In the last blog post, I shared some organizing products that are doomed to fail. But today, I wanted to share some of my tried-and-true organizing products that I’ve turned to over the years.
A Lazy Suzan
A Lazy Suzan helps store spices.
These are the best for organizing spices, oils and vinegars — or anything you would store in an upper-level kitchen cabinet. You only have to be able to reach the front part of the turntable since everything turns toward you. It makes everything reachable and maximizes space.
Turntables are also great in a pantry. I have had a client purchase one that fit underneath her kitchen sink, which was handy. I’ve even used them in a refrigerator.
The Flip Fold
This gadget folds any shirt — no matter what size or shape — into a folded piece that’s the exact same size. It’s a nice way to tidy up open shelving. It works with t-shirts, polos, sweaters and any other shirt you might have.
It is also a great way to get the family involved with the laundry. No matter who folds the shirts, it always comes out the same size and shape. Kids love to use it!
Clear Bins (Square or Rectangle)
Clear square bins from The Container Store.
Many bins are wider at the top and taper down, which makes it difficult to maximize the storage capacity of the bins. On some bins, the lid is fitted to match up with the bottom of another container, but this means the bottom of the container isn’t flat.
Look for high-quality bins that are flat on the bottom and perfectly square in terms of the bottom size and the top opening. Clear bins are nice because you can see what’s inside them.
A Label Maker
A handy label maker from Brother
A label maker is easy to use when you need to label everything. You can adjust the font and the colors to further improve your organizing system.
Drawer Dividers
Various kinds of bins divide a drawer however you need.
Drawer dividers can help you organize drawers of any size. There are all kinds of different dividers — from sturdy baskets to flexible silicone containers — that will fit in your drawers.
Adjustable Shelving
Elfa adjustable shelving from The Container Store
This allows you to create storage space that fits your home. You can adjust the height depending on your space and/or to fit what you’ll be storing on the shelves.
Acid-Free Photo Boxes
Acid-free photo storage boxes from Pfile.
These are the best storage containers for photos and special memorabilia because it protects them year after year. They also come in different sizes and easily stack for indoor storage. Check out our post on proper photo storage for additional tips.
A Peg-Board/Slatwall
A peg-board can be customized for your changing needs.
This is another customizable option that works especially well in a garage. Use it to hang tools, bikes, and outdoor equipment. You can change it over the years to hold anything you need. See a before and after of a garage we organized for more outdoor storage tips.
A Closet S-Hook
An s-hook from Home Depot.
These work well in closets. You can use them to hang purses, tote bags and scarves, but they also come in handy for utility items such as mops and brooms. Plus, they are inexpensive.
Small Set of Drawers
Sets of plastic drawers from Michael’s.
A small set of plastic drawers (usually 8.5 x 11 inches) can fit into bottom cabinets for organizing help. You can use them for office supplies, paper, crafts, scrapbooking, jewelry… anything.
In general, it’s good to choose organizing products that are multi-use and customizable. Look for things that are adjustable. Pick products that are not intended for something specific, but instead can be used in a variety of ways.
Any product that fits this description will fit your current needs, but will also be able to adapt as your needs change, too.
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