In a world where minimalism is taking center stage, it’s high time we confront our consumption habits — especially when it comes to storage products. We are often lured into buying unnecessary storage items, thinking they will solve our clutter problems. But in reality, they often become part of the very mess we are trying to tackle. If you’re looking to declutter your life, and save some money in the process, there are certain storage products you should reconsider purchasing. Let’s take a look at the top ten storage items you can do without.
1. Over-The-Door Organizers
Over-the-door organizers may seem like a great way to utilize space, but they can quickly become an eyesore and a nuisance. They often cause doors to close improperly, and the pockets can be too shallow to hold anything substantial. Moreover, they encourage the hoarding of items that you may not really need.
Instead of resorting to over-the-door organizers, consider purging unnecessary items first. For the essentials that remain, use built-in storage solutions like closets, cupboards, and drawers. If these are not enough, consider investing in a single, aesthetically pleasing piece of storage furniture that can accommodate your needs.
2. Storage Containers Without Lids
Storage containers without lids may seem like a handy solution for quick access items, but they can actually contribute to clutter. Without a lid, items can spill out, and the containers can quickly become catch-alls for random objects.
Instead, opt for containers with lids. These keep your items contained and visually declutter your space. Containers with lids can be stacked, maximizing vertical space. As a bonus, they also protect your items from dust and other potential damage.
3. “Cute” Storage Baskets
While “cute” storage baskets may be visually appealing, they often do not offer the practicality needed for effective storage. Many are oddly shaped, which makes them unsuitable for storing standard-sized items or stacking.
Instead of falling for the aesthetic allure of these baskets, opt for functionality. Choose storage solutions that are standardized in size and shape, allowing for easy stacking and maximizing of storage space. Remember, the primary goal of storage is convenience and organization, not decor.
4. Stacking Drawers
Stacking drawers may seem like a good idea to maximize vertical space, but in practice, they can be quite inconvenient. The lower drawers become hard to access, and the whole structure can become unstable.
Instead of stacking drawers, consider using shelves with baskets or boxes. This gives you the same access to vertical space but without the instability or access issues. Plus, it’s much easier to change the configuration if your storage needs change.
5. Plastic Wrap Boxes
Plastic wrap boxes are an unnecessary expense. They often occupy more space in the drawer or cupboard than the rolls they contain.
Instead, keep your plastic wrap, aluminum foil, and wax paper in their original boxes. They’re designed to be functional and space-efficient. If the sharp edge for cutting is a concern, there are many DIY solutions available online that are safer and don’t demand extra storage space.
6. Bed Risers
Bed risers are used to elevate beds for under-bed storage. But elevating a bed too high can look awkward and make the bed uncomfortable to get into or out of.
Instead of using bed risers, opt for beds with built-in storage, or use flat, long storage boxes designed to fit under most beds. These solutions offer additional storage without compromising the aesthetics or function of your bed.
7. Bulky Hangers
Bulky hangers take up more space in your closet than necessary. They also don’t offer any additional benefits over their slim counterparts.
Opt for slim, non-slip hangers. They hold clothes just as well, if not better, and their slim profile allows you to store more items in the same amount of space.
8. Specialty Kitchen Organizers
Specialty kitchen organizers for items like pans, lids, or spices can be more restrictive than helpful. They dictate where and how you store these items, leaving little room for flexibility.
Instead, opt for adjustable shelving or multi-purpose organizers. These can adapt to a variety of items and can be adjusted as your needs change.
9. CD/DVD Storage Racks
With the rise of digital media, physical CDs and DVDs are becoming obsolete. CD/DVD storage racks thus take up space without serving much of a purpose.
Consider digitizing your media or subscribing to online streaming services, and you can do away with these storage racks altogether.
10. Expanding Files
Expanding files can be bulky and inconvenient. They take up more desk space than necessary and can make it hard to locate specific documents.
Instead, consider using a simple filing system with folders in a file box or file drawer. Label each folder clearly and you’ll have a much easier time finding what you need.