Improve Your Basement Storage With These Tips

by Tony Carter, Realtor® 11/21/2021

A basement can provide hundreds of square feet of storage for your home. However, there are important things to consider when using a basement for storage to ensure your belongings remain in the best possible condition. Here are some ideas and tips for basement storage.

Use Vertical Space

No matter the size of your basement, you can take advantage of vertical space for efficient storage. If you have exposed beams or rafters on the ceiling, you can attach ceiling storage units to get items out of the way. Opt for storage shelving and other solutions for garages to find something simple but effective. You can also hang storage solutions from the ceiling that serve decorative purposes, like baskets or macrame hangers.

Consider Built-Ins

If your basement is unfinished or partially finished, consider using some of the wall space to install built-in shelves and cabinets. This won’t take up any of the floor space in the basement but can add a surprising amount of storage space. Storing items on built-in shelves leaves you more room for furniture or other larger items that require a larger amount of space.

Use the Stairs

Space under the stairs has enormous storage room potential. If you have an open staircase down to your basement, this is especially simple to do. You can use containers or shelving units under the stairs or even build right into the existing structure to create built-in storage. If the space under the stairs isn’t open, there may still be empty space behind a wall begging for more efficient use.

Protect Vulnerable Materials

One of the most important things about basement storage is protecting your belongings from moisture damage, mold and pests. Store smaller items in air-tight storage tubs or bins to keep out moisture and uninvited guests. You can invest in a vacuum-sealing tool to protect larger and unusually shaped items until you need to access them again.

Stored items made of specific materials like wood or metal are especially vulnerable to moisture-related damage in a basement. Try to keep smaller wooden items and other porous materials safely inside plastic, glass or other moisture-proof barriers. Protect hammers, wrenches and other tools by keeping them inside a tool box rather than loose on a shelf. This will prevent rust and keep everything in perfect working order.

To protect your basement and everything in it, you might consider a dehumidifier. No matter what is in your basement, moisture will eventually find it and certain materials can suffer mildew or worse. Adding a dehumidifier in the basement to dry out the air will help prevent mold growth and damp, musty odors.

These simple tips for efficient basement storage will help you find new ways to use the space. For building shelves or built-ins, always consult a contractor before starting projects that may affect the structure of your basement or foundation.

About the Author
Author

Tony Carter, Realtor®

My wife, Cindy and I, moved to Florida 9 years ago from Wisconsin, where we were born and raised. I proudly served in the United States Air Force and was stationed overseas and in The Gulf War. Became a member of The American Legion and a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). After, the Military, I got into the retail business for the last 25 years. During my last position, in the retail. I was second-in-charge of a 125 million dollar a year business. Thatis where I developed my passion for customer service and taking care of the customer. With that passion, I became a full-time licensed Realtor in the state of Florida. I understand that real estate is not just a transaction but an important personal decision, a decision that may need guidance. I am here to answer any questions and guide you and your family through the process. Whether buying for the first time. Purchasing a condo, single-family home, investment property or a time-share on the beach. I am the exclusive Realtor for the Mariner Beach Club in St Pete Beach, Florida and for the Island Gulf Resort in Madeira Beach, Florida. Please feel free to contact me with your real estate needs directly at cell 262-894-8135 or via e-mail at [email protected] or website; www.TonyCarterRealEstate.com. Timeshare on St. Pete Beach, Florida. www.TonyCarterRealtor.com. Video of the Mariner Beach Club, St. Pete Beach, Florida. www.imagemaker360.com/141537. Website to the timeshare at Madeira Beach, Florida. www.IslandGulfResortFlorida.com