How to Store Your Kick Mat in Small Spaces: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

You’ve just bought that perfect kick mat for your home workouts, but your apartment feels more like a shoebox than a gym. If you’ve ever tripped over a rolled‑up mat or squeezed it into a closet until it looks like a pretzel, you know the frustration. The good news? With a few simple tools and a bit of elbow grease, you can keep your mat tidy, protected, and out of the way—even in the tiniest rooms.

Why Small Spaces Need a Smart Plan

Living in a city apartment or a cozy house means every square foot counts. A kick mat is thick, flexible, and can easily become a tripping hazard if left on the floor. Storing it properly does three things:

1. Protects the mat – No more cracked edges or crushed foam.
2. Keeps the floor clear – No more accidental foot‑injuries.
3. Creates a tidy look – Your living area stays inviting, not a storage unit.

At Kick Mat Mastery we love turning a problem into a project. Below is a step‑by‑step guide that works whether you have a hallway closet, a bathroom shelf, or just a blank wall.

Step 1: Measure the Mat and Your Space

Before you buy anything, grab a tape measure. Write down the length, width, and thickness of your mat when it’s flat. Then measure the height, width, and depth of the spot where you plan to store it.

Pro tip: Add an extra inch to each measurement. That tiny buffer makes it easier to slide the mat in and out without forcing it.

Step 2: Choose the Right Storage Method

There are three DIY‑friendly ways to store a kick mat in a small area:

2A. Wall‑Mounted Roll‑Up System

If you have an empty wall in the living room or bedroom, a roll‑up system is a game changer. You’ll need:

• Two sturdy wooden brackets (about 2‑inch wide)
• A strong hook or a small metal eyelet
• A few zip ties or a fabric strap

How it works: Attach the brackets horizontally at the top and bottom of the wall, spaced to match the mat’s width. Slip the mat’s edge into the top bracket, roll it tightly, and secure the roll with the strap or zip ties. The bottom bracket holds the roll in place, so it doesn’t unwind.

2B. Under‑Bed Storage Box

Most beds have a gap of at least 6‑8 inches under them. Build a shallow box that slides under the bed:

• Four 1‑by‑4 lumber pieces (cut to the length of the mat)
• Two plywood panels (one for the bottom, one for the top)
• Screws and a drill

How it works: Assemble a rectangular frame, attach the bottom panel, then the top panel with a small gap (the mat’s thickness). Slide the box under the bed and place the mat inside. You can add a handle on the side for easy pulling.

2C. Closet Shelf with a Pull‑Out Tray

If you have a narrow closet, a pull‑out tray can hold the mat flat:

• A wooden shelf board (same width as the closet)
• Two drawer slides (full extension)
• A short side panel for support

How it works: Mount the slides to the inside of the closet, attach the shelf board to the slides, and add the side panel to keep the mat from sliding sideways. When you need the mat, pull the shelf out, lay the mat on top, and roll it up when you’re done.

Step 3: Gather Materials and Tools

Here’s a quick checklist for each method:

Pick the method that fits your space best, then head to the hardware store or order online. All items are inexpensive – most DIYers spend under $30 total.

Step 4: Build It

4A. Wall‑Mounted Roll‑Up

1. Mark the bracket locations on the wall, using a level to keep them straight.
2. Drill pilot holes, then screw the brackets in securely.
3. Install the hook or eyelet near the top bracket.
4. Roll the mat tightly, tuck the edge into the top bracket, and secure with the strap.

4B. Under‑Bed Box

1. Cut the lumber to the mat’s length and the desired height (usually the mat’s thickness plus ½ inch).
2. Assemble the frame with screws, making sure it’s square.
3. Attach the bottom plywood panel, then the top panel, leaving a small gap.
4. Sand any rough edges, then slide the box under the bed.

4C. Closet Pull‑Out Tray

1. Attach the drawer slides to the closet walls, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Screw the shelf board onto the slides.
3. Add the side panel to the front edge of the shelf for extra stability.
4. Test the pull‑out motion – it should glide smoothly.

Step 5: Protect the Mat

Regardless of the storage style, a thin protective layer helps keep the mat clean and free from scratches. Use:

• A large yoga towel or a cheap moving blanket
• A zip‑lock bag for extra moisture protection (especially in basements)

Wrap the mat before you roll or place it in the box. It adds just a few seconds to the routine but saves you from costly replacements.

Step 6: Keep It Accessible

The best storage solution is one you’ll actually use. Place a small sign on the wall or a sticky note on the closet door that says “Kick Mat – Pull Out”. It’s a tiny reminder that prevents you from forgetting where you hid it.

Step 7: Test and Tweak

After you’ve built your storage, do a quick test run:

1. Take the mat out, roll it, and set it up for a short workout.
2. Put it back, making sure it slides or rolls smoothly.
3. Adjust any tight spots – maybe loosen a screw or add a bit more padding.

A little fine‑tuning now saves you from frustration later.

Bonus: Make It Look Good

If you’re proud of your DIY, paint the brackets or box in a color that matches your décor. A fresh coat of chalk paint or a simple spray paint can turn a functional piece into a stylish accent. I once painted my under‑bed box a deep navy, and it now looks like a built‑in part of my bedroom.

Wrap‑Up

Storing a kick mat in a small space doesn’t have to feel like a puzzle with missing pieces. Measure, pick a method that fits your layout, gather a few cheap supplies, and build a tidy home for your mat. You’ll protect your equipment, keep your floor safe, and free up precious floor space for the things you love.

Happy building, and enjoy the extra room for your next round of kicks!