People with organized homes (that used to be a mess) swear by these genius, cheap things

Turn your home into an organized oasis.

People with organized homes (that used to be a mess) swear by these genius, cheap things
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Have you ever stepped into someone's home that was once a total mess, only to find it now as tidy and put together as a Pinterest board? Those people have cracked the code on turning chaos into charm, and they have some smart, wallet-friendly tricks that made it happen. I scoured reviews from previously messy shoppers and reached out to Mic editors who used to struggle with clutter to find out which products helped them turn their homes into organized oases. Read on for their tips.

01These cable ties that can wrangle cords, chargers, & more

Amazon user Vanessa S. highly recommends these self-gripping cable ties for organizing spare cables and chargers, writing, “I used this to clean up my PC cords, turning a mess of hookups for two monitors, a capture card, a gaming console, a mouse, and a keyboard into a much more well-bundled array.” These come in a pack of 40, so you’ll have plenty to tackle all the electronic clutter in your home.

02These storage containers that slide under your bed

These under-bed storage containers are designed to slide easily under most beds, making them great for apartments and homes that don’t have a lot of built-in storage space. “I never had enough storage room in my bedroom for everything so I figured I would give these a try,” wrote Amazon user Wes. “I filled them up with all of my extra sheets/pillowcases/towels and threw them under the bed and was amazed at how much better my room looked with dresser drawers [that] actually would close.” Each order includes two containers with clear zip-top covers and built-in handles for easy maneuvering.

03This battery organizer with a built-in tester

This organizer provides a home for loose batteries and keeps them easily accessible. “For years, we kept the batteries in their original package, digging around in the small opening to get them out,” wrote one Amazon user. “The drawer was a mess! It is now neat and organized and we can easily find what we need.” This storage case also comes with a battery tester, so you can throw out old batteries that no longer have a charge.

04These storage baskets with stylish faux leather handles

Take a tip from this Reddit user and employ fabric containers to organize the closet. “I just love how my clothes aren't in messy piles anymore. And if a basket overflows, I rethink about what should stay and what should go,” they said. These containers are stylish and functional, featuring durable metal frames that can be folded down when the baskets aren’t in use.

05These plastic bins that are clear & stackable

The refrigerator can quickly get messy as it’s filled with food, drinks, and leftovers. That’s why Amazon user Heather Slater suggests using these clear stackable bins to keep things tidy. “Thanks to a deep clean and these new bins, my once cluttered fridge is now organized,” Slater wrote. The set includes eight bins in two sizes, and each one has handles so you can easily grab the bin you need.

06A set of storage straps that tame large cords

Amazon user C. Hatch is a fan of these heavy-duty storage straps for their ability to organize large, bulky cords. “We have multiple extension cords all over our garage, and it has looked like a mess for years,” they explained. “I wasn't sure how to best organize these cords and keep them accessible [...] I now have an excellently organized line of extension cords that are easily accessible, and well stored thanks to the Wrap-It Storage Straps.” These come in a set of six in various sizes, each with a hook and loop closure that holds up to 50 pounds.

07A utensil holder that frees up valuable drawer space

If you find yourself struggling with drawer space, this kitchen utensil holder may help. “I use a lot of utensils in the kitchen, and this was PERFECT to keep everything clean and organized,” said one Amazon customer. “My kitchen looks so put together now, and my drawers aren't a cluttered mess.” Available in brushed stainless steel or white, the caddy includes a removable divider to keep utensils organized.

08This label maker that takes organization to the next level

Amp up your organization by using this label maker to easily identify all of your things. As this Reddit user notes, you can use this device to “label spots for things/trays in drawers so there’s no question where stuff goes.” The highly rated label maker connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth for easy creation and printing.

09These storage containers that come with labels

Whether you buy food in bulk or are dealing with cluttered boxes, these food storage containers can help streamline your storage needs. Amazon user kat Zac writes, “I love, love these containers. Very easy to open. Reduces clutter of cereal boxes with a tight seal for freshness... I'm definitely buying more!” The set comes with seven containers in various sizes and includes labels and a chalk pen for easy identification.

10A lazy Susan turntable that organizes refrigerators, cupboards, & more

Instead of knocking over condiments to get to the back of the shelf, use this turntable to keep things accessible. Amazon user Junebug is a big fan, writing, “It instantly organizes cupboard clutter. I'm buying another one.” The clear plastic makes it easy to see everything at a glance, and there’s a removable divider for customized storage.

11An organizer that holds food storage container lids

This food container lid organizer changed the game for one Amazon customer. “I was overwhelmed by the mess in my Tupperware cabinet and had no idea how to organize it because my containers don’t stack neatly inside of one another,” they explained. “So on a (desperate) whim I ordered this and it’s, hands down, the best Amazon purchase of the year. I learned that if you can organize your LIDS, everything else falls into place.” Five adjustable dividers let you organize lids of various shapes and sizes up to 9 inches wide.

12This roll-out caddy that fits under the sink

The space under the kitchen or bathroom sink is often underutilized when it comes to storage — that’s where this under-sink roll-out caddy comes in handy. It helped Amazon user Jules transform their messy under-sink area. “This little jewel lets me utilize the back of the cabinet and easily roll it out when needed,” they write. “Highly recommend for kitchens, bathrooms, wherever for hard to reach places.” The caddy includes two adjustable dividers and a hanging basket for easy access to small items.

13An inconspicuous storage bin that mounts on the wall

Finding storage space can be tough when you live in a small apartment. Mic editor Cristina Sanza recommends wall-mounted storage bins as a way to create more space out of thin air. “Using wall-mounted storage bins has been a game-changer for organizing in a small apartment,” she says. “A bin like this provides storage space and keeps clutter out of sight.” Available in black and white, the bin holds up to 3.3 pounds and installs easily using the included hardware.

14A set of floating shelves that are easy to install

Another way you can make the most of your wall space is to use floating shelves, according to Sanza. “I pared down my chaotic bookshelf and used floating shelves to show off a curated, organized collection,” she said. Made from paulownia wood with metal brackets, these can be easily installed with the included hardware and come in several colors.

15This shower caddy that comes with a soap dish

“My shower became so much more organized when I added a caddy shelf,” said Sanza. “No more bottles collecting grime on the sides of the tub.” This caddy has a large shelf for storage, plus several hanging hooks and a separate soap dish to keep all your shower essentials handy. It adheres easily to smooth surfaces with no drilling required.

16These pre-printed labels for food containers

Moving dry goods to clear containers is a great way to keep your pantry organized, and these labels work well for keeping those containers in order. As Amazon user Hanna wrote, “I finally got tired of torn bags of flour and sugar in my pantry! I bought some clear plastic containers and these FABULOUS labels!! [...] I feel so organized now, and things are super easy to find.” Each set includes 157 labels in tidy black script.

17A shoe rack that comes with 8 stackable shelves

Tackle entryway or bedroom shoe clutter with this footwear rack featuring eight stackable containers. As one Amazon customer put it: “Easy to put together, fit perfectly in my closet so now my shoes are organized and stored neatly.” Made from durable waterproof fabric with a sturdy iron frame, each tier can hold up to 20 pounds.

18These metal organizer trays that fit in most drawers

This set of five metal organizer trays provides a way to keep drawers neat and adds a pop of color to your home. These can be arranged however you like to hold pens, paper clips, scissors, and other small items, and they’re shallow enough to fit in most drawers. “Excellent for corralling desk drawer mess!” wrote one happy Amazon customer.

19These clear jars that are great for small toiletry items

These clear apothecary jars are ideal for tidying up your bathroom sink and making it look nicer. “This set cleaned up one of my bathrooms. The largest canister is pretty big, too,” says Mic editor Lauren Beach. Use the shatterproof containers to store cotton balls, cotton swabs, makeup items, and other small toiletries that are hard to organize.

20A hair styling tool organizer that can be installed 2 ways

Make the most of your bathroom space with this hair styling tool organizer, suggests Beach. “My bathroom looks so much better with my hair dryer, hair brushes, and other styling tools in this. It can be mounted on the wall or sit on the counter (it comes with nonslip feet).” Use it to hold any bathroom accessory that fits.

21A unique organizer that’s designed to tame your spice drawer

A robust spice collection can be tricky to keep track of, but this spice drawer organizer makes the job much easier. “These simple little organizers made my cluttered spice drawer look perfectly tidy (and made my kitchen look more professional),” said Mic editor Allison Bolt. Each tiered rack holds up to 56 standard spice jars.

22A cord cover that blends in with your wall

Cords running along your walls can make the place look messy, but this cord cover kit offers an easy solution. It’s designed to hold up to six cables of various sizes and sticks to the wall with the included adhesive. “This cord cover makes the wall under my TV look so much tidier, and you can even paint it to blend in with your wall,” says Bolt.

23This multi-charging cable that powers multiple kinds of electronics

Mic editor Jen Fiegel is a fan of this multi-charging cable with three different connectors: micro USB, USB-C, and Lightning. “There used to be a ton of different cords everywhere on my kitchen counter, and after a tidy, they'd be in the proverbial junk drawer,” she says. “However, replacing three different plugs with a single one has made the whole space tidier even without the stuffed full drawer.”

24A 24-pack of food storage containers that keep dry goods fresh

Fiegel also recommends these food storage containers for organizing the pantry. “Having a large set of food storage containers *all with the same lid* has made such a difference,” she says. “Not having to constantly search for a coordinating lid all the time? Game-changer.” This 24-pack includes four sizes for plenty of variety and comes with labels and a measuring spoon set.

25An expandable rack that holds pans & lids

Mic editor Cassandra Seale likes this expandable pan and lid rack for keeping track of various kitchen items. “This revolutionized my kitchen cabinets — no more stacks of clunky chaos when trying to pull out a specific pan,” says Seale. It comes with 10 adjustable dividers to cater to your specific organizational needs.

26A set of cable clips that prevent charging cords from falling to the floor

Hate dealing with stray charging cables falling off desks and counters? Seale suggests using these cable clips to keep cords in their place. “As someone who got used to fumbling around for cords and cables, these are shockingly useful. Multiple sizes and strong adhesive means the cords I need are right where I want them.” The variety pack includes 28 self-adhesive clips.

27A kitchen drawer organizer that keeps knives safely tucked away

Whether you want to free up counter space or just want a safe way to store your knives, this kitchen organizer is a great solution. “I've never lived anywhere with a ton of kitchen counter space, so my old knife block would just get in the way,” says Mic editor Amy Biggart. “This storage solution is genius, and genuinely freed up so much counter space.” Featuring a two-tier design, this knife block can store blades up to 9 inches.

28This cable management box that hides wires & cords

This simple cable management box is an easy way to hide cords, chargers, and other unsightly wires from view. “My open-shelf TV stand was cluttered with so many things, but when I invested in a cable management box, it slowly started to feel more organized,” says Biggart. Made from sturdy wood, the box comes in dark brown, natural wood, black, and white finishes.

29These organizer bins that keep your clothes drawer tidy

Biggart recommends these organizers to keep dresser drawers in check. “I am notorious for having jam-packed dresser drawers, but investing in dividers and organizers makes all the difference,” she says. Each set comes with 12 fabric bins in three sizes so you can keep underwear, T-shirts, socks, ties, and more neatly folded.

30These artificial plants that won’t create a mess

Live plants are beautiful, but they can also create a mess as you care for them. Biggart says, “I should've made the switch to artificial plants years ago. I love real ones, but leaves and soil would always end up everywhere. Better to just get something that works better with my lifestyle.” These small artificial plants come in a set of four that you can place all over the house.

31A bathroom organizer that holds makeup, hair products, & more

Mic editor Karen Belz is a fan of this makeup organizer for its ability to keep small beauty items tidy. “This organizer has flawlessly gotten my makeup and skin care collection under control. It's easy to assemble and sturdy, and it's a great way to see everything I have without having to rotate or peek behind other products.” It’s available in white and matte black.

32This coffee station mat that soaks up liquid instantly

If you have a coffee maker, you probably deal with messes and spills fairly often. Belz recommends this coffee station mat to absorb liquids instantly before they can spread across the counter. “I thought this would just be a plain mat to help cover my counters, which are white and way too susceptible to coffee stains, but it's managed to help set a neat little “coffee nook” section to my countertop that I really enjoy,” she said. “It also couldn't be easier to clean, which is always a plus.”

33A storage wrap dispenser that includes safety cutters

Mic editor Anna Anderson uses this dispenser to corral plastic wrap, foil, and other kitchen wraps. “The cardboard foil and plastic wrap boxes were jamming up my kitchen drawer and this thing has made storage so much neater and more streamlined,” she says. It holds up to three kitchen wrap products and features two built-in slide cutters.

34This bathroom storage shelf that sits on the back of the toilet

As a professional shopper, I know my fair share of products that have helped me tidy up. One of my favorite purchases is a bathroom storage shelf that sits on the back of the toilet. My apartment bathroom is tiny and has very little sink space, and utilizing the space above the toilet helps me store various toiletry items. This shelf also doesn't require installation, so it's renter-friendly.

35A lightweight shoe rack that holds up to 16 pairs

Shoes can create a cluttered mess, especially around the front door. This shoe rack has been great for my apartment entryway. It's super easy to set up and is lightweight, making it ideal for people who move a lot (me). The three-tier option holds up to 16 pairs, but you can also purchase options with two or four tiers.

36An expandable bookshelf designed for desks

My work desk was getting pretty cluttered, so I purchased these shelves as a way to organize the odds and ends I kept around. The sizing is adjustable, so I can make shelves bigger or smaller as needed. Use it to store books, a clock, papers, and more.

37This desk organizer with various compartments

This desk organizer has been useful when it comes to storing items like pens, pencils, and scissors. Plus, it has a pull-out drawer that I use to store paper clips and other small items. I chose the white marble design, but it comes in eight different colors.

38These shelf organizers that can be stacked as needed

I don't have a ton of cabinet space, so these shelf organizers have been invaluable by creating more shelving. They can be stacked or placed side by side to completely fill cabinets of various sizes, and they can also be used to create extra storage space on desks and tables. Choose from silver and bronze.

39A storage ottoman that holds blankets, pillows, & more

I’m a fan of this velvet storage ottoman as a two-in-one solution in my home — it serves as seating and holds extra blankets or pillows. It comes in six different colors and two sizes, so you can get one that fits your space and storage needs. Easy to assemble, you can have it set up in seconds.

40This cutlery organizer that takes up less space than traditional ones

I really like this bamboo cutlery organizer as an alternative to traditional trays. It’s built a little taller but significantly less wide, so it takes up less space overall in my kitchen drawer. This leaves me plenty of room to store larger utensils, pot holders, or whatever else I want.