As a professional organizer there may be no greater joy than walking through the hallowed halls of the Container Store. Every bin, drawer, box and Lazy Susan gleams as I pass through the aisles.
But there are actually organizing products that I do not like or recommend. Say what?!? A professional organizer that doesn’t like a storage item?? Yes, I must admit there are a few items that I steer clear of, no matter how much they try to tempt me and lure themselves into my shopping cart.
#1 on my “do not bother buying” list is an egg storage container for your fridge. Sure they look appealing and the thought of an immaculate, Pinterest worthy fridge is desirable, but let’s be honest, the crate that the eggs come in from the grocery store is equally as good. Just cut the lid off and there you go – a beautiful row of eggs.
#2 on the “not worth the investment” list is a Lazy Susan without sides. Try this, grab your flat Lazy Susan and put several glass bottles full of liquids or spices on it. Next find a toddler and ask them to spin the Lazy Susan as fast as they can. Wheeee! Pro tip – record it for social media. That said, Lazy Susans with sides are one of my highest recommended products for home organization
#3 on the “no way do not buy” list are under-bed storage products that lack structure and stability. Flimsy, low priced under-bed shoe organizers are the worst. Pay attention if your online order arrives at your doorstep in an 8×10 envelope suitable for five pieces of paper! Hit the return button immediately. Now I am a big fan of under-bed storage, particularly for small spaces, but only if it is substantial and preferably has wheels.
Honorable mention for the “don’t even think about it” lists are soft-sided cube bins. While they are super popular and generally appealing as decor, if you add too many things or any heavy items their structure quickly falls apart.
So yes, there are products that won’t be going in my shopping cart when I cruise down my beloved storage aisles. My recommendation is to shop smart, invest a little more money in quality products, and reach out to a professional organizer for help finding the best items for your projects.
