Over, Under: You might see baby’s crib and think ‘Well, there goes a good twelve square feet’ but it doesn’t have to be so! There’s usually a pretty decent amount of space under the crib, where you could store all types of things – clothes or toys that Baby hasn’t grown into yet, collapsible toys, extra blankets and bed fittings, and the like. Invest in some sturdy containers to store items neatly and securely. You might consider finding a new locale for said containers when your baby is of exploration age.  Also take advantage of space over dressers, bookshelves, and other non-child-inhabited spaces; shelving units can be affordable and easy to install, and you might be surprised at how much extra storage space they can provide. NEVER hang shelving units over cribs or changing tables, however; regardless of how well-anchored they may be, you never know when a screw, bracket, or even a wall might fail. 

Think (and Buy) Small: We live in an on-the-go day and age where, if it can be made portable, it is. If you are short on space, you might mull over purchasing travel items for everyday use. For instance, many swings, bouncers, and Exer-Saucers are made to be collapsible for easy transportation. That ease in transport can double as convenience in storage, as these versions can easily fit in a closet, under a crib or bed, or behind a dresser or end table. Hook-on high chairs are also a great space-saver; these chairs safely clamp onto the edge of your dining room table, providing a close-to-you and clutter-free approach to feeding. Alternatively, many big names in baby products offer high chairs that safely strap onto your dining room chairs; all the safety of a full-size high chair with the ability to slide underneath your table just like a booster seat.

Behind Closed Doors: With all of the modular storage solutions on the market today, even the most modest of closets can be transformed for spacious storage. Depending on whether you purchase a more economical option at your local discount-type store, or a higher quality product at the massive home improvement store down the way, you can find solutions from cheap to mildly pricey that are guaranteed to score you some extra space. Some units have slots for drawers and shoes as well as racks for hangers; others are straight drawers or shelves. Be sure to do a bit of shopping around before you settle; I am almost certain that you will find the perfect solution for your closet. If you’ve got a DIY’er around the house, he (or she!) might even be able to fashion a custom unit from some wood, paint and brackets. The possibilities are endless!