Introduction
Staying organized can often feel like a pricey endeavor, but it doesn’t have to be! With the right budget-friendly tools, you can create a functional and tidy home without spending a fortune. In fact, I encourage to buy organizing containers and helpers only when needed and properly pre-measured. Whether you’re organizing your kitchen, closet, or bathroom, there are plenty of budget-friendly options on Amazon that can help streamline your space. These organizing basics are versatile enough to use in every room of your house. Let’s explore some basic must-have items that won’t break the bank and will help you stay organized on a budget.
1. Plastic Baskets for Everyday Storage
Plastic baskets are a game-changer when it comes to organizing on a budget. They’re versatile, durable, and come in various sizes to accommodate everything from toiletries to office supplies. These baskets can be used in almost any room of the house, from the pantry to your kids’ playroom.
Why you need them:
- Affordable and accessible.
- Stackable for easy storage.
- Great for sorting small items like toys, beauty products, and kitchen tools.
Top Picks:
- Amazon Basics Plastic Storage Bins: Perfect for organizing closets, bathrooms, and kitchens. Buy in bulk and save even more per unit.
- Stackable Storage Bins: Ideal for organizing smaller spaces like desks or bathroom counters.
2. Drawer Liners for Protection and Order
Drawer liners are an inexpensive way to bring some order and protection to your drawers. These liners not only help keep your drawer surfaces clean but also prevent your items from sliding around. I love to use them in bathroom and kitchen drawers as well as on pantry shelves and cabinets.
Why you need them:
- Protects drawers from scratches and damage.
- Keeps smaller items neatly organized and easily accessible.
- Simple to install and can be cut to fit any size drawer.
- Creates a surprise burst of pattern and color depending on what you choose.
Top Picks:
- Non-Adhesive Drawer Liner Plain White : A simple, non-slip solution for kitchen and bathroom drawers.
- Non-Adhesive Drawer Liner Pattern: Consider a fun pattern for your cabinet shelves and drawers.
3. Clear Storage Bins for Visibility and Convenience
Clear storage bins make it easy to see exactly what’s inside, helping you avoid unnecessary purchases and reduce clutter. They’re especially useful for organizing seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, or craft supplies. They also look great on open shelving in a basement, garage or attic. Remember, always measure your shelving before purchasing to maximize stacking and storing.
Why you need them:
- Transparent design makes it easy to find what you need.
- Affordable and stackable for space-saving storage.
- Great for labeling and keeping track of your items.
Top Picks:
- Sterilite Clear Storage Bins: Perfect for organizing everything from clothing to office supplies. They are a trusted brand and have great size options. I prefer the 66 qt for larger storage.
- IRIS USA Storage Bins with Lids: Easy to stack and great for long-term storage in attics or basements.
4. Over-the-Door Organizers for Maximal Use of Vertical Space
Maximize your storage potential without taking up valuable floor space by using over-the-door organizers. These space-savers are perfect for organizing shoes, cleaning supplies, and accessories. Whenever you have vertical space that is not being used, you have a storage opportunity. Think about your linen closet, the back of pantry or closet doors and in your laundry room.
Why you need them:
- Utilizes unused vertical space on doors.
- Great for small homes or apartments with limited closet space.
- Inexpensive and easy to install.
Top Picks:
- SimpleHouseware Over-the-Door Organizer: Ideal for shoes, scarves, or bathroom essentials and even pantry items.
- Over-the-Door Storage Rack: Perfect for storing cleaning products, laundry items and pantry items.
5. Collapsible Storage Bins for Flexible Organization
Collapsible storage bins are fantastic for spaces that require flexibility. When not in use, they can be easily folded down to save space, making them a practical and budget-friendly choice. I use these often in playrooms, clothing closets and linen closets.
Why you need them:
- Saves space when not in use.
- Soft material is ideal for use in closets and under beds.
- Easy to move and transport.
Top Picks:
- Foldable Storage Cubes: A simple and affordable option for organizing bedrooms, closets, playrooms or offices. Pair with cubed shelving for an instant streamlined storage unit.
- Amazon Basics Collapsible Fabric Storage Bins: Ideal for use with shelving units and closets.
- mDesign Fabric Bin with Window: Ideal for use with shelving units and closets.
6. Cable Management Solutions to Tidy Up Electronics
With all the gadgets we use daily, cables can quickly become a tangled mess. Investing in affordable cable management solutions can keep your cords organized and out of sight. Also, streamlining how many chargers and charging stations you have in your home can help as well. I have been at clients’ homes sorting bins of cords because they are always picking up another cord here and there.
Designate an area in your home for phone charging and consider getting a 3 in 1 charging station. Get a cord that has different charging ends for travel to avoid bringing to many. Keep one in your work bag, one in your travel bag and use your charging station at home. You will always be prepared.
Why you need them:
- Reduces clutter and prevents tangled cords.
- Keeps cables easily accessible and organized.
- Budget-friendly and simple to install.
Top Picks:
- Cable Matters Cable Cord Organizer: Keep cables neat and accessible for your electronics.
- JOTO Cable Management Sleeve: Perfect for bundling multiple cords together.
7. Drawer Organizers
Drawer organizers are another basic must have for any organization product. From taming junk drawers to organizing bathroom make-up, you will find many applications for these organizing helpers. As always, be sure to measure your drawer to find containers that will fit both the height and the width of your space.
Why you need them:
- Reduces clutter inside drawers
- Keeps items easily accessible, sorted and organized.
- Budget-friendly and easy to customize in any drawer.
- Bamboo Drawer Organizer Set: A stylish way to create a custom look in your drawers. I especially like these in kitchens. Bonus, you can also use them to sort items on top of your desk or kitchen counter. I use a square one to hold my salt, pepper and olive oil together next to my stove.
- Clear Drawer Organizers: A great way to organize desk drawers, junk drawers and bathroom drawers. I like that they are easily washable so if you spill some make-up or have a leaky pen you can clean them quickly.
Final Thoughts
Organizing on a budget is completely achievable with the right tools. This is just a small selection of what you can find. Amazon offers a wide range of affordable organizing solutions that can help you create a tidy, functional space without breaking the bank. Whether you’re using plastic baskets for storage, drawer liners for organization, or cable management solutions to declutter your home office, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to help you get the job done.
Start small, choose affordable items that suit your needs, and enjoy a more organized life at a fraction of the cost.
Happy Organizing!
Kristin
