How to Choose the Right Container
1. Envision, Gather, and Sort!!
I know, I know buying and finding containers is often the most fun part about organizing. It’s when everything comes together and looks pretty. And yes, it can motivate you to get organized but trust me when I say, it’s best to wait until AFTER you’ve envisioned, gathered, and sorted your items before you buy any containers. This way you know what and how many you will need.
If you already have containers, baskets or drawer organizers, set them aside. Go through the first 3 steps of The Process (envision, gather & sort) before trying to organize the items you want to keep. Skipping directly to organize (step 4) will slow you down and cause more mess.
2. Ask yourself:
Where will the container be stored?
What will be stored in the container?
What material do I want the container to be?
Depending on where you will be storing the container will determine whether you want a container that has handles, a lid, is clear or opaque. You will also want to to determine what will be stored in the container. Determining what will be in the container will help you decide what size and material you want the container to be. If you are storing belts, you don’t want them in a wire container. They will fall through. If you’re storing sweaters, you probably don’t want them in a woven container, as this may cause rips or snags. Determining what will be in the container will help you decide what material you want your container to be made of (acrylic, leather, metal, rattan, etc).
3. Measure, measure, measure!
Now that you’ve answered where your container will be stored, what will be stored in it, and what material it will be - measure the area where your container will be placed. Be sure to take note of small things like hinges, height, and/or baseboards. Also if you’re storing multiple containers on a shelf, be sure to leave some wiggle room to get the containers easily on and off. Write down ALL measurements - length, width and don’t forget height.
4. Buy your containers
Now the fun part - purchasing your containers. I recommend the Container Store, Home Depot, and mDesign. Each have great container options. Also, places like Offer Up and Buy Nothing sometimes have containers for free. Again be sure they’re what you need. Another tip: use every day items like jam jars or an unused electronics box to store items. They make great containers for hair ties, art supplies and more.
5. ENJOY! You’ve done a lot of work to get your home organized. Enjoy it! Or if you need help getting there, contact me. I’d be happy to help you get there.