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In the spirit of cleaning house, we’re canceling our exciting Saturday night plans to aimlessly wander every aisle at our decluttering store of choice: the Container Store. But before we dedicate our entire weekend to tidying up, we thought we’d seek a little advice. We took our most pressing Container Store–related question to every organization professional we knew and asked them: What’s in your basket?
Among the many no-fail products on their shopping list, there were some clear winners in the group. Read on for the organizing essential that will have your space sparkling in no time.
The Large Tapered Canvas Bin
Large Tapered Canvas Bin Grey Stripe, The Container Store
These are pro organizer and Minimalista author Shira Gill’s go-to solution for just about anything. “I love using them for corralling toys and small games in a playroom, storing seasonal essentials in an entry closet, and containing linens and towels in a linen closet,” she shares.
The XL Rattan Bin
X-Large Rattan Bin w/ Lid Natural, The Container Store
“I adore this bin for its incredible versatility,” says Rachel Rosenthal. Its secret lies in its lid: You can pop it off if you want to treat it as a cute storage basket for blankets or keep it sealed if you prefer to load it up with all the Legos your kids own.
The Shimo Multipurpose Bin
Shimo Small Multi-Purpose Bin Translucent, The Container Store
While you could certainly use this transparent bin for grouping file folders and notebooks, Jen Du Bois of Home With Jen D has another idea for you. “They also work great for organizing canned goods in your pantry,” she reveals.
The Stacking Bottle Organizer
Everything Organizer Stacking Bottle Organizer Clear, The Container Store
Thanks to its stackable design, you can make the most of a tall upper cabinet with this clever holder that’s meant to stop water bottles from toppling over. “I love that it gives me a way to set a limit on how many bottles I keep, but still keeps them neatly arranged and easy to reach,” says Nikki Boyd, founder of At Home With Nikki.
The Palaset XL Magazine Holder
Palaset XL Magazine Holder, The Container Store
Like Du Bois, Boyd doesn’t just accept products for what they are—she comes up with new uses for them. Take this magazine holder. For starters, you can use it under a bathroom sink to keep all your hair products and styling tools organized and categorized. “It’s also a fantastic solution in the closet for keeping sandals and flip-flops in order,” says Boyd.
The 3-Tier Rolling Cart
3-Tier Rolling Cart Sage, The Container Store
Boyd’s final lifesaver? This rolling cart that can be used to tote crafts from room to room but also works wonders in tiny kitchens (you can put your utensils on one shelf, mugs on another).
The Tosca Basket
Yamazaki Slim Tosca Basket w/ Wooden Handles White/Natural, The Container Store
This Yamazaki find is Breathing Room’s Holly Blakey’s most-used Container Store product. “Kitchens, pantries, bathrooms, laundry rooms—they level up the look of any space and are superpractical,” she says, noting that they’re the perfect size for most cabinets, too.
The Artisan Grasscloth Bin
Large Artisan Grasscloth Bin Natural, The Container Store
These newer additions to the Container Store have Blakey excited to use them in closets, not just because the woven finish will complement your wardrobe but because they’re sturdy and will keep folded items in place.
The Purse Storage Organizer
Acrylic 4-Section Purse Storage Organizer, The Container Store
“This is another product I use in almost every home I organize,” says Blakey. “It holds clutches, art supplies, office devices…it’s a definite go-to.”
The iDesign Linus Turntable
iDESIGN Linus 9u0022 Divided Turntable Clear, The Container Store
Almost every organizing pro we asked dubbed this versatile essential an absolute must. “It’s the perfect tool to keep items contained and easily accessible,” says Clea Shearer, cofounder of The Home Edit. Her business partner, Joanna Teplin, recommends using it in a front hall closet for pharmacy and first-aid supplies or a the pantry for oils and vinegars.
“For me, it’s a lifesaver!” adds organization pro and founder of Cindyology, Cindy Huzenman. “When I find myself in a deep pantry or a cabinet corner, the best item to use is a turntable. It will facilitate access but won’t let food get lost in the back.” Psst: If the fridge is your weak spot, you can also stick it in there (yogurts and cheese sticks fit perfectly).
Jessica Litman of Chicago-based firm The Organized Mama also shared her praise for the piece. Along with keeping kids’ snacks in their proper place, Litman likes to use the lazy Susan in a bathroom for added storage under the sink. “Since it’s so versatile, it works in those hard-to-get-to spaces without taking up too much room,” she says.
The Nonslip Velvet Hangers
Non-Slip Velvet Shirt Hangers Linen Pkg/10, The Container Store
When Jamie Hord, founder of Horderly, steps into a closet, she notices right away if the hangers are matching. It’s that thing that gives you instant gratification, plus there’s a hidden function. “You will be shocked at how using all matching felt hangers will save you space in your closet,” she says.