Woman organizing donations in a cozy living room, folding clothes into a donation box.

7 Minimalist Storage Ideas to Simplify Living

If you've ever looked around your home and thought, "How did I end up with this much stuff?"—you're not alone. The minimalist movement is gaining momentum, and it's not just about clean lines and white walls. It's about creating space—physically and mentally—for the things that matter most.

What Is a Minimalist, Really?

At its core, minimalism is about intentional living. It's about owning fewer things and making room for more peace, clarity, and joy. When Marie Kondo stepped into the spotlight with her now-famous KonMari Method, she gave the world permission to let go of things that no longer "spark joy." Since then, thousands of people have embraced minimalist storage strategies to bring a sense of calm back into their homes.

But minimalism isn't one-size-fits-all. Whether you're all in or just want a little more breathing room, these minimalist storage ideas can help simplify your space—and your life.

1. Identify Your "Why"

Minimalist storage isn't just about tidiness—it's about purpose. Before you start organizing or decluttering, take a moment to ask yourself:

  • Why do I want more space?

  • What do I hope to gain by owning less?

  • What do I want my home to feel like?

Maybe you want more time with your kids or a less chaotic morning routine. Identifying your "why" keeps you motivated to make intentional choices and resist clutter-creep.

2. Set Boundaries

One of the easiest ways to reduce visual clutter is by creating physical boundaries. For example, keep walkways completely clear. If you're constantly stepping around shoes, bags, or boxes, your space isn't serving you well.

Start small: pick one area—maybe your entryway or living room—and commit to keeping it clutter-free. This simple act can immediately make your home feel more spacious.

3. Get Rid of Things As You Go

Instead of waiting for a big spring cleaning marathon, adopt a daily or weekly habit of letting go. If you pick up a shirt that doesn't fit right or spot a kitchen gadget you never use, put it in a donation bin right then and there.

This ongoing process of releasing clutter is a huge part of maintaining a minimalist storage system. Plus, it's less overwhelming than tackling everything all at once.

4. Focus on Experiences, Not Stuff

When was the last time you remembered a pair of jeans that changed your life? Probably never. But a weekend hike with friends or a spontaneous road trip? Those stick with you.

Minimalism is rooted in the idea that memories matter more than material things. Try gifting experiences instead of physical items, or setting aside money for events instead of impulse buys. This mindset naturally reduces the need for extra storage space in the first place.

If you're looking for inspiration, check out The Minimalists, who offer tips on shifting your lifestyle from accumulation to intention.

5. Utilize a Storage Space

Sometimes, the things we own still have value, but don't need to be in our daily living areas. Seasonal décor, sports gear, family heirlooms—you can keep them in a convenient place without losing all the room in your closet.

That's where self-storage comes in handy. Renting a nearby unit gives you breathing room while still holding onto what matters. Midgard Self Storage offers clean, climate-controlled spaces to help keep your home clutter-free.

This strategy is especially helpful if you're moving, downsizing, or going through a life transition and want to keep your minimalist storage goals on track.

6. Keep What You Already Have

It can be tempting to buy new bins, labels, or shelving systems when you're organizing. But often, you already have what you need. Use baskets, drawers, and shelves you already own to sort and store.

Minimalist storage isn't about having Pinterest-perfect spaces. It's about functionality and simplicity. Repurposing what you have is both budget-friendly and eco-conscious.

For more low-waste ideas, check out Bea Johnson's blog, a great resource for living simply and sustainably.

7. Practice the "One In, One Out" Rule

Every time you bring something new into your home, let something else go. Bought a new pair of shoes? Donate an old pair. Upgraded your blender? Pass the old one along to a neighbor or local shelter.

This rule is one of the easiest ways to maintain minimalist storage in the long term. It keeps things from piling up and encourages thoughtful buying habits.

Simplify Today With Midgard Self Storage

Minimalism isn't about having less for the sake of it. It's about having enough so you can focus on what matters most. Whether you're just starting out or already embracing the minimalist lifestyle, these simple storage ideas can help you take full advantage of your space.

And when you need a little extra room, Midgard Self Storage is here to help. Find a unit near you!


Unit Size

Looking to clear out space in your garage to make room for your growing business? Tired of tripping over holiday decorations in the middle of July? Midgard Self Storage offers units of all sizes and competitive prices, so you’ll be sure to find a unit that works for you.

5 x 5
5 x 10
5 x 15
10 x 10
10 x 15
10 x 20
10 x 25
10 x 30
UNIT SIZE: 5' x 5' (25 SQ. FT.)

UNIT SIZE: 5' x 5' (25 SQ. FT.)

Equivalent to: Regular Closet

This unit will hold: Personal items, clothes, boxes, skis, children's toys, small furniture items, business records and sales rep materials.

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UNIT SIZE: 5' x 10' (50 SQ. FT.)

UNIT SIZE: 5' x 10' (50 SQ. FT.)

Equivalent to: Walk-in Closet

This unit will hold: Small amounts of furniture, sofas, chairs, chest of drawers, boxspring and mattress, business supplies and records. Plus other small items and boxes.

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UNIT SIZE: 5' x 15' (75 SQ. FT.)

UNIT SIZE: 5' x 15' (75 SQ. FT.)

Equivalent to: Large Closet

This unit will hold: Small amounts of furniture, sofas, chairs, chest of drawers, boxspring and mattress, business supplies and records. Plus other small items and boxes.

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UNIT SIZE: 10' x 10' (100 SQ. FT.)

UNIT SIZE: 10' x 10' (100 SQ. FT.)

Equivalent to: Half of a one-car garage

This unit will hold: One-bedroom apartment with major appliances, other furniture and supplies.

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UNIT SIZE: 10' x 15' (150 SQ. FT.)

UNIT SIZE: 10' x 15' (150 SQ. FT.)

Equivalent to: Two-thirds of a one-car garage

This unit will hold: A two-bedroom apartment or house, including appliances, boxes and miscellaneous items and commercial storage inventory.

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UNIT SIZE: 10' x 20' (200 SQ. FT.)

UNIT SIZE: 10' x 20' (200 SQ. FT.)

Equivalent to: Standard one-car garage

This unit will hold: A three-bedroom house with major appliances, plus lots of boxes. Business storage files and inventory ideal for storage racks.

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UNIT SIZE: 10' x 25' (250 SQ. FT.)

UNIT SIZE: 10' x 25' (250 SQ. FT.)

Equivalent to: One-car garage

This unit will hold: A three-bedroom house with major appliances, lots of boxes plus a home office. Business storage files and inventory ideal for storage racks.

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UNIT SIZE: 10' x 30' (300 SQ. FT.)

UNIT SIZE: 10' x 30' (300 SQ. FT.)

Equivalent to: Standard two-car garage

This unit will hold: A four-to five-bedroom house with major appliances and room for boxes. Excellent for business storage of files, equipment and permanent records.

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