Containers and baskets and bins, Oh My!
Have you ever stocked up on bins and baskets with big organizing plans—only to have them sit in the car or pile up in a corner? You’re not alone. After all, buying containers feels productive, but the real challenge is the follow-through. Organizing takes time, energy, and a plan—and that’s where most people get stuck.
Buying organizational items is extremely tempting because they promise us structure and systems for our stuff that may currently feel unmanageable. Containers, baskets, and bins tend to give us a sense of order and calm. However, I wouldn’t recommend buying anything until you’ve actually organized first.
So, if possible, refrain from running out if you’ve not already categorized and curated your stuff. Categorize — sort like with like. Curate — pick what you want, love, and need. Then as you think about where things will go, you can see how much you have and can better get the proper fitting container for those items.
Here are a few things to consider before purchasing containers.
What type of container do you need?
Plastic, metal, or wood is often great for bathrooms, kitchens and pantries. These materials are easy to wipe down and match the material of the items going in them such as cans, sauces, dishes, etc.
Fabric, wicker, and cloth material is more inviting for clothing, linen, and other softer items.
Is there a color or theme to consider for your overall look?
What size of container do you need?
(This may seem obvious, but many do not consider this when shopping.)
How large or small are the contents and how much do you have?
Where is this bin going and what are the dimensions of that space — the shelf or cubby or drawer in which the container will live?
How many do you need?
It’s challenging to estimate all of this before knowing what you are actually keeping. However, a bonus to organizing is that many bins you currently own will become available and you can use these containers as well as any other temporary boxes to keep things together in the meantime. This is a great way to try out new ideas and remain organized when you purchase a permanent solution that best fits your space.
Either with new bins, old bins, or no bins, it’s possible to get organized and feel wonderful about it. Feel free to reach out to get help on starting (or finishing!) your project soon!
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Centennial-based • Local references
Maegan Keller 720-728-9203 • maegan@shapespace.me
