I have been on a quest to become more organized around my home. Cutting down on clutter and minimizing what I own has been great start, but I still want to have what I have in my home properly stored and managed, so that I can find it when I need it.
We’ve been purchasing more things in bulk recently, and I hated the thought of going out and purchasing plastic containers for them, especially since most would not be BPA-free. Thankfully, I had been saving the cardboard containers that our steel-cut Irish oatmeal comes in. These are sturdy, and just the right size for our shelves and for the amount of bulk item we usually purchase. Even better: the label easily pulls off, leaving a cool cardboard look, that I can easily label with a Sharpie.
In that vein, I’ve compiled a list of some other tips for getting organized around the home with items you probably already have, or can purchase for very little.
Ice cube trays: use in drawers for organizing hair clips, jewelry, small office supplies (paper clips, tacks, etc) and craft supplies (eg: buttons and spools of thread)
Tic Tac containers: great for storing spices purchased in bulk, bobby pins, and ribbons.
Fishing tackle box: I’ve long used them to organize my crafting supplies. There are some really awesome tackle boxes our there that have lots of storage compartments that can be taken in and out. They also make great jewelry organizers.
Over the door clear plastic shoe organizer: These are great for organizing so much, from household cleaners, to hair accessories, to Barbie clothes, to hats and gloves, to you name it. I’ve also heard people mention cutting them down for under counter storage in bathrooms and kitchens..
Baby wipe containers: I’ve used these for storing so much over the years, and it’s the one down side to no longer having a child in diapers. I admit to buying them at times, not just because wipes are handy, but also to replace old containers as they wear out.
I’ve used them to store just about anything: crayons, hair accessories, ribbon, small kid’s toys and games.
Coffee creamer containers: many are clear, so remove the label and you’ve got a sturdy, screw-on lid, that you can see into. Great for storing many items throughout the home, especially in the kitchen.
What are your favorite things to re-purpose for storage and organization?
