How do I organize a tiny apartment without buying junk?

Start by owning less, then make the apartment work harder.

Best approach:

• Declutter first. Keep only what you use regularly. Put seasonal and rarely used items in deep storage.
• Use what you already have. Shoe boxes can divide drawers, glass jars can hold small items, and a bowl or tray can catch keys and mail.
• Buy only multi-use pieces. A bed with drawers, a storage ottoman, or a bench that hides stuff beats flimsy bins.
• Go vertical. Add sturdy wall shelves or a metal rail/pegboard so the floor stays clear.
• Set a rule: one item in, one item out.

What to avoid: cheap plastic organizers that just hide clutter and add more stuff to manage.

The goal is fewer categories, fewer containers, and more open surfaces. Check the current price before buying anything.