You probably pay a lot of attention to keeping the top of your desk tidy. After all, who can work with all that stuff in the way? But try looking a little bit deeper and check out your desk drawers. Chances are, they’re not nearly as neat as what’s on the surface. It can be difficult to keep those drawers organized, but it’s important if you want to be able to find things. Here are 12 ways to finally whip them into shape.
1. Hit the Store
You’ve probably thought of store-bought organizers, but here’s a hint: pull out your drawers and cut pieces of newspaper to the correct size. Then, take those shopping with you. This way, whether you decide to buy one organizer or a bunch of little ones, you’ll know you’ve got something that fits.
2. Make Assignments
Try to use each desk drawer only for specific purposes. Maybe you put tape, scissors, pens, and paper clips in that smaller top drawer. Great! But what about reams of paper, computer cables, and craft supplies? Designate a drawer for each category, and put things together in a way that makes sense. You can even label your drawers (inside or out) to make sure things are put back properly.
3. Use Drawer Liners
If you’re sick of stuff sliding around, use a drawer or shelf liner with a non-slip surface. Then when you open your drawers, things won’t slide out of place. Most of these mats are easy to cut, so you can get just the right size.
4. Utensil Trays
You know those trays you put in your kitchen drawers to organize utensils? They can work wonders in desk drawers too!
5. Clearly Neat
Something about clear drawer organizers makes everything appear more visible and easier to find.
6. Muffin Tins
Wait, what? Yes, muffin tins! Nothing works better for keeping small items like binder clips, washi tape, and keys in their place. And you’ve probably got an extra one already!
7. Don’t Kick the Can
Don’t throw away those tuna cans! Peel off the labels and run them through the dishwasher. They’re great for loose change, beads, elastics, and more. Glue them together if you like.
8. Small Cookie Sheets
Your local dollar store probably has small rimmed cookie sheets. If you have a large but shallow drawer, these can work perfectly for keeping it neat.
9. Out of Sight, Out of Mind
If your desk drawers are stained or sticky and you can’t seem to get them clean, try some adhesive drawer liner. You won’t have to look at the grime, and you can pick whatever pattern you want.
10. Make Your Own Organizer
This simple DIY will help you make your own drawer organizers out of cardboard. You can use this method for any size drawer.
11. Use What You Have
Look around your house. You probably have jars, cans, boxes, or bins that aren’t serving a particular purpose. Why not put them to work in your desk drawers? Anything that can hold items and fit in a drawer will work: peanut butter jars, shoe boxes, small baskets, tin cans. Trash can be organizational treasure!
12. Make a Charging Station
We all own at least one small device that needs charging. Usually, those end up cluttering your desk or kitchen counter. Try turning a desk drawer into a charging station, and you’ll cut down on the clutter both in and on your desk. Genius!
Leave a Reply