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Best Water Storage Ideas for Small Spaces: Creative and Practical Solutions
Living in a small space can make emergency preparedness feel like a challenge, especially when it comes to storing essential items like water. However, having a reliable supply of water is critical during an emergency, and with a little creativity, even the smallest apartment or home can be outfitted with a practical water storage solution. In this post, we’ll explore space-saving strategies and innovative solutions for storing water in tight spaces so you can stay prepared without feeling cramped.
Here are some innovative water storage options that will help you maximize water storage in small spaces.
Stackable Containers
WaterBrick
They come in both 1.6- and 3.5-gallon sizes, making them the easiest to use and transport while providing great flexibility. These brand-name containers are perfect for those with limited storage areas or who want to build up their supply gradually.
Jug Containers
These jugs are available in 5, 7, and 15-gallon sizes. If you plan to stack these jugs, pay close attention to their thickness. Thicker, stackable jugs may come at a higher cost, but they are an excellent choice for optimizing limited storage space.
20-gallon Container
These containers are portable and stackable up to three high. Built-in handles make them easy to move. Ideal for apartments and other small spaces, they serve as a middle option between 5-gallon and 55-gallon containers.
Collapsible and Compact Containers
For small spaces, collapsible and compact containers can be a game-changer. They’re easy to store when not in use and can be quickly filled in an emergency. All are made from durable, food-grade plastic.
Collapsible Water Containers
These containers are easily stored until time to be filled once an emergency has arrived. When needed, you simply place it in your bathtub and fill it with water. It comes with a pump for ease of use and holds up to 100 gallons of drinking water. They can be easily folded or rolled up when not in use, making them ideal for compact storage. For quicker preparation, consider installing a quick-fill bathtub system that allows you to rapidly fill your tub with clean water.
Water Bladders
Water bladders are relatively small because they are primarily designed to fit into backpacks or hydration packs for physical activity. However, they can be beneficial for emergency preparedness as well and offer one more water storage solution.
Emergency Water Bottles/Pouches
These versatile bottles can hold varying amounts of water, typically ranging from 1 to 3 liters, making them suitable for different needs. They can be easily folded or collapsed when empty, significantly reducing their size for convenient storage.
Vertical Water Storage: Optimize Your Space from Floor to Ceiling
When square footage is at a premium, thinking vertically can significantly increase your storage capacity. Vertical storage solutions help you store more water without taking up valuable living space.
Shelving Units: Shelving units are a versatile vertical storage solution that can be placed in any room. They provide multiple levels of storage, allowing you to stack water containers efficiently. Adjustable shelves can accommodate different container sizes, maximizing the use of vertical space.
Wall-Mounted Storage: Wall-mounted storage options, such as racks and shelves, free up floor space while providing ample storage. By utilizing the walls, you can store water containers at various heights, keeping them accessible yet out of the way. This method is particularly useful in kitchens, bathrooms, and garages.
Tall Narrow Containers: Tall narrow containers are ideal for vertical storage as they take up minimal floor space while offering significant storage capacity. These containers can be easily tucked into corners or narrow spaces, making them perfect for storing water in small apartments or homes with limited space.
Behind-Door Storage: Behind-door storage solutions, such as over-the-door racks and organizers, make use of often-overlooked space. These storage options can hold water bottles or smaller containers, keeping them hidden yet easily accessible. This method is great for maximizing storage in bathrooms, pantries, and closets.
High Shelving in Garages or Closets: High shelving in garages or closets allows you to store water containers above eye level, freeing up lower shelves for other items. This vertical storage solution is perfect for keeping emergency water supplies out of the way while still being readily available when needed. Just ensure that the shelves are sturdy enough to support the weight of the water containers.
Other Creative Water Storage Solutions: Hidden Gems in Your Home
Maximizing space in small homes and apartments requires some clever thinking. Think creatively about the spaces you already have in your home. Many can be repurposed for water storage in emergencies. With a bit of planning, you can find discreet ways to store enough water for an emergency without sacrificing living space or aesthetics.
Under-bed Storage: The space under your bed is often underutilized. Flat, low-profile water containers designed to slide under beds can store a significant amount of water without taking up visible space. Alternatively, fill rolling storage bins with smaller water bottles for easy access. If your bed frame will allow, water bricks can also be placed here.
Closet Organization: Transform your closet into a water storage powerhouse. Install shelving specifically for water containers, or use hanging organizers with pockets to store water pouches. This method keeps your water supply out of sight but easily accessible.
Furniture with Hidden Storage: Invest in furniture that does double duty. Ottomans or coffee tables with built-in water storage compartments blend seamlessly into your decor while providing valuable storage. Some innovative bed frames even come with hollow spaces designed for water container storage.
Sink Utilization: Collapsible water containers that fit in sinks when needed can provide temporary storage without permanently taking up space. Sink-top water collection systems can capture and store water from your faucet, maximizing every drop
Space Under the Stairs: Get creative with hidden storage. The space under the stairs can be an excellent and out-of-the-way spot for water container storage.
Door-Hanging Options: Don’t overlook your doors as potential storage space. Modify over-the-door organizers to hold water pouches or invest in custom-built slim water storage units that fit snugly behind doors.
Refrigerator and Freezer: Place as much water in your fridge as you have room for and adjust the amount as its contents will allow. Did you know that for your freezer to work properly, it should only be filled at 70 to 80% capacity (not jammed full or left half empty)? Take advantage of any extra available freezer space by freezing water in plastic bags.
Rainwater Collection: Even in small spaces, rainwater collection is possible. Compact systems designed for balconies or small yards can provide a sustainable water source. Examples of this are water butts. They come in various sizes that attach easily to standard round drainpipes. Collapsible rain barrels also offer flexibility, allowing you to store them away when not in use.
Conclusion
Take action today by implementing one or more of these water storage strategies in your home. With a little creativity and some thoughtful planning, even the tiniest apartment or home can accommodate a reliable water supply for emergencies. The key to successful small-space storage is thinking creatively and making every inch count. By being proactive and investing in smart storage solutions, you can ensure your household is well-prepared, no matter how limited your square footage may be.
