The Most Versatile Organizing System

I get asked a lot what type of organizing systems to put into homes.  While a lot depends on your space, decor, budget and preferences, there are a few systems that can be used almost everywhere.  The first system I want to tell you about is the Expedit system by Ikea.

They are a series of cubby style shelves.  You can purchase them in all sorts of configurations.  The one i end up using the most is the 4×2 configuration.

What I love about the Expedit series is that you can buy them in all sorts of colors.  They can be fun and whimsical or elegant.

Here is one in hot pink 🙂

Keep in mind you can also turn them on their side.  I have this configuration above in my house as a room divider.

You can use the Expedit cubbies as shelves or you can put baskets in them (or a combination).  Ikea sells their own basket and boxes that fit, such as this one:

What I really love is that you can use these for anything at all.  In the kitchen, they are great for large appliances that are difficult to fit into cabinets. I like them in offices for supplies such as paper.  In the living room they can be used for frames, games, or books.In kids rooms, you can stuff the bins silly with small toys, plush or metal cars.

I scoured Pinterest for some creative ways people have used Expedit.  Here is what I found.  I hope it inspires you.  This is one of the products that I suggest you can adopt if you are on a small budget but want to make a big impact.  This adds a LOT of storage space for a small investment.

Keep in mind that you can add wheels to these (Ikea sells a kit) and that if you are using one of the larger systems, it is best to mount it to the wall.