Inside: How to choose versatile organizing containers to help you organize anything!
Versatile Organizing Containers
Organizing containers.
Oh, how lovely they are! 🤣
But if you don't choose them carefully, they can be a waste of money.
Over the years, I've tried all kinds of organizing containers.
Partly because I run an organizing blog, and partly because our organizing needs changed as our kids got older.
And here's the #1 lesson I've learned…
Choose versatile organizing containers.
Opt for things that can be used for multiple purposes.
Because the only thing that's guaranteed is change.
For example: We had a Keurig coffee maker and I REALLY wanted to get one of those organizers that's made to fit individual Keurig pods. But now we use a basic coffee maker, and we no longer buy K-Cups. Had I bought the K-Cup organizer, I'd feel guilty about not using it anymore. Thankfully they seemed overpriced to me, and I just stored them in a pretty basket on our countertop. Now I use that basket to store bags of coffee and filters!
But sometimes you really need that specific organizer.
And that's okay too!
If an organizing tool is going to make your life easier, it's probably worth it.
Another example: I've been buying soda can organizers to use in our garage fridge. It saves me from losing things in the back of the fridge, and it makes it easy for me to see what's available. Maybe someday we'll stop drinking sodas and sparkling waters (ha!), and then I won't need the organizers anymore. But for this season, I like having an organized, stocked fridge for when our kids have friends over!
Related: Specific organizers for specific situations
What to Consider Before Buying a New Organizing Container
Before you buy a new organizing container, here are some things to consider:
- What will you use this container for? Even though it's tempting to buy pretty new containers, it's better if you have a specific need you need to meet BEFORE you go shopping.
- Do you already have something that would work? Shop your home first to see if you have a box or bin on hand that would do the trick.
- The size you need. Measure shelves to make sure the containers will fit on them, and estimate how big you need to container to be.
- Your aesthetic. If you can get things that match your current decor, it will be much more versatile!
What to Look for in an Organizing Container
Here are some more specific qualities I look for when choosing a new organizing container…I'm adding my Amazon affiliate links so you can see some real examples:
- Items that are collapsable or foldable like these baskets. If you're not using the baskets, you can fold them up and store them away.
- Storage that doubles as decor. We have several pretty baskets similar to this one that we use to store blankets, shoes, etc. Great for making everyday storage into something pretty!
- Sturdy baskets (or bins) to corral items you want to leave out, but don't want to look at all the time. These work in almost every room in your house.
- Clear stackable bins. These are great for pantries, refrigerators, bathrooms, offices. You can reconfigure them as needed.
- Clear stackable drawers. If you want something more structured than a bin.
- Open front bins for things you need to access frequently. Like granola bars, kids snacks, or individual baggies of chips or nuts.
I hope this gives you some ideas for organizing your spaces!
More Organizing Container Ideas
- Where to Find Cute, Inexensive Storage Baskets
- Is That Tub Making You Disorganized?
- Versatile Storage Containers on Amazon
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