Basement Storage Ideas

As you get inspired by these basement storage ideas, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Think about the shape your basement is in. Can you use it for storage right away or will you need to do updates or installations? Making changes to the space will affect your storage timeline, but can results in a range of additional storage possibilities. Imagine having built-in cabinets and basement shelves, for example.
• Figure out exactly what you need to store. Basements can be damp, so they are not the right place to store some items. For example, you’ll want to avoid putting important papers and photos in basement storage. Other items that could be damaged if kept in a basement are clothes, antiques, wood furniture, artwork and archival items like old film. Linens and electronics are also best kept elsewhere.
• Make a plan for basement organization. Think about how often you use something as you decide where it should be stored.
  If you're planning to keep sports equipment or seasonal items, for instance, you’ll want to keep them in an easy-to-reach space.
• When using storage containers and totes, label the outside of the bin. This will help you find easily find items as you need them. Clear plastic bins will allow you to see what’s inside, but a label can still be helpful.
• Your basement may serve several purposes. If your storage space is part of a family room, a home theater or game room, you can separate the storage area with a curtain or other divider.
• If your budget allows, custom built-ins can provide a stylish and functional storage zone for toys and everyday items.

Be aware of the environment in your basement before you pack it full. While some basements may be ideal for storage, others can be humid or prone to flooding.

Using plastic storage bins instead of cardboard boxes can help protect your items. Airtight plastic bins form a seal that can shield your stuff from moisture, as well as bugs and rodents.

Wondering how to store items in an unfinished basement? Keep waterproof storage totes off the floor and away from water that might make its way in by placing them on shelves.

Tip: A damp basement can cause rust, mildew and mold. Using a dehumidifier in a basement can help reduce musty smells and lower overall humidity.

From cabinets to pegboards, using your walls as your main organizational area is one of the easiest-to-achieve basement storage ideas.

Wall-mounted cabinets can house everything from tools to surplus paper goods. Wall shelving systems can keep fertilizer out of harm's way and coolers out of sight until it’s time for a picnic or tailgate. Keep rarely used bicycles out of the way with handy hooks. Use pegboards for tools, hoses and sports equipment.

In a finished basement space, wall shelves are great for board games, bins and other basement organizing needs. As you install shelving, make a place for each item you wish to store. You may even want to label the shelves so that everything gets put back in its place for optimal organization.

Basements are often used as a workshop or a playroom. Whatever the purpose of your basement, streamlining the space can help keep it organized. Create a place to store each item that you use or every toy the kids play with. Tool storage can help keep your workspace neat. Bins and boxes can help contain toys and games, especially the ones with all the little pieces.

Larger cabinets can be used to store garden tools or sporting equipment. Cabinet systems on wheels can give a space more flexibility. You can slide the cabinets around to rearrange them or when it’s time to clean.

Have you overlooked the space under the stairs? Make the most of a smaller basement by using this area for additional storage. If there’s room, put up some freestanding or built-in shelves to expand the possibilities. If not, you can stack labelled plastic bins filled with toys, craft supplies and other items.

As a finishing touch, you might build a closet, install custom drawers or hang curtains to divide the area from the rest of the basement.

If you have the space, you can dedicate an entire section of your basement to storage. Shelving units could be used as room dividers or to create makeshift walls that block the area from view. If your budget allows, you could build new walls to make a large closet in the basement. Sliding barn doors can be added to offer easy access to your new storage space, while hiding what’s inside.