Last month I came home after a particularly rough exam. It was one of those days that exuded negativity – and my bedroom displayed evidences of last night’s all-nighter everywhere. Piles of loose leaf papers piled high amidst empty bottles of Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino (my new drink of choice) that littered my cluttered desk. Clothes were strewn about the room, creating a depressing barrier around my bed. Yesterday’s outfit was in a heap on the floor in the exact place where I had thrown it the night before. The chaos tormented me. Something needed to be done.

The first step is admitting you have a problem, right? I weakly reasoned that the explanation lies within my limited available space. So, I decided to ask a few of my friends what they do to organize their petite living areas. Surprisingly, there are a number of clever, affordable ways to save space. The following are four ways I decided to implement in my own place.

1. Shoes Away - Usually the area under the bed amasses a wide jumble of things, which adds more disorder to the room. This organizer arranges your shoes away from sight and under the bed.
2. Folder Rack - Initially, I was turned off by the idea of a folder holder. However, it is an excellent way to manage all of the papers I have for each of my classes. Everything is easily within reach and presented in a neat and organized way (which also helps with finding things!).
3. Drawer Organizer - Ever given up a frustrated search for that lost sock that constantly seems to elude you? A drawer organizer is a great way to keep track of socks, jewelry or pretty much anything else in a small space. This plastic insert is inexpensive and easy to place in your drawer.
4. Storage Ottoman - I was shocked when my friend slyly lifted up the top of her ottoman to reveal a host of hidden treasures that were previously unseen – CD’s, sheet music, magazines and old pictures. Surprised, I gazed at where my feet comfortably used to rest and realized the full effect of this innovative piece of furniture.

I heave a sigh of relief as I sit surveying my newly organized room. The desk is wiped clean and free from clutter, my shoes are filed safely away and my papers are neatly coordinated. It’s a long way from feng shui but it’s a start.

I don’t know how long this will last but I’ll be sure to let you know. What do you do to save space and stay organized?

Related posts:

1. Oh, I Have to Clean My Sock Drawer That Day…
2. Keeping Your Mess in Check
3. 5 Tips to Maximize Your Workspace in a Small Apartment
4. Too Many Shoes, Not Enough Square Footage
5. 7 Small Ways to Add Class to Your Apartment Entryway

Tags: chaos, Cleaning, clutter, drawer organizer, folder holder, Furniture, messy room, organization, ottoman, shoe rack, small spaces, space saver, Starbucks, storage