If you’ve ever started organizing your home, you’ve probably been tempted to stock up on fancy storage bins, baskets, and organizers. I used to think that the secret to an organized home was buying more storage solutions—until I realized that those bins can add up fast and don’t always solve the problem.
The truth is, you don’t need to spend a fortune on matching containers to have an organized home. In fact, some of the best organizing solutions are free or already in your house. If you want to get your home in order without breaking the bank, here’s how to do it.
1. Declutter First—Before You Organize
One of the biggest mistakes I used to make was buying storage bins before decluttering. The more stuff you have, the more containers you think you need. But in reality, decluttering reduces the need for extra storage.
- Go through your belongings room by room, category by category.
- Ask yourself: Do I actually use this? Do I need to store it?
- The less clutter you have, the fewer bins you’ll need.
Decluttering costs nothing but instantly makes your space feel more organized.
2. Repurpose What You Already Have
Before running to the store, look around your house for storage solutions. You’d be surprised how many everyday items can double as organizers.
- Shoe boxes make great drawer dividers for socks, office supplies, or craft items.
- Glass jars and food containers can store pantry staples, toiletries, or small hardware.
- Gift boxes, cereal boxes, and shipping boxes can be cut down and used for organizing drawers or shelves.
A little creativity can save you a ton of money.
3. Use Dollar Store Finds Instead of Expensive Bins
You don’t need to buy name-brand storage solutions to get organized. The dollar store is one of the best places to find affordable baskets, bins, and containers.
- Plastic bins and baskets work well for bathroom supplies, pantry goods, and small toys.
- Magazine holders can be used for organizing canned goods, water bottles, or cutting boards.
- Clear plastic food storage containers are great for organizing small items like batteries, cables, or office supplies.
Spending a few dollars can go a long way when you shop smart.
4. Use What You Already Have in a Smarter Way
Sometimes, the issue isn’t a lack of storage—it’s not using what you already have efficiently.
- Fold clothes vertically in drawers (Marie Kondo-style) to maximize space.
- Stack items like baking sheets and cutting boards vertically using a dish rack.
- Use hooks, over-the-door organizers, and wall-mounted shelves to free up counter and floor space.
Simply rearranging how you store things can make a huge difference.
5. Get Creative with DIY Storage Solutions
If you love a little DIY, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to make your own storage solutions.
- Upcycle cardboard boxes by wrapping them in fabric or contact paper for stylish storage.
- Use tension rods under sinks or in cabinets to create extra shelving.
- Turn old coffee cans into storage for kitchen utensils, tools, or craft supplies.
A little creativity can make organizing feel fun instead of expensive.
6. Store Like Items Together for Easy Access
One of the easiest ways to stay organized without spending anything is to group similar items together.
- Keep all cleaning supplies in one cabinet instead of scattered around the house.
- Store seasonal decorations in one place instead of multiple locations.
- Keep all extra toiletries in a designated drawer or basket so you don’t keep rebuying what you already have.
This simple step instantly makes your home feel more organized.
7. Use Open Storage Whenever Possible
Instead of hiding things in expensive bins, consider open storage solutions that use shelves, baskets, or clear containers.
- Mason jars or repurposed food containers are great for organizing pantry staples.
- Floating shelves (or even a basic bookcase) can keep items visible and accessible.
- Hanging organizers or pegboards can keep tools, craft supplies, or accessories tidy.
When you can see what you have, you’re less likely to overbuy or lose things.
8. Rethink Your Closet Space
Closet organizers can be ridiculously expensive, but you can maximize your space without them.
- Use hangers with clips or shower curtain rings to store scarves, belts, or tank tops.
- Stack folded clothes vertically instead of piling them up.
- Use shoe boxes or small containers to keep smaller items organized.
A clutter-free closet doesn’t have to cost a dime.
9. Label Everything (Even Without a Label Maker)
Labels make it so much easier to keep things in their proper place—but you don’t need a fancy label maker.
- Use masking tape and a Sharpie for quick, easy labels.
- Cut out small pieces of cardboard or paper for DIY labels.
- If you want a more stylish look, print out labels and tape them on.
Knowing exactly where things go saves time and keeps your home from getting messy again.
10. Don’t Over-Organize—Keep It Simple
One mistake I used to make was overcomplicating my organization systems. The more categories and tiny bins I had, the harder it was to maintain.
- Keep organization simple and flexible so it’s easy to maintain.
- Use broad categories—”office supplies” instead of separate bins for pens, paperclips, and sticky notes.
- Ask yourself: Is this system realistic for my daily life? If not, simplify!
An organized home should make life easier, not more stressful.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need expensive storage bins or Pinterest-worthy organizers to have a tidy, functional home. By decluttering, repurposing what you already own, and using creative storage hacks, you can create an organized space without spending a fortune.
Which budget-friendly organizing trick has worked best for you? I’d love to hear your favorite tips!