If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent too much time searching for things around your house that you just *know* you have, but can’t seem to locate. It’s frustrating and time-consuming. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of labeling. Labels are not just for the office or the classroom. They can be used in your home to save time, reduce stress, and even add a bit of flair to your decor. Here are 14 ways I use labels to keep my home organized.
1. Labeling Storage Bins
One of the most obvious ways to use labels at home is to label storage bins. This is particularly helpful in rooms like the garage or attic, where you likely have a lot of items stored away and it’s not always clear what’s inside each box.
When I’m labeling storage bins, I like to be as specific as possible. Instead of just writing “Christmas decorations,” I’ll specify “Christmas tree ornaments” or “outdoor Christmas lights.” This way, I can easily find exactly what I’m looking for without having to rummage through multiple boxes.
2. Labeling Pet Supplies
Pet supplies can easily get mixed up, especially if you have multiple pets. I use labels to keep everything straight.
I label each item with its specific use, such as “Dog Toys,” “Cat Food,” or “Bird Cage Supplies.” I also label where it should be stored, if it’s not obvious. This system makes it easy to keep track of all my pet supplies.
3. Labeling Food Containers
I also use labels in my pantry and fridge to keep track of what’s inside each container. This is especially useful for items like flour, sugar, and other baking ingredients that can be hard to distinguish at a glance.
I use a label maker to create labels for each container, but you could also use a marker and some masking tape if you prefer. Just make sure to update the labels if you change the contents of the containers.
4. Labeling Cords and Cables
With the multitude of electronic devices we have in our homes today, it can be easy to lose track of which cord goes to which device. I use labels to mark each cord, noting both the device it belongs to and where it plugs in.
For example, I might label a cord “TV – HDMI 1” or “Lamp – Living Room Outlet.” This system has saved me a lot of time and frustration when I need to unplug a device or move it to a new location.
5. Labeling Drawers
Drawers can quickly become a jumbled mess if you’re not careful. I use labels to keep my drawers organized and make it easy to find what I need.
For example, in my bathroom, I have a drawer labeled “Hair Products” and another labeled “Makeup.” In my office, I have a drawer for “Stationery” and another for “Office Supplies.” It’s a simple system, but it really helps keep everything in its place.
6. Labeling Laundry Baskets
Sorting laundry can be a tedious task, but labels can make it a lot easier. I have separate laundry baskets for whites, darks, and colors, each labeled accordingly.
Not only does this make it easier for me to sort laundry, but it also helps other family members know where to put their dirty clothes. And when laundry day comes around, I can easily grab the right basket and get to work.
7. Labeling Shelves
Whether it’s in a closet, pantry, or bookcase, labeling shelves can make it much easier to find what you’re looking for.
I label my bookshelves by genre or author, my pantry shelves by food type (canned goods, baking supplies, etc.), and my closet shelves by clothing type (pants, shirts, etc.). This system keeps everything in its place and makes it easy to put things away.
8. Labeling Craft Supplies
If you’re a crafter like me, you know how quickly craft supplies can become disorganized. I use labels to keep everything in order.
I label bins and boxes with the type of supplies they contain, such as “Yarn,” “Beads,” or “Paint.” I also label individual containers, like jars of buttons or boxes of fabric scraps. This makes it easy to find exactly what I need for a project.
9. Labeling Kids’ Toys
Keeping children’s toys organized can be a challenge, but labels can help. I label bins and boxes with the types of toys they contain, such as “Legos,” “Dolls,” or “Puzzles.”
This not only helps me keep the toys organized, but it also helps my kids know where to put their toys away. And if a friend comes over to play, they can easily find what they’re looking for.
10. Labeling Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning supplies can easily get mixed up, especially if you buy multiple brands or types of cleaners. I use labels to keep everything straight.
I label each bottle with the type of cleaner it contains, such as “Glass Cleaner,” “Bleach,” or “Floor Cleaner.” I also label where it should be used, if it’s not obvious. This system makes it easy to grab the right cleaner for the job.
11. Labeling Home Office Supplies
If you work from home, keeping your office supplies organized can be crucial for productivity. I use labels to keep everything in order.
I label drawers and boxes with the supplies they contain, such as “Printer Paper,” “Pens,” or “Staples.” I also label individual items, like binders or file folders. This makes it easy to find what I need and stay focused on my work.
12. Labeling Garden Supplies
Gardening supplies can easily get mixed up, especially if you have a large garden with many different types of plants. I use labels to keep everything straight.
I label each tool with its specific use, such as “Pruning Shears,” “Spade,” or “Weeding Tool.” I also label where it should be stored, if it’s not obvious. This system makes it easy to grab the right tool for the job.
13. Labeling Makeup
If you have a lot of makeup, keeping it organized can be a struggle. I use labels to make it easier.
I label each drawer or box with the type of makeup it contains, such as “Eye Shadows,” “Lipsticks,” or “Mascaras.” I also label individual items, like palettes or compacts. This makes it easy to find the makeup I want to use.
14. Labeling Linen Closet
The linen closet can quickly become a mess of sheets, towels, and other items. I use labels to keep it organized.
I label each shelf with the type of linens it contains, such as “Bath Towels,” “Queen Sheets,” or “Pillowcases.” This makes it easy to find what I need and put things away in the right place.