Before & After: Two Simple Finds Make This Junk Drawer So Much More Functional
One of my favorite pastimes is cleaning, organizing, and decluttering my boyfriend’s house — while he’s gone. Those burnt, stained potholders? Whoops, they fell in the trash! That pile of takeout condiment packages collecting dust on the lazy Susan? I have no idea what you’re talking about! I’ve made a lot of progress in tackling the dust bunnies and dog hair, but there’s one frontier I’ve been itching to conquer: his junk drawer.
Cleaning and organizing enthusiasts will understand the pleasure of a tight and tidy junk drawer. I am in full support of having a place to store all of the random stuff that just doesn’t seem to fit anywhere else; I just don’t think this place automatically has to be a hot mess. After taking stock of his situation, I knew exactly what to buy to whip this junk drawer into shape: the four-piece Everything Drawer Organizer set from The Container Store.
This set of plastic organizers comes with four compartments in a few different sizes. They’re easy to mix and match, and you can use them in any combination or configuration. Plus, they’re clear and simple, so you’re not paying big bucks for aesthetics that will just be hidden in a drawer.
While I was shopping, I also ordered another set of similar organizers, which have the same design, but are made to fit a 12×18-inch drawer. Between the two sets, I was able to essentially create a bespoke organizer for less than $50.
After a quick toss of obvious trash (he’ll never miss that spare Lego, right?), I sorted each compartment with similar objects. I grouped a few toothpick containers, an assortment of pens, and a few peelers too.
Then came the exciting part: Fitting the containers all together in the drawer. It was like a fun game of Tetris. And I quickly realized these compartments come with one feature I hadn’t planned on, but totally love: They have grippy silicone feet, so they won’t slip and slide around every time the drawer is opened. Brilliant.
The whole “project” took less than 15 minutes. I love how this organizing project turned out, and happily, my boyfriend does too. He even got in on the fun and reconfigured the flatware and utensils drawer while I organized. (What can I say? We’re a power couple.) Days later, I can’t stop opening the junk drawer to admire how neat it all looks. I may even order another set or two — the drawers in the bathroom are calling my name.
Have you organized your kitchen junk drawer? Tell us in the comments below or, better yet, send us photos!
This post originally ran on Kitchn. See it there: Before & After: Thanks to a Few Simple Organizers, This Junk Drawer Is Now a Lot More Functional