 I always knew shoeboxes were special - with their sturdy cardboard, snug-fitting lids, and their "just right" size. Yet I was always reluctant to save them – fearing a tendency to hoard. Now I feel validated. In The Magical Art of Tidying Up, Marie Kondo expounds on the multiple uses for the humble shoebox. In her kitchen, bedroom, hall closets, and drawers -- she has never found any other storage item better than the shoebox. I've "Kondo-ed" (as fans like to say) every corner of my house, and agree that shoeboxes are every bit as useful as she claims. If you need an excuse to buy more shoes, consider the "free" box you get with your purchase. Kids shoeboxes are a bit smaller than adult boxes, but they're still perfect for many of the same items -- especially organizing kids' underwear and socks. |  "[I] have never found any other [storage product] that is free and still surpasses the shoebox. It gets above average marks for all of my criteria: size, material, durability, ease of use and attractiveness." |
 Work-out clothes. |  Bakery tins.  Pantry items. |
