Living in a small space is a whole vibe, right? But between the lack of storage and the need to keep things organized (and cute), decorating can feel like a puzzle. Enter Ikea: the holy grail for space-saving furniture and DIY hacks. Not only is their furniture budget-friendly, but it’s practically designed for hacking. So, if you’re looking to save money and space, here are some of the best Ikea hacks that’ll make your tiny space feel like a cozy, organized paradise.
1. The Magic of the Lack Shelf
The Lack shelf might be one of Ikea’s simplest products, but it’s also one of the most versatile. Mount a couple of these babies vertically on the wall, and voilà—floating storage! Pro tip: Stack two or three in the bathroom for storing towels and toiletries. Or, in the living room, use them to display plants, books, or your collection of mini succulents.
2. Billy Bookcase as a Room Divider
Got an open-plan studio? Use the Billy bookcase as a budget-friendly room divider. Add some baskets or decorative boxes to keep it organized and stylish. Hack bonus: Install it with casters for a flexible room divider you can move whenever you feel like switching things up.
3. Spice Racks Everywhere
Forget the kitchen—Ikea’s Bekväm spice racks are storage lifesavers anywhere in the house. Use them in the bathroom for storing perfumes or skincare products, in the kids’ room for books, or in your bedroom for a cute mini-gallery wall. And the best part? They cost less than a coffee.
4. The Trones Shoe Cabinet That Fits (Almost) Anywhere
Trones shoe cabinets are narrow, sleek, and surprisingly spacious. Hang a row of them in the entryway to hide shoes, gloves, or anything else you need at the door. Or use them in the bathroom as hidden storage for cleaning supplies or extra toiletries.
5. Raskog Cart for All the Things
You know those Pinterest-perfect rolling carts? Most of them started as Ikea’s Raskog! It’s a go-to for small space storage because it can fit pretty much anywhere. Use it as a portable bar cart, a bathroom caddy, or even as a nightstand with a twist. Roll it out when you need it, tuck it away when you don’t.
6. Turn Kallax into a Mudroom Moment
Even if you don’t have a full mudroom, the Kallax shelving unit can create one! Add some hooks for jackets, a seat cushion on top, and baskets in the cubbies for gloves, hats, and shoes. It’s like a mini-entryway command center on a budget.
7. Nissedal Mirrors to Double Your Space
When it comes to making small spaces feel bigger, mirrors are your best friend. Ikea’s Nissedal mirrors are affordable and easy to customize. Hang a few together for a statement mirror wall that’ll open up the room and make it feel twice the size.
8. Transform Knagglig Crates into Stackable Storage
Knagglig crates are wooden, stackable, and hackable. Stack a few on top of each other, paint or stain them, and you’ve got a rustic-looking storage unit. Use them as a nightstand, or in the living room for storing blankets, books, and that random stuff we all accumulate.
9. Use Ribba Frames for Stylish Organization
Looking for a low-cost way to display jewelry or organize makeup? Ikea’s Ribba frames are the answer. Add some hooks or a pegboard to turn a simple picture frame into a stylish display organizer.
10. Flisat Kids Table for More Than Just Kids
If you’ve got little ones, the Flisat table is amazing for small spaces. It has built-in storage bins, making it perfect for keeping art supplies or toys within reach (and off the floor!). But it’s also great for adults—try using it as a crafting station or as a small desk for those cozy corners.
11. Reimagine the Fintorp Rail
Ikea’s Fintorp rail was technically designed for kitchen storage, but who says it has to stay there? Use it as a hanging organizer in the bathroom, a jewelry holder in the bedroom, or a charging station by the bed. Just add S-hooks to keep everything organized and within reach.
12. The Mulig Clothes Rack to Free Up Closet Space
If your closet is a mess, the Mulig clothes rack can be a lifesaver. It’s perfect for those awkward nooks where traditional furniture won’t fit. Use it for your seasonal wardrobe rotation, or keep your most-worn clothes on display for an effortlessly chic (and clutter-free) look.
13. The Ottoman Hack (a.k.a. Extra Storage)
Ikea’s Söderhamn ottoman has a hidden storage compartment that’s perfect for stashing blankets, games, or anything else you want out of sight. Plus, it doubles as extra seating or a footrest, so it’s multifunctional—just what a small space needs.
14. Mosslanda Picture Ledges for Vertical Storage
Mosslanda picture ledges are a minimalist’s dream. They’re perfect for displaying photos, art, or small plants without taking up floor space. Install a few in a row for a simple and chic gallery wall that won’t break the bank.
15. The Malm Dresser as a Desk
Need a workspace but can’t spare the room for a full desk? Use the Malm dresser! Just add a chair, and you have a makeshift desk with tons of drawer space underneath. It’s ideal for bedrooms or tiny home offices.
16. Lack Table Storage Hack
Lack tables are cheap and super easy to hack. Stack two together, add a basket underneath, and you have an affordable storage table. Or, if you’re feeling crafty, paint the legs for a custom look.
17. Hanging Kallax Shelf Hack
Kallax isn’t just for the floor! Try hanging it horizontally as a floating shelf for books, baskets, or plants. It saves floor space and creates an eye-catching focal point on the wall.
18. Besta Cabinets as Elevated Storage
Got high ceilings? Make use of vertical space with the Besta cabinets. Mount them on the wall, and you’ve got floating storage that doesn’t eat up any floor space. It’s perfect for storing seasonal clothes, books, or even cleaning supplies.
19. Rattan Baskets for Hidden Storage
Ikea has tons of cute, budget-friendly rattan baskets that are perfect for hiding clutter. Use them in the bathroom, on open shelving, or under the bed to keep your small space looking tidy and on-trend.
Ikea hacks are the best for stretching your dollar and maximizing space. Whether you’re trying to create more storage, keep things organized, or just add some personality, these hacks prove that you don’t need a huge budget—or a huge room—to live comfortably. Try a few and watch your space transform!