Looking for a way to declutter your home without sacrificing style or comfort? Whether you’re short on space or just want a neater, more organised living environment, DIY storage ideas are a brilliant way to take control of your home — and your mess.
From building under-stair storage to installing floating shelves, these clever, budget-friendly projects will help you reclaim lost space and create a more functional home. And when your cupboards are full to bursting, you’ll know exactly when it’s time to call in the professionals — with an extra storage unit.
Let’s get into it.
Why Start a DIY Storage Project Now?
If you’re like most UK households, you’ve likely accumulated more belongings than you realise. In fact, an Aviva study estimates the average contents value at £58,210 per household, up from £42,180 in 2019—highlighting just how quickly clutter can pile up.
With more people working from home, downsizing, or simply looking to create calm, it’s no wonder DIY has seen a huge resurgence. These DIY storage ideas give you a weekend project with long-term benefits — more space, less stress, and a home that finally works for your lifestyle.
Under-Stair Storage That Transforms Dead Space
That awkward triangle under your stairs? It’s a goldmine. Install custom-built drawers or open shelving units to store:
- Shoes and coats
- Cleaning supplies
- School bags and sports equipment
A pull-out drawer system is perfect for narrow hallways and keeps everything out of sight — while still easy to reach. This is one of those DIY storage ideas that looks sleek and adds real value.
Floating Shelves for Style + Storage
Short on floor space? Look up. Floating shelves are one of the most popular DIY storage solutions because they’re cheap to install, look great, and can go anywhere:
- Kitchen: herbs, mugs, cookbooks
- Bathroom: towels, candles, baskets
- Bedroom: books, photos, night lights
Use natural wood for a rustic look or paint to match your interior. Combine them with wall hooks or pegboards for even more vertical storage.
DIY Ottomans and Benches with Hidden Storage
You don’t need to be a carpenter to make furniture that works harder. Try a simple DIY bench or ottoman box with a hinged lid — perfect for:
- Toy storage in the kids’ room
- Blankets and cushions in the lounge
- Shoes and wellies in the hallway
Add foam and fabric to the top and you’ve got a stylish seat and a space-saver.
Pantry Storage Hacks You Can Do in a Day
If your kitchen cupboards are a jungle of tins, boxes, and half-open pasta, try this:
- Add stick-on shelves to cupboard doors
- Use labelled baskets or plastic drawers
- Install adjustable shelves inside existing units
You can even convert an unused broom cupboard into a full pantry with some basic racking. These DIY storage ideas don’t take much time — but they’ll save you hours of searching later.
Loft Storage Boards to Clear Your Cupboards
Not ready for a full loft conversion? Loft storage still offers loads of potential. Installing raised loft boards above your insulation is a beginner-friendly project that gives you:
- Safe storage for seasonal items
- Better airflow for your roof space
- A chance to declutter garages or spare rooms
You’ll find more tips in our loft storage guide.
When Is It Time to Rent a Storage Unit?
If you’ve run out of surfaces, walls, and loft beams to stash your stuff, it might be time to scale up. Renting a small storage unit gives you breathing room — and helps you sort through things at your own pace.
Perfect for:
- Seasonal decorations and garden tools
- Home office documents or equipment
- Inventory or tools if you run a small business from home
It’s the stress-free extension to your home that you didn’t know you needed. And if you’re in the South West, Space Centre Self Storage has facilities in Stroud, Bristol, Gloucester and Stonehouse with no long-term contracts. Want to know more about self storage? Here are 10 of the most frequently asked storage questions, including storage unit size, storage insurance (SureWise or Store Insure), storage security and much more.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Tidy — Transform
DIY storage ideas are more than just a quick fix. They’re a step towards creating a home that feels intentional, peaceful, and works for how you live today. With a little elbow grease and a few clever tricks, you can free up space — and finally enjoy your home again.
And when the clutter still won’t budge? You know where to find us.