Half of being organized is getting rid of the clutter, we know this. The other half, though, is implementing organizational systems to keep your space and mind in tip top shape. Those systems, more often than not, involve organizing products, and take it from me: the wrong ones, or really crap versions can destroy even the best laid plans at maintaining your organization.

Meaning? It’s important to shell out where it counts.

With that in mind, today I’m going to review with you the products I believe you should prioritize in terms of spending, and the ones I think it’s safe to take the budget route on.

 1. Drawer organizers

Well designed and quality constructed drawer organizers that fit your drawers ideally are crucial. Drawers are easy and instant clutter pits without them–being filled with small objects as they are.

Measure your drawers, find the best fitting quality options, and buy them. You won’t regret it.

(7 of my favorites.)

2. Storage tubs

There are too many horror stories of people losing precious family artifacts and photos, etc. from lack of proper storage.

Basements get flooded, the elements happen, and it behooves you to invest in good quality air-tight, watertight containers.

Whatever you’re storing better be worth that, anyway. If not, it sorta begs the question: why are you holding onto the stuff in the first place, huh?

(my vote–the watertight tote.)

3. Hangers

Not even necessarily expensive, but just an expense that’s worth it–ten-fold. Please just ditch those loser plastic hangers and outfit your entire closet in uniform, slim velvet hangers. Please.

Now onto the products which I think it’s a-okay to opt for the budget versions of.

1. Desktop organizers

Sure, the more expensive options may look a bit nicer, but the truth is that any cylindrical canister will hold your pens and pencils just fine, any paper tray will probably hold your papers, and so on.

2. Wastebaskets

Nicer wastebaskets have superior design; they have lids that lock and pedals to open and on. But at the end of the day they pretty much all equal out to a basket that holds garbage. So get a cheap one if need be and move on with your life.

3. Cord Management

There are some truly fabulous products out there when it comes to cord management–ones that are well worth the money. But if you need to prioritize your dollars elsewhere, use a rubber band or a twist tie and call it a day.