Storage Containers

Introduction |  What this is |  Accumulation Strategy
Storage Containers |  Labeling |  Frequency |  Storage Locations
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Choosing which storage containers to use is especially important when you have limited space.

Standardization

If at all possible try to standardize on a specific type and brand of container. The different sizes within a brand or product line are sometimes multiples of each other which will help stacking and grouping while minimizing waste of precious space. Containers with the least amount of tapering will be more stable when stacked. Note that these tend to be more expensive due to increased shipping cost.

Containers with the least amount of tapering will be more stable when stacked. These tend to be more expensive due to increased shipping cost. 

Individual manufactures and containers

ArtBin – These are very flexible with their movable dividers but are admittedly one of the more expensive options.

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Sterilite (Target, Amazon) – These come in many sizes and are inexpensive, frequently on sale. 

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IRIS – Like Sterilite they have numerous options and sizes. The gasket tote below is one of my favorites.

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Curver Grey Basketweave Storage Bin sold at the container store (item 10057478) – Reasonably priced and versatile for larger bags. Both 1 and 2.5 gallon zip bags fit perfectly in this container and it stacks nicely.

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Tilt stacking drawer sold at Harbor Freight. These lock together and are great for tight space placement.

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Clear plastic shoebox (home depot) – Very inexpensive but lower quality boxes.

Most containers are tapered and do not provide the smaller, inner dimensions. If you are purchasing a container for a specific item like a MOC be sure to check the width and height at the bottom.

Container measurements are generally provided for the widest points, usually at the top. Most containers are tapered and do not provide the smaller, inner dimensions. If you are purchasing a container for a specific item like a MOC be sure to check the width and height at the bottom.

Shelves and enclosures

Ikea Trofast – Cabinet that holds pull-out plastic tubs

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Ikea Billy – Standard type bookshelf, good for vertical storage.

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Fabric pattern drawers – good for holding shallow containers.

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Wall mounted wire shelving – Inexpensive and flexible but requires hardware, likely can’t be used unless you own the space.

Purchasing locations

Storage is not always cheap and it’s easy to spend a lot of money, very quickly. Following is a list of my go to purchase locations. Note that some of these are US only.

JoAnne Fabrics – They have the best sales of any store in my experience. It is not uncommon for storage sales of 40-50% to occur which includes ArtBin.  

Harbor Freight – Their selection is limited but prices are significantly lower than anywhere else. They have a near identical version of the popular-with-AFOLs Stanley handle case for less than $9 where the name brand sells for $25.

Target – Consistently low prices. Brand selection tends to be narrow with Sterilite heavily represented.

Amazon – Large selection but prices can vary wildly over time. I find that some containers will suddenly only be available from 3rd party sellers for weeks or months at a time. If you find a good deal I would suggest ordering as many as possible at that time. Some items are available to Prime members only.

Container Store – Large and varied selection but typically the most expensive option. Sales tend to be infrequent compared to other stores but can be good deals.

Walmart – I’m not a big fan but sometimes they’ll have inexpensive options.

If you have ideas that work for you please send them in.

Introduction |  What this is |  Accumulation Strategy
Storage Containers |  Labeling |  Frequency |  Storage Locations
Building |  Displaying |  Case Study