you store will be closed away in linen drawers, making this a good option for clothing items or anything else you want to keep private. It has plastic feet on the legs to prevent damage to softer flooring options like wood or laminate. And to top it off, there are lots of colors to choose from, helping you match it to any bedroom, bathroom, or living room. 

Freelance Writer

Nicole Cozma is a freelance writer for Future. She's known for being inquisitive and finding the tiny details that may otherwise go unnoticed. When she's not writing about products, she can be found playing Blizzard game titles, doing copy editing work, cooking, or expanding her photography skills.