How to Organize Plastic Containers: The Ultimate System for a Clutter-Free Kitchen
- Astage Team
- Apr 8
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
We've all faced the frustration of opening a cabinet to find plastic containers and mismatched lids spilling out, or discovering warped containers hidden in the back.
Plastic container chaos isn't just annoying—it wastes precious time and kitchen space.
The good news? With the right system, you can turn kitchen clutter into organization.
Implementing these strategies will save time during meal prep, reduce food waste by finding containers easily, and create a more functional, stress-free kitchen.
Before you can create an organized system, you need to know exactly what you're working with. This crucial first step sets the foundation for lasting organization.
This visual inventory provides the perfect opportunity to be honest about what you actually need versus what's just taking up space.
With your collection pared down to the essentials, it's time to find the perfect home for your containers.
Storage Location | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Upper Cabinets | Out of the way, good for infrequent use | Less accessible | Seasonal or special occasion containers |
Lower Cabinets | Easy to access, good visibility | Requires bending down | Daily-use containers |
Deep Drawers | Full visibility, easy access | Limited in most kitchens | Full container sets, stacking systems |
Shallow Drawers | Perfect for lid organization | Not suitable for larger containers | Lids, smaller containers |
Pantry | Keeps kitchen cabinets free | Away from food prep area | Bulk storage containers |
Under-sink | Utilizes unused space | Can be damp, less accessible | Containers used for non-food purposes |
Different storage methods work better for different spaces and container types. Let's explore the most effective approaches.
Astage offers several innovative storage solutions perfectly suited for plastic container organization.
Drawer Blocks: Creating custom storage solutions
Astage modular DRAWER BLOCK systems provide excellent customizable storage for containers and lids:
Stackable design | Units stack neatly and seamlessly for vertical organization |
Stability features | Includes links to connect drawers for stability and rubber feet to keep drawers in place |
Customizable organization | Comes with convenient adjustable dividers to create compartments of various sizes |
Size options | Available in S, M, and L sizes |
Color choices | Available in White and Black |
Quality construction | Made in Japan from durable polypropylene |
These drawer systems are ideal for creating dedicated container storage zones where everything has its place. The adjustable dividers are perfect for separating different lid sizes or container types.
Slim Storage Solutions: Maximizing Narrow Spaces
For maximizing cabinet space, consider JEJ Astage's Slim Drawer:
Space-efficient design | These units fit into narrow spaces that would otherwise go unused |
Mobile organization | Features two casters under the back corners for easy movement |
Versatile configurations | Available in four different combinations of drawer sizes S and M (A, B, C, and D models) |
Quality construction | Made in Japan from durable polypropylene |
These slim units can transform narrow gaps between refrigerators and walls or other tight kitchen spaces into functional container storage areas.
Stackable Rolling Storage
Astage's Rolling Storage Totes provide excellent solutions for lid organization and bulk container storage:
The shallow 19qt and 25qt models are particularly well-suited for lid storage, allowing you to categorize lids by size or type in separate bins. The deeper 35qt and 45qt sizes work well for storing seasonal or less frequently used container sets.
Lidded design | Keeps contents dust-free while providing stackability |
Multiple size options | Available in 19qt, 25qt, 35qt, and 45qt capacities |
Sleek aesthetic | Simple, timeless design in white or black |
Quality construction | Made in Japan from durable polypropylene |
Mobile organization | Features casters for easy movement |
Product | Best For | Notable Features | Available Sizes |
Drawer Blocks | Drawer organization | Stackable, adjustable dividers, connecting links | S, M, L in White or Black |
Slim Drawer | Narrow spaces | casters for mobility | 4 configurations (A, B, C, D), 2 width sizes |
Rolling Storage Tote | Bulk storage, lid organization | Lidded design, stackable, simple aesthetic | 19qt, 25qt, 35qt, 45qt |
Implementing Your System: Practical Tips for Everyday Use
Maintaining Your System: Tips for staying organized long-term
Even the best system requires maintenance to remain functional:
Regular quick audits | Take 5 minutes weekly to return strays to their proper places |
One-in-one-out rule | When adding new containers, remove an equal number |
Quarterly reassessment | Every 3-4 months, check if your system still meets your needs |
Family buy-in | Ensure everyone understands the system and can maintain it |
Immediate returns | Put containers away as soon as they're clean and dry |
Remember that perfect organization isn't the goal - functional organization that makes your life easier is what matters.
Now it's time to take action.
Dedicate a few hours this weekend to organize your plastic containers for a more efficient kitchen. Your future self will appreciate easily finding what you need.
Share this article with friends who struggle with their own container collections, and let us know which organizing solutions worked best for your kitchen!
