Storage in a small flat

Sep 12, 2026

Short answer: Use the height, use the space under the bed, and keep only the current season within reach. These three steps free up more room than any new shelf can give you, and they cost almost nothing.

Start by looking at what you have

Before you move anything, take the whole wardrobe out and look at it. Much of what takes up space is rarely worn. Once you know what you actually wear every week, it is easier to decide what stays within reach and what can be packed away somewhere else.

Use the height in the wardrobe

Most wardrobes have empty space at the top. An extra shelf up there holds what you rarely use, such as party clothes, spare bedding and bags. Keep heavy things low and light things high. Thick tops like a men's bamboo sweatshirt sit well folded on a middle shelf.

The space under the bed is free

In most homes, the space under the bed stands empty. Low boxes on wheels use it without taking floor space. Choose boxes with lids to keep dust out, and measure the clearance before you buy. A box that slides all the way out gets used, while a stuck one is easily forgotten.

Only one season at a time

The other half of the wardrobe can be packed away for six months. In summer the winter clothes sit in boxes, and in winter it is the other way round. This frees a lot of room, because thick winter pieces take up the most space. When the season changes, one afternoon is enough to swap.

Fold instead of hanging

Soft jumpers and T-shirts take less space folded than on a hanger. Fold them to the same size and stand them on edge in a drawer, so you can see each piece from above. It saves space and makes things easier to find. Hang only what creases easily or needs to keep its shape.

Keep the same type together

When all T-shirts sit together and all trousers sit together, you quickly see what you have. It also stops you buying something you already own. Small boxes or drawer dividers keep the groups apart. That makes it easier to keep things tidy, even during a busy week.

Use doors and walls

The back of a door can carry hooks for bags, scarves and a dressing gown. A narrow shelf on the wall above a chest of drawers adds room without using floor space. Hooks by the entrance take the coats, so they stay out of the wardrobe. Small changes like these help a lot.

Keep what you wear most

When space is tight, it makes sense to own fewer pieces that you wear often. Clothes that feel good and go with a lot deserve the front spot. Have a look at all men's clothing or the most popular for men if you want to replace something with pieces you reach for every week.