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13 Old-School Organizing Hacks That Still Work

Organizing your space can feel overwhelming with so many new gadgets and trends popping up. Sometimes, the simplest methods from the past offer the most reliable solutions for keeping your home tidy and clutter-free.

By revisiting time-tested techniques, you can find straightforward ways to make your space more functional without needing fancy tools or expensive products.

Keep a small basket by the door for keys and mail

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You can keep a small basket near your door to drop your keys and mail as soon as you walk in. Having a dedicated spot makes it easier to find your essentials when you leave.

It also keeps your entryway tidy without much effort. Try choosing a basket that fits your space and style for a simple, practical touch.

Label everything clearly

label basket container
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You can make organizing much easier by labeling your containers, drawers, and boxes with permanent markers. Clear labels help you quickly find what you need without digging through clutter.

Use bold, legible writing to ensure you can read labels from a distance. Permanent markers won’t smudge, keeping your labels neat over time.

Use mason jars for storing small office supplies

close-up of three glass jars with metal clasps, decorated with red and white gingham ribbons, soft indoor lighting
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You can use mason jars to keep small office items like pens, paper clips, and rubber bands organized. Group similar supplies in separate jars for easy access and a neat look.

Placing the jars on a tray or shelf helps keep them together and prevents clutter.

Repurpose shoe boxes for drawer dividers

old shoeboxes
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You can easily turn old shoe boxes into custom drawer dividers. Cut the boxes to fit your drawer size and use them to separate different items like socks, accessories, or office supplies.

This method keeps your drawers neat and helps you find things quickly.

Create a wall-mounted pegboard for tools

Organized workshop wall, pegboard with hanging tools like hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, power drills, and measuring tape, shelves above with boxes, toolkits, and tires stored on the top rack
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You can easily organize your tools by mounting a pegboard on the wall. Start by building a simple wooden frame to hold the board securely.

This setup keeps your tools visible and within reach, saving drawer space. Use hooks, small shelves, or zip ties to hold different items firmly in place.

A pegboard is flexible—you can rearrange your tools as needed to fit your workflow.

Fold clothes vertically to save drawer space

Drawer with neatly folded clothes, organized by color and type, divided into sections using drawer organizers, includes socks, shirts, and pants, top-down view, showcases visible and tidy storage
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Folding your clothes vertically lets you see everything at a glance. This method also saves space by stacking items side by side instead of on top of each other.

Try folding t-shirts, pants, and sweaters into small, compact rectangles. Then stand them up like books inside your drawer.

Roll scarves and belts in drawers

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Rolling scarves and belts keeps them neat and easy to access. You can simply roll each item and place them side by side in a drawer.

Try using drawer dividers to keep rolls from shifting around. This makes your drawer look tidy and keeps everything in place.

Store seasonal clothes in vacuum-sealed bags

woman sealing clothes in vacuum storage bag, sitting at a wooden table, using a handheld vacuum, folded clothes compressed in plastic bag
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You can save a lot of space by storing your out-of-season clothes in vacuum-sealed bags. These bags compress your clothes, making them easier to store in closets or under beds.

Vacuum sealing also helps keep your clothes clean and protected from dust or pests.

Utilize old suitcases for extra storage

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You can use old suitcases to store items while keeping your space stylish. They work well for seasonal clothes, keepsakes, or craft supplies.

Stack them in a corner or under a bed to save room. Their sturdy build protects your belongings, too.

Vintage suitcases add a touch of character to your decor.

Install floating shelves in unused wall space

Minimalist wooden floating shelves mounted on a sage green wall, top shelf holds glass bottles with cork stoppers, bottom shelf holds a small potted plant, a coffee dripper
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You can easily add storage by installing floating shelves where you don’t usually use wall space. These shelves save floor space and keep things within reach.

Choose a sturdy wall and measure carefully to fit the shelf size you need. Floating shelves work well for books, small plants, or everyday items.

Mount them securely with hidden brackets for a clean look.

Designate a donation box for clutter clearing

Clear plastic storage bin filled with assorted clothes, labeled with a sticky note reading "Donation," placed on wooden table indoors
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You can keep a donation box in a convenient spot to encourage regular decluttering. When you come across items you no longer need, drop them in the box instead of letting them pile up.

Once the box is full, take it to a donation center or schedule a pickup.

Use ice cube trays for jewelry organization

Close-up of sparkling crystal earrings in a jewelry display case, organized in white compartmentalized trays, black and white
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You can use ice cube trays to keep your jewelry neat and easy to find. Each compartment is perfect for separating earrings, rings, or small bracelets.

These trays fit well in drawers, helping you avoid tangled chains.

Use molasses or baking soda to eliminate odors in drawers

Homemade Vinegar and Baking Soda Cleaner
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If your drawers smell musty, try placing a small cup of baking soda inside. Baking soda absorbs odors naturally and can freshen up your furniture in a few days.

Molasses works too because its strong scent can mask unpleasant smells. Just put some in an open container and leave it in the drawer for a few days.

Remember to remove the baking soda or molasses afterward and wipe down the drawer to prevent any residue.