storage containers It’s after the festivities of the holidays and a new year has just begun.  There are so many ads for diet products and exercise equipment to support one of the top New Year’s resolutions, to lose weight and live a healthy lifestyle.   Another one of the top resolutions is to get organized, and part of the organizing process is to use storage containers.

Getting organized actually fits in with the resolution to live a healthy lifestyle because it reduces stress.  When you can find what you need, when you need it, you get to work and appointments on time.  That is only one stress reducing scenario, there are many more, but I digress.

This is the time to start the year off right by getting organized to reduce stress, reclaim space and save money in the process.  That would explain all the ads at this time of year, for sales of all types of storage containers.  It’s no wonder that NAPO (National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals) designated January as GO Month (Get Organized).   Organizing your spaces is a step in the right direction and will set the tone for the rest of the year. The points below will help you understand how to choose the right storage containers to reclaim space by getting organized for the new year.

Organizing Process

Containerizing is part of the organizing process.  After you have sorted through your belongings, discarded unwanted items, and found a home for your keepers, you need to set boundaries with storage containers.  Choosing the appropriate type of storage for your things is a critical factor when it comes to maintaining your systems.  The containers you choose need to make sense to you, be accessible, and fit in the space that you have available.  Aesthetics may also be a consideration depending on the location of the containers, and also to keep the fun in maintaining your systems.  Wouldn’t you rather put items back into a decorative basket with a fun label?  I know I would!

Stuff In or Stuff Out

Containers come in many different forms, from open baskets and shelving of all sizes, to pantries, filing cabinets, closets, drawers, and plastic containers with lids.  Even your house is considered to be a big container!  Some people need to have their things out where they can see them.  They relate to that old saying, ‘out of sight, out of mind’.  Others like them behind cabinet doors or stored in opaque containers with lids, to maintain the appearance of clutter free spaces.  Determine your type and then containerize based on your needs or preference.

Visuals

Look around your spaces to see what types of storage containers you currently use.  What catches your eye? Containers that stand out with colors, fit in with your décor, have textures, or are just plain fun, are sure to draw your attention immediately.  Determine what containers are working well for you and continue containerizing using that strategy.

Plastic storage containers that come in colors or are clear with colored lids are a good choice for holiday decorations and accessories because it’s clear what lies beyond those lids.  These colored containers are seasonal and are typically available during or after the holiday season.  Halloween containers come in orange and black and Christmas containers come in red and green. When all your decorations are safely packed away in their homes, it’s amazing how much space you have in your home again.  Reclaiming space provides a renewed feeling, a breath of fresh air.

What is your favorite type of storage container?