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Practical Items Utilized by Residents of Compact Living Spaces

Usable Items for Compact Living Spaces: 40 Real-World Recommendations

Dimensions and arrangement of a white rectangular frame showing a stack of toilet rolls protruding...
Dimensions and arrangement of a white rectangular frame showing a stack of toilet rolls protruding through a small square aperture in its bottom-left section.

Practical Items Utilized by Residents of Compact Living Spaces

Rewritten Article:

Yo, we hope you dig our recs! Some might've been sent as samples, but all were hand-picked by our editors. Just so you know, BuzzFeed and its publishing pals might nab a slice of the sales pie from the links sprinkled throughout this article. Let's get to it!

No more shoebox-feel necessary!

by Abby KassBuzzFeed Staff

Here are some kickass solutions for small-space living. Say goodbye to cramped corridors and cluttered chaos!

Ottoman with a dark grey square design spotted in a dwelling room's center

1. Toilet Paper Savior:

Store those extra loo rolls like a boss with this sneaky, space-saving gadget. No more shoebox-style storage – yay!

2. 4-in-1 Furniture Hero:

A folding ottoman that doubles, triples, and quadruples as a lounger, twin bed, and even air mattress storage! Make the most of your limited room!

Ottoman transforms into lounge chair as demonstrated by the reviewer, revealing its hidden design feature.

3. Floating Wall Drawer:

Add some bedside magic with these wall-mounted, floating drawers. Store lil' items like phones, books, and glasses, and create the illusion that your room is bigger than it is.

4. Baker's Rack Reinvented:

Tired of cooking in a shoebox? This bad boy transforms your kitchen into a functional space with a countertop, shelves, and a bar with hooks. Say goodbye to cramped cupboards!

Photo of the critic lounging on the fully expanded ottoman functioning as a twin-sized bed.

5. Grill Master's Dream:

Love to grill? But don't have the space for a full setup? Meet your new best friend. This 5-in-1 appliance is like having a grill, griddle, contact grill, and panini press all in one compact package. Plus, it's dishwasher-friendly – oh, happy day!

Promising review: "Perfect alternative to a grill for a small apartment. It's easy to use, clean, and cooks everything to perfection!" -Amazon Customer

  • Check it out on Amazon for $113.98!*
Wall-mounted wooden set comprising a white drawer and a light brown top, positioned beside the bed. Decorative items found include a book, coffee cup, and vase atop the brown top.

6. Secret Ottoman:

Got footwear taking over your abode? This ottoman's got a hidden surprise – interior storage for all those unwanted shoes! Bonus: it functions as a comfy seat too.

7. Cooking Kit Champ:

Save space and the dining experience with this ceramic cookware set. It comes with magnetic pot holders and a canvas lid holder, so you can organize your kitchen in a snap.

Image displaying a laden baker's rack full of kitchen items, including a microwave, showcasing its ample storage capacity.

8. Storage Cart Savior:

Can't stand the sight of disorganized art or cleaning supplies? This tiny cart fits in any nook or cranny, keeping everything neat as a pin.

9. Stove Shelf Solution:

Keep your most-used ingredients at arm's reach with this magnetic stove shelf. It sticks nicely to your stove, liberating some precious counter space in your cozy abode.

Image evaluation of the beige ottoman

StoveShelf is a US-based small business specializing in stove shelves for various sizes of stoves.

Promising review: "I absolutely love it. The magnets are strong and keep the shelf securely in place. It looks great with my black stove. I'm really glad I purchased this since I was tired of taking up counter space in my small apartment." -antoinette mendez

Check it out on Amazon for $39.99 (available in three sizes and three colors)

10. Two-Shelf Lamp:

Examiner revealing the interior of an ottoman, demonstrating it's stuffed with footwear.

Illuminate your life with this stylish, multipurpose floor lamp. It provides the perfect balance of light and adds the perfect place to store your beloved trinkets.

11. All-Devices Charger:

Because who wants to fight over outlets? This wall-mounted charger boasts six outlets and two USB fast-charging ports to power all your devices with ease.

Promising review: "Amazing for small spaces like mine! I put it in my bathroom and now can charge multiple items. The nightlight is a bonus too!" -Dj Kracinovsky

Green-hued slacks on display, arranged neatly in a cabinet equipped with a lid holder sporting matching green lids inserted in slots on the door.

Pick one up on Amazon for $17.97 (available in two styles)

12. Freestanding Bike Rack:

Expand your bike storage without feeling like you brought the neighborhood inside.

13. Air Fryer Ace:

Image showcasing a storage cart stacked with various art supplies organized across different levels

Air-frying is where it's at! This bad boy can roast, bake, reheat, and, of course, air fry. You'll be able to do tons with this pocket-size powerhouse, making it worth the counter space sacrifice. Trust us!

14. Folding Laptop Desk:

Work like a boss in style with this foldable laptop table. Fold it away when you're done and maximize your space again!

15. Vertical Shoe Tower:

Image showcasing a diverse selection of beauty products, tidily arranged in a corner of a room, as captured by another reviewer.

Keep everyone's shoes in check with this vertical shoe tower. There's no more tripping over piles on the ground or cramped closets!

Promising review: "Perfect for my kid's small apartment. Fits right next to the front door and keeps shoes organized. Assemble was easy and it's roomy!" -Anar

Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in three colors and two sizes)

16. Nesting Trays:

Wooden double-deck bookshelf featuring an integrated spotlight at the peak

Keep your essentials organized in style with these three nesting trays. They're perfect for stashing keys, glasses, or anything else that makes your life a little smoother.

17. Magnetic Spice Jars:

Adorn your fridge with these magnetic spice jars. You'll have easy access to your favorite seasonings and free up precious cupboard space.

18. Wonder Hangers:

Stainless steel bicycle parking stand

Multiple sets of hangers mean more space for your wardrobe, allowing you to wear whatever you want without worrying about closet space.

Promising review: "Life-changer for a small family living in an 820-square-foot, two-bedroom apartment. The Wonder Hangers help maximize our closet space." -Whovian

Grab your 10-pack from Amazon for $13.99 (available in two colors and in various pack sizes)

19. Cocktail Bar on the Go:

Reviewer Tests Air Fryer on Kitchen Table

Party like a pro without taking up too much space. This compact bar can be folded away when you need your living room back.

20. Sofa Table for Small Spaces:

Bring some life to your room with this slim sofa table. Perfect for your entryway or behind the couch

21. Velvet Ottoman:

Before and After Air Fryer Usage: A Thorough Cooking Comparison

Add a touch of luxury with this velvet ottoman. Every component serves a purpose, as it doubles as a seat or footrest and a small side table.

22. Self-Adhesive Paper Towel Holder:

Struggling with counter space? This self-adhesive paper towel holder sticks to the wall and can be used anywhere. You'll never run out of room again.

Promising review: "I love the counter space this paper towel holder saves in my small apartment! Perfect for hanging under my cabinet. Easily removable with no residue." -Brandy Muth

Image depicts a wooden desk with metallic legs, situated in a specific room setting.

Get it from Amazon for $11 (available in seven colors and in a two-pack)

23. Velvet L-Shaped Sectional:

Say goodbye to cumbersome sofas and welcome this sleek L-shaped sectional, perfect for lounging and relaxing in style.

24. Two-Tier Expandable Shelf

Stacked rounds of contrasting trays, characterized by their rectangular shape, spotted in shades of deep blue, bright blue, and beige. A timepiece and AirPods container sit comfortably arranged within these arrangements.

Maximize your under-sink potential with this expandable shelf. Tidy up your toiletries and cleaning supplies in no time!

25. Collapsible Cutting Board and Strainer:

Save space with this genius combo! Collapse it down when you're done or use it across the sink for extra counter space. It's a game-changer for tiny kitchens!

26. Six-Shelf Wall-Mount Bookcase:

Fridge-Adhered Glass Spice Jars: Detailed Imaging of Multiple Spice Containers Affixed to Refrigerator Door

Organize like a pro with this minimalist, six-shelf wall-mount bookcase. Pile it high with books, plants, trinkets, or even shoes – your room will never look cluttered again.

27. Mosaic Film Window Tint:

Tired of nosy neighbors? Create a privacy oasis with this mosaic film! It sticks on your windows but can be removed easily. Bonus: it blocks out 96% of UV rays and keeps your home warm or cool, depending on the season.

28. Two-Tier Entertainment Stand:

Wall-mounted square wooden cocktail station, featuring a variety of beverages and glassware arranged on its exposed wood surface.

Stream and spin your fave records on this sleek, compact entertainment stand.

29. Folding Kitchen Island Cart:

Need more chopping space? Tuck this kitchen island away when it's not in use.

30. Magnetic Knife and Utensil Holder:

Entryway table visualized by reviewer

Keep your kitchen tools organized and accessible with this magnetic holder.

31. Floating Hidden Bookshelf:

Say goodbye to the pile-on-the-floor look and hello to this floating hidden bookshelf. Perfect for books or any other items you want to store and display.

32. Hidden Storage Bed Frame:

Living space snapshot highlighting a table situated behind a sofa in a lounge, adorned with a variety of items.

Store sweaters, shoes, or whatever you need to with this sleek, hidden storage bed frame. You'll never have to reach to the floor to dig around for that missing pair of socks again.

33. Under-Bed Storage Containers:

If you're not ready to invest in a new bed frame, these under-bed storage containers are a great alternative. Perfect for off-season clothes or other items you only need for specific times of the year.

Promising review: "I love these! They condense my clothes and help utilize my tiny closet better." -Sarah Smith

A pink velvet ottoman, boasting gold-legged design and a removable top, is up for discussion.

34. Three-Tier Bamboo Rack:

Maximize your small space with this versatile, three-tier bamboo rack. It can hold toilet papers, cleaning supplies, or beauty products – wherever you need it.

Promising review: "Perfect for home organization. Holds my kids' toys, bathroom toiletries, and kitchen cleaning supplies. Highly recommend!" -Andrea Patterson

35. Over-the-Cabinet Bag Holder:

Tired of stuffing plastic bags into a closet? Neatly store them with this over-the-cabinet solution.

36. Six-Hook Rack:

Reclaim your closet space with this handy, adjustable rack. Hang your cleaning tools, mops, and brooms with ease!

37. Three-Tier Hook Hanger:

Keep your accessories in check with this triple-duty hanger.

38. Lift-Top Coffee Table:

Hide away the clutter with this clever, lift-top coffee table. Perfect for storing magazines or catalogs without taking up valuable floor space.

39. Clear Shower Curtain Liner:

Keep your shower organized and squeaky clean with this super-handy shower curtain liner. It also doubles as a decorative addition, if you're into that sorta thing.

Promising review: "Perfect for a small apartment. Helps keep things organized and items dry. Looks great and stands up well!" -Valerie Johnson

40. Three-Piece Table Set with Stools:

Enjoy the perfect blend of productivity and relaxation with this three-piece table set. The stools conveniently fit underneath when not in use.

  1. The footrest ottoman with hidden storage, perfect for small spaces, offers a comfy seat and a place to store excess shoes – a solution everyone should consider with home shopping. (footrest, home shopping)
  2. The cooking kit champion, which includes ceramic cookware, magnet pot holders, and a canvas lid holder, is a space-saving pick ideal for market-priority-post kitchen organization. (cooking kit, market-priority-post)
  3. For those dealing with limited room, the storage cart savior, suitable for fitting in any nook or cranny, keeps arts and cleaning supplies tidy and organized. (storage cart, limited room)
  4. When it comes to market-redo-post organization, the two-tier entertainment stand is a sleek, compact choice for streaming and spinning favorite records. (two-tier entertainment stand, market-redo-post)
  5. To declutter work stations, the folding laptop desk offers a practical and stylish solution, folding away when not in use. (folding laptop desk, work stations)
  6. With the aeba36413a3a76a1dbcb4cd36f1dc49c (StoveShelf) magnet stove shelf, keep your most-used ingredients easily accessible, freeing up counter space in your cozy abode. (StoveShelf, counter space)
  7. Keep an eye on new content from BuzzFeed, as they share ideas and advice, like the clever self-adhesive paper towel holder that sticks to the wall and saves counter space in small apartments. (BuzzFeed, new content)
  8. The velvet ottoman, doubling as a seat and a footrest, serves as a comfy addition to small-space living and is a must-have item for any home with fyi (footrest, small-space living)
  9. Get your hands on the magic of mosaic film, a privacy solution that blocks out noise and nosy neighbors, sticks to windows, and can be easily removed. (mosaic film, privacy)
  10. To make the most of your small kitchen, the 5-in-1 air fryer appliance, dishwasher-friendly and capable of grilling, griddling, contact grilling, and panini pressing, is a compact powerhouse that sacrifices no cooking capabilities. (air fryer, small kitchen)
A living room features a curvaceous L-shaped blue velvet couch as its central furniture piece.
Before: Disarray of supplies scattered in the cabinet under the sink
Integrated Chopping Board with In-built Strainer Over Sink for Convenient Food Preparation
Six-tier bookshelf with light brown wooden shelves and white rods affixed to the wall showcases an arrangement of books, trinkets, and decorations on the upper four shelves, while the lower shelves are filled with various shoes and accessories.
Brown wooden two-tier stand showcasing vinyl records and a record player, with black wire slots in the center visibly highlighted. Top-tier display featuring a vintage record player.
Image depiction of a kitchen featuring a black wooden-topped cart
The reviewer demonstrates compact storage of the item, placing it beside a washing machine.
Stainless steel wall-affixed bar maintaining the arrangement of knives and whisk.
Books seemingly suspended in mid-air, supported by an unseen force, and decorated with a tiny cactus on top.
Displayed Shoes Shelves' Showcased Photograph of Reviewer's Footwear
Elevated Tufted Bed Frame, showcasing both frame and headboard design, with built-in hollow pockets for hidden storage, effectively concealing the mattress bottom.
Internal Cabinet Compartment Holds a Collection of Plastic Bags, Secured by a Metal Mesh Bag Holder
Wall Arrangement Showcasing Organized Collection of Cleaning Supplies: Neatly Arranged Rack with Diverse Cleaning Equipment on the Wall
Display of the equipment rack, revealing its compartments and accessories, capable of accommodating assorted long-length items, plus additional goods such as towels and hats on its hooks.
Tiers of hooks on a hanger, each holding a distinct purse in place.
Image of a reviewer, showcasing a collection of purses suspended from a hanger
Elevated-top coffee table bearing a shelf at its base, with a thick inner compartment and a laptop stationed on top, demonstrating its functionality as a workstation.
Brown tall table with a marble-like top and matching stools, showcased by the reviewer accompanied by two stools under it.

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