14 genius Ikea hacks to help you get your sh*t together

This idea seems simple and obvious (what, a basket to store things?), but it’s actually genius. Categorize toys, sports gear or outdoor equipment and hang them out of reach when not in use so those tiny tyrants can’t keep tearing things apart. Plus, the oversized tags tied onto the basket handles give it a “I’ve completely got my sh*t together” vibe. Get the instructions: ikea.com Check out our favourite kids' stuff at IKEA

There’s a reason front hall storage has popped up here more than once—it’s a sore spot for most families. The Fintorp rail was meant for the kitchen but makes so much sense as an open closet. And you can get so many more coats on here than stationary wall hooks. Get the instructions (though not in English, you can get the idea from the images): livethemma.ikea.se

This very popular kids’ book storage hack (made from Ikea spice racks) went viral, and we can see why: It puts those books right at their fingertips and makes for a beautiful display in the nursery. Get the instructions: thesweetestdigs.com

We love this clever desk caddy because it doesn’t take up any precious tabletop space. The homework won’t even know what hit it. Get the instructions: maflingo.com

If you don’t have a garage or shed, you might be tripping over bikes. Those trendy wall-mounted bike racks can cost a fortune, but these Frosta stools have beautiful bentwood legs that this clever hacker turned into a minimalist functional rack. And I bet the Internet (or your curious toddler) can find a good DIY to use up the leftover seat. Get the instructions: ikeahackers.net

Sometimes you need to organize your kids before you tackle the chores. This hack will help you keep your kids busy while you are working in the kitchen. Kids will love helping out. Just make sure your structure is age appropriate. Get the instructions: happygreylucky.com

Here’s the deal: Bed slats turned on their side can be repurposed as a wall organizer. Genius. Imagine the possibilities—use it as a tool rack in the garage, for cooking utensils in the kitchen or for a vertical herb garden. Get the instructions: ichdesigner.com

This trick could be a game changer. You may not be able to find the exact product the hacker used, but you can work with another Ikea pocket system. Now, if only someone would invent a hack to rid the car of encrusted crackers and raisins. Get the instructions: ikeahackers.net

The ubiquitous Ikea Lack table can be transformed into a slender rolling island, perfect for a small kitchen. Pro tip: Don’t leave knives at tiny human level. Get the instructions: ikeahackers.net

So, we have spice racks that are bookshelves and picture rails that are spice racks. Still with us? Ikea Ribba picture ledges are long and attractive, so you can display your spices like a boss. Get the instructions: little-white-whale.com

Most of your weekend—and possibly your marriage—is at stake in putting together this entryway storage area. But it might be worth it, because this is what entryway dreams are made of. In a pinch, just add some coat hooks above the unhacked benches for a similar setup. Get the instructions: themombot.com

Turn a few Tosterup door handles into a mail organization wall. Don’t get much mail? Imagine using this to organize all your kid’s school forms or copious amount of artwork. You’ll never forget a field trip permission slip again. Get the instructions: ikeahackers.net

Sometimes shoe storage costs more than the shoes themselves, and some units don’t actually fit different shoe sizes very well. Repurpose inexpensive steel shelves into an open-display shoe rack, and make the bottom shelves accessible to little hands. Get the instructions: theresewinberg.com

Now that we’re using fewer plastic bags, reuse this bag storage unit to corral all those awkward rolls of wrapping paper. And it tucks nicely out of sight in a closet. Get the instructions: interiorcandy.com

Read more:
25 best things to buy at Ikea for kids 7 toy storage solutions for the new year 10 helpful tips for organizing your home