Organization products can seem like a quick fix to declutter your space and bring order to your home. You might think that buying more bins, containers, or gadgets will automatically solve your mess. However, not all organization tools lead to better results, and some can actually create more clutter.
Knowing which items to avoid can save you time, money, and frustration in your efforts to stay organized. This article will help you identify common products that don’t work as well as you might expect, so you can focus on what truly helps keep your space tidy and manageable.
Clear plastic storage totes
Clear plastic storage totes seem like an easy fix for organizing your space. They let you quickly see what’s inside, which feels convenient.
But relying on them too much can backfire. If you just toss things into totes without sorting first, clutter can build up inside.
These bins also don’t always fit well in every space, leading to wasted room. Instead of grabbing more totes, focus on what you really need to store and how to keep things manageable.
Expandable drawer dividers
Expandable drawer dividers can seem like a neat solution for organizing your drawers. However, many stop short of fitting deeper or irregularly shaped drawers, leaving gaps that defeat their purpose.
If you have unusual drawer sizes, these dividers might not fully expand to fit, wasting space instead of saving it. You might find better results with custom or non-collapsible options made from sturdier materials.
Before buying, measure your drawer carefully and consider if fixed-size dividers or other organizers could work better for your needs. This way, you avoid spending on something that won’t truly help.
Over-the-door shoe organizers
You might think over-the-door shoe organizers are a quick fix, but they often don’t work well for daily shoe storage. They can’t hold heavier shoes without stretching or tearing.
The clear pockets may seem helpful, but they often make it harder to keep shoes tidy and grouped. Over time, they can get cluttered and messy.
Instead of buying new organizers, consider repurposing existing storage or using simpler solutions like small shelves or bins you already own. These options often last longer and keep your space neater.
Color-coded closet hangers
Using color-coded hangers might seem like a neat way to organize your closet. However, they often add unnecessary expense and can clutter your space instead of simplifying it.
If you assign colors to different clothing types, it can feel restrictive when your wardrobe changes. Plus, buying multiple sets of colored hangers can be more costly than sticking to a single style.
Instead, focus on using consistent, slim hangers that save space and create a uniform look. This approach is easier to maintain and keeps your closet feeling tidy without extra effort.
Label makers with tiny fonts
You might think tiny fonts on label makers help fit more information in less space. However, labels with fonts that are too small can be hard to read, especially from a distance.
Instead of improving organization, they can cause confusion by making it difficult to quickly identify items.
If you want clear labels, focus on legible font sizes. Choose devices that offer varied font options so you can customize readability without sacrificing space.
