How to Choose the Right Storage Bin Size & Style
Seamless storage solutions.
Choosing the right storage bin size and style can mean the difference between a cluttered and well-organized home. Follow these straightforward steps to find a storage solution that’s fit for your home.
1. Choose a Type of Storage Bin
Decorative Bin: Decorative bins combine style and function so you can hide your storage solutions in plain sight. They are usually practical square or rectangular boxes made of wood, metal, or fabric that give them a stylish finish.
Decorative Basket: Like decorative bins, baskets offer practicality with a beautiful woven texture. Baskets typically don’t include lids, so they’re best used for storing items like spare blankets, pillows, or linens that you don’t mind being visible.
Utility Bin: A utility bin is all function, no frills. They’re usually made of hard-sided plastic and have a simple box shape designed for maximizing storage space. This could be the best option for you if you plan on tucking the bin away in a closet or attic.
Storage Bag: Like utility bins, storage bags aren’t the most attractive storage solution but they’re very effective at storing large amounts of clothes, bedding, and other soft materials. The best part about storage bags is that they fold down to almost nothing when not in use.
Under-Bed Storage: Under-bed storage bins are specifically designed to fit in the narrow space under your bed frame, offering hidden but easily accessible storage. They come in a range of styles from practical plastic containers to decorative fabric bins.
Tip!
Looking to maximize storage in your home? Also check out our guide Under-Bed Storage Ideas for a Clutter-Free Bedroom for more storage hacks.
2. Determine the Necessary Storage Capacity
Small: The smallest storage bins are 40 quarts or smaller, designed to fit on closet shelving or beneath a coffee table for convenient use. They’re best for storing everyday items like T-shirts, hand towels, hats and gloves, or office supplies.
Medium: The next size up has a storage capacity of between 41 and 80 quarts and can include under-bed storage and smaller utility bins. This storage bin size is ideal for storing bulky sweaters, extra blankets, pillows, and even shoes.
Large: Large storage bins have between 81 and 120 quarts of capacity and usually require floor space or utility shelving to keep them. This size is ideal if you’re looking for storage for winter coats, seasonal decor, outdoor toys, or a large collection of books.
Extra-Large: The largest storage bins include those that are 121 quarts or larger. You’ll often find these containers in garages or attics, as they’re best fit for storing sports equipment, camping gear, and other large seasonal items.
Tip!
If you plan to keep storage in your garage, check out our guide Declutter Your Life: How to Organize a Garage for organization tips.
3. Consider Space-Saving Features
Stackable: Stackable storage bins are helpful for maximizing storage capacity in your home while limiting the footprint of large containers.
Collapsible: When not in use, collapsible storage bins can be folded down to take up less space in your home.
Nestable: Like collapsible bins, nesting containers conserve space by fitting inside one another when they’re empty.
Water-Resistant: If you’re looking for a storage solution for a garage, basement, bathroom, or other damp area, consider getting bins made with water-resistant material.
