Almost every home has one—that drawer where loose batteries, rubber bands, old receipts, and who-knows-what-else end up. We call it the junk drawer, but it doesn’t have to live up to its name. With a little time and intention, you can transform it into a functional spot that keeps life’s little odds and ends in order.
Here’s how to tackle it step by step.
Step 1: Empty It All Out
Pull everything out of the drawer. Spread the contents on a table or countertop so you can see what you’re working with. You’ll probably find a few surprises—half-used notepads, dead pens, even spare change.
Step 2: Sort and Declutter
Go through each item and ask: Do I use this? Do I need it? Toss the broken, expired, and useless items. Recycle what you can. Relocate things that clearly belong somewhere else (like screwdrivers or scissors that deserve a proper home).
Step 3: Group Similar Items
Once you’ve trimmed things down, sort what’s left into categories. Common junk drawer “keepers” include:
Writing tools (pens, pencils, markers)
Small tools (screwdrivers, tape measure, flashlight)
Office supplies (sticky notes, paperclips, rubber bands)
Tech bits (chargers, earbuds, batteries)
Household extras (matches, tape, spare keys)
Step 4: Contain the Chaos
You don’t need fancy organizers—just use what you already have. Small bowls, food containers, or even cut-up cardboard boxes work perfectly. The goal is to give each category a “home” so things don’t scatter.
Step 5: Put It Back Thoughtfully
Arrange the groups neatly in your drawer. Keep the most-used items near the front and less-used items in the back. Leave a little open space if possible—you’ll thank yourself later.
Step 6: Keep It Up
The secret to avoiding a junk drawer relapse? Regular check-ins. Every month or two, take a quick minute to clear out what doesn’t belong. A little upkeep goes a long way.
Final Thoughts
Your junk drawer doesn’t have to be a black hole of random stuff. By decluttering, sorting, and giving items a simple home, you can turn it into a small but mighty space that actually helps you stay organized.
So go ahead—tackle that drawer. You might even discover that it’s less of a junk drawer and more of a utility drawer once it’s organized.
