Plastic storage bins are a surprisingly versatile and effective solution for a wide range of household storage needs. While aesthetics play a role in some organizational systems, professional organizers consistently recommend plastic bins for their durability, stackability, and overall practicality. Here’s a breakdown of what you should always store in plastic bins, according to industry experts.
Seasonal Clothing and Off-Season Apparel
Professional organizer Diane N. Quintana emphasizes the superiority of heavy-duty plastic tubs for storing clothing that isn’t currently in rotation. This includes seasonal wardrobes, sports uniforms, and children’s clothes you intend to keep for future use. The key is clear labeling : ensuring each bin is properly identified prevents confusion and wasted time when retrieving items later.
Children’s Toys and Art Supplies
Many parents opt for decorative fabric bins in children’s playrooms, but Aprille Loney argues that plastic bins are superior in terms of durability and ease of cleaning. Plastic bins contain crayons, markers, and small toys like Legos far more effectively, making cleanup simpler for both parents and children.
Garage Storage: Tools and Seasonal Items
Tina Priestly highlights the practicality of plastic bins for garage storage. These bins shield tools, patio furniture, and holiday decorations from dust and moisture, extending their lifespan. Their stackable design also maximizes vertical space, a crucial benefit in cluttered garages.
Linens: Sheets and Towels
When linen closet space is limited, plastic bins provide an optimal storage solution. Quintana suggests using sealed plastic bins to store out-of-season towels and linens, keeping moisture at bay and preventing mildew. Adding dryer sheets inside the bin helps maintain freshness until the items are needed again.
Pantry Organization: Food Staples and Baking Supplies
Plastic containers are a smart choice for pantry organization due to their versatility and space efficiency. Quintana points out that plastic bins come in various sizes and shapes, fitting easily onto shelves. Priestly adds that plastic is preferable to glass because it’s less prone to breakage in high-traffic areas like kitchens. Transparent bins also help avoid overbuying by making contents visible at a glance.
Plastic bins aren’t just about tidiness; they’re about preserving possessions and maximizing space. These bins offer a reliable, low-maintenance solution for everything from seasonal clothing to garage tools. By prioritizing function over form, you can create a more organized and efficient home storage system.
