Japanese homes and apartments are widely known for their relatively compact living spaces, meaning inventive storage solutions are often required in order to prevent clutter piling up. Read on for eight easy storage solutions that will open up precious space inside your home in Japan.
Many Japanese homes have a small closet and a shoe-storage cabinet or shelf unit in the entranceway. To prevent overcrowding, place only shoes and jackets required for the current season in these areas. Although it may seem a waste of effort to rotate items several times a year, this seasonal effort can also help prevent the growth of mold.
Similarly, you may want to clear closet space to hold only a limited number of seasonal clothes. Fold off-season clothing and store it in boxes with mold- and moth-prevention sachets for a tidy and minimalist closet.
Hiding away items can give a room a neater look. Invest in underbed storage or multifunctional cabinets to keep infrequently used items out of view.
Try behind-the-door storage to utilize vertical space in a smart way.
Streamline your wires and cables by using cable covers, and keep rarely used electronics, such as printers and shredders, out of view inside drawers or closets.
Consider renting a storage unit to store seasonal sporting goods like ski equipment, suitcases, or bags of bulky winter coats. These affordable secure units are available in a variety of sizes and are often located in easily accessible areas.
If you follow the above tips, you should end up with a delightfully clutter-free home. Now you will want to keep it clean! Investing in professional housekeeping from Kurashinity makes that a breeze. Our fluent English-speaking housekeepers are fully trained in Japanese hospitality and know exactly how to navigate Japanese living spaces. Our staff can clean your house until it sparkles and shines, with no clutter in sight. Book our Initial Trial Service today, and set your home on a path to becoming a neat and tidy haven.
Originally from the United Kingdom, Jessica is a writer and translator now living happily by the sea just south of Tokyo in Kamakura, Japan.