Organizing small spaces can feel like a puzzle, with limited storage options often leading to cluttered, overwhelming areas. This is where dollar store finds become a game-changer. Dollar stores offer affordable and practical solutions, making it easy to tackle organizing needs on a budget. With a variety of bins, baskets, and containers, they have everything you need to transform a messy space into an organized one. When shopping, focus on versatile, sturdy items that maximize every inch of storage. In this blog post, we’ll dive deeper into what to look for at dollar stores, exploring clever organizing hacks that make the most of any small space.
Entryway Solutions
Idea 1. Over-the-Door Pocket Organizer for Shoes and Accessories
An over-the-door pocket organizer is a versatile, space-saving solution for small entryways. Originally designed for shoes, it can also hold hats, gloves, scarves, and other accessories. Simply hang it over the door to keep items off the floor and within easy reach. This organizer helps you avoid clutter while maximizing vertical space, making it perfect for narrow entryways.
Idea 2. Command Hook and Basket System for Keys and Mail
Set up a quick drop-off station for keys, mail, and other essentials with command hooks and small baskets. Attach command hooks to the wall at eye level, then hang a lightweight basket or two to hold mail and small items. This simple system keeps your entryway tidy, prevents lost keys, and ensures that mail doesn’t pile up elsewhere in the home. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t require drilling, making it renter-friendly as well.
Idea 3. Plastic Drawer Stacking Unit for Winter Accessories
A plastic drawer unit is a smart choice for storing seasonal accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves. Choose a narrow, stacking unit that fits easily in your entryway or closet. Label each drawer for quick access, especially during the colder months. This solution keeps winter items organized and out of sight, making it easy to grab what you need on your way out the door.
Idea 4. DIY Wall-Mounted Umbrella Holder Using Plastic Containers
Create a convenient umbrella holder using a plastic container mounted to the wall. Choose a tall, narrow container, then attach it to the wall near the entryway with adhesive strips or screws. This DIY project keeps umbrellas upright and off the floor, saving valuable space. It’s also ideal for keeping wet umbrellas contained, protecting your floors from moisture.
Idea 5. Narrow Rolling Cart Setup for Seasonal Items
A narrow rolling cart can be a game-changer for storing seasonal items in a small entryway. Use each tier of the cart for different items: one level for winter gloves and scarves, another for summer hats or beach essentials. Because the cart is on wheels, you can easily move it to another room if you need to rearrange your entryway. This setup is perfect for keeping seasonal essentials organized and easy to access without taking up much floor space.
Kitchen Space Maximizers
Idea 6. Tension Rod Under-Sink Spray Bottle Organizer
Place a tension rod under the sink to keep spray bottles neatly organized. Hang each bottle by its trigger on the rod, freeing up cabinet space below. This setup not only organizes bottles but also makes them easy to grab, keeping the under-sink area clutter-free and maximizing vertical space.
Idea 7. Plastic Drawer Dividers for Utensil Management
Drawer dividers are essential for keeping kitchen utensils organized and easy to find. Use adjustable plastic dividers to create separate sections for forks, spoons, and other utensils. This simple addition prevents items from shifting and keeps everything within reach, reducing clutter and saving time during meal prep.
Idea 8. Magnetic Spice Organization on the Fridge Side
Utilize the side of your fridge with magnetic spice jars to keep spices accessible and visible. Attach small magnetic jars or containers to the fridge, labeling each for quick identification. This solution not only frees up cabinet or counter space but also adds a stylish touch to your kitchen.
Idea 9. Stackable Bin System for Pantry Items
Stackable bins are ideal for keeping pantry items organized and easy to access. Use bins of varying sizes for different types of food, such as snacks, canned goods, or baking ingredients. By stacking vertically, you maximize storage space while maintaining clear visibility of each item. It’s an efficient way to create a well-ordered pantry.
Idea 10. Clear Shoe Organizers for Packet Storage
Repurpose a clear shoe organizer on the back of a pantry or kitchen door for storing small packets like spices, seasoning mixes, and snacks. Each pocket keeps items visible and accessible, helping you find what you need without digging through drawers or cabinets. This setup is perfect for saving cabinet space while keeping small items organized.
Idea 11. Cabinet Door Mounted Cleaning Supply Holders
Install holders or adhesive hooks on the inside of cabinet doors to store cleaning supplies. Attach small baskets or hooks to hold sponges, gloves, and other supplies. This setup keeps cleaning essentials hidden yet easily accessible, maximizing cabinet space and reducing under-sink clutter.
Idea 12. Plastic Basket Drawer Organization
Plastic baskets are great for organizing drawers by category, making it easy to separate items like measuring cups, lids, and small kitchen tools. Use a few baskets in each drawer to keep everything neatly grouped. This method is both budget-friendly and effective in keeping drawers tidy.
Idea 13. Vertical Pan Lid Organization Using Plate Holders
Use a plate holder or a simple rack to store pan lids vertically inside a cabinet. This setup keeps lids organized and easy to reach, preventing them from clattering around or taking up excessive space. It’s a practical, low-cost way to keep pan lids neatly stored and within reach.
Bathroom Storage Solutions
Idea 14. Shower Curtain Rings for Hanging Toiletries
Use shower curtain rings to hang toiletries like loofahs, razors, and small bottles right on the shower rod. Simply clip each item onto a ring to keep it off shelves and within reach. This setup prevents clutter around the tub and uses minimal space, keeping your shower area organized and functional.
Idea 15. Mason Jar Toothbrush and Cotton Swab Organization
Mason jars are perfect for storing bathroom essentials like toothbrushes and cotton swabs. Place jars on the counter or mount them on a board for a charming, organized look. This solution not only keeps items tidy but also adds a bit of rustic charm to your bathroom decor.
Idea 16. Plastic Basket Suction Cup Wall Storage
A plastic basket with suction cups is ideal for holding shower essentials without taking up shelf space. Attach the basket to the shower wall to store shampoo, conditioner, and soap. This setup keeps items off the floor and within easy reach, reducing clutter and keeping your bathroom cleaner.
Idea 17. Over-Toilet Rolling Cart Organization
An over-toilet rolling cart is a space-saving solution for small bathrooms. Use the tiers to store extra towels, toilet paper, and other essentials. The cart’s wheels make it easy to move if needed, allowing you to make the most of vertical space without overcrowding the area.
Idea 18. Hair Tool Holder from PVC Pipes
Repurpose PVC pipes as holders for hair tools like curling irons, straighteners, and hair dryers. Cut a few PVC pipes to size and attach them to the inside of a cabinet door for easy, heat-safe storage. This setup keeps tools organized and off counters, making your bathroom feel tidier.
Idea 19. Under-Sink Expandable Shelf System
An expandable shelf under the sink maximizes space by creating extra layers for storage. Use the shelf to store cleaning supplies, extra toiletries, and other items you want out of sight. This setup organizes the often-cluttered under-sink area, making it easy to find what you need without a mess.
Bedroom & Closet Organization
Idea 20. Belt/Scarf Organization Using Shower Curtain Rings
Shower curtain rings are a simple solution for hanging belts and scarves neatly in your closet. Clip each item onto a ring, then slide the rings onto a hanger to keep them organized and accessible. This setup saves drawer space and prevents tangling, making it easy to find the accessory you need.
Idea 21. Drawer Dividers from Plastic Containers
Plastic containers make effective dividers for organizing items like socks, underwear, or smaller clothing pieces. Arrange containers in drawers to separate and categorize items, reducing clutter and making it easy to locate specific items. This quick fix keeps drawers tidy without breaking the budget.
Idea 22. Shelf Dividers Using Magazine Holders
Turn magazine holders on their sides to create sturdy dividers for closet shelves. These dividers help keep stacks of clothes, bags, or linens neatly separated and prevent items from toppling over. This idea is both affordable and easy to set up, making it perfect for maintaining order on open shelves.
Idea 23. Hanging Jewelry Organization Using Grid Organizers
Use a small grid organizer to hang necklaces, bracelets, and earrings in an organized way. Mount the grid on a wall or inside your closet door to keep jewelry untangled and on display. This method frees up drawer space while keeping your jewelry visible and easy to access.
Idea 24. Under-Bed Storage with Dollar Store Containers
Maximize the space under your bed by using low-profile storage containers from the dollar store. Store off-season clothes, shoes, or extra linens in these containers to keep them out of sight yet easily accessible. This setup utilizes hidden space, helping to keep your room clutter-free.
Idea 25. Vertical Folding Method with Box Organizers
Use box organizers to arrange clothes using the vertical folding method, which saves drawer space and makes it easy to see each item. Fold shirts, pants, or sweaters vertically and place them in the boxes for a tidy, streamlined look. This method maximizes storage while helping you find clothes at a glance.
Idea 26. Small Accessory Storage Using Ice Cube Trays
Ice cube trays are a clever solution for storing small accessories like rings, earrings, and cufflinks. Place a tray in a drawer or on a vanity to keep each piece separated and easy to find. This simple, budget-friendly organizer prevents tiny items from getting lost and keeps your accessories in order.
Home Office & Craft Space
Idea 27. Pen/Pencil Organization Using Mason Jars
Mason jars are a quick and stylish way to organize pens, pencils, and markers on your desk. Place a few jars within reach, grouping similar items for easy access. This setup keeps your writing tools tidy and visible, adding a touch of charm to your workspace.
Idea 28. Paper Sorting System with Magazine Holders
Magazine holders are perfect for organizing paper piles, folders, or notebooks. Label each holder for categories like “To-Do,” “In Progress,” or “Reference” to create a clear system. This approach reduces desk clutter, keeps paperwork in order, and makes it easy to find documents when needed.
Idea 29. Cable Management Using Binder Clips
Binder clips offer a simple solution to tame cords and cables around your desk. Attach a few clips to the edge of your desk, threading each cable through the clip handles. This method prevents cables from tangling or falling, keeping your workspace clean and helping you quickly access any device.
Idea 30. Supply Drawer Organization with Plastic Trays
Plastic trays work wonders for organizing craft or office supplies in drawers. Use trays to separate items like paper clips, sticky notes, and scissors, keeping everything in its place. This setup prevents small items from mixing together and ensures you can find supplies easily when working on projects.
Idea 31. Wall-Mounted Supply Storage Using Baskets
Attach small baskets to the wall to keep essential supplies off your desk but within reach. Use these baskets to hold items like scissors, rulers, or even small notebooks. This wall-mounted storage frees up desk space and adds a functional, organized element to your craft or office area.
Kids’ Room & Toy Storage
Idea 32. Clear Shoe Organizers for Small Toys
Clear shoe organizers are a great way to keep small toys sorted and easy to find. Hang one on the back of a door or closet to store items like action figures, dolls, or craft supplies. Each pocket provides a designated spot, making clean-up simple for kids while keeping toys visible and accessible.
Idea 33. Rolling Cart Art Supply Station
A rolling cart makes a convenient, mobile art supply station for kids. Organize markers, crayons, paints, and paper on each level of the cart, creating an easy-to-move art center. This setup keeps supplies organized in one place, encourages creativity, and allows kids to roll it wherever they want to work.
Idea 34. Magnetic Board Organization for Small Items
A magnetic board is perfect for organizing small items like toy cars, hair clips, or magnetic letters. Mount a board on the wall at a kid-friendly height, then use magnetic containers or hooks to keep everything in place. This setup keeps small items off the floor, making play areas safer and tidier.
Idea 35. Book Organization Using Plastic Bins
Plastic bins are an affordable and effective way to organize kids’ books by type or theme. Label each bin for easy identification, and place them on low shelves so kids can grab books themselves. This setup encourages reading, keeps books within reach, and helps kids learn to organize their own belongings.
Implementation Tips
1. How to Measure Spaces Before Buying?
Accurate measurements are key to choosing storage solutions that fit perfectly. Start by measuring the width, height, and depth of each space where you plan to add storage. Write down these dimensions and bring them along when shopping. This practice helps avoid purchasing items that are too large or small, saving time and money.
2. Color Coordination Strategies
Color coordination makes any space feel more organized and visually appealing. Choose a color scheme that complements your room’s decor or opt for neutral colors for a clean look. You can also use specific colors for different types of items—like blue for cleaning supplies and green for crafts—to make organizing even easier.
3. Labeling System Suggestions
Labels are a simple but powerful tool for keeping everything in place. Use clear, legible labels on bins, drawers, and shelves to help you find items quickly. Try pre-made labels for a uniform look, or create custom labels with a label maker. For kids’ spaces, use picture labels to make it easy for them to put items back where they belong.
4. Maintenance Tips for Keeping Systems Organized
Set aside a few minutes each week to tidy up and make sure everything is in its designated spot. Regularly check storage areas to see if any items are out of place or need to be reorganized. This small habit prevents clutter from building up, keeping your organization systems working effectively over time.
Conclusion
Organizing with dollar store items offers great solutions at a fraction of typical costs. A simple cost breakdown shows significant savings compared to pricier alternatives, making these projects budget-friendly without sacrificing quality. Elevate dollar store finds by using paint, labels, or decorative touches to give them a high-end look. For more inspiration, check out additional dollar store resources for fresh ideas and clever hacks. With creativity, you can achieve organized, stylish spaces without overspending.