There's one part of getting the home organized that many people find fun: Shopping for new storage solutions, label makers, and other products to help you stick to an organizing system. But before you stock up on toy organizers and wooden hangers, read up on the things organizers never buy. Organizing experts got honest with us about the items they wouldn't buy for their own homes or recommend to their clients.
Surprisingly, there are many popular storage solutions that the experts say aren't worth it. Some things look great on Instagram, but don't hold up in real life. (Sorry, but those cute wicker baskets might not be the best choice for your closet!). Other products that organizers want you to stay away from include storage solutions that are overly specific. As one expert points out, "Most people never organize that way." Additionally, experts say it's best to opt for organizing products that can adapt to different spaces as needed.
Keep reading to learn about the things organizers never buy. If you're looking for even more organizing tips, read up on the things organizers notice as soon as they walk into a home and the one chore organizers say you should do daily.
1. "Pretty" storage solutions
"When it comes to storage, I avoid solutions that sacrifice function for form. This includes tapered bins that waste precious shelf space, wicker baskets that snag clothes and excessively heavy or super fragile containers. I like to think of storage solutions like an empty suitcase — if it's heavy or overly complicated before you even pack, it's not going to do anything but create more burden. I steer clear of oversized containers that become clutter magnets, like large toy chests." — Laura Kinsella, founder of Urban Organyze.
2. Shelves that can't adjust
"I stay away from shelving units and cupboards without adjustable shelves. The items people want to store vary in size and height, so the shelves need to be adaptable." — Julie Stobbe of Mind Over Clutter
3. Organizers with a niche purpose
"If a company went out of their way to create something to fill a niche, I avoid it, as I find that most people never organize that way — we crave basic ways to get organized, like drawers, shelves and cabinets. Think hanging closet shelves, over-the-door organizing pockets, vacuum storage bags — any targeted, customized storage solution." — Maeve Richmond, founder of the organizing coaching service Maeve's Method
4. Toy organizers with tilted bins
"I'm not a fan of any kid's storage shelf that holds between nine and 12 bins that sit on a slant. It seems like a good idea so children can see into the bins, but the bins are small and because they're on a slant, toys fall onto the floor." — Julie Stobbe
5. 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
6. Bed frames with built-in drawers
"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
7. 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
8. 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 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, interior designer
9. 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 of 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." — Maeve Richmond
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) leads Good Housekeeping’s gift guide strategy. She writes and edits commerce content, where she analyzes lifestyle trends, shopping data, and works closely with the Good Housekeeping Institute to recommend top-tested products. Previously, she was the associate lifestyle editor for GH and wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, BobVila.com, and Unique Homes Magazine. When she’s not tracking down buzzy products, you can find her walking her dog, Skye, around Jersey City.
