Teal Makita drill with bit in place drilling holes using a paper template for the towel bar DIY small space storage solutions
DIY Lifestyle/Minimalism Minimalism/Organization

A DIY Storage Hack for Small Spaces

Patricia September 19, 2024

Do you have a small space that offers big challenges when it comes to storage? We love that we downsized into a 900-square-foot cottage, but storage space in the bedrooms and living spaces is scarce. Closets are prime real estate, so many of my accessories have gotten shoved into drawers – which means I forget they are there. Are you in the same situation? My solution: DIY a hanging rod for wraps, pashminas, scarves, and strapped purses.

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White door with minor wear, filled holes, square architectural details, vintage door
The door shows signs that the last renters also put up some storage solutions.

Choose Your Storage Solution Hardware

I needed to add a storage hack to my closet, and the inside of the solid closet door looked like the best option. Even though the door is closed most of the time, I wanted to add hooks or a rod that had a vintage vibe. An oil-rubbed bronze towel bar from Amerock caught my eye. Why? The look fits with the overall vintage feel of the place. It’s also sturdy while still being light. Plus, at 18 inches long, it will easily display my errant accessories.

Easy DIY Storage Hack Installation

A Makita drill was one of my first purchases when I got my own apartment years ago. It is still one of the best purchases I’ve ever made. Today, it came in super handy to establish the bracket supports using the paper template that came with the kit. However, if you have enough hand strength, you don’t have to use a drill.

Teal Makita drill with bit in place drilling holes using a paper template for the towel bar DIY small space storage solutions
Having a Makita drill made this easier, but if you have the hand strength, you can do this DIY project without one.

Here are the basics:

  • Clean the door before drilling.
  • Roll out the paper template and use painter’s tape to secure it to the door.
  • Use a level to be sure that the template is straight before drilling.
  • Drill the two holes on each side for the support bracket.
  • **If drilling into drywall instead of a door, you should insert the sinkers and drywall supports—this isn’t necessary when working on a solid wood door.
  • Screw in the metal support brackets on both sides of the door.
Metal bracket and two screws in place ready to mount towel bar DIY
  • Mount the hardware on the support brackets and tighten the security screws at the bottom.
Towel bar in place on creamy white door DIY small space storage solutions
It’s up!

It took me less than five minutes to DIY this storage hack for my small space.

colorful scarves on the new towel bar DIY small space storage solutions
Voila! The colorful scarves now have a home.

Results

Is this going to make the next issue of Dwell? Probably not. But my scarves, pashminas, and wraps are visible for the first time in a year. Since I’m an out-of-sight, out-of-mind person when it comes to accessories in drawers, having them visible means they will get worn.  This is always my goal when decluttering or organizing – I only want to keep what I will wear, use, or love. So, for me, this DIY storage hack is a huge win.