My Favorite Organizing Containers

It’s no secret that I LOVE organizing containers. If I weren’t so frugal, I would probably buy stacks and stacks of extra storage containers because I just love them that much!

While I have an appreciation for nearly all organizing containers, I most definitely have certain “go-to” containers for different purposes around our house. And after years of organizing for myself and for others, these are my current favorites…

1. Metal Buckets: BHG.com

Usually I only buy square or rectangle storage containers because they are more space-saving. But I love these metal buckets for random odds and ends like extra cords, kid’s shoes, hats, mittens, etc. Try looking at hardware stores to find the best deals and then just spray paint them your favorite color. 

2. Small Plastic Containers: I’m an Organizing Junkie

I can’t even tell you how many of these plastic storage containers we have around our house. Like Laura from I’m an Organizing Junkie, we also have them in our refrigerator, freezer, and pantry to keep stray bags and bottles organized. They are readily available at most grocery stores, supermarkets, and of course… at Target.

3. Paper Boxes: The Red Chair Blog

You don’t need anything fancy. Simple paper boxes work great for containing different piles that need to leave your home, and you can probably snag a few from your work for free! {otherwise they are readily available at any office supply store}

4. Galvanized Bins: Amazon.com

I love shopping on Amazon.com because I can do a quick search and find everything I’m looking for at pretty reasonable prices.

I found these gorgeous galvanized bins that are the perfect size for some shelves in our bathroom. I’m just not sure if I can part with $99 for 6 bins???

5. Wooden Crates: Amazon.com

I love wooden crates! I have some that are painted, some that are stained, and even a couple that are just neutral. There are so many uses for wooden crates in our old farmhouse… and I’m a huge fan of storage containers that also look decorative.

6. Wicker Baskets with Handles: Amazon.com

I like wicker baskets but ONLY if they have handles and ONLY if the sides are “straight up and down”. I don’t like the angled sides because things don’t fit nicely and everything tends to fall over.

These baskets {also from Amazon} are some of my favorites, and really reasonably priced!

7. Shoe Boxes — or card boxes: probably in your closet right now

I don’t buy many shoes… but if I do, you better believe I’m keeping the box because I use them ALL over our house! Most of the time I leave them plain because I don’t feel like putting extra effort in, but sometimes I cover them with craft paper or even spray paint them.

I garuntee you can look in any closet in my house and find shoe boxes used as organizers. {You can even find them in our freezer!}

8. Magazine Files — Ikea

I only get one magazine, and I don’t keep it long enough to need magazine files. However, I love these super inexpensive files from Ikea for all sort of other organizing purposes.

I keep notebooks on one, tabbed dividers in another, loose paper in another, etc. There are just so many different uses for them… and I love that they are plain white!

9. Plastic Storage Tub: Target {and my basement!}

Ok, so these clear plastic storage tubs are my all-time favorite storage containers for organizing large amounts of things like holiday decorations, seasonal clothing, camping gear, etc. etc.

I found mine at Target and have at least 15 that we use in our basement and garage. We can clearly see what’s inside and nothing get’s wet or damaged.

10. Milk Crates: The Container Store

I love using milk crates to organize kid things. They are small enough and have large handle openings so most children can easily lift them. Plus their bright colors and “stackability” make them the perfect organizing tool for almost any room in your home.

11. Space Bags: The Container Store

We have a few different space bags and even though I was skeptical at first, I admit that they are great for storing extra pillows, blankets, and comforters for the guest room or just during the summer months when you don’t need as many layers. We’ve never had a problem with anything getting ruined in our space bags.

12. Office Trunk: Martha Stewart

I’m a sucker for trunks — any type of trunk! So this “office trunk” from Mather Stewart’s website immediately caught my attention. I LOVE how they transformed a great looking trunk into a totally functional office area that would be perfect for any space in your home.

I could go on and on about all the storage containers I love… but I think you get the idea!

What are YOUR favorite organizing containers?