Outside the Box: 18 Unconventional Storage Solutions

You know that shoe box on the top shelf of your closet? The one stuffed with photo booth pictures, ticket stubs and other arbitrary mementos? Yeah, that one. So what if it’s more scrap yard than scrapbook? Before you rush out to replace it with a proper storage container, take a look around you. A better solution might be right under your nose.

Here are 18 unique storage ideas to inspire you to think outside the (shoe) box.

A box made of colorful plastic blocks would be a happy and hip addition to any countertop. Imagine your little one’s reaction when his or her creation becomes a functional objet d’art.


Stashing antiques in the attic is, well, antiquated. Put your prettiest pieces of vintage china to use as decorative jewelry holders.


A tiered fruit basket in the bathroom? That’s bananas! Or is it? The height lets you maximize your sink space and keeps toiletries within reach.


Galvanized tubs and buckets can help ease the transition from the nursery to the big kid’s room. Plus, they’re a cool alternative to toy chests and virtually unbreakable.


Use a milk jug as an umbrella stand. Seeing as I’m currently using a wrought iron umbrella stand to hide tissue rolls in my guest bath, I fully support this effort to showcase umbrellas — and creativity.


Using a wagon as a bookcase will inspire even the most unenthusiastic reader. Vintage styles would add a sense of whimsy to your playroom, but a standard Radio Flyer would work just as well.


Mismatched vases are a chic way to keep necklaces from tangling. Dust off the half dozen glass vases hidden in your kitchen cabinet and add a coat or two of white spray paint for chic on the cheap.


A grocer’s scale may not be the easiest item to come by, but it would certainly make an impact. Use it for fruit in the kitchen, towels in the bathroom or stationery in the office.


Let a weathered wooden ladder serve as a rustic shelving unit for anything from shoes to garden tools.


An orphaned drawer can slide easily under the bed to keep anything from books to blankets out of sight.


A hanging shoe organizer provides easy access to those odds and ends that would otherwise swamp a junk drawer. Hang one over your pantry door for a self-serve snack station.


A woven tote bag can double as an unassuming magazine holder and can be hung on a hook or propped against a wall.


Spice racks can hold more than spices. These ones from Ikea were painted orange and put to work in a child’s bedroom.


An industrial toolbox provides a space-saving home for office supplies here.


China cabinets are great for displaying heirloom quilts and decorative pillows.


Use a dish drainer to sort mail and the attached silverware cup to store pens. It works as well as any specialty sorter and is incredibly budget friendly.


Showcase tiny treasures in cardboard cutouts. Break down a box, cut pieces into 2-inch strips and secure them with invisible tape.


Tackle boxes are a great way to keep art supplies in order without compromising your creative vibe.

More: Your Total Home Organizing and Decluttering Guide

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