Having extra storage space in your attic can be invaluable. But attics are often wasted spaces full of clutter and dust. With some creative attic storage ideas, you can transform your attic into an organized extension of your living space. Here are 10 excellent attic storage ideas to help you make the most of your overhead space.

Clear Out and Clean the Attic

The first step to utilizing your attic is to fully clear it out. Go through each box and storage item. Be ruthless in deciding what to keep and what to discard or donate. Anything you haven’t used in years should go. This process will allow you to start fresh with your attic organization.

Sweep floors and wipe down attic walls and windows. Consider having insulation installed to regulate temperature. Ensure proper lighting with energy efficient LED bulbs. The cleaner and better constructed your attic is, the more usable the space will be for storage.

Install Attic Flooring

Exposed insulation or ancient plywood won’t make for comfortable attic storage. Consider installing new flooring to create a true usable room. Possibilities include:

Plywood – Choose tongue and groove plywood specifically designed for subflooring. Look for 3/4″ thickness for maximum durability.
OSB – Oriented Strand Board is budget-friendly and suitable for attic flooring. Go with 7/16″ thick boards.
Plastic Tiles – Interlocking plastic tiles create an instant floor. Look for solid polypropylene tiles to withstand attic heat.
Laminate – Durable laminate flooring installs quickly. Opt for at least 8 mm thickness rated for residential/commercial use.

Include the flooring under any installed shelving or storage items. A finished floor makes the attic feel clean, complete and inviting.

Insulate the Attic

If your attic isn’t properly insulated, it won’t be suitable for converting into usable living space. Attic insulation helps regulate temperature and moisture. Recommended insulation levels for attics are:

R-30 to R-60 for regions with colder winters
R-38 to R-49 for temperate climates
R-30 to R-38 for warmer southern regions

Consider a radiant barrier to reflect heat away from the attic in hot climates. Make sure insulation doesn’t block soffit vents for proper attic ventilation. Use fiberglass batts, loose fill cellulose, or rigid foam boards to insulate.

Install Attic Shelving

The simplest way to maximize overhead storage is with shelving units. Look for shelving designed specifically for attics to work on angled walls and deal with moisture and humidity.

Wire Shelving – Open wire units allow air to circulate. Choose enameled steel for rust resistance.
Solid Wood Shelves – Sturdy wood shelving holds more weight. Use moisture resistant plywood.
Metal and Resin Shelves – Metal racks with resin shelf boards are strong, waterproof options.

Install shelving along the full length of the attic to take full advantage of space. Keep units low for stable footing on rafters.

Use Dormer Spaces

If your attic has dormer spaces, these can become mini-rooms for storage. Install shelving, bookcases or armoires fitted to the angle of the walls. Dormer spaces are ideal for wardrobe storage. Use them to store out-of-season clothing under eaves.

For larger dormers, consider turning them into reading nooks, plant rooms or kids’ play areas with storage bins and toy boxes built in. Add flooring and lighting to make dormer spaces functional.

Take Advantage of Eaves

Attic eaves and rafters can accommodate hanging storage. Install closet rods across eaves to hang items like garment bags, luggage and even bikes overhead.

Plastic hooks screw into rafters easily for hanging storage totes, backpacks or utility belts. Repurpose kitchen cabinet racks, shoe organizers or tool caddies to hang from the rafters for specialized storage.

Use Attic Trusses for Storage

The trusses in your attic can become instant open shelving. Set long boards across trusses supported at each end. Then set plastic bins or fabric baskets on the boards to utilize the space between trusses.

A similar option is to build a platform between trusses using plywood. Create compartments across the platform with dividers for specialized storage. Use truss spaces to organize holiday decorations, craft supplies, or out-of-season clothes.

Take Advantage of Crannies

Look for awkward niches, nooks and crannies that can accommodate storage. The space behind a chimney is often underutilized. You can build customized shelving to fit around a chimney or install pre-fab units.

Nooks along the sides make great “cubby holes” for storing frequently used items. Install shelves, hooks, rods or cabinets for specialized use. Even the smallest niches can hold bags, bins or baskets when fitted with shelving.

Use Decorative Storage Solutions

Any attic storage options should complement your decor. Rather than plastic bins on wire racks, look for attractive storage solutions:

Antique trunks offer character along with storage space.
Fabric covered bins keep contents hidden but neatly organized.
Baskets have a cozy, country feel perfect for attic spaces.
Architectural salvage cabinets and shelving have one-of-a-kind appeal.

Accent with lighting fixtures like pendant lamps or track lighting to create a warm ambiance while illuminating storage areas.

Create Built-In Cabinets and Drawers

For a custom look, have cabinets, benches, drawers or bookshelves built in along one or more attic walls. Built-ins make use of every inch of space. Opt for moisture-resistant finishes when having cabinets installed.

Salvaged or vintage cabinetry gives new life and saves money. Make sure to measure carefully so built-ins fit properly within the angled attic space. Add extra lighting inside cabinets to brighten dark corners.

Use Wall Space Creatively

Even attic walls can accommodate smart storage solutions:

Hang pegboard and use it to organize tools.
Use tracks or rails for hanging bicycles, ladders or folded furniture on the wall.
Install slatwall panels to hold hooks, bins and modular shelving.
Add spaced wood furring strips to hold brackets or hang items.

Paint or finish walls to coordinate with your style. Bright colors help make the attic feel light and airy.

Organize with Containers

The types of storage containers used in your attic will determine how organized it is. Match containers to what you intend to store.

Clear plastic bins are great for holiday items, letting you see contents.
Collapsible fabric bins save space when not in use.
Small bins or baskets organize hardware, small items, or craft supplies conveniently.
Labeled bins keep categories organized – shoes, gear, seasonal, etc.

Buy bins and baskets all the same size to stack efficiently on shelving. Add handles for easy access to heavier items.

Install Attic Stairs or Ladders

Convert part of your attic into storage, and you’ll need proper attic access. Permanent stairs or ladders make it safer and easier to get into the attic. Options include:

Pull-down ladders – Disappear into the ceiling when closed. Easy to install.
Telescoping ladders – Compact ladders extend down from the attic.
Disappearing stairs – Folding staircases close over attic access openings.
Permanent stairs – Fixed staircases allow comfortable attic access.

Look for weatherstripped, insulated attic stairs that seal tightly when closed. Be sure new access meets local codes.

Improving attic access goes hand-in-hand with creating functional overhead storage space.

Make Use of the Entire Attic

Many people pile boxes along the edges or in the center of the attic. This wastes usable square footage. Measure your entire attic and use the space efficiently:

Set shelving along all walls, from floor to rafters.
Create aisles wide enough to move around easily.
Make a central storage zone away from opening.
Angle units to follow the lines of the roof.
Allow space for attic HVAC equipment if present.

A few empty bins can collect seasonal overflow when needed. But strive to utilize every bit of attic space with smart storage.

Transform Your Attic into Valuable Living Space

Converting your attic into usable storage often entails making improvements to create a livable space. With some work, it may even be possible to turn your attic into an extra living space. Here are some things to consider:

Update Electrical and Add Lighting

Proper attic lighting is essential, whether using the space for storage or living area. Upgrade wiring as needed to power additional lighting. Cool fluorescent or LED fixtures illuminate efficiently. Install switches near the attic entrance and consider remote control or motion-activated lights.

Ensure adequate power outlets around the attic, allowing versatile furniture placement and lamp use if converting to livable space. Ground fault interrupter (GFI) outlets are recommended.

Improve Ventilation

Stuffy attics won’t work well for storage or living space. Ensure adequate airflow:

Open soffit and ridge vents if possible.
Install eave vents or gable end louvers if needed.
Add a powered ventilation fan to actively circulate air.

Proper ventilation regulates temperature and prevents moisture accumulation that can damage stored items.

Insulate Floors and Retrofit Windows

If turning your attic into a living space, floor and roof insulation is a must for comfort and energy savings. Use unfaced insulation specifically for attics. Install a radiant barrier under rafters to reduce solar heat.

Attic windows allow natural light. Dormers often come with windows. To add windows, choose energy efficient models that won’t overheat. Bubble skylights and glass block are affordable attic window options.

Finish Walls and Ceilings

Exposed insulation, rafters and wall studs work fine if your attic is purely for storage. To make the attic an inviting living space, adding finished sheetrock walls and ceilings is best. Consider tongue and groove wood paneling or salvaged tin ceiling tiles for character.

Paint walls and ceilings bright colors to make the attic feel airy and spacious. Add crown molding for an upscale look.

Include Closet Space

The lack of closets is often what limits using attics as bedrooms. If you’d like your attic to function as a bedroom or office, ensure there is adequate built-in closet space:

Corner cabinets or wardrobes work in angled areas.
Build customized bookshelves with hanging rods.
Repurpose an armoire or antique wardrobe for clothing.
Install wall-mounted accordion doors, sliding doors or curtains across a rail for easy DIY closets.

Having personal storage space makes an attic layout feel intentional and complete.

With proper lighting, ventilation, insulation and finishes, your attic can gain a whole new life as a functional living space.

Creative Attic Storage Solutions for Different Needs

How you utilize your attic storage depends on your household needs. Here are some creative attic storage solutions for specialized spaces:

Attic Wardrobe Room

Create the ultimate attic walk-in closet by turning your attic into a dedicated wardrobe space:

Use an entire half of the attic for closet rods and shelves.
Install closet systems with drawers, cubbies and pull-out racks.
Add cabinets for folded clothes, shoes, accessories and linens.
Use dormers or nooks for dressing spaces with built-in benches.
Include laundry bins, garment racks and ironing boards.
Add floor length mirrors and proper lighting for dressing.

By moving clothing storage to the attic, bedrooms gain more living space.

Attic Home Office

Create a private, comfortable home office in your attic:

Insulate and add finished walls, floors and ceilings.
Install wall-to-wall carpeting for a cozy feel underfoot.
Include bookshelves, cabinets and a desk built-in.
Use a dormer bump-out for desk placement.
Add accent lighting, artwork and plants.
Install heating and cooling vents if possible.
Include blackout curtains on windows.

Your attic office will feel like your own secluded workspace.

Attic Craft Room

Does your DIY hobby need more space? An attic craft room may be the perfect solution:

Set up folding or utility tables for project space.
Use shelving, cabinets and bins to organize supplies.
Install corkboards or pegboards for tool storage.
Add specialty items like sewing machine tables or drafting desks.
Include a sink or utility tub for cleaning up.
Improve lighting and ventilation for all-day use.

Let your creativity flourish in an attic room tailor-made for crafting.

Attic Music Room

Musicians will appreciate having ample space to pursue their passion:

Convert half the attic into a dedicated music room.
Carefully place instrument cases along the walls within easy reach.
Add specialized storage like sheet music cabinets.
Install mirrored walls to practice routines.
Improve acoustics with insulation and sound dampening.
Include power outlets to plug in amps, mics and other gear.

An attic music studio allows playing without disturbing others.

The possibilities are endless for how to convert your extra attic space into the perfect storage solution for your family’s needs and interests. Use your imagination, and you can unlock your attic’s full potential.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Attic Storage Ideas

If you’re looking to maximize your attic space, you likely have some questions about how to properly and effectively use the space. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked attic storage questions:

Is it safe to store items in my attic?

Attics can get extremely hot in summer months and very cold during winter. The temperature fluctuations can damage items stored up there long-term. Avoid storing valuables like heirlooms, photos, or art in the attic if possible. For other items, use storage bins designed to protect contents from moisture, mildew, pests, UV rays, etc. Avoid cardboard boxes. Inspect stored items seasonally.

How much weight can attic rafters safely hold?

Most modern rafters have a live load capacity of about 50 pounds per square foot. That means a 3 foot x 5 foot section of attic floor can hold around 750 pounds. Distribute weight evenly, and don’t overload sections. Shelving legs should sit across multiple rafters. Place heavier items on lower shelves.

What kind of flooring is best for attic storage spaces?

Plywood and OSB panels make reliable and affordable attic flooring. For finished floors, laminate flooring installs easily and is durable. Avoid moisture-prone materials like real wood flooring. Ensure any flooring is rated for subfloor/attic use and spans properly between rafters. Insulate floors for comfort.

How much headroom do I need in the attic for storage?

In general, it’s recommended to have at least 30-36 inches between the attic flooring and rafters overhead. This allows you to move around comfortably. For tall storage items like wardrobes, ensure there’s adequate height for the furniture you want to use. Consider knee walls and cathedral ceilings to open up headroom.

Should I install attic stairs or ladders?

Converting an attic into usable living space or storage usually requires installing some type of attic access like pull-down ladders or permanent stairs. The access size should be adequate for moving large items in and out. Insulated access doors with tight weatherstripping help regulate temperature. Ensure stairs meet code requirements for rise, run, and railings.

How do I add lighting and power sources to my attic?

Good overhead lighting is a must for any attic space. Add electrical lines from below and install light fixtures. Bank lights, LED spotlights and track lighting work well. Make sure lights are rated for insulation contact. Add outlets for powering storage items or living space furniture. Consult an electrician if unsure about wiring.

What kind of ventilation is needed in attic storage spaces?

Attics should have proper ridge, soffit, and gable vents so air can freely circulate. This prevents moisture buildup and regulates temperature. A powered ventilator runs on a thermostat to actively circulate air. Make sure insulation baffles don’t block airflow from vents. Proper ventilation prevents attic conditions that can damage stored items.

How do I keep attic storage organized?

Use uniform clear plastic bins to easily see contents. Label bins clearly. Store categories of items together – holiday items, sports gear, clothing, etc. Keep pathways clear for accessing all storage. Designate areas for commonly accessed items. Rotate stock by moving seasonal items in and out. Get rid of unused items annually. Keeping your attic organized takes effort but maximizes the usable space.

Take time to properly construct and organize your attic, and it can provide invaluable storage space for years to come.

Conclusion

A properly designed and organized attic is like gaining a whole extra room, perfect for maximizing your home’s storage capacity. Use these creative ideas to turn wasted overhead space into valuable storage that can help reduce clutter throughout your home.

The key is customizing your attic storage solutions to your household’s unique needs. Set up specialized spaces for your interests, hobbies, seasonal items, sports equipment, furniture overflow or clothing.

By investing time and effort in your attic remodel, you can gain a clean, well-lit attic space for safely storing the items

10 Attic Storage Ideas to Make the Most of Your Overhead Space