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It often starts innocently enough. A few random pieces of mail and paperwork strewn on the counter; charging cables lying around, or an overstuffed junk drawer. Then before you know it, a few things scattered around the house have snowballed into stuff spilling off shelves, crowding cabinets, and occupying entire surfaces. This is the point when it becomes all too clear: you have clutter.
Before you get dismayed, know that clutter is a common occurrence in almost every home (mine included) and nothing to be ashamed of either. In the midst of living life, we acquire many, many things that all need a place to exist – and it’s much easier to drop them on the dining table. But an organized home is attainable for anyone. Yes, really. You just need the right products to make it happen – like this roundup of attractive and useful storage containers that can help you get things corralled and under control in every room of the house.
You’ve certainly seen (and maybe even used) clear containers before. But what sets this version apart are a few ingenious additions. These leak and stain-proof plastic containers from Cliik have a magnetic system that easily clicks together and keeps them in place when stacked. They also have secure magnetic labels so you always know what’s inside. Three different sizes make them well-suited for a variety of items (anything from snacks, to bathroom supplies to desktop accouterments) and locations – including my kitchen cabinets that went from disarray to display-worthy.
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This perfectly sized perforated basket comes in handy in so many spaces and places. Available in 2 sizes and 6 different metal finishes, it’s ideal for stashing food items in a pantry, corralling toys in a kids room, holding magazines next to the sofa, or towels in a linen closet. A removable insert allows you to separate into two sections, and it even comes with foam pads to place on the bottom to protect precious surfaces from scratching. I also found this basket to be the best solution for storing some of my less frequently used bathroom supplies in a hall closet, while still providing easy, organized access.
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Sometimes when it comes to containers, you don’t actually want or need to see the contents (especially if they are not the most attractive items). That’s where these lidded storage bins come in quite handy. A semi circle cutout functions as an easy handle, and a snug wooden lid keeps everything in place but totally out of sight. Plop a pair by your front entry to store kids shoes or pet accessories, add to an office area for extra cords and cables, or tuck under your vanity for toiletries.
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Need storage that can easily and elegantly be transported wherever you may need it? This sleek caddy is the solution. Made by Japanese brand Yamazaki (known for its minimal homewares designed for small spaces) it’s a practical and portable spot for tools, cleaning supplies or toiletries. An ash wood rod serves as the sturdy handle and the polypropylene body is both lightweight and truly durable. All that – plus an aesthetic appeal that brings a feeling of zen - make this item totally subarashī (that’s Japanese for amazing).
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How about a bit of color as you corral your clutter? Hay offers some sleek storage in an array of gorgeous high-gloss shades. These cardboard boxes (made of 70% recycled material) aren’t some flimsy throw away that might end up crushed. They’re sturdy, infinitely stackable, and come in 3 sizes and 10 trendy colors. I find the smallest size perfect for placing paperwork and incoming mail, and the folding lid with magnetic closure is easy to access yet simplistically secure.
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Just because it’s getting tucked under your bed doesn’t mean a storage bag still can’t be attractive. This ample-sized 30” long container is made of stylish cotton and offers lots of space for anything you don’t have room for in your closet, or a space to store your off-season wardrobe. A pair of handles make it easy to pull out when you need it, and a heavy-duty zipper means no dust bunnies are getting on your belongings either.
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Are you still not quite sure how to use smart storage to get your home in order? Here are a few additional tips for getting organized and making the most of any space.
How To Optimize Home Storage
Even if you have the luxury of space, it still pays to be smart when it comes to how you utilize – and optimize – storage. First, you want to make sure you are not wasting any space with storage pieces that don’t fully fit together. An array of different containers that don’t stack or are crammed together on a shelf won’t do you any storage favors, and create pockets of unused space.
Another aspect of optimized storage is knowing exactly what is inside all your containers. If you opt for clear, you can quickly see exactly what you are storing, but for other closed storage, try labeling. A label maker provides a quick, uniform way to discern what you are storing and always know what – and where – everything is located.
How To Create Storage Space In A Small House
Small spaces present a pint-sized predicament when it comes to creating storage. So you have to get creative - seeking out spots you normally might not think about. The best places to start? Just look up and down. Under a console, the extra area above a shelf in your closet, behind a door, under the bed, or that narrow space next to your bathroom vanity are all storage opportunities waiting to be taken advantage of. If you optimize these areas, and bring in some smart storage like the options above, your small space will suddenly start to feel a bit more spacious.
How To Increase Storage Space At Home
If you’re looking to increase storage space, your first move should be to assess your current storage. Are you utilizing every square inch of usable space you have in cabinets, drawers, and cupboards? That means making use of risers and drawer organizers to ensure the entire height and depth are fully filled. You may, in fact, be surprised by the amount of vacant space you have at your disposal.
If you’re still seeking to amp up your storage, consider adding some shelving. Whether it’s a free standing bookcase or wall mounted, it’s another effective way to add plenty of vertical surface area . You can also add shelving almost anywhere in your home (that includes garages, basements, and closets) to provide organization space where you actually need it the most.
Want to organize your closet next? Start here.
