Spring cleaning in September? Hear us out: organizing before fall weather helps get the summer toys and sports equipment out of the way to make space for the influx of Halloween and holiday decorations. Tackling an area by function instead of by room can help when choosing the right kind of accessories to stock up on.
THE HEAVY-DUTY STUFF
Setting a shed or garage up requires some planning and a surprising amount of stuff (to hold all the other stuff). Start with clear bins with lids that can be stacked, left on the ground or put up on a shelf. These can hold everything from camping gear to sports equipment to keepsakes that don’t need to be accessed every day.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone with seasonal stuff to pack away.
Why we're endorsing it: Comes in a pack of six; snap lid.
Where it could use improvements: The handles are not the sturdiest for constant use (this is more for items that will be stored).
Size/weight/dimensions: 32 or 53 quart.
Labelling bins don’t require a small and fussy label maker. These large adhesive labels are erasable, making them easier to change without having to rip them off and start again. These can be printed or written on (Sharpies work best).
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants to keep their bins labelled.
Why we're endorsing it: Size, price, can be used for a printer.
Where it could use improvements: Best to use on a dry, smooth, hard surface.
Size/weight/dimensions: 6”x4”/15-pack.
INDOOR/OUTDOOR STORAGE OPTIONS
Get all the random stuff out of corners and off the floor with the wall-mounted organizer with six spots for household items like rakes, brooms, mops, dusters, squeegee, umbrellas, and small and light garden tools like shovels and trowels.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants to make use of wall space.
Why we're endorsing it: Convenience, space-saving design.
Where it could use improvements: Mounted with screws (some assembly required).
Size/weight/dimensions: Six slots.
(For limited space, these grippers come in a two-pack and don’t require assembly.)
Wire baskets are very on-trend for indoor storage right now, but they also work well in a dry garage or shed. Fill it with all the random assorted things that don’t have a dedicated spot yet (like measuring tape, scissors, duct tape and extension cords).
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who could use utilitarian and light storage baskets with style.
Why we're endorsing it: Design, the price for a two-pack.
Where it could use improvements: These are not stackable.
Size/weight/dimensions: 28.09 x 22 x 14.3 cm.
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Open-lid baskets serve quite a different function than the sturdy storage bins; instead of hiding stuff away, it’s meant to be easily accessible but still keep things tidy. These perforated plastic bins are great for towels, toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning supplies, clothes, toys and board games.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone with stuff they want to keep out of the way (but still easy to get to).
Why we're endorsing it: Size, no-fuss construction and care.
Where it could use improvements: These are not stackable.
Size/weight/dimensions: 18" L x 13.3" W x 10.3" H.
For organizing everything from buttons to small screws to spools of thread, these slim organizing bins have loads of compartments for bits and bobs either in the garage or storage closet.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone with an overflowing junk drawer.
Why we're endorsing it: The compartments are adjustable in size and the handle has a latch.
Where it could use improvements: Made for small items.
Size/weight/dimensions: 5” H x 9” W.
TACKLING THE PANTRY LIKE A PRO
The Home Edit team has turned organization into an influential Instagram feed with 5.5 million followers, a Netflix show and a whole line of products that sort every inch of homes, from spices to crayons. Many products they frequently use are from the iDesign line, like clear acrylic bins in a variety of sizes, shapes and functions for the bedroom, bathroom and pantry. There are also lazy susans and, of course, the classic grey Montauk baskets with white cloth lining. Unsure of where to begin? The Container Store offers a Pantry Starter Kit, an introduction to organizing, with a mix of storage bins and food containers that take the guesswork out of ordering.
Who it's ideal for: Someone who is moving or remaking their pantry.
Why we're endorsing it: Convenience, brand trust, usability.
Where it could use improvements: This set can’t be mixed and matched (but it’s easy to add onto the package with more items).
Size/weight/dimensions: Varying sizes.
