9 Storage Tools Pro Organizers NEVER Use || Good Housekeeping

When it comes to tidying up your home, you might assume that any organizer is better than none at all. Pros have the tools they swear by, but other not-so-helpful items can actually thwart your efforts. We asked professional organizers which storage solutions they’d beg their clients to ditch forever.

1. Stacked plastic drawers

“These may be cheap, but they just don’t last; I always find that they break. They also get dirty very easily, and can be difficult to open. The ease of your organizers is the most important factor for sticking with your system. Invest in sturdier drawers instead.” — Rachel Rosenthal, professional organizer at Rachel and Company

2. Wooden hangers

“People choose these because they look pretty, but I hardly ever use them for everyday items. They’re so bulky, and clothes tend to slip off easily. I use slim felt-covered hangers instead, which take up much less space and keep clothes secure.” — Rachel Rosenthal

3. Free-standing coat racks

“A coat rack is a monster that just keeps growing. Instead, hang just a couple hooks, and store other coats, scarves, and hats out of sight. Your entryway will thank you for slaying this beast.” — Jeni Aron, the Clutter Cowgirl

4. Bed frames with built-in drawers

“I don’t care for these. I find the drawer space to be limiting, and when the bed is pushed into a corner, you lose half the storage. Instead, use bed risers to create a helpful place for suitcases and bins of seasonal clothing.” — Amelia Meena, founder and professional organizer at Appleshine

5. Over-the-toilet shelving units

“If it’s your only option, fine. But I much prefer a floating shelf with attractive baskets on an opposite wall away from the commode. There’s a slimmer chance of something jumping overboard.” — Jeni Aron

6. Under-the-bed shoe storage

“I see too many people using the space under their beds to store in-season shoes in shoe bags. Because you need your shoes every day, you end up leaving them out, which defeats the purpose of the storage. Store sweaters, winter bedding, or snow boots under your bed instead.” — Rachel Rosenthal

7. Label makers

“There’s a time and place for label makers, but that’s usually not at home. I’m not saying that labels are terrible, but it’s often unnecessary to use yet another electronic device (which you’ll have to store) to make them. Instead, write your labels by hand. This will help you better remember where you’ve stored things, and handwriting is much more pleasing and personal than a printed sticker.” — Marla Kabashima, organizing coach at Maeve’s Method

8. Stacked desk trays

“Thanks to computers and our increasingly paper­-free lifestyle, there is less need for organizers that hold stacks of mail or tons office supplies. I often see people with desk stackers stuffed with items they haven’t used in years. Let the stack go, and replace it with a simple tray or bowl for the few things you do use. And introduce a plant, if you’d like, to add height and energy to the area where the trays once lived.” — Maeve Richmond, founder and organizing coach at Maeve’s Method

9. Anything needlessly pricey

“Don’t be swayed by an expensive, designer organizer. The price doesn’t mean it will organize your things any better. If you’re the crafty type, comb through your home for items to repurpose as storage. A cookie sheet sprayed a bright color could become a drop-tray for your keys, sunglasses, and wallet. A sturdy crate from a yard sale could store sports equipment in the garage. And you can wrap dollar-store containers in pretty paper to organize desk supplies.” — Rashelle Isip, founder of The Order Expert

GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
June 8, 2015
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