Having a full-sized vacuum cleaner can be a challenge in homes without a dedicated storage closet or garage. Vacuums take up a significant amount of floor space and can be an eyesore if left out in main living areas. However, it is important to store vacuums properly to protect them from damage and keep them accessible for regular cleaning. This article will explore solutions for where to store a full-sized vacuum cleaner in homes with limited storage space.
Stand Upright in Closet
The most straightforward storage solution for a full-sized vacuum is standing it upright in a coat closet or linen closet. This allows the vacuum to be tucked out of sight but still easily accessible when needed. Choose a closet near the main area that needs vacuuming, such as adjacent to a living room or hallway. Remove any items stored on the floor of the closet and slide the vacuum into the vacated space.
Make sure the vacuum is standing upright and fully supported. You may need to lean it against the wall or place a large book or wooden block behind it to keep it stabilized. Try to position the vacuum near the back of the closet so coats and linens can be hung in the remaining space without interfering. Leave a couple feet of clearance in front of the vacuum to easily pull it out of the closet when needed.
Closet storage works best for vacuums that are relatively narrow in width. Check the dimensions of your closet before assuming your model will fit. Upright vacuums are easiest to stand vertically in a closet, but some compact canister models will also work.
Pros
- Conceals the vacuum out of sight
- Uses existing closet space
- Keeps vacuum easily accessible
Cons
- Reduces available hanging space in closet
- Only works for narrow vacuum models
- Can tip over if unsupported
Hang on Wall or Door
Hanging your vacuum cleaner on a wall, door, or storage hook will keep it off the floor and instantly accessible. This requires a vacuum that is designed to lock securely in an upright position. Simply install appropriate mounting hardware on any vertical surface and hang the locked vacuum into place.
Screw sturdy metal brackets directly into wall studs in the garage, utility room, or closet. Place the brackets high enough so the vacuum clears any shelving underneath. Measure the vacuum width to determine ideal bracket spacing. For easier lifting, mount the vacuum no higher than about 4 feet off the floor.
Over-the-door vacuum holders can also work well in homes without closet space. These fit right over any standard door and provide molded hooks to cradle the locked vacuum in place. Install them on a door close to the main living spaces for quick access.
Vacuum hose, wands, and accessories can be mounted on the wall alongside the vacuum using additional hooks. Label the hooks clearly so everyone knows exactly where all vacuum parts belong.
Pros
- Keeps floors clear of vacuum
- Vacuum is instantly accessible
- Options for wall or door hanging
- Can hold accessories too
Cons
- Mounting hardware required
- Only some vacuums lock upright
- Can fall if not securely locked
Lie Flat Under Furniture
Lying a vacuum cleaner flat under furniture is one way to conceal it while keeping it handy for quick cleanups. This works best for small, self-contained canister vacuums that only need about 6 inches of vertical clearance. Measure under couches, beds, tables, or cabinets to find the best fit.
Make sure to protect the vacuum so it does not get scratched by sliding it in and out. Place a small rug or towel underneath first. Or you can cut a piece of cardboard to size and wrap the vacuum in it like a protective sleeve.
For the tightest fit, remove the wand and hose so you are just storing the canister base. Slide it fully under the furniture, either centered or off to one side. Make sure any edges are not sticking out where they can be bumped or tripped over.
Consider placing fabric screens, curtains, or removable skirts around furniture to conceal the hidden vacuum. Just be sure to leave an access point so you can easily grab the vacuum when needed.
Pros
- Fully conceals the vacuum
- Utilizes unused space
- Keeps vacuum accessible
Cons
- Only works for very low-profile models
- Have to disassemble/reassemble
- Harder to access
Hide in Entryway or Mudroom
Tuck a full-sized vacuum out of sight but within reach by storing it in an entryway, mudroom, or landing area. This takes advantage of wasted “hidden” space near the door that is passed through frequently when cleaning.
Look for narrow unused spaces between doorways or behind opened doors. Stand the vacuum vertically in the space or secure it to the wall with brackets. Make sure it does not block or interfere with doorways or stairs.
In a mudroom or laundry room, the vacuum can slide underneath cabinetry or shelves. Place it on a small rug or mat to protect the finish. For quick access, mount hooks on the underside of cabinets to hold vacuum hoses and wands.
Coat closets near an entryway are also ideal vacuum storage, as long as coats still fit. Place the vacuum near the back wall or in the least-used section of the closet.
Pros
- Convenient location for cleaning
- Usually out of main living space
- Utilizes wasted “hidden” areas
- Can be concealed but accessible
Cons
- Have to pass it constantly
- Can block access or traffic flow
- Limits storage options near entry
Store Vertically in Pantry
Pantry closets provide excellent storage space for a full-sized vacuum. Stand the vacuum vertically in a back corner of the pantry near an outlet if possible. Make sure it fits in the available floor space and does not block shelves or food items.
You can add hooks, bins, or narrow shelving to either side of the vacuum to hold cleaning supplies and accessories. Some pantries have enough floor space to accommodate freestanding vacuum accessories caddies.
Take measurements first and do some trial positioning using a broom or cardboard box template the same size as your vacuum. Make sure the pantry door has clearance to open fully and the vacuum does not interfere with your ability to access food items.
If space is very tight, consider custom built-in shelving to surround the vacuum on 2 or 3 sides. Add doors to conceal everything away neatly.
Pros
- Concealed storage in existing space
- Easy access for cleaning tasks
- Can store accessories too
- Custom cabinetry options
Cons
- Have to remove to use
- Eats up valuable food storage
- Can be awkward to maneuver in tight space
Hang Inside Room Door
Hanging a vacuum inside a spare bedroom or closet door is a clever storage solution if floor and closet space is limited. Choose a hollow core interior door near an outlet and main living space.
Cut a hole in the door just large enough for the vacuum nozzle to fit through. Then install hanging brackets centered at the top/bottom edges of the hole. Slide the nozzle into the opening and lower the vacuum onto the lower hooks to suspend it securely inside the door.
This works best for very narrow, lightweight vacuums. The door may need reinforcement so the weight does not cause it to warp or sag over time. Consider adding mesh or vents along the side edges of the door to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
Pros
- Excellent use of unused space
- Concealed from view
- Easy access
Cons
- Door alteration required
- Only fits very slim vacuums
- Weight can damage door
- Limited air circulation
Store On Shelf In Closet
Installing shelving inside a coat or linen closet creates storage space to place a vacuum flat on its back or side. Measure the depth of the closet first to make sure there is adequate room for shelves and the vacuum.
The bottom shelf should be high enough off the floor so the vacuum does not interfere with items stored underneath. Aim for at least 12 inches of clearance. The upper shelves should be safely above head height, around 5-6 feet or higher.
Cut shelving boards to size and install them securely into studs if possible. Make sure the shelves will safely hold the weight of the vacuum. Place the vacuum on the shelf furthest from the door for easiest access. Angle the vacuum to fit rather than letting it overhang.
Pros
- Makes use of wasted vertical space
- Concealed storage
- Can still use closet for other items
Cons
- Added cost for shelving
- Weight limits for shelves
- Have to remove items to access
- Possibility of shelf sagging
Keep Under Stairs
The empty space underneath a staircase is prime real estate for tucking away a vacuum cleaner. This area is often neglected and underutilized. Measure first to find a spot that has enough clearance height.
Look for a flat surface along the underside of the staircase to place the vacuum. Add a small shelf if needed, securing it into studs or the wood framing. If the vacuum profile is too tall, you may need to lie it on its side.
Use the lower open side of the staircase to slide the vacuum straight in and out. Adding a latching door or curtains across the opening keeps the vacuum hidden away when not in use.
Make sure cords reach, lighting is adequate, and the vacuum is accessible without needing to strain or crawl under the stairs.
Pros
- Utilizes dead space
- Can be concealed out of sight
- Stays clean and protected
Cons
- Limited dimensions
- May require lying vacuum down
- Difficult to access
- Can collect dirt and spiders
Conclusion
Finding a home for a full-sized vacuum cleaner without dedicated storage can definitely take some creativity. But there are many possible solutions that conceal the vacuum away without sacrificing accessibility. Evaluate all underused spaces in closets, mudrooms, pantries, and behind doors or under furniture and stairs. With some measurements and trial and error, you can create the ideal spot to stash your vacuum out of sight but within reach when duty calls.
