When it comes to keeping our homes organised, it’s easy to be tempted by clever storage products that promise to maximise every inch of space. But not every viral organising solution deserves a spot in your home – or is worth spending your hard-earned money on. In fact, some popular storage buys can create more hassle than they solve.
Here, professional organisers reveal three storage products that aren’t worth your money – plus the smarter solutions they recommend instead.
1. Over-the-door shoe organisers
A common choice for small homes and apartments, over-the-door shoe organisers might seem like a clever solution – particularly when floor space is limited. However, their flimsy fabric construction may not always stand up to the weight of the items they're designed to hold.
‘I had a client last year who paid for one from a big box store and, by the time we packed up her place eight months later, it was already sagging so bad that half the pockets had ripped loose,’ says Andrew Brown, owner and founder of Immediate Movers and Storage.
A vertical shoe rack is a much more durable (and stylish!) option if you're trying to save space. Look for one made from materials such as wood or metal, which are more likely to withstand regular use.
2. Fridge trays
Clear plastic trays have become a popular way to organise everything from yoghurt pots to drinks in the fridge. While they can create a neat Instagrammable look, they aren't always necessary – and could end up creating more kitchen waste.
‘They don’t need additional containment to keep them fresh or unblemished in the fridge,’ explains Kelly Moore, founder and CEO of Cleaning With Meaning. ‘These trays can sometimes crack easily, resulting in more plastic in the landfill, and don't always fit the packages of items they've been purchased to hold.’
Rather than buying containers simply to make the fridge look more uniform, focus on keeping food visible and easy to access. Grouping similar items together without additional trays can often be enough to keep things organised.
3. Vacuum-seal bags
Often used for seasonal clothing and bulky bedding, vacuum-seal bags work by removing the air to dramatically reduce the amount of space these items take up – at least initially, that is.
‘Vacuum-seal bags catch me off guard every time, and I'll admit I used to recommend them before I saw enough of them fail,’ Andrew explains. ‘They work great the day you pack them, but come back 12 months later and you’ll see the seal is shot, the air is back in, and you're storing a flat bag of clothes instead of a compressed one.’
Instead, reach for drawstring bags and wrap them up tightly. Fabric options can also be a more eco-friendly alternative, while still keeping seasonal clothes and other belongings contained.
Hell Blues 4-Pack Organic Cotton Drawstring Bags
Follow House Beautiful on Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest
The Clutter-Free Edit
