Last updated on February 19th, 2022 at 06:10 pm
Contents
I’ve tried to standardize certain things in our house, primary things that store stuff. I’ve found it helpful to standardize on these particular items because I’ve found it:
- Makes using the items more enjoyable/easier
- Ensures that if we need the item in the future, that there’s a high probability we’ll be able to get the same or similarly compatible item
These are the “approved” items:
Containers
Containers must be clear (colored lids are okay) so you can see the contents.
Sterilite is generally my go to for general purpose storage containers, with the exception of the heavy-duty 12 gallon tote.
I like OXO and Rubbermaid Commercial for kitchen storage.
Lids need to have some sort of latching mechanism to prevent them from just flying off when moving them around (I tend to stack boxes).
I’m still looking for an ideal container for storing:
- Clothes (e.g. for a capsule wardrobe)
- Things where even a Sterilite 6 quart is too big
Large
12 Gallon Tote (48 quarts) with hinged Lid
Better for heavy duty storage. I generally use these.
Purchase at: Costco, Home Depot, Target, etc.
Manufacturers: Greenmade, IRIS
Cost: $10/ea
45 Quart Storage with Separate Lid
This is really an alternate to the 12 Gallon Tote. I don’t like them as much, but they are ~25% less expensive and Costco almost always has them. They work very well for storing folded clothes. And they stack reasonable well with the 12 Gallon Totes. Generally Rachel will use these.
Purchase at: Costco, Home Depot, Target, etc.
Manufacturers: Greenmade, IRIS
Cost: $7.33/ea (sold as $22-for-3)
Medium
Sterilite 30 Quart Latch Storage Box
Stacks with the 18 Qt. Latch Storage Box (same footprint)
Model: 1985
Purchase at: Home Depot, Walmart
Cost: $12/ea
Sterilite 18 Quart Latch Storage Box
Stacks with the 30 Qt. Latch Storage Box (same footprint)
Model: 1984
Purchase at: Home Depot, Walmart
Cost: $8/ea
Small
Sterilite 6 Quart Storage Box
While not secure as the Latching Sterilite boxes, these have a pretty secure click on lid. There is a latching version, but it’s harder to find and 4x more expensive.
Model: 1642
Purchase at: Home Depot, Walmart, Fred Meyer, Ace, TrueValue
Cost: $1.78/each
Prohibited Storage Containers
Any container with a lid that merely rests on top and does not secure at all — such as IKEA SAMLA and IKEA KUGGIS.
Other items
Water bottles
Any water bottle that is compatible with the Nalgene-brand wide-mouth (2.5″ diameter) water bottle. Known compatible suppliers include: Nalgene and Camel-Bak