How to Organize the “Junk Drawer”

Every home has one – that infamous “junk drawer” where miscellaneous items seem to magically accumulate. It’s a convenient catch-all for everything from batteries and rubber bands to spare change and take-out menus. While undeniably handy, this drawer can quickly devolve into a chaotic abyss, making it impossible to find what you need. 

Whether you leave this to the pros and hire cleaning services in Burlington or tackle this yourself, these tips will help you keep it tidy in the long run. With a bit of organization and a dash of creativity, you can transform your junk drawer into a functional and accessible storage space.

How do you organize your junk drawer?

Whether you rent or own your home, you probably want to make your junk drawer organized once and for all. Let’s go over the most important steps.

1. Empty and assess

Start by emptying the entire contents of the drawer onto a clean surface. This will give you a comprehensive view of what you’re working with and allow you to assess each item individually and see what you can declutter.

2. Sort and categorize

Create distinct piles for different types of items. You might have piles of office supplies, tools, batteries, cords and chargers, and miscellaneous items. As you sort, be decisive in discarding anything that is broken, expired, or no longer useful.

3. Choose your organizational tools

Once you’ve categorized your items, select appropriate containers to keep them organized within the drawer. Small boxes, drawer dividers, trays, and even repurposed containers like mint tins or mason jars can all be useful for creating compartments.

4. Arrange and assign

Arrange the containers in your drawer in a way that makes sense for your needs. Place frequently used items towards the front for easy access. Consider labeling each container for quick identification of its contents.

5. Utilize vertical space

If your drawer is deep, don’t let the vertical space go to waste. Use small stackable containers or install a vertical divider to create multiple levels within the drawer. This allows you to maximize storage capacity and keep items organized within reach.

6. Regularly reassess and maintain

Once your junk drawer is organized, make it a habit to regularly reassess its contents. As you accumulate new items, take a moment to decide if they truly belong in the drawer or if they should be stored elsewhere. Remove any expired or unnecessary items and return misplaced items to their designated containers.

7. Find a place for unsorted things

If you find that certain items don’t belong in the junk drawer but don’t have a designated home elsewhere, consider creating additional storage solutions throughout your home. For example, you could install a key hook near the door for keys, a mail sorter for bills and letters, or a dedicated charging station for electronics.

8. Prevent clutter

To prevent your junk drawer from becoming a bottomless pit, establish a “one in, one out” rule. For every new item you add to the drawer, remove something else that you no longer need. This will help you maintain a manageable amount of items and prevent the drawer from becoming overcrowded. This is especially important if you live in a small space.

9. Embrace the transformation

Organizing your junk drawer may seem like a small task, but its impact can be significant. A tidy and well-organized drawer can save you time and frustration when searching for items, reduce stress, and even improve your overall sense of order in your home. So take the plunge, tackle that junk drawer, and enjoy the benefits of a more organized living space.

How do I find dependable cleaning services in Burlington and the surrounding area?

If the idea of tackling your junk drawer (or any other clutter hotspots in your home) feels overwhelming, we’re here to help. Our experienced pros at Clean My Space can take the burden off your shoulders. Whether you live close to the Nassahegon State Forest or in another area of Burlington, they’re here for you. They have the expertise and tools to declutter, organize, and deep clean your space, whether it’s an after-party cleanup or a weekly appointment. Contact us today to get started!