Best Overall
Rubbermaid Storage Tote with Lid
AMAZON
- If you're looking for a sturdy container with handles that is a great all-purpose storage option, this is a smart choice.
If you're looking for a sturdy container with handles that is a great all-purpose storage option, this is a smart choice.
- This storage tote is more functional than beautiful, and the handles take up extra space.
This storage tote is more functional than beautiful, and the handles take up extra space.
Rubbermaid is a household name, and many people may already be familiar with their totes. Their Brute storage tote with lid is our pick for the overall best storage container for its ability to store all kinds of items.
The 14-gallon capacity and measurement of 16.75 inches in width and 27.8 inches in length means there is plenty of space for stashing sweaters, summer bedding, or seasonal decor in the garage. The lid snaps on for a more secure storage solution, and built-in handles make it easy to lift and transport. However, keep in mind that the handles do take up a bit of extra space, which is a concern if your storage area isn’t all that large.
The tote's aesthetic is more industrial, so it's probably not a storage container you’ll want to leave out on display. Yet, multiple totes can easily be stacked together to maximize vertical space, and they’re a wonderful all-purpose storage option.
Product Details: Size: 16.75 x 10.5 x 24.5 inches | Material: Polyethylene | Capacity: 14 gallons
Best Splurge
Open Spaces The Bin Trio
OPEN SPACES
- This set is sleek and simple to fit in any room’s decor.
This set is sleek and simple to fit in any room’s decor.
- The bins aren’t sold individually, so you’ll need to buy multiple sets if you need more storage.
The bins aren’t sold individually, so you’ll need to buy multiple sets if you need more storage.
If you’re looking to splurge on storage containers to use around your home, this set from Open Spaces is a solid pick. The three-bin set includes one large, one medium, and one small plastic storage bin. The brand offers two lid options in wood or plastic, both of which are stackable and fit snug.
The bins are made of durable hard plastic that’s easy to clean. While these bins aren’t airtight, a half-circle cutout handle makes it easy to grab the medium and large bins from high shelves or carry from room to room.
While the trio is a great starter set, if you need more storage, you’ll need to buy each size in sets of two or more.
Product Details: Size: 17.56 x 8.66 x 11.53 inches; 10.91 x 6.5 x 8.39 inches; 8.07 x 3.66 x 5.35 inches | Material: Plastic, wood lids | Capacity: Not listed
Best Clear Plastic Bins
IRIS USA Plastic Storage Container
AMAZON
- These bins are easy to see through and come with lids, making them a great storage option.
These bins are easy to see through and come with lids, making them a great storage option.
- The plastic material is lightweight, so it may not be ideal for heavy-duty storage items.
The plastic material is lightweight, so it may not be ideal for heavy-duty storage items.
Sometimes, you just need to see exactly what’s in a storage box. This set of six clear plastic bins is ideal when you’re looking for easy visibility. Measuring 16.5 inches long and 11 inches wide, their rectangular shape makes these containers great for storing many different items, such as sports equipment, guest towels, and other miscellaneous items. They’ll hold 12 quarts and come with lids that fasten on with buckles. The lids keep out dust, making them a convenient pick for storing seasonal clothing you don’t want to wash before you wear it again.
One thing to keep in mind is that their plastic material may not be your best bet for heavy items. If you own lighter items you want to stash away but can grab at a moment’s notice, these bins are ideal.
Product Details: Size: 11 x 16.5 x 6.8 inches | Material: Plastic | Capacity: 12 quarts
Best Heavy Duty
CX Storage Containers
AMAZON
- These storage containers are great for storing heavy items and sport ergonomic handles for easy lifting. You can also zip-tie the lid.
These storage containers are great for storing heavy items and sport ergonomic handles for easy lifting. You can also zip-tie the lid.
- They are not aesthetically pleasing and are heavy, even when empty.
They are not aesthetically pleasing and are heavy, even when empty.
If you own heavier items, opt for these heavy-duty storage totes with a generous size of almost 31 x 20 inches with a height of 14.5 inches. Its 27-gallon capacity is ideal for storing heavy items such as tools. The plastic material is designed to stand up to rugged use, meaning you won’t need to worry about shattered plastic or rust.
Even better, these totes are weather- and water-resistant thanks to the lids that come with a snap-lock mechanism. Using caution while lifting heavy things is important, and the totes have ergonomic handles to help out. Be aware, though, each tote weighs several pounds when empty, so filling it up will make it significantly heavier.
While these storage containers are not necessarily beautiful options, we found them to be the best choice for heavy items such as tools and materials in a workshop or garage, for instance. You can even add extra security to the lids with zip ties.
Product Details: Size: 14.5 x 30.8 x 20.3 inches | Material: Plastic | Capacity: 27 gallons
Best for Pantries
Rubbermaid Pantry Airtight Food Storage Containers
AMAZON
- This set stacks neatly and is dishwasher safe.
This set stacks neatly and is dishwasher safe.
- The exact measurements of each container aren’t listed.
The exact measurements of each container aren’t listed.
A well-organized pantry is a soothing sight to behold. One key to achieving pantry organization is this set of containers from Rubbermaid. The set includes four food storage containers with lids in 16 cup, 12 cup, 6.6 cup, and 3.2 cup capacities. But if four containers aren’t enough, the line comes in a wide range of shapes and sizes so you can mix and match to create the perfect set for your pantry.
These are airtight, so they’re perfect for storing food items. Plus, they’ll keep things organized since they stack easily on top of one another. Place cereal, pasta, and more into these clear plastic containers, and you can easily see what needs to go on your grocery list each week.
You can even stash leftovers in these containers and pop them into the freezer for easy weeknight meals. When they need a wash, simply run them through the dishwasher on the top rack.
Product Details: Size: Not listed | Material: Plastic | Capacity: 16 cups, 12 cups, 6.6 cups, 3.2 cups
Best for Photos
Pioneer Photo Albums B-1BW Photo Storage Box
AMAZON
- This box holds up to 1,100 photos and is acid-free so you won’t have to worry about damage to your pictures over time.
This box holds up to 1,100 photos and is acid-free so you won’t have to worry about damage to your pictures over time.
- The cardboard box is better suited for decor than in damp storage areas, like a basement.
The cardboard box is better suited for decor than in damp storage areas, like a basement.
High-quality cameras are now included in our smartphones, so printed photos aren’t quite as abundant as they used to be. But it’s good to preserve printed photos, and having a way to organize them can make you more inclined to look through them.
This is the best choice to store 4 x 7 inch photos because it will hold up to 1,100 prints in this size. Made of cardboard, the storage box from Pioneer Photo Albums is lightweight, but it may not be the best option for storing in damp basements, especially ones that are prone to flooding. Its patterned print gives it a more decorative appeal that’s perfect for displaying in a living room.
The box includes a metal plate on one end so you can easily label what types of photos are in the box. It comes with index cards to help keep those priceless photos of vacations and birthdays a bit more organized. Though the black and white tones are timeless, the patterns may not fit with everyone’s home decor. However, there are other designs available, including solid color options.
Product Details: Size: 7.75 x 4.5 x 11.25 inches | Material: Cardboard, metal plate | Capacity: 1,100 photos
Best for Decks
Rubbermaid Outdoor Deck Box Extra Large
AMAZON
- This deck box is weather-resistant and offers extra-roomy capacity, making it an ideal option for storing patio items.
This deck box is weather-resistant and offers extra-roomy capacity, making it an ideal option for storing patio items.
- Some assembly is required for this storage box.
Some assembly is required for this storage box.
Decks and patios often need roomy storage solutions just as much as our homes do. This extra-large box from Rubbermaid is the best option for decks and patios. Holding up to 134 gallons and measuring 55.5 x 27.5 inches wide with a height of 27.5 inches, this box can accommodate a number of your patio items.
A bit of assembly is required, but the plastic material is weather-resistant, and the lid keeps water from entering. Plus, you can use the closed storage box as extra seating or a table during peak patio season.
The box stands up to UV rays and resists fading, rusting, and rotting. This is an excellent pick for stowing patio chair cushions, pool toys, and even landscaping tools when you’re not using them.
Product Details: Size: 27.5 x 55.5 x 26.75 inches | Material: Plastic | Capacity: 134 gallons
Best for Documents
Huolewa Collapsible File Storage Organizer Box with Lid
AMAZON
- The linen-covered box is collapsible to save on space when you’re not using it, and it’s decorative enough to leave out if you need to access your documents often.
The linen-covered box is collapsible to save on space when you’re not using it, and it’s decorative enough to leave out if you need to access your documents often.
- The box doesn’t come with folders and isn’t water resistant, so you’ll need to keep it away from moisture.
The box doesn’t come with folders and isn’t water resistant, so you’ll need to keep it away from moisture.
Certain documents and paperwork need to be safely stored, such as tax returns. This portable file box is an ideal option for safely stowing away those important documents. And if you need to access your documents often, feel free to leave this box on a desk or somewhere visible. Its stylish linen exterior covers sturdy cardboard material, so it will look great while keeping your paperwork organized.
It will hold up to 5 pounds of documents and, though it doesn’t come with hanging folders, is designed to play well with folders for the ultimate in organization. It has an attached lid to keep your files protected from dust. It’s not water resistant, so be sure to keep the box away from moisture—you probably won’t want to stash this in a basement, for instance. And when you’re not using it, you can simply collapse the box to save space.
At 14.9 x 10.8 x 12.7 inches, this is perfect for storing letter-sized papers. It comes with handles and a label slot so you can see at a glance what type of documents are in the box. You can even choose from 25 colors, making it easy to organize multiple storage boxes by color.
Product Details: Size: 14.9 x 10.8 x 12.7 inches | Material: Linen and cardboard | Capacity: 5 pounds
Best for Pet Food
GAMMA2 Airtight Pet Food Container
AMAZON
- This storage container holds up to 35 pounds and seals securely to keep moisture and bugs out of your pet's food.
This storage container holds up to 35 pounds and seals securely to keep moisture and bugs out of your pet's food.
- You may not want to lift the container once it’s full.
You may not want to lift the container once it’s full.
Pet parents can appreciate the logic behind buying pet food in bulk quantities. That’s especially true if you own multiple pets or large-breed dogs that tend to gobble up lots of food. This storage container holds up to 35 pounds or 8.5 gallons and measures 16.8 inches in height and 12 inches in width and length, allowing you to stock up on your pet’s favorite kibble.
Double gaskets and a threaded locking system ensure that excess moisture stays out. Plus, it’s designed to keep bugs away from your pet’s food. And it’s made of BPA-free plastic, so it’s a food-safe option for your furry family member.
You may want to select one of the smaller capacity options if you’re concerned about the weight of the container when full. Otherwise, the included scoop makes it a cinch to feed your pets right from the container—just be sure you place it in the right spot before filling it.
Product Details: Size: 12 x 12 x 16.8 inches | Material: Plastic | Capacity: 8.5 gallons (35 pounds)
Best Underbed
Storage Lab Underbed Storage Containers
AMAZON
- A transparent top window makes it easy to see what’s inside before opening the bags.
A transparent top window makes it easy to see what’s inside before opening the bags.
- These storage bags are not airtight.
These storage bags are not airtight.
Using the space under your bed for storage is smart, especially when you have limited space. The set of two zippered polyester-blend cloth bags from storageLAB are designed with a see-through top panel, which will let you sneak a peek at what’s inside. They are ideal for storing seasonal clothing and bedding, and stashing them under the bed will keep them close at hand.
These bins aren’t airtight, but they’re crafted so the sides hold their shape, even when filled with thick sweaters. The bottom panel is on the thinner side, so you’ll want to use caution lifting the bag when it’s full so it doesn’t collapse.
The handles are convenient for retrieving the bags from under the bed in a snap. And the 4.5-inch height means they’ll fit easily under most beds.
Product Details: Size: 33 x 17 x 4.5 inches | Material: Polyester | Capacity: 60 liters (15.9 gallons)
Best for Wrapping Paper
Hearth and Harbor Wrapping Paper Storage Container
AMAZON
- The container stores up to 24 rolls and has clear pockets for stashing gift bags, tissue paper, or paper remnants.
The container stores up to 24 rolls and has clear pockets for stashing gift bags, tissue paper, or paper remnants.
- This only stores rolls of ribbon if you buy wrapping paper that’s 36 inches long or less.
This only stores rolls of ribbon if you buy wrapping paper that’s 36 inches long or less.
A fun part of the holiday season is wrapping gifts in shiny paper. One not-so-fun part: storing the wrapping paper for the rest of the year. This rectangular container is 40 inches long, so it’s the best storage choice to wrangle all your wrapping paper. It will easily corral up to 24 rolls of 40-inch wrapping paper that’s 1.5 inches thick, or up to 18 rolls that are 2.5 inches thick.
But it will also keep ribbon, gift bags, cards, bows, and other wrapping essentials handy thanks to its storage pockets. The interior of the zippered lid has two clear pockets which let you easily see which gift bags are stashed. They’re also ideal for saving wrapping paper remnants for small gifts while the side pocket is ideal for card storage. You can stash rolls of ribbon at the end of the storage compartment, too, but only if your paper rolls are shorter than 36 inches.
Like other versatile holiday storage containers, the box can be stashed under a bed or leaned up against a wall in a spare closet for easy storage of everything from birthday to holiday paper. Come wrapping time, just select the tube you need or simply use the handles to carry the bag to your DIY wrapping station.
Product Details: Size: 40 x 6 x 14 inches | Material: Polyester, vinyl, cardboard | Capacity: 24 rolls of wrapping paper
Best for Shoes
Attelite Shoe Box
AMAZON
- These boxes organize shoes and keep pairs together. The magnetic doors allow easy access with ventilation.
These boxes organize shoes and keep pairs together. The magnetic doors allow easy access with ventilation.
- They require some assembly.
They require some assembly.
This set of six clear plastic storage boxes requires a bit of assembly. Once that’s done, you’ll own a see-through place to keep your favorite shoes free from dust and dirt. The containers are vented, so they’ll allow air to circulate and prevent odors. The doors are magnetic and keep the boxes closed.
We also love that you can stack every box next to or on top of each other, adding storage room for multiple pairs of shoes. Each container holds one pair of shoes (up to a size 12) and measures 13.5 inches in length. They easily allow you to keep everything separated and highly visible—ideal for choosing your go-to shoe at a glance or simply admiring your favorite pair of heels.
Product Details: Size: 7.5 x 13.5 x 10.6 inches | Material: Plastic | Capacity: One pair of shoes per box
Best Decorative
Hipiwe Woven Wicker Storage Bins
AMAZON
- These boxes can be nested within one another when you don’t need them.
These boxes can be nested within one another when you don’t need them.
- Though decorative, the seagrass style may feel too rustic for some home decor schemes and may have sharp edges.
Though decorative, the seagrass style may feel too rustic for some home decor schemes and may have sharp edges.
Having decorative storage available for often-used items comes in handy. These are the best storage containers if you’d like to have those items nearby (and therefore visible). Made of seagrass, the neutral toned containers work well for stashing phone chargers in the living room or for corralling all those remotes that seem to pile up with home entertainment centers.
The containers come in a set of two and are available in five earth tones such as coffee or caramel. Though more decorative than plastic containers, the seagrass material and neutral hues may not be a fit for every home’s decor theme.
When you don’t need them, the small container nestles into the larger container to take up less space. Since the seagrass has a more rustic vibe, there may be some unfinished ends in the woven basket that could be sharp, so use with caution around curious little ones.
Product Details: Size: 11 x 2.5 x 9.25 inches, 13 x 2.95 x 11.2 inches | Material: Seagrass | Capacity: 10 liters (about 2.64 gallons)
Best for Clothes
Odyssey 6-Pack Clothes Storage Bins
AMAZON
- The bags have a clear panel, reinforced handles, and a dust-proof, breathable fabric construction.
The bags have a clear panel, reinforced handles, and a dust-proof, breathable fabric construction.
- The bags aren’t made to stand upright so they may collapse when they’re empty or while being filled.
The bags aren’t made to stand upright so they may collapse when they’re empty or while being filled.
Storing seasonal clothing somewhere other than your regular closet can be a sanity-saver. It’s tough to sort through tons of summer tees and tanks when you’re trying to find a cozy sweater, and stashing off-season clothing in these storage bins makes it easier to find what you need for today’s forecast.
The set includes six bags with three layers of dust-proof fabric that still allows clothing to breathe. Though the brand doesn’t specify what type of fabric is used, the bags do have reinforced handles for easy lifting. The clear panel in the front lets you see at a glance what clothes are stored where so you can easily spot shorts and tees while packing for a tropical getaway in winter.
Each bag can hold up to 11 pounds, which might be two king-sized comforters, three pillows, eight blankets, or up to 35 pieces of clothing (depending on size). The bags zip closed along the top. Though the bags don’t stand up on their own (which might make filling them a little tricky at first), they can be folded for easy storage when you aren’t using them.
Product Details: Size: 23 x 13 x 16 inches | Material: Fabric | Capacity: 11 pounds