How To Choose Storage Bins And Boxes

How to Choose the Best Storage Bin for Kids Playroom?

Unsurprisingly, your child's playroom is most likely to benefit from extra storage. Here's how to choose the best storage bins for your kid's room.

Plastics boxes with lids

Either pick transparent models, so your child can see what's inside without emptying the contents all over the place or opt for set colors for certain items if you have a lot of different types of small toys and accessories.

The lid will prevent small items from getting lost, mixed up, and keep them protected from dust and dirt. Opt for a plastic box with a lid if you need storage for the following items in your kid's room:

• Lego or similar construction blocks.
• Pens, paints, stamps, and other stationery.
• Small figurines and collectibles.
• Dominos, board games without boxes and crafts.

Fabric drawer bins

For slightly larger toys and individual models that don't need to be kept as a group, you should consider fabric drawer bins.

They are also a good choice for smaller children as there are no hard edges and they won't be able to try to climb on them. Use fabric drawer bins for the following:

• Plush toys.
• Dolls & action figures.
• Bulky games without individual pieces.
• Large/single item vehicles.

As your child won't be able to see through into the bin, it's best to use them only for medium-size toys that can be easily spotted and pulled out. Smaller toys or ones that need to be kept together risk getting lost or separated with this kind of storage option.

Best materials for kid's storage bins

Look for storage bins that are easy to clean, especially if you have young children.

While plastic versions are simple to wipe clean, if you opt for a fabric bin, stain proof or washable models are preferable. Also, dark colors will show unremovable stains much less than light-colored models.

Choosing bright colors will help to conceal stains, and they are also more likely to appeal to your child and help to make tidying up a little easier. We also find that fabric boxes with close-fitting handles are easier for small hands.

Cut-out holes are less easy to grab, and models with long cord handles are best avoided as they could become caught and tangled around your little one's wrist.

How to Choose the Best Storage Box for a Bedroom?

To turn your cluttered bedroom into a peaceful oasis of relaxation, a few storage boxes will go a long way. Here are some of the best models to get your bedroom organized.

Flat flip-lid boxes

If your closet is overflowing, or you're fed up of tripping over your special occasion footwear, find a permanent home for out-of-season or less frequently worn items under your bed.

A flat flip-lid box is an ideal solution for any clothes, shoes, or bedding that you want to store away for several weeks or months. Optimize your space and order some to store:

• Light blankets.
• Summer/winter footwear.
• Non-seasonal clothes.
• Fashion accessories.
• Handbags, purses and travel bags.
• Hats.

Here are some additional features you should consider:

• Wheels - they can make accessing your storage boxes under your bed much easier.

• Handles - depending on how big your bed is and how many boxes you're going to use, you may like to look for a model with a handle to make pulling it out easier.

• Lid fastening - some lids can be locked. This can be a good idea if you share accommodation or are staying in a dorm room.

• Protection - if your items risk becoming misshapen, look for an under-bed storage box with rigid sides and lid for better protection.

• Height - always double-check your box will easily fit under your bed, as well as being high enough to accommodate your items.

Open fabric bins for your bedroom (cubby organizers)

If you don't have space under your bed, or if you need to store items with easier access, then open fabric bins make a great option. They can be used alone or in sets, in storage cubes, in your closet, or on shelves.

• For a minimalist look, pick fabric bins in a neutral tone with cut-outs instead of handles. 

• For a more contemporary look, choose a bright color for your set of fabric bins and make them into a feature.

• Handles can add to your decor, pick rope style ones for a nautical theme, elaborately stitched ones for romantic style boudoirs or woven style or wooden ones for a more traditional style.

Stackable storage bins

Stackable storage bins come in a variety of sizes and make a great choice if you have a lot of items to store and very little space.

Stack them inside your closet, or if you are redecorating and need a stand-in for a new dresser, simply use several stackable storage bins in a corner for an organized storage solution.

How to Choose the Best Storage Boxes for Bathrooms?

Your bathrooms is yet another place in the home that is prone to clutter. Using a storage box is the perfect way to keep all your bathroom essentials well organized and within easy reach. It also eliminates the need to overwhelm bathroom shelves with a messy-looking mixture of bottles, cloths and towels.

• Look for colored or woven seagrass storage boxes with lids so that your products and towels aren't visible. This will make your bathroom look well put-together and create a relaxing space to unwind.

• Thin fabric storage bins aren't recommended if you're going to be keeping them in an area where they're prone to get wet. Over time, the fabric may become moldy in damp conditions and will be difficult to keep clean and dry. 

• It's best to have at least two storage boxes for your bathroom. One for cosmetics, healthcare products and medications, and another for towels and washcloths.