Storage Bin Styles

Bins are in

Important papers

It would be nice if we could all just accommodate a nice steel file cabinet but in most cases our homes decor will not allow for it. So if you are not lucky enough to have a home office then you definitely need to find a suitable alternative for storing documents. Make sure you don't resort to a shoebox; this will wind up costing you in the end.

Rubbermaid offers a number of inexpensive filing bins that are handy and convenient. Their File N Store Tub is an excellent buy at around $20. It offers built in rails so that you can use traditional hanging files that can be labeled for easy use. These are also stackable so as time goes on and files accumulate you can add on. With the consistency of the Rubbermaid brand you can be sure that your ability to purchase compatible files and not be lost with a mishmash of colors and styles will continue well into the future.

Toy storage bins

One of the newest and best toy storage bins are the large collapsible mesh cubes. The treacherousness of the toy box is still clear in my mind. I have quite vivid memories of the lid slamming down and purpling most of the fingernails on one hand. I for one am glad that those days are over. These new storage bins, while less challenging than a heavy lidded wood box, are definitely more fun and convenient.

I also like the fact that kids can see those forgotten toys in the bottom of the bin, had they been in an old-fashioned toy box they would languish away forgotten. Another neat aspect of these foldable mesh bins is that they adhere to the "Cardboard Box Rule." Like a big cardboard box, these mesh bins are as fun to play with as the toys held within them.

Sink Front Bin

Most of us have that false drawer front under the sink, where a drawer is neither practical nor possible. There is a solution that will allow you to use this bit of unused space and not suffer the inelegant falsity of the non-drawer.

It is the pivoting storage bin. Rather than a drawer this bin is connected to the false front and pivots out for access. Most often these bins are constructed of stainless steel, giving you the ability to store sponges, soap bars and other unsightly sink necessities out of the way.

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