10 Genius TikTok Ideas for Secret Storage That Will Corral All the Clutter

It’s a planter, it’s a headboard, it’s your next great storage solution. We’ve scoured TikTok ideas for clever storage hacks, and found covert cabinetry and furniture that pull double duty on the down-low. Hiding extra shelving or organizers is the way to go. “I’m passionate about secret storage solutions because I love to reduce visual clutter whenever possible,” says TikToker Emily Rayna. “With more time at home than ever before, it has become crucial that the spaces are calm. Concealing all the [unused] items not only boosts confidence, but also makes you feel a sense of ownership over your environment.”

Here we compiled 10 genius stash spots inspired by TikTok ideas that make use of vertical space and hide a mess in plain sight. As Rayna notes, “Most of my ideas are attached to the walls or under tables, so they don’t take up any existing floor or table space.” Everyone could use a bit more storage zen these days. 

1. Sliding mirror with shelves

We’ve all seen the bookcase that opens to reveal a hidden compartment, but a mirror that slides to the side for extra shelving? Now that’s fresh. This one appears to be in a bedroom, but it can work in a space-squeezed bathroom, especially one that doesn’t have a medicine cabinet. @make_build_shoot points out that the mirror hides the hardware when closed, and it’ll also conceal a surplus of mouthwash and cotton balls. 

2. Planter box surprise

Great storage ideas are for the great outdoors too. This hack from @diymontreal helps keep patios lush and tidy at the same time. Simply saw open a door from the bottom of a large planter and add magnets so it can be reattached as needed. Then you’ll have easy access to all the space below for stashing watering cans and other gardening gear.

3. Drop-down spice rack

Hinges, a hook, and wood were all @courtneyyounger1 needed to transform space under her cabinets into a custom spice rack. She nailed pieces of wood together to form a rectangle the same size as her cabinetry, added hinges to the back that are attached to the wall, and used a hook to keep the shelf closed when not in use. This secret spice storage would be especially convenient next to the stove. 

4. Mantle made for stashing

Wrangle unruly remotes and gaming controllers by keeping them inside the mantle. @shemwellspaces shows that the shelf above your fireplace can be used for more than hanging stockings and displaying embarrassing school photos—all you need is a few pieces of pine board. Cut to size, make pocket holes, and add soft-closing hinges. This should free up your coffee table for its most crucial duty: holding movie snacks.

5. Headboard with hidden storage

Is your bedside table overwhelmed with clutter? Lighten its load by creating secret shelving on the sides of your headboard like @stacyrisenmay. See the finished project here, then head to her blog for the building plans. 

6. Ice tray organizer

For small items, @emilyrayna has an easy hack using an ice tray. She turned the tray into a drawer thanks to PVC boards and glue. It can be used as a stand-alone or mounted to the underside of a desk for optimal organization. Alternatively, use it to store earrings under a vanity, or nails and bolts in your garage. 

7. DIY craft room

Whether you’re in need of a craft station or a place for your home improvement tools, this idea posted by @stylebycarise goes beyond hidden storage. It’s essentially an entire hobby room that can be added to your home. Inspired by crafting workstations that run as much as $2,500, this DIY version costs a fraction of the price by attaching Target bookcases with hinges and putting everything on wheels. Have you ever heard about celebrities with dedicated wrapping paper rooms? Here’s your chance to create your own.

8. Undercover litter box

What used to be a design doozy for any cat owner has now, fortunately, received an aesthetic upgrade. Plenty of stylish litter boxes have hit the market, but as @blondesigns proves, you can also make your own. Here it’s not so much what you do with this IKEA bench, but what you don’t do. By leaving one side off during building, you’ll create a kitty entrance. Then simply place a regular litter box inside and voilá! A top-secret toilette for your furry friend.

9. Covert door cabinet

For the amateur DIY’er, here’s a project that’s partially done for you. Buy this back-of-door cabinet by Cabidor on Amazon, then install it yourself. The shelves are removable and can be placed to suit your storage needs, and magnets at the top keep the cabinet closed when not in use. User @jessicapaski shows hers in action in her bathroom.

10. Fully functional accent wall

Create statement-making decor that’s more than just eye candy. This cutout accent wall has portal storage in the form of an amorphous opening that hides a portion of the shelves. Rayna built shelves and covered them with two pieces of plyboard. She then drew an amoeba-like shape freehand and cut it out. “I love this storage solution because it gives a new meaning to open shelving,” she says. “I had this idea initially because I wanted open shelving, but it didn’t feel me enough. I love encouraging my viewers to experiment with unique forms in their homes beyond small decor pieces.” Cut out a shape that works for you and presto: an instant storage upgrade.