Tiny homes are known for their clever storage solutions and space-saving designs. The good news is that you don't need to live in a tiny house to benefit from these smart tiny home storage ideas.
Living off the grid often means working with smaller spaces, and finding creative ways to maximize storage and functionality is essential. Whether you're living in a small home or just looking to make better use of your available space, these tiny home storage ideas can be a game-changer for your off grid life.
Sliding Doors and Pocket Doors
One of the best ways to save space in a tiny home is by using sliding doors or pocket doors instead of traditional swinging doors. These doors glide along tracks or into walls, preserving valuable floor space.
- Pocket doors are perfect for small kitchens or bathrooms where every square inch matters.
- Sliding doors work well for separating rooms or creating privacy without using too much space.
Adding sliding or pocket doors to your own home is an excellent way to maximize space in tight areas.
Off-Grid Appliances
In off-grid living, every appliance must serve multiple functions to conserve energy and space. Dual-function off grid appliances, such as washer-dryer combos or a small wood-burning cookstove that also heat water, are great tiny home storage ideas.
A convection microwave oven can function as a microwave and an oven, freeing up counter space. And a small, energy-efficient fridge can tuck into unused corners.
By incorporating dual-use appliances, you save cabinet space and reduce the amount of power needed in your off-grid home.
Custom-Built Storage Nooks
Tiny homes are experts at turning dead space into practical storage. One of the most ingenious ways they do this is with custom-built storage nooks.
Add pull-out cabinets under stairs to create functional storage areas. Then build corner shelves in the kitchen or living room to store everyday items like coffee mugs or books.
Storage nooks are an excellent option for creating extra storage without adding bulky furniture. They're also perfect for small kitchens where kitchen essentials need to be within easy reach.
Hidden Lighting Solutions
Lighting in tiny homes often takes advantage of hidden or recessed fixtures to save space and make rooms feel larger. Here are some clever storage ideas for lighting:
- Install under-cabinet LED strips in your tiny kitchen for extra counter space.
- Use wall-mounted sconces to light up living areas without using up table or floor space.
- Add a string of solar-powered fairy lights around bathroom vanity mirrors, doorways, or headboards.
These lighting solutions brighten your home and free up valuable square footage.
Tiny Home Furniture
Furniture in tiny homes often serves multiple purposes. Some of the best tiny home storage ideas involve furniture that does double duty.
For example, Murphy beds fold away to reveal extra space in the living area during the day. Dining tables with built-in storage compartments can hold kitchen essentials or paperwork.
In an entrance or kitchen area, bench seats with hidden storage are a perfect solution for keeping things out of sight but within easy reach. And shelves above doorframes offer additional storage space in any room.
Hanging Gardens
When there's no room on the ground, tiny homes go vertical. Hanging vertical gardens are a great tiny home storage idea, especially for off-grid living where space for growing food can be limited.
Hang planters from the ceiling or walls to keep floor space clear. Use vertical surfaces such as windowsills to grow indoor herbs or small vegetables, even in smaller spaces.
This solution works well in a small home, an off grid camper or even an apartment with limited outdoor garden space.
Pop-Up Power Solutions
Tiny homes often use pop-up power outlets that provide electricity when needed and disappear when not in use. Pop-up outlets are a great place to plug in appliances in your tiny kitchen without taking up too much counter space.
Add pop-up power to home offices for easy access to charging ports without cluttering your workspace. This is one of the most innovative solutions for keeping a minimalist look while still getting the power you need.
Outdoor Storage
For many off-grid homeowners, outdoor storage is essential. Tiny homes use outdoor storage sheds or cabinets to store tools and seasonal items (think chainsaw storage) for various off grid and garden projects.
Build a compact outdoor shed to store gardening equipment or tools, freeing up space inside your home. Use wall-mounted racks in your garage or outdoor area to store items like bicycles or camping gear.
By using outdoor space, you can maximize storage capacity in your smaller space.
Outdoor Living Space
Tiny homes often extend their living space outdoors to make the most of limited square footage. Creating an outdoor living area is a great way to enjoy your surroundings while expanding your usable space.
Design a cozy deck or patio to use as a dining area, reading nook, or relaxation space. Then add seating areas or a small fire pit to create a functional outdoor extension of your home.
Whether you're in a tiny home or a traditional home, using outdoor space effectively can create a more spacious, open feel.
Wall-Mounted Fold-Out Furniture
Wall-mounted fold-out furniture is one of the most practical tiny home storage ideas. Desks, tables, and even beds can fold up when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space.
Install a fold-out desk in a home office or bedroom to create an instant workspace. And install wall-mounted fold-out furniture in your living room to maximize the available space.
These space-saving solutions are great for keeping rooms tidy while still having functional furniture available when needed. Look online at Pinterest or Amazon for plans to DIY your own furniture.
Using Tiny House Storage Ideas in Your Home
Even if you don't live in a tiny house, incorporating some of these clever storage ideas can help you make the most of your home. From sliding doors to hidden storage and multifunctional furniture, these tiny house storage options could be just what you need to maximize space and keep their home organized.
Tiny Home Storage Ideas FAQs
Do you have questions about tiny home storage ideas for your off grid home or cabin? If so, please leave them in the comments.
How can I add extra storage to a small kitchen?
Adding open shelves, pull-out cabinets, and hidden storage compartments are great ways to add extra storage space in a small kitchen. Custom-built storage nooks can also help store kitchen essentials within easy reach.
What are the best ways to save space in a small living room?
Use multifunctional furniture like Murphy beds, storage ottomans, and coffee tables with built-in compartments to save space in small living rooms. Hanging plants and wall-mounted fold-out furniture can also help keep the room clutter-free.
How can I make my home office more functional in a small house?
Install a fold-out desk, add vertical storage solutions like wall-mounted racks, and use dual-function furniture. These are excellent ways to make your home office more functional without taking up too much space.
How do I store batteries for off-grid living?
As I learned when we moved off the grid in 2013, one of the bulkier items in an off grid home can be the batteries. When storing batteries for off-grid living, keep them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space to prevent overheating and extend their lifespan.
You should use a storage unit designed for battery safety and ensure it is easily accessible for maintenance. Luckily, our home already had a built-in battery room used exclusively for our Surette battery bank. Regularly check your batteries for signs of wear or damage, and consider using a battery management system to monitor their health.
Note: In 2021, we replaced our old system with new solar panels and a Tesla 2 Powerwall. This saved a ton of room, and we turned our battery bank room into a walk-in pantry to store our dry goods.
What are the best storage options for small bathrooms?
In a small bathroom, use vertical storage like wall-mounted shelves or corner shelves to make the most of unused space. You could also add recessed shelves in the shower for toiletries or install storage units under the sink for bathroom essentials. A wall-mounted cabinet can work well to store items like toilet paper or cleaning supplies without taking up too much floor space.
How can I maximize storage in a small bedroom?
To maximize storage in a small bedroom, use under-bed storage compartments, built-in shelves, and vertical storage options like wall-mounted racks. Murphy beds or beds with storage drawers are excellent ways to create more room. Consider adding fold-out desks or corner shelves for extra functionality without using much room.
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