Containers That Work for You
Clear glass jars hold a variety of pantry staples.
“Which organizing supplies should I buy?” is a question I get often. If you think buying organizing supplies is the key to getting organized, you are not alone. So many of us reach for baskets and containers when we feel the urge to get organized, hoping the right bin will magically make everything fall into place. And if that’s you, please know this: there is absolutely nothing wrong with that impulse. It comes from wanting a calmer home and a little more ease in your day. But what if choosing the right bins actually starts long before you buy anything at all?
Start by Clearing Space, Not Filling It
I always encourage my clients to pause the shopping cart for just a moment. Before you invest in any organizing supplies, take a little time to let go of the things that no longer fit your life — the items you don’t use, the gifts that weren’t quite right, the things that are broken, uncomfortable, or just not “you” anymore.
Once you clear that space, something amazing happens. You often discover you already have more bins, baskets, or containers than you realized, simply because you collected them over the years while trying to get organized. And when your inventory shrinks, many of those old bins become perfectly useful again.
Let the decluttering phase finish first. Then take a fresh look at what you already own. You may find you don’t need to buy a single thing.
Choose What Supports the Way You Live
If you do need new bins, that’s when the fun part begins: choosing what actually helps you feel good in your home.
Start by thinking about how you naturally look for things and how you naturally put things away. Do you like seeing everything clearly? Or do you prefer a clean, tucked-away look? Do you love bold labels, or do you find them distracting?
Everyone’s brain works a little differently, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. For some people, clear bins with large labels feel calming and straightforward. For others, a pretty wicker basket or a hidden drawer feels more soothing and visually peaceful.
And remember — every family member may have different needs. It’s perfectly fine (and often very helpful) to use a mix of styles so everyone can succeed.
Make It Easy to Put Things Away
No matter what containers you choose, here’s the secret that makes organizing last:
Make putting things away just as easy — or easier — than leaving them out.
If a bin is too deep, placed too high, or feels too heavy, it likely won’t be used well. But if your containers match your access needs and the way your days naturally flow, your home will begin to support you instead of the other way around. Little by little, those simple choices add up to a space that feels lighter, calmer, and genuinely livable.
A Gentle Reminder as You Move Forward
Decluttering first, choosing bins second, and honoring your personal style throughout the process — that’s the real path to sustainable organizing. You deserve a home that feels peaceful and functional, one where every item has a place that makes sense to you. And you absolutely deserve the confidence that comes from knowing your space is working with you, not against you.
Pinky Jackson is a Decluttering Specialist and Home Organizing Expert. If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Pinky and her team would love to help you. Onsite Organizing services are available in the Louisville, KY area and Virtual Organizing services are offered for clients in other locations and for those who prefer to work online. Visit pinkyjackson.com to learn about our services and schedule a free assessment.
Photo: Steven Ungermann@steveungermann
