Every Ohio University student knows this is fact: Rentals in Athens Ohio have closets the size of birdcages – from the smallest one-bedroom spaces to the largest five-bedroom houses. And that’s if you’re lucky enough to have a closet at all. It’s not uncommon to find closets only a half a foot deep. Some bedrooms have no closet whatsoever – and having one can make you feel like you’re living in a luxury apartment.
But no worries. Free range underwear won’t be necessary. Here are a few closet organizational tips if you have a small closet or its non-existent. As your friend from high school said, it’s not the size that matters; it’s what you do with it.
Organize
When you’re limited on storage space, or just want to preserve your sanity, organization is key. First, downsize and consolidate, or don’t bring it to your student rental in the first place – it will save you the costs of having to get a moving truck rental. Next, purchase some bins to store clothes by type: underwear and socks, pants or skirts, T-shirts, and accessories. Hang all nice shirts, dresses, ties and belts. Here’s a nice video with some organizational tips:
Use Every Inch
Yeah, that’s what she said, but only because her one bedroom had the size of a closet you could barely fit a body in. Don’t forget to use the floor space and even the back of the door. Stack with shoe racks, bins, and hang organizers off the inside and outside of the door.
Easy Access
Anything you use regularly should be in easy access that can not only be gotten too quickly but put away easily as well. You need to be able to use and replace on the fly. This will help you keep the house you rent much cleaner and help preserve your sanity.
When it comes to organizing your closet, it’s important to keep in mind that different items require different storage solutions. For example, socks and underwear can be stored in small, compartmentalized bins, while pants and skirts may require longer hanging space. When choosing hangers, opt for slim, space-saving designs that won’t take up too much room in your closet. If you’re short on hanging space, consider using hooks or hangers on the back of your door or on a nearby wall.
Another option for maximizing closet space is to invest in stackable storage solutions. These can include drawers or bins that can be stacked on top of each other, or modular shelving that can be customized to fit your specific needs. When choosing storage solutions, consider how often you need to access each item. Items that you use frequently should be easily accessible, while items that you only use occasionally can be stored in a more out-of-the-way location.
Finally, it’s important to be realistic about what you can realistically fit in your closet. If you find that you’re running out of space, consider paring down your wardrobe or storing seasonal items elsewhere. This might mean using under-bed storage containers for off-season clothing or investing in a storage unit for larger items like coats and boots.
Tackling the mental health challenges that come with small living spaces
Living in a small student rental can be challenging, especially when it comes to storing your clothes. While there are several organizational tips that can help, it’s also important to keep in mind that living in a small space – be it a one bedroom or studio – can have a significant impact on your mental health and overall well-being.
One way to combat the stress of living in a small space is to make sure that you are getting enough natural light. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light can have a positive impact on mood and energy levels. In a small student rental, this can be difficult, as many of the rooms may not have windows or may only have small windows. To maximize natural light, consider using sheer curtains or shades that let in as much light as possible. You can also try using mirrors to reflect light around the room. Your parents will be delighted to see how much Vitamin D you’re getting when they come for parents weekend.
Another way to make the most of a small student rental is to create designated areas for different activities. For example, you might set up a study area in one corner of your room and a relaxation area in another. By creating distinct zones, you can help to maximize the functionality of your space and reduce clutter. If your rental has a yard, consider using that to your advantage as well.
If all else fails, no place in Athens is far from campus, so walk, or use your rental’s parking and drive, to the library or some other on campus area to get work done. If you’re looking to get further out of town to clear your head instead, we got you covered.
Living in a small student rental can be challenging, but with some careful planning and organization, it is possible to make the most of your space. By focusing on natural light, creating distinct zones, and maximizing storage space, you can create a comfortable and functional home that will support your academic and personal goals.