Homes and businesses alike stand to benefit from investing in a storage system. Whether you’re a garage hobbyist, a homemaker, or a small business owner, you want your domain to be as clean and clutter-free as possible. We often waste a lot of time looking for misplaced items, not to mention the potential safety risks of leaving dangerous tools and equipment lying around.
One of the most useful tools in the professional organizer’s arsenal is the storage container. With a storage container, you sort your belongings and label them so you know where everything is. You can also keep your tools and other items out of the way. However, before you can start organizing your home, you need to first create a plan. Every space is different, and organizing isn’t as simple as putting stuff in a box.
Just as an office deep cleaning can transform your business, taking the time to organize your space will also help you reclaim precious time and resources. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right storage for you.
1. Focus on size and the material
One of the reasons why people love container bins is its portability. You can easily sort, rearrange, and move the bins yourself. Container bins come in a wide range of sizes and materials, so you need to choose the right size and material to suit your needs.
For instance, if protection isn’t a priority, you may choose a container made of metal, fabric, or even cardboard. Plastic container bins may be used anywhere, regardless of the weather and temperature.
If you have a lot of hand tools and small power tools, you may individually store them in shoe-box bins so you can easily move them around the space. Some plastic bins are also designed to be stacked and stored in installed or freestanding cabinets or racks in your space.
2. Invest in a labeler
One of the best ways to keep a space organized is to ensure your storage containers are properly labeled. If you plan on using transparent plastic containers, then you can probably do away with labels. However, opaque containers and stacked bins require a proper labeling system.
You may customize your labeling system to ensure you can easily store and locate the tools and materials you require. For instance, you may label your containers according to the type of material, shape, size, color, or even the date of purchase. For instance, a person working with fabrics might label their storage containers according to the type or color of their thread collection. Similarly, a carpenter might label their bins according to the size and type of their screws and nails.
If your container bins don’t have a built-in label, you may print one out using a computer. If all else fails, you can just use a permanent marker and write directly on the surface.
3. Plan the layout
There’s no easy method of organizing all of your belongings in a way where every single box is equally accessible. Only a few items can be assigned the best shelf space. In order to rationalize your storage system, you have to organize your items based on how often you use them.
The top shelf in your cabinets should be reserved for items that are rarely used such as holiday decorations and seasonal sports gear. This is especially important if you don’t have a ladder or a stool that will allow you easy access to the top shelves. You need to optimize and maximize the space that you have. Frequently-used items should be readily accessible, while everything else can be sorted according to the frequency of usage. The less you use something, the higher it goes.
4. Plan for protection
Some tools and materials require extended storage and special protection against things such as moisture, humidity, temperature, and pests. Heavy-duty plastic container bins with airtight lids can protect your sensitive items for a long period of time. These container bins are also often roomy enough to store many of your belongings.
A final word
Planning a storage system for your home or business is more simple than you think. As long as you stick to tried-and-tested methods of organizing, you can keep your spaces clean and clutter-free. Make sure to choose storage containers that are durable and easy to clean.
