Power strips are a necessary evil in most homes and offices. They provide a way to connect multiple devices to a single outlet, but they can also be unsightly and cluttered. If you’re looking for a way to hide your power strip without sacrificing convenience, there are a few simple tricks you can try.
One option is to use a cable management box. These boxes are designed to hide cords and cables, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles to match your décor. Simply place the power strip inside the box, and then run the cords through the holes in the lid. This will keep the power strip out of sight while still allowing you to access the outlets.
Another option is to use a power strip cover. These covers are made of a flexible material that can be wrapped around the power strip to conceal it. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find one that matches your décor. Power strip covers are also easy to install and remove, so you can change them out as often as you like.
Discreet Placement
Camouflaging the Power Strip
Opt for power strips with a slim profile and a neutral color palette, such as white, beige, or black, to blend seamlessly with the surroundings. Alternatively, consider using a power strip with a built-in surge protector to camouflage it further as an electrical outlet.
Concealing with Furniture
Strategically place furniture or other objects in front of the power strip to conceal it from view. This can include placing a sofa or chair over it, using a cabinet or bookcase to surround it, or concealing it behind a desk or other large piece of furniture.
Harnessing the Power of Cable Trays
Utilize cable trays or cable covers to run the power cables along walls or floors, effectively hiding the power strip and its associated wires. These solutions come in various sizes and styles, allowing you to choose one that complements your décor. Additionally, cable trays can help organize multiple cables, reducing clutter and creating a cleaner aesthetic.
Harnessing the Power of Cable Trays
| Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|
| Hides power strip and cables | Can be bulky and noticeable |
| Organizes multiple cables | May require drilling into walls or floors |
| Protects cables from damage | Limited accessibility to power outlets |
Camouflage Techniques
1. Paint It Out
One of the simplest ways to hide a power strip is to paint it the same color as the wall or furniture it’s against. This will help it blend in and become less noticeable. If you’re painting the power strip yourself, be sure to use a paint that’s specifically designed for plastic.
2. Use a Cord Cover
Cord covers are a great way to hide power strips and other cords that are running along the floor or walls. They come in a variety of materials, including plastic, fabric, and metal. Cord covers can be purchased at most hardware stores or home improvement centers.
To use a cord cover, simply wrap it around the power strip and secure it with the provided fasteners. Be sure to leave enough slack in the cord cover so that you can easily access the power strip when you need to.
Types of Cord Covers
| Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic | Inexpensive, durable, easy to clean | Can be bulky, not as attractive as other options |
| Fabric | Attractive, soft, can be customized | More expensive, not as durable as plastic |
| Metal | Durable, stylish, can be used to create a modern look | More expensive, can be difficult to install |
3. Hide It Behind Furniture
If you have a power strip that’s located behind a piece of furniture, you can easily hide it by simply placing the furniture in front of it. This is a great option for power strips that are located in areas that are not easily accessible.
Creative Containers
Camouflage with Plants and Flowers
Transform your power strip into a charming garden feature by concealing it within a planter or flower pot. Choose plants with trailing or bushy foliage to create a natural veil over the strip. Water the plants regularly to keep them lush and vibrant, effectively disguising the power source.
Upcycled Storage: Baskets and Boxes
Give old baskets or boxes a new purpose by turning them into power strip containers. Choose baskets with woven or perforated designs to allow for air circulation around the strip. Line the boxes with fabric or decorative paper to add a touch of style and prevent scratching. Position the strip inside and arrange cords neatly to minimize clutter.
Under-Furniture Concealment: Shelving and Cabinets
For a discreet solution, place the power strip underneath a desk, table, or shelf. Secure it to the underside with adhesive strips or cable ties, ensuring that it rests flat and away from any moisture sources. Cut a hole in the surface of the furniture to allow for easy access to the outlets, and use flexible cords to connect your devices. This method keeps the power strip hidden and accessible, while preventing unsightly cords from disrupting the room’s aesthetic.
Cord Management with Coverings
Harness the power of cord coverings to conceal the power strip and its connecting cords. Choose coverings made from durable materials such as fabric, leather, or rubber, which blend seamlessly with the room’s décor. Wrap the coverings around the strip and cords, securing them with Velcro or zippers. Not only does this solution conceal the unsightly elements, but it also protects them from dust and damage, ensuring longevity and safety.
Tabletop Transformation: Hiding in Plain Sight
Convert a small table or ottoman into a power strip hub. Place the power strip inside the table’s drawer or under the ottoman’s cushion, and connect your devices through the open spaces. Tabletops can also be used as a charging station by mounting a power strip on the underside, allowing you to charge multiple devices discreetly while keeping the cords out of sight.
Decorative Covers
Decorative covers offer a stylish way to conceal power strips while enhancing the aesthetics of your space. These covers come in various designs, materials, and finishes, allowing you to match them to your décor. They are easy to install, typically requiring only a few screws or adhesive strips. Some decorative covers even incorporate additional features, such as surge protection or built-in outlets, to provide both form and function.
When selecting a decorative cover, consider the following factors:
- Size: Determine the size of your power strip to ensure the cover fits properly.
- Style: Choose a style that complements your décor, from classic to modern.
- Material: Consider the material of the cover, such as plastic, wood, or metal, based on durability and aesthetics.
- Additional Features: Look for covers with extra features, such as surge protection or built-in outlets, if you need enhanced functionality.
| Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Cord Organizer Box | Conceals cables and power strips inside a sleek box with ventilation holes for heat dissipation. |
| Cable Cover Raceway | Creates a channel to hide cables and power strips along walls or baseboards, preventing tripping hazards. |
| Cordless Charging Station | Integrates a wireless charging pad into the cover, allowing you to charge devices without a cord. |
| Charging Cabinet | Offers a compact storage cabinet that hides power strips and charging cords, providing a discreet and organized charging solution. |
| Wall-Mounted Charger | Combines a power strip with USB charging ports and mounts directly to the wall, eliminating clutter on surfaces. |
Concealment with Furniture
A clever way to conceal your power strip is to use furniture. Here are a few ideas:
1. Place it Inside a Cabinet
Cabinets are a great place to hide your power strips. Simply place the power strip inside the cabinet and run the cords through the back of the cabinet. If the cabinet has a door, you can close it to hide the power strip completely.
2. Put it Behind a Couch or Chair
If you have a couch or chair that is against a wall, you can hide your power strip behind it. Simply place the power strip on the floor behind the couch or chair and run the cords under the furniture. This will help to keep the cords out of sight and your power strip hidden.
3. Use a Cord Organizer
Cord organizers are a great way to keep your cords organized and out of sight. You can use a cord organizer to wrap up your power strip and cords, and then hide it behind a piece of furniture or in a cabinet.
4. Place it in a Drawer
If you have a drawer that is not being used, you can use it to hide your power strip. Simply place the power strip in the drawer and run the cords through the back of the drawer. You can then close the drawer to hide the power strip completely.
5. Buy Furniture with Built-in Power Outlets
Some furniture pieces, such as end tables and nightstands, come with built-in power outlets. This is a great way to hide your power strip and cords, and it also provides you with easy access to power outlets.
| Furniture | Built-in Power Outlets |
|---|---|
| End tables | 1-2 outlets |
| Nightstands | 1-2 outlets |
| Sofas | 2-4 outlets |
| Chairs | 1-2 outlets |
Under-Cabinet Solutions
Mounting power strips under cabinets is a convenient way to keep them out of sight while still having easy access to outlets. Here are some tips for doing it:
1. Choose a Power Strip with a Short Cord
You don’t want the cord to be too long, or it will hang down and be visible. A cord that is 3-4 feet long should be sufficient.
2. Attach the Power Strip to the Cabinet
You can use screws, double-sided tape, or Velcro to attach the power strip to the underside of the cabinet.
3. Conceal the Power Strip with a Cable Organizer
A cable organizer is a great way to hide the power strip and its cords. You can find cable organizers that are designed to be mounted under cabinets.
4. Hide the Power Strip Behind a Cabinet Door
If you have a cabinet that has a door that opens down, you can hide the power strip behind the door.
5. Use a Power Strip with a Built-in Surge Protector
A surge protector is a good idea to protect your electronics from power surges. You can find power strips with built-in surge protectors.
6. Power Strip Cord Management
Here are some tips for managing the cords from your under-cabinet power strip:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a zip tie | Wrap a zip tie around the cords to keep them together. |
| Use a cable tie | A cable tie is similar to a zip tie, but it is more permanent. |
| Use a cord organizer | A cord organizer is a device that can help you keep cords neat and tidy. |
Hidden Compartments
Hidden compartments are a great way to keep your power strip out of sight while still being able to access it when needed. There are many different ways to create a hidden compartment for your power strip, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
One popular way to hide a power strip is to use a drawer. You can install a power strip inside a drawer, and then simply close the drawer when you’re not using it. This is a great way to keep your power strip hidden and out of the way, and it’s also a good way to protect it from dust and dirt.
Another way to hide a power strip is to use a cabinet. You can install a power strip inside a cabinet, and then simply close the cabinet doors when you’re not using it. This is a good way to keep your power strip hidden and out of sight, and it’s also a good way to protect it from children and pets.
If you don’t have a drawer or cabinet that you can use to hide your power strip, you can also use a box. Simply cut a hole in the side of a box, and then insert the power strip into the hole. You can then place the box in a discreet location, such as under a desk or behind a bookshelf.
Here are some additional tips for hiding a power strip:
- Use a power strip that is the same color as the surrounding area.
- Place the power strip in a location where it won’t be visible.
- Cover the power strip with a piece of furniture or a plant.
- Use a power strip with a built-in cover.
- Use a power strip that is designed to be hidden.
- Use a power strip that is mounted to the wall or ceiling.
- Use a power strip that is hidden inside a piece of furniture.
By following these tips, you can easily hide your power strip and keep it out of sight.
Tips for Hiding a Power Strip in a Drawer
When hiding a power strip in a drawer, it is important to take the following precautions:
| Tip | Reason |
|---|---|
| Use a surge protector. | This will help to protect your electronics from power surges. |
| Do not overload the power strip. | This can cause the power strip to overheat and start a fire. |
| Keep the power strip away from flammable materials. | This will help to prevent a fire in case of an electrical malfunction. |
Wall-Mounted Organizers
Wall-mounted organizers are an excellent solution for hiding power strips, especially in areas where there is limited floor space. These organizers can be mounted on walls, under desks, or inside cabinets, making them a versatile option.
Types of Wall-Mounted Organizers
There are various types of wall-mounted organizers available, including:
- Trays: These are simple, open-top trays that can hold power strips and other cords. They are typically made of plastic or metal.
- Boxes: These are enclosed boxes with a lid or door that can conceal power strips and cords completely. They are often made of wood or plastic.
- Wire baskets: These are open baskets made of wire that can accommodate power strips and cords. They provide good airflow and are easy to access.
Benefits of Wall-Mounted Organizers
Wall-mounted organizers offer several benefits:
- Space saving: By mounting the organizer on the wall, you can free up valuable floor space.
- Reduced clutter: Organizers help to keep power strips and cords neat and tidy, reducing visual clutter.
- Enhanced safety: By elevating power strips off the floor, they are less likely to be damaged or cause tripping hazards.
Considerations for Wall-Mounted Organizers
When choosing a wall-mounted organizer, consider the following factors:
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Size | Ensure the organizer is large enough to accommodate your power strips and cords. |
| Material | Choose a material that is durable and easy to clean. |
| Mounting | Consider the type of mounting hardware required for your wall type. |
| Ventilation | If the organizer is enclosed, ensure there is adequate ventilation to prevent overheating of electronics. |
Plant-Based Disguises
Bring nature into your home while concealing power strips with lush greenery. Try these effective disguises:
1. Faux Ivy or Fern Garland
Wrap artificial ivy or fern garland around the power strip and let it cascade over the edges, creating a natural and alluring cover.
2. Potted Plant
Place a small potted plant on top of the power strip, ensuring its roots don’t reach the electrical components. The foliage will effectively camouflage the unsightly device.
3. Hanging Planter
Suspend a hanging planter above the power strip and let trailing plants, such as pothos or spider plants, drape down, hiding the strip from view.
4. Faux Shrub Balls
Arrange faux shrub balls around the power strip, creating a miniature landscape that conceals the strip and adds a touch of whimsy.
5. Green Moss
Adhere green moss to the power strip using mod podge or fabric glue. The organic texture and earthy tone will blend seamlessly with the strip and create a captivating disguise.
6. Succulent Garden
Create a mini succulent garden on a tray or shallow box. Place the power strip at one end and surround it with various succulents, covering it up while adding a touch of greenery.
7. Bamboo Screen
Roll up a bamboo screen and place it in front of the power strip. Its natural texture and height will effectively obstruct the strip from view.
8. Rattan Tray
Place the power strip in a rattan tray. Fill the tray with decorative items like candles, books, or plants to conceal the strip and create a stylish accent.
9. Custom Wooden Enclosure
For a more permanent solution, construct a custom wooden enclosure that encloses the power strip. Design it with decorative elements like latticework or cutouts to allow for airflow while maintaining the concealment.
Technology Integration
Technology has made it easier than ever to hide power strips and cables, making your home or office look more organized and visually appealing. Here are three ways to use technology to integrate power strips into your space seamlessly:
- Cordless Power Strips: Eliminate the need for cords by using cordless power strips that connect to your wall outlet wirelessly via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. This allows you to place the power strip anywhere in the room, giving you more flexibility and freedom to arrange furniture and decorations.
- Smart Power Strips: Upgrade to smart power strips that offer remote control, scheduling, and energy monitoring capabilities. You can connect your devices to these strips and control them from your smartphone or tablet, eliminating the need for manual switches or cords. This feature is especially useful for saving energy by turning off devices that are not in use.
- Built-In Power Outlets: Design your furniture or walls to include built-in power outlets or USB ports. This allows you to seamlessly integrate power access into your living space, providing convenient charging and power for devices without the clutter of cords and visible power strips.
| Technology | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Cordless Power Strips | No cords, wireless connectivity, flexible placement |
| Smart Power Strips | Remote control, scheduling, energy monitoring |
| Built-In Power Outlets | Seamless integration, convenient power access |
How To Hide Power Strip
Power strips are a necessary evil in most homes and offices. They provide a convenient way to power multiple devices, but they can also be unsightly and dangerous. Here are a few tips on how to hide power strips and keep your space looking neat and tidy.
One of the simplest ways to hide a power strip is to place it behind furniture. This will keep it out of sight and out of the way. If you have a desk or table with a drawer, you can also place the power strip inside the drawer. This will keep it hidden and protected from dust and debris.
Another option is to use a power strip cover. These covers are available in a variety of styles and colors, so you can find one that matches your décor. Power strip covers are also a good way to protect your power strip from damage.
If you have a lot of devices that need to be plugged in, you may want to consider using a surge protector. Surge protectors provide protection from power surges, which can damage your devices. Surge protectors also come with multiple outlets, so you can plug in multiple devices without having to use multiple power strips.
