From the bedroom closet and inside kitchen cabinets to your kids’ playroom, keeping the house organized isn’t easy. We typically rely on organizers to tame clutter, whether it be shelves for books and baskets, hooks for hanging jackets or categorized bins for toys. But, not all storage solutions are created equal — turns out, there are some items professional organizers always avoid.
Not-so-helpful items, like excessively heavy containers or wooden hangers, can actually thwart your organizing efforts. Before investing in any storage essentials, consider these products professional organizers would encourage you to ditch forever.
1. “Pretty” storage solutions
“When it comes to storage, I avoid solutions that sacrifice function for form. This includes tapered bins that waste precious shelf space, wicker baskets that snag clothes and excessively heavy or super fragile containers. I like to think of storage solutions like an empty suitcase — if it’s heavy or overly complicated before you even pack, it’s not going to do anything but create more burden. I steer clear of oversized containers that become clutter magnets, like large toy chests.” — Laura Kinsella, founder of Urban Organyze.
2. Shelves that can’t adjust
“I stay away from shelving units and cupboards without adjustable shelves. The items people want to store vary in size and height, so the shelves need to be adaptable.” — Julie Stobbe of Mind Over Clutter
3. Organizers with a niche purpose
“If a company went out of their way to create something to fill a niche, I avoid it, as I find that most people never organize that way — we crave basic ways to get organized, like drawers, shelves and cabinets. Think hanging closet shelves, over-the-door organizing pockets, vacuum storage bags — any targeted, customized storage solution.” — Maeve Richmond, founder of the organizing coaching service Maeve’s Method
4. Toy organizers with tilted bins
“I’m not a fan of any kid’s storage shelf that holds between nine and 12 bins that sit on a slant. It seems like a good idea so children can see into the bins, but the bins are small and because they’re on a slant, toys fall onto the floor.” — Julie Stobbe
5. Stacked plastic drawers
“These may be cheap, but they just don’t last; I always find that they break. They also get dirty very easily, and can be difficult to open. The ease of your organizers is the most important factor for sticking with your system. Invest in sturdier drawers instead.” — Rachel Rosenthal, professional organizer at Rachel and Company
6. Free-standing coat racks
“A coat rack is a monster that just keeps growing. Instead, hang just a couple hooks, and store other coats, scarves and hats out of sight. Your entryway will thank you for slaying this beast.” — Jeni Aron, the Clutter Cowgirl
7. Bed frames with built-in drawers
“I find the drawer space to be limiting, and when the bed is pushed into a corner, you lose half the storage. Instead, use bed risers to create a helpful place for suitcases and bins of seasonal clothing.” — Amelia Meena, founder and professional organizer at Appleshine
8. Over-the-toilet shelving units
“If it’s your only option, fine. But I much prefer a floating shelf with attractive baskets on an opposite wall away from the commode. There’s a slimmer chance of something jumping overboard.” — Jeni Aron
9. Wooden hangers
“People choose these because they look pretty, but I hardly ever use them for everyday items. They’re so bulky, and clothes tend to slip off easily. I use slim felt-covered hangers instead, which take up much less space and keep clothes secure.” — Rachel Rosenthal
10. Label makers
“There’s a time and place for label makers, but that’s usually not at home. I’m not saying that labels are terrible, but it’s often unnecessary to use yet another electronic device (which you’ll have to store) to make them. Instead, write labels by hand. This will help you better remember where you’ve stored things, and handwriting is much more pleasing and personal than a printed sticker.” — Marla Kabashima, professional organizer
11. Stacked desk trays
“Thanks to computers and our increasingly paper-free lifestyle, there is less need for organizers that hold stacks of mail or tons of office supplies. I often see people with desk stackers stuffed with items they haven’t used in years. Let the stack go, and replace it with a simple tray or bowl for the few things you do use.” — Maeve Richmond
Overseeing all things home for GoodHousekeeping.com and HouseBeautiful.com, Lauren swoons over midcentury design and employs tough-love approach to decluttering (just throw it away, ladies). She loves anything neon coral, puts bacon on her veggie burgers, and would follow Tina Fey and Amy Poehler to the end of the earth.
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
