If you’re like me, you’ve had more than a few unorganized junk drawers/shelves/boxes/corners/bins/closets in your home at any given time.
Simplicity has been a quest of mine for the last several years, and part of that includes finding simple ways to keep things organized. But it’s not always easy. I don’t want a convoluted organizational system that I have to learn and figure out before I can even use it. Or something that requires a million pieces, and as many dollars to purchase.
Along the way, I’ve gathered a few ideas that I think might be useful for others. Most of them have come out of the idea of using what you already have, and were birthed out of necessity after we started purchasing a lot of things in bulk a few years back, and my refusal to spend hundreds of dollars on new containers.
One of my favorite (and most attractive) re-purposing ideas has been reusing the cardboard containers that our steel-cut Irish oatmeal comes in. They are sturdy and just the right size for our shelves and for the amount of many bulk items we purchase. Even better: the label easily pulls off, leaving a cool cardboard look, that I can write on (decorate!) with a Sharpie.
A few of my other ideas using re-purposed items to get organized around the home:
Baby wipe containers: These were my original hardcore re-purposing idea, way back when my oldest was born and I realized how wasteful it was to just throw them away. I’ve used them 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’ve worn out.
I’ve used them to store just about anything, eg crayons, colored pencils, markers, hair accessories, ribbon, small kid’s toys and games.
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)
Breath mint containers: great for storing bobby pins, little binder clips and ribbon.
Fishing tackle box: When I started crafting handmade invitations, I found this to be the best way to keep my supplies organized. There are some really awesome tackle boxes available that have numerous storage compartments that can be taken in and out. I currently use a small tackle box to store pens, inks, markers, pencils and erasers for my zentangles and hand lettering. Tackle boxes also make great jewelry organizers.
Over the door clear plastic shoe organizer: Use these to store household cleaners, hair accessories, Barbie clothes, hats and gloves, you name it. I’ve also heard people mention cutting them down for under counter storage in bathrooms and kitchens.
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? Share your tips in the comments!
