A messy drawer wastes time every day. You dig through cutlery, cannot find a pair of socks, or lose a lipstick at the back. The fix is simple: sort what you have, divide the space, and put the same things in the same place each time.
This guide covers the steps that work for any drawer, plus tips for kitchen, clothes and makeup drawers.
Step 1: Empty the drawer
Take everything out and put it on a table or the bed. Wipe the inside of the drawer so you start clean, and measure the inside width, depth and height. You will need those numbers if you buy dividers.
Step 2: Sort into groups
Put similar items together. Throw away or donate anything you no longer use. If you have a lot of duplicates or broken items, this step often frees up a whole drawer.
Step 3: Decide what stays
Ask whether an item belongs in this drawer. Items you use every day should be easy to reach. Items you rarely use can move to a higher shelf or a different room.
Step 4: Divide the space
Dividers give each group its own area, which is what keeps a drawer organized. Choose the type that matches what you store:
- Adjustable dividers expand to fit the width of the drawer. Browse our drawer organizers.
- Trays and compartments suit small items such as accessories and tools.
- Tall dividers are best for folded clothes.
Step 5: Put everything back
Place the items you use most at the front, and the rest behind. Give every group a fixed space, so putting things back becomes automatic.
How to organize a kitchen drawer
Use a cutlery tray for forks, knives and spoons, and keep utensils like spatulas and whisks in a separate section. In a deep drawer, use an organizer that holds taller items upright. Keep sharp tools in a section where they cannot move around. See our kitchen drawer organizers.
How to organize clothes in drawers
Fold each item into a small rectangle and store it upright, like files in a cabinet. You will be able to see every piece from above, and taking one out will not disturb the rest. Use small compartments for underwear and socks, and larger ones for t-shirts. For baby clothes, separate the items by size. See our clothes and dresser drawer organizers.
How to organize a makeup or jewelry drawer
Group makeup by type, for example lip, eye, face and tools. Use small compartments so items do not roll around, and keep everyday products at the front. Check expiry dates from time to time. Keep delicate jewelry in separate sections so it does not tangle. See our makeup, jewelry and vanity organizers.
How to organize a bathroom drawer
Use small compartments for toothbrushes, razors and brushes, and keep damp items out of the drawer. If you want to organize the rest of the bathroom, read how to organize a bathroom cabinet.
Keeping drawers organized
- Return items to the same place after every use.
- Do a quick check every few months.
- If a drawer is too full, remove something before adding something new.
FAQs
What is the best way to organize drawers?
Empty the drawer, sort the items into groups, throw away what you do not use, and use dividers so each group has its own space. Keep the items you use most at the front.
How do I choose the right size drawer divider?
Measure the inside width, depth and height of the drawer, and compare them with the product dimensions. Adjustable dividers are a good choice if the size is not standard.
How do I keep a drawer from getting messy again?
Give each group a fixed space, put things back after use, and check the drawer every few months. Dividers help because every item has a place.
Can I use the same drawer organizers in different rooms?
Often yes. Check the size and the material. Easy-to-clean organizers suit kitchens and bathrooms, and any style can work in a bedroom.