We all have one — that mysterious drawer where keys, batteries, takeout menus, and random odds and ends go to disappear. The junk drawer. It starts as a convenient catch-all but quickly turns into a chaotic mess. But don’t worry — with a little time and the right junk drawer organization tips, you can transform that cluttered space into an organized oasis.
Step 1: Empty and Sort
The initial step to reclaiming your junk drawer is to empty it completely. Next, lay everything out on a flat surface and sort items into categories like:
- Tools and hardware (screws, nails, tape measure)
- Office supplies (pens, sticky notes, paper clips)
- Everyday essentials (keys, chargers, batteries)
- Random items (souvenirs, coupons, spare change)
This is also a great time to declutter! Toss out broken items, expired coupons, and anything you no longer need. For more effective junk drawer organization tips, consider using mobile storage units to temporarily house items while you organize multiple drawers or even whole rooms.
Step 2: Choose the Right Organizers
Once you know what you’re keeping, it’s time to introduce some structure. Specifically, drawer dividers or small containers are perfect for creating compartments within the drawer. Additionally, egg cartons, ice cube trays, or even repurposed takeout containers can make great DIY organizers. Furthermore, adjustable dividers offer flexibility, allowing you to customize the space as your needs change.
For larger household organization projects — like tackling closets, garages, or even moving — consider mobile storage units from STORsquare. Their portable self-storage units give you the flexibility to sort and store items at your own pace. This is especially helpful if you’re reorganizing multiple rooms or following junk drawer organization tips and need a dedicated space to keep everything out of the way while you work.
Create a System and Maximize Space in Your Junk Drawer
Step 3: Assign a Home for Each Item
With your organizers in place, it’s time to give each item a designated home. Assign a specific section of the drawer for each category of items. Keep frequently-used items front and center, and less-used items toward the back. Use labels if necessary to make it clear where things belong. This simple step ensures everything has its place and helps prevent future clutter.
Step 4: Maximize Space
Make the most of your drawer space with these clever hacks:
- Use vertical space: Stack items like sticky notes or use small stackable containers.
- Utilize small containers: Separate items like paper clips, rubber bands, or thumbtacks.
- Magnetic strips: Attach a small magnetic strip to hold metal objects like tweezers, scissors, or keys.
- Hooks or clips: Attach small adhesive hooks to the inside walls of the drawer to hang keys or other small tools.
These space-saving tricks, along with other junk drawer organization tips, ensure that every inch of your drawer is put to good use.
Step 5: Maintain the Order
Now that your drawer is beautifully organized, the key is keeping it that way! Regularly check for clutter and make sure everything stays in its designated space. Make a habit of doing a quick drawer check every month to remove unnecessary items and keep things tidy. Encourage everyone in your household to follow the system so it doesn’t slip back into chaos.
Maximize space with junk drawer organization tips and STORsquare
If you’re organizing more than just your junk drawer and need extra space for larger projects, STORsquare’s portable storage units are a game-changer. Whether you’re decluttering, remodeling, or moving, their driveway storage containers offer a convenient solution — right at your doorstep. For Buford residents and those nearby, STORsquare’s storage container rentals provide the flexibility to pack at your own pace and keep items safe while you transform your home.
Transforming your junk drawer might seem like a small task, but the sense of satisfaction and ease it brings is worth the effort. Plus, following these junk drawer organization tips makes it the perfect gateway project for tackling other areas of your home. Take a little time to conquer that clutter, and you’ll be amazed at how much easier it is to find what you need when you need it.
Happy organizing!