Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries
Serving Greater Cincinnati

3 Creative Storage Solutions for the New School Year

So long, summer “” a new school year is almost here!

Going from the carefree days of summer to the structure of school can be difficult for many families. One way to ease the transition is to organize your home, so everyone’s prepared for the busy days to come.

Ready to get organized? Start the new school year off on the right foot with these creative storage ideas from Goodwill:

Upcycled Pen and Pencil Holders

Isn’t it frustrating when new school supplies slowly start disappearing throughout the school year? A DIY pen and pencil holder is a great way to keep writing utensils well-organized at home. Repurpose a flower pot, glass jar, or vase into a stylish pencil holder by adding spray paint, stickers, or ribbon. Your colorful containers could also be used to store paint brushes, thumbtacks, paper clips, and other office supplies.

Pink and clear vases on display at Ohio Valley Goodwill store

Pink and clear vases on display at Ohio Valley Goodwill store

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Personalized Bulletin Boards

Display important notes, pictures, and artwork on a custom bulletin board! You can look for bulletin boards at Goodwill or make your own by buying thick cork sheets and inserting them into a thrifted frame. Personalize the board by covering it with a thrifted sheet. Or, cut out fabric to make a border around the edges. Add crisscrossed ribbons to the board for an easy way to hold paper without using a pushpin.

Frames and Artwork from Ohio Valley Goodwill

Frames from Goodwill

Upgraded plastic baskets and bins

Need a place to keep important papers neat and organized? Look no further than Goodwill for small baskets and bins! You can give plastic containers a makeover by lightly sanding them with fine-grit sandpaper then applying spray paint in any color. Add the final touch with decorative washi tape.

Multi-colored plastic bins

Plastic Bins from Goodwill

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bonus Storage Tip: Donate!

When you have less stuff to store, it’s easier to stay organized. If you’re running out of space, it’s time to donate to Goodwill! We gladly accept donations of clothing, shoes, accessories, books, and home décor. Freeing up some extra space in that spare closet could make it the perfect spot for storing homework papers and art supplies!

Donate and Shop. Change a Life -- Graphic.

Donate to Goodwill and change a life!

 Get Organized with Goodwill!

We hope these organization tips help you stay organized all year long! For more great savings, shop at Goodwill for back-to-school essentials for every kind of classroom. From clothes to accessories to home décor, we have what you need to kick off another successful, well-organized school year. Find a retail store or donation site today!