Tip 1: Use the full height and width of the wall. Purchase multiple tall storage shelves and line them up against a wall. A system with adjustable shelves lets you truly customize the storage to fit your stuff.

Tip 2: Anchor the units. Use angle brackets and suitable wall anchors to attach the units to wallboard, or screw directly into studs. The contents of the units will hide the attachment hardware, and you won’t have to worry about loaded shelves tipping.

Tip 3:Add drawers or doors to help conceal clutter. Open shelves make for easy access, but they also leave your items on view. It’s nice to have drawers in which to stash stuff you don’t have time to make neat.

Tip 4: Color coordinate your containers. To keep track of what’s what, use storage bins and boxes to corral stuff. Put like items in the same color containers. Be sure to label the front of each container so you can find stuff in a jiffy.

Tip 5: Make space for pin-ups. To avoid free-floating papers, install a memo board to hold any loose paper or display any favorite photographs, coupons, etc.