The Best Space-Saving Furniture Items For Your Small Apartment

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Whether you're stressed about moving into a partner's tiny apartment (hi, that's me!) or you're in need of a small-space furniture upgrade, we've got you covered. From shelving and storage solutions that double as decor to the right multi-layer hangers, you can't go wrong investing in these home essentials.

What's more, we didn't just think small when it comes to the dimensions of these products. For example, we know you're also in need of a bed and wardrobe, so why not smartly select those items with function in mind? The single most intelligent move you could make when it comes to small-space living is buying a bed with four drawers for stowing away a change of sheets, workout clothes, underwear, or socks. And if you need extra bars for hanging, we found an armoire (constructed from the best smelling pine from sustainable forests *flips hair*) that has deep shelving and a long rod for shirts and pants.

If you've been shoving accessories toward the back of your closet for far too long and need some sensible solutions, we've also gathered bins and baskets. Even better, they're aesthetically pleasing so if you end up displaying them, they'll be pretty to look at. Finally, there's a portable blender, compact all-in-one air fryer and multicooker, and a cordless vacuum system that offer major bang for your buck.

Scroll on for the best small apartment furniture from brands like Wayfair, Target, West Elm, and more.

Sink Organizer Tray
urbanoutfitters.com

Sink Organizer Tray

Bino Marble 4-Part Organizer Tray ($16)

This compact marble 4-part organizer tray is great for the bathroom sink. It's made of super-smooth resin that can be easily washed to avoid bacteria build-up. It also looks really chic in person, as noted by a recent reviewer who wrote, "Was surprised at the material of this, sturdy and nice!! Looks cute in my bathroom too."

Multi-Layer Hanger
wayfair.com

Multi-Layer Hanger

Dotted Line Corey Metal Non-Slip Multi-Layer Hanger ($21, originally $27)

Loading up on multi-layer hangers for your pants, skirts, shawls, belts, and ties is a no-brainer when it comes to saving space in a small closet. This design is crafted from metal in a silver chrome finish with five tiers replete with a non-slip vinyl coating (great for silks!). The 4.6-star rating on Wayfair is proof that customers are extremely satisfied with the item; many posted photos of their transformed closets after incorporating these in their wardrobes.

Stackable Jewelry Box
target.com

Stackable Jewelry Box

Brightroom 3 Drawer Acrylic Accessory Organizer ($28)

This jewelry box from Target is not only affordable, but it helps you consolidate your pieces. When you're stowing away your rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces, you'll ask yourself if you actually wear each of the pieces as you gradually fill the drawers. If you need more room, another box stacks right on top without slipping and sliding — plus, it will look really pretty in your space without taking up too much room on the dresser or shelf.

Floating Wood Wall Shelf
urbanoutfitters.com

Floating Wood Wall Shelf

Urban Outfitters Simple Floating Wood Wall Shelf ($29-$89)

When considering the need for extra storage, most people don't think of exposed shelving, but chances are you have a few necessary knickknacks, vases, succulents, and other home decor that you love to look at. Alternatively, these floating shelves are great for right next to your bathroom sink, to display daily beauty products and lotions that may be taller than the height available in any given cabinet. They come in small, medium, and large, so you can decide what's right for your home or mix and match lengths for an eye-catching, minimalist aesthetic.

Hanging Organizer
wayfair.com

Hanging Organizer

Rebrilliant Colusa Metal Hanging Organizer ($38)

If you're like me and you own a lot of lightweight handbags or belts, this metal hanging organizer is essential. The product is designed to display a total of 12 bags, but can hold up to 50 pounds if you want to double up on some hooks. The vertical hanging system can also fit over the door if you don't have room in your closet, and it comes with an optional valet in case you want to make use of that function.

Woven Storage Basket
wayfair.com

Woven Storage Basket

Gracie Oaks Xlarge Round Cotton Rope Storage Basket ($40, originally $50)

Whether you use it for laundry, shoes, rolled denim, toys, or folded blankets, the brilliant thing about this oversize storage basket is that it also contributes to the decor of your space. You'll never be worried about this lovely braided bin being visible to guests because it's so beautiful. I own two of these and use one for transporting laundry from the dryer to the bed for folding, and the other for my jeans, all of which I roll up and stow away at the back of my closet.

Stacking Boxes
westelm.com

Stacking Boxes

West Elm Brockton Bamboo Stacking Boxes (Set of 2) ($45)

When it comes to stowing away extra products in a cabinet or underneath a sink, save yourself the stress and invest in simple organization trays or boxes. I love this bamboo stack, which comes with a set of two boxes. They slide together effortlessly and you can reach what's in the bottom compartment without having to remove the top. Made from natural bamboo, the material is also built to last and can be wiped clean with a damp towel.

Makeup Organizer
wayfair.com

Makeup Organizer

Rebrilliant Elizabeth-Marie Acrylic 7 Compartment Makeup Organizer ($46)

You won't believe how much room this acrylic makeup organizer has for your beauty products. It's a 2-piece set that interlocks for easy stacking, but you can also break it down to better fit in your space if necessary. The product comes with removable black mesh padding you can slip into the drawers to keep your cosmetics protected and in place, and the slots at the top are great for brushes, nail polish, lipsticks, beauty blenders, and more.

With over 1,200 reviews on Wayfair, the product has earned 4.8 stars, making it a best-seller if you need to upgrade your makeup storage system. Because I'm working with a tiny bathroom mirror, I transport this organizer from under the sink to my desk, where I have my ring-lit mirror, and instantly create a makeshift vanity.

Portable Blender
amazon.com

Portable Blender

Ninja BC51NV Blast Portable Blender ($60)

While I used the Nutri Ninja to blend up my iced coffees and smoothies for years, I'm amazed by the convenience of the portable blender, which is way more affordable and available in six gorgeous colorways. You and your partner can each grab one and conveniently froth up your drink as you sit at your desk. The leakproof lid works very well, and while you can recharge the device via USB, I can go a full week without having to plug mine back in.

Lidded Storage Basket
westelm.com

Lidded Storage Basket

West Elm Modern Weave Rattan Underbed Baskets ($63-$116, originally $79-$145)

If you're not making use of the storage space underneath your bed, what are you even doing? I recommend investing in lidded baskets like these (they also come unlidded if you prefer it), to protect your belongings from dust. You can stow away everything from a change of sheets to designer shoes — the type of items you don't need to reach for every single day. If your bed isn't elevated off the floor, you can also stack these easily on top of a large dresser, at the top of your closet, or even in a storage unit or garage.

Storage Ladder
urbanoutfitters.com

Storage Ladder

Urban Outfitters Teak Wood Storage Ladder ($99)

Having a proper storage ladder for throw blankets has always been a dream of mine, and I'm happy to say that this design from Urban Outfitters is everything I could have asked for at a fair price point. Naturally, you and your partner or roommate both have your own favorite lounging blankets, and rather than leaving them splayed out on the couch, this is an organizing system that actually looks beautiful, too. Crafted from rustic teak wood, you can also use it to stow accessories or lightweight jackets if a coat rack is not feasible for your space. This ladder barely takes up any room when mounted against the wall.

Ottoman Tray
burrow.com

Ottoman Tray

Burrow Ottoman Tray ($99)

If your space is too small for a kitchen table at the moment, don't underestimate the convenience of a sleek wooden tray like this one. Available in walnut and oak — dependent upon your decor style — the tray is large enough to transport a TV dinner with ease. Plus, the wood has been treated to resist stains and the board is equipped with ergonomic grips for functional purposes. Don't hesitate to snap Instagram-worthy pictures when you're using it as a brunch board on the weekends.

Portable Clothing Rack
wayfair.com

Portable Clothing Rack

Rebrilliant Madalin Heavy Duty Clothes Rack ($180, originally $200)

If your closet space is simply not efficent enough to hold your entire wardrobe, investing in a rolling rack may come in handy. Whether you leave it in the open space of your bedroom or set it up in a storage unit, this is one of the best-made portable closets on Wayfair. It can hold up to 610 pounds (which makes it great for heavy coats), and it has an adjustable height and extension rods on each side. The assembly takes all of five minutes, and after it's set up, you can easily fold it down for transportation.

Portable Makeup Mirror
amazon.com

Portable Makeup Mirror

Ilios Beauty Ring Light ($259)

If your bathroom is small and your space doesn't allow for a separate vanity, consider doing your makeup while relaxing and sitting down at your desk or table. All you need is a portable makeup organizer and this incredible light to achieve glam. This ring light is one of the best you can invest in, co-created by Mario Dedivanovic with a total of five brightness settings and three different color tones. What's more, you can also use the ring light for virtual meetings or to record content, as there's a built-in smartphone holder designed to hold your device vertically or horizontally.

Compact Air Fryer
amazon.com

Compact Air Fryer

Ninja Combi SFP700 All-in-One Multicooker, Oven, & Air Fryer ($271)

If you live in a small apartment and don't have the countertop space for a giant air fryer, toaster oven, coffee pot, and microwave (you know, the works), invest in this all-in-one multicooker. You can cook a full meal in 15 minutes — a full recipe booklet arrives with the package for inspiration purposes — by using the cooker pan, crisper plate, and baking tray all at the same time. There are a total of 10 different functions, including air frying, roasting, baking, dehydrating, and more. And if you're anything like me and you're worried about turning your back to something cooking in the kitchen, there's an automatic shut-off built in for peace of mind.

Cordless Vacuum Cleaner With Handheld Attachment
amazon.com

Cordless Vacuum Cleaner With Handheld Attachment

Shark IW3511 Detect Pro Lightweight Cordless Vacuum Cleaner ($385, originally $450)

If you live with pets like I do (and even if you don't), a cordless vacuum is necessary for small space living where the dust build-up is real. Not only does this Shark come with a 60-minute run time, it's also available with an auto-empty system, so when you bring it back to its charging port, it empties automatically. This means way fewer trips to the garbage pail. If you need your vacuum for a quick floor or counter clean-up, there's a handheld attachment as well.

Bundle Bedding Set
cozyearth.com

Bundle Bedding Set

Cozy Earth Linen Bamboo Box Quilt Bundle ($492, originally $615)

If you're looking for a dependable, high-quality bedding set that can be used either on your own bed or a blow-up air mattress, look no further. Cozy Earth products are crafted from the finest blend of bamboo viscose and French flax linen, making the texture soft and the weight of the bedding light, yet cozy enough to use year-round. Swapping out summer and winter bedding may not be an option for you if you have limited storage space, so this elevated set — available in twin, queen, and king sizes — is the perfect solution.

Wardrobe With Extra Storage
amazon.com

Wardrobe With Extra Storage

Grain Wood Furniture Shaker 3-Door Wardrobe ($789)

Only have one small closet, but moving in with a partner? Or perhaps you just have more clothes that require a rod for hanging. This 3-door wardrobe is surprisingly compact when it comes to dimensions. While the drawers are deep and the shelves have great depth (which means even more storage space), you can easily fit this up against any wall and double your closet space. My partner and I noted that the wood smells great too, which is a sign of quality furniture, and the brand commits exclusively to pine wood from sustainable and renewable forests. While the armoire is a splurge, it goes a long way when it comes to completing a closet, as noted by its 4.2-star Amazon rating in the value for money category.

Storage Bed
potterybarn.com

Storage Bed

Pottery Barn Jake Upholstered Storage Bed With Metal Legs ($2,299-$3,099)

Investing in a bed with drawers for storage has been the single most intelligent move I've made in all my years of small apartment living. The Jake bed from Pottery Barn is also on a platform with metal legs, which means — you guessed it! — even more storage underneath the frame. This beautifully-upholstered design is available in full, queen, king, or California king sizes, and you have plenty of fabrics to choose from depending on your apartment aesthetic.


Sarah Wasilak is the associate director of commerce at POPSUGAR. With plenty of experience in the shopping market, a keen interest in SEO, and 10 years as an editor at the brand, she enjoys writing across the lifestyle and health-and-fitness categories. She has bylines at POPSUGAR, InStyle, Elle, Refinery29, Who What Wear, Elite Daily, Byrdie, and The Quality Edit and aims to amplify minority voices in all her work.