23 Ways to Get Organized With Items You Already Have

You don’t need to spend a fortune on fancy organizing products to get your home in order. In fact, some of the best storage solutions are already hiding in plain sight in your kitchen cabinets, recycling bin, and closet. We’ve all been tempted by those beautiful matching baskets and sleek acrylic organizers, but here’s the truth: you can achieve the same level of organization with items you already own, absolutely free. Not only does this save you money, but it also reduces waste and encourages creative problem-solving. From repurposing mason jars to transforming toilet paper rolls, these 23 clever ideas will help you declutter and organize your entire home without spending a single dollar. Let’s dive into the art of resourceful organizing!

1: Mason Jars for Pantry and Craft Storage

Those mason jars you’ve been saving from pasta sauce or jams are perfect for organizing. Use them to store dry goods like pasta, rice, and beans in the pantry . They’re also great for holding craft supplies like buttons, beads, or paintbrushes . The clear glass lets you see exactly what’s inside at a glance, saving you time and preventing duplicate purchases. Attach the lids to the underside of a shelf for a clever space-saving hack.

Tips

• Use chalkboard paint or simple labels to identify contents
• Group jars by size for a cohesive look
• Store frequently used items in smaller jars for easy access

2: Shoe Boxes for Drawer Dividers

Before you recycle those shoeboxes, consider their organizing potential. Shoe boxes are the perfect size for creating drawer dividers in your dresser or office . Cut them down to size and arrange them in your drawer to create designated compartments for socks, underwear, ties, or office supplies . For a polished look, cover them with wrapping paper or leftover fabric.

Tips

• Use the lids as additional shallow trays
• Stack boxes vertically to create tiered storage
• Label each box for easy identification

3: Toilet Paper Rolls for Cord Management

Those empty toilet paper rolls are a surprisingly effective tool for organizing cords and cables. Wrap each cord neatly and tuck it into its own toilet paper roll . Label the roll with a marker so you know which cord is which. You can also use paper towel rolls for larger cables. This simple trick prevents tangles and keeps your tech drawer neat and organized.

Tips

• Decorate the rolls with washi tape for a fun look
• Use a marker to identify each cord
• Store them upright in a box or basket

4: Egg Cartons for Small Item Organization

Egg cartons are perfect for organizing tiny items that tend to get lost. Use them to store jewelry, beads, screws, nails, or even small craft supplies . Each compartment holds a different item, making it easy to find what you need. The clear lid (if you have a clear one) allows you to see everything without opening it. Paint or decorate the carton for a more attractive look.

Tips

• Use the lid for even more storage
• Sort by color or size for easy access
• Store in a drawer or on a shelf

5: Cereal Boxes as Magazine Holders

Those empty cereal boxes are perfect for creating magazine holders. Simply cut them diagonally from top to bottom to create a slanted holder . Cover them with wrapping paper, contact paper, or paint for a stylish look. They’re perfect for storing magazines, files, recipe books, or children’s artwork . This is a classic organizing hack that’s both functional and budget-friendly.

Tips

• Use different sizes for different types of publications
• Group similar items together for easy browsing
• Line them up on a shelf for a cohesive look

6: Glass Jars for Bathroom Organization

Those empty glass jars from pickles, jams, or pasta sauce are perfect for bathroom organization. Use them to hold cotton balls, Q-tips, bath salts, or makeup brushes . The clear glass adds a spa-like feel and keeps everything visible and accessible. For a uniform look, remove the labels and use jars of similar sizes. Attach the lids to the underside of shelves for more creative storage.

Tips

• Use a label maker or chalkboard labels to identify contents
• Group jars by category (skincare, oral care, etc.)
• Place frequently used items in the most accessible jars

7: Old Mugs as Desk Organizers

That chipped mug you can’t part with? It can have a second life as a desk organizer. Use it to hold pens, pencils, scissors, and other office supplies . Group mugs of different sizes and colors for a fun, eclectic look. This is a great way to repurpose mismatched or sentimental mugs that don’t get used for coffee anymore.

Tips

• Use one mug for each category (pens, highlighters, etc.)
• Place heavier items at the bottom for stability
• Clean the mugs thoroughly before using as organizers

8: Shoelaces and Ribbon for Hanging Storage

Shoelaces, ribbons, or even strong string can be turned into hanging storage solutions. Use them to create a clothesline-style display for notes, photos, or children’s artwork . Attach them to hooks or nails on the wall and use clothespins to hang items . This is perfect for creating a rotating gallery wall or keeping important papers visible.

Tips

• Use washi tape to create a decorative border
• Hang near a desk or workspace for inspiration
• Refresh items regularly to keep it interesting

9: Empty Tins for Loose Change and Keys

Those empty tea tins or cookie tins are perfect for organizing small items at your entryway. Use one for loose change, another for keys, and a third for sunglasses or mail . They keep your entryway tidy and prevent essential items from getting lost. For a more attractive look, paint or decorate the tins to match your decor.

Tips

• Place the tins on a tray or in a bowl for a cohesive look
• Label each tin for easy identification
• Empty change regularly to keep it manageable

10: Old Calendars for Drawer Liners and Labels

Old calendars, magazines, or gift wrap can be repurposed as drawer liners or labels. The colorful pages add a pop of personality to your drawers and make them look custom-designed . You can also cut out pictures or letters to create unique, handmade labels for your storage bins . This is a creative and eco-friendly way to personalize your organizing system.

Tips

• Cut the calendar pages to fit your drawers perfectly
• Use clear contact paper over the top for durability
• Cut out letters for a scrappy, handmade label look

11: Buttons and Paperclips as Cable Labels

Tired of unplugging the wrong cord? Use a button or a paperclip to label your cables. Simply write the name of the device on a piece of tape and wrap it around a large paperclip, or tie a button to the cord . This simple trick prevents confusion and saves time when you’re trying to find the right charger. It’s a small change that makes a big difference.

Tips

• Use different colors for different types of devices
• Use a permanent marker for writing labels
• Keep labels consistent across all cords

12: Old Newspapers for Packing and Wrapping

Old newspapers are great for more than just recycling. Use them to wrap fragile items for storage or packing up seasonal decor . They also work well as drawer liners or for protecting surfaces during craft projects . It’s an eco-friendly way to keep your home organized without buying bubble wrap or packing paper.

Tips

• Crumple newspaper for padding around fragile items
• Use it to cover surfaces while painting
• Recycle it after use

13: Washcloths for Dusting and Cleaning

Old washcloths or t-shirts can be cut into cleaning rags. Use them to dust, clean surfaces, or polish furniture . This reduces waste and saves money on paper towels. Keep a basket of clean rags in a closet or under the sink for easy access. When they get dirty, simply wash and reuse them.

Tips

• Use different colors for different surfaces
• Roll them up for a tidy, organized look
• Keep a separate bin for dirty rags

14: Old T-shirts for Hanging Organizers

That t-shirt with the stain? Turn it into a hanging organizer. Cut off the sleeves and neckline, then sew or tie the bottom shut . Hang it on a hook or hanger, and use the pockets for storing socks, toys, or small items. It’s a simple, zero-waste solution for extra storage. You can also cut the body into strips to create a DIY rag rug.

Tips

• Use a larger t-shirt for more storage space
• Use markers or fabric paint to decorate it
• Hang it in a closet or on the back of a door

15: Empty Soda Boxes for Magazine Holders

Empty soda boxes are another great option for creating magazine holders. Cut them at an angle and cover them with wrapping paper or paint . They’re the perfect size for storing magazines, files, or children’s coloring books. Group them on a shelf for a cohesive, organized look. This is a budget-friendly alternative to buying expensive magazine holders.

Tips

• Reinforce the edges with tape for durability
• Use different colors to categorize items
• Stack them horizontally for additional storage

16: Ice Cube Trays for Small Office Supplies

An ice cube tray is the perfect size for organizing small office supplies. Use the compartments to hold paperclips, push pins, staples, and rubber bands . They keep these tiny items separated and easy to find. When you need a paperclip, simply grab one from the compartment. This is a simple, clever solution for keeping your desk organized.

Tips

• Use multiple trays for different categories
• Label the outside of the tray for easy identification
• Store the tray in a drawer or on a shelf

17: Old Ladders for Towel Racks and Shelves

An old wooden ladder can be repurposed as a unique towel rack or shelf. Lean it against the wall in your bathroom and use the rungs to hang towels . In a living room, it can be used as a display shelf for plants, books, or decorative items. This adds a rustic, charming aesthetic to your space while providing functional storage.

Tips

• Sand and paint the ladder to match your decor
• Use S-hooks for hanging items from the rungs
• Secure it to the wall for safety

18: Old Mugs for Sponge and Scrubber Storage

Keep your kitchen sink organized by using an old mug to store sponges and scrubbers. Place the mug next to your sink and keep your cleaning tools neatly contained . This keeps them off the counter and makes them easily accessible when you need them. It’s a simple, stylish solution that repurposes items you already have.

Tips

• Choose a mug with drainage holes or place it on a tray
• Clean the mug regularly to prevent mildew
• Use a different mug for each type of tool

19: Binder Rings for Freezer Storage

Organize your freezer by using binder rings to hold bags of frozen vegetables, fruits, or snacks. Simply clip the rings through the top of the bags and hang them from the freezer shelf . This keeps your freezer organized and makes it easy to see what you have. It’s a clever, zero-waste solution that prevents freezer chaos.

Tips

• Use different colored rings for different categories
• Label each bag for easy identification
• This works best with flat, easy-to-stack bags

20: Tin Cans for Desk and Utility Storage

Tin cans are a classic repurposing solution. After removing the label and cleaning the can thoroughly, use it to hold pens, pencils, scissors, or even utensils in the kitchen . For a polished look, paint the cans or cover them with decorative paper. This is an excellent way to reduce waste while gaining storage.

Tips

• Use a can opener that removes the entire lid to avoid sharp edges
• Group several cans together on a tray for a cohesive look
• Use different sizes for different purposes

21: Plastic Takeout Containers for Small Parts

Those clear plastic takeout containers with lids are perfect for organizing small parts. Use them to store screws, nails, batteries, buttons, or any other small items . The clear plastic lets you see the contents, and the lids keep everything secure and organized. This is a simple, effective solution for organizing your utility drawers.

Tips

• Use a marker to label each container
• Stack containers for easy storage
• Group similar items together

22: Cardboard Boxes as Drawer Organizers

Cardboard boxes from deliveries can be cut down to size to create custom drawer organizers. Measure your drawer and cut the boxes to fit. Use them to create compartments for different items . This allows you to customize your organization to your exact needs, and it’s completely free. Cover them with decorative paper for a more polished look.

Tips

• Use multiple boxes to create a grid-like system
• Leave the lids on to create covered storage
• Arrange boxes to fit your specific items

23: Old Picture Frames for Jewelry Display

An old picture frame without glass can be transformed into a jewelry organizer. Add some mesh, chicken wire, or small hooks to the back of the frame . Use it to hang necklaces, earrings, or bracelets. This creates a beautiful, functional display piece that keeps your jewelry organized and visible. It also adds a personal touch to your bedroom or closet.

Tips

• Paint the frame to match your decor
• Use small S-hooks for hanging earrings
• Place the frame where you can see it every morning

Conclusion

You don’t need to spend a fortune on organizing products to create a clutter-free home. As you’ve seen, some of the best solutions are already in your home empty jars, shoeboxes, tin cans, and even old t-shirts. The key is to look at everyday items with a fresh perspective and see their potential beyond their original purpose. These 23 ideas are just the beginning. Once you start thinking creatively, you’ll discover even more ways to organize with what you already have. Not only will you save money and reduce waste, but you’ll also create a unique, personalized organizing system that works specifically for your home and your needs. So, start looking around and see what you can repurpose today!

FAQs

Why should I organize with items I already have?

Organizing with items you already have saves you money, reduces waste, and encourages creative problem-solving. It also allows you to customize your organization system to exactly fit your needs without being limited by commercial products.

What are the best items to repurpose for organizing?

Some of the best items are glass jars, shoeboxes, toilet paper rolls, egg cartons, tin cans, and takeout containers. These are common household items that can be easily repurposed for storage and organization.

How do I make repurposed items look attractive?

You can paint, cover with wrapping paper or contact paper, or use decorative tape to make repurposed items look polished. A uniform look, like grouping matching jars or boxes, also creates a more cohesive, organized appearance.

Is it safe to use repurposed items for storing food?

Yes, as long as you choose food-safe items. Glass jars, for example, are excellent for pantry storage. Avoid storing food in containers that weren’t meant for food, like plastic takeout containers, as they may not be safe for long-term use.

How can I involve my kids in this type of organizing?

Kids love crafts, so let them help paint or decorate the organizers. They can also help sort items into categories, which teaches valuable organizational skills. Make it a fun family project!