Using Bookshelves for Storage

As any mom knows, finding adequate storage in your home can be difficult. Between everyone’s things, as well as all of the common household items, storage is always at a premium. If you are a work-at-home mom, that need for storage becomes critical for keeping papers and work filed away neatly. One way to tackle all of the storage issues that you have is to invest in bookshelves that can do double duty and serve as storage for more than just books. Take a look at the different options below and how they can be incorporated into any room in your house.

The Dining Room
You may not think about using bookshelves in the dining room, but with the onset of cube shelves, this type of storage can be ideal. Many manufacturers offer cube shelving in lengths ranging from one square to five. A two-column, five cube bookshelf that has been laid on its side is the perfect side table for a dining room. Instead of simply placing things on the shelves, invest in some wicker or rattan cube baskets that fit the openings perfectly. In them you can store table linens, the formal silverware, seasonal napkins and plates, the padded table cover, and any other items that belong in the room, but have no place to be stored. If the shelving is done in the same finish as the table itself, the room will be perfectly coordinated with little fuss.

The Home Office
A wide-shelf bookshelf can be ideal for a home office. With the addition of baskets or boxes, you can store paperwork and supplies in an easy to reach, but out of the way setting. Be sure to label the boxes and baskets with what is inside, so that it is easy to find what you are looking for. You can also store reference books and, possibly, your computer printer on the shelves as well.

The Kitchen
You may not think about adding a bookshelf to your kitchen, but it is actually the perfect storage spot for your many cookbooks. Place a low bookshelf under a window or in an out of the way corner. If you have small children, store a basket of crayons and a couple of coloring books on the bookshelf, as well. That way, your children will have something to do at the kitchen table while you are preparing dinner.

Bookshelves come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and finishes. It is important to pick the one that will work best for the space you have available. No matter what type of bookshelf you get, or how low you think it is, be sure to secure it to the wall and floor. Preventing the shelf from toppling over could save your child’s life should he decide to climb on it or pull it toward him. Even a low bookcase can trap him beneath it and cause serious injury. Take the time to protect him from getting hurt by making sure that the bookshelf is securely fastened.

Article Source: http://www.wahm-articles.com

Professional designer Jessica Ackerman, writes for WallDecorandHomeAccents.com, and specializes in decorating with hanging wall vase and flower wall sculptures.

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