This post is all about choosing storage boxes… If you’re interested in Storage Furniture, look at my blog ‘Maximising Storages: Part 1’.
Before You Buy.
Declutter: It can be really tempting to run out a buy lots of lovely storage boxes but do the difficult bit first and have a good de-clutter!! If you skip this step, you will end up filling your lovely new boxes with clutter that you don’t need.
Sort & Measure: Before you buy your storage boxes have a clear idea of that will go in them and where they will go. This will stop you buying boxes that you don’t need and cant use. Remember – not everything needs to be in a storage box. Measure, then measure again. If you can find storage that fits an odd sized space even better. (Lego box under my stairs). Be sure to maximise the use of any storage boxes you buy – you don’t want to end up with half empty storage boxes. Anything that goes in the attic / loft should be in a box to protect it from bugs and dust. But don’t be tempted to box up your clutter and just move it to another part of the house.
Choosing the Right Storage
Decorative or functional: Be sure to buy a box that is suitable for your items and its location. Here are a few things to Consider.
Inside or Outside Storage
Inside
- Don’t waste money on expensive decorative boxes that no one will see.
- If the box is in a cabinet or cupboard, choose a budget friendly box that serves the purpose. No need to overthink it or get too creative. Keep it Simple.
- Fabric & Woven Boxes (& Baskets) are great for storing things in the open. BUT a word of caution – these tend to be squashy and are only suitable for storing similarly squashy items. Good for sofa throws and pillows but not suitable for books.
- Consider the weight … heavy items need sturdy boxes.
- Important paperwork should be stored in a sturdy waterproof box – ideally you should be a digital copy of anything important.
Outside
- Decorative boxes are rarely sturdy enough to store heavy items or anything that lives outside in the shed or garage.
- Should always be waterproof
- Stackable – try to buy boxes that are a similar style and size.
- Ease of opening – avoid cheap metal boxes or boxes with metal clasps that may rust.
Consider the Budget
Instagram vs Real life: Instagram shots of storage containers look amazing. They feature rows and rows of lovely boxes all the same size with a big space between them, all with lovely labels. These shots are usually just for product placement and created by advertisers & influencers. In reality your home won’t look like this. Afterall –you live here, you use stuff and move it around. Don’t waste your time and money buying overly expensive boxes or posh labels for pasta!
Low Cost Alternatives: Cardboard & Cheap Plastic boxes can easily be made decorative by adding contact paper. This adhesive paper comes in lots of styles and colours and is easy to apply. Check out the free storage boxes on Facebook Market Place – in my neighbourhood there is always lots of options.
A Word About Sentimental and Economic Valuables.
Sentimental items can vary enormously and are exceptionally personal. Choosing what to keep and how to store these possessions is extremely important and will be covered in a sperate blog. Make sure you have the right insurance for your Valuables. Some valuables need to be insured separately and or even named in the policy. Ask your insurance agent about how to store your named valuables as the result of any claim you make will almost certainly be affected by how you stored and cared for the valuables.
Clutter Free & Organised 