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We're getting ready to clean the house and organize. I want to buy some of those plastic storage totes. Where have you found the best place to buy these? I was thinking a dollar store, but they don't always have the best deals. TIA

You might look online for stores in your area and do some comparison shopping first. Saves gas money!

Another option?
My issue with the plastic storage is that it can vary so much in quality (cheaper ones crack easily) and a variety of sizes/brands mean it may not stack well, (if that is planned).

I have found the cardboard file boxes from the office supply store work very well (both regular file and legal size boxes). They are not clear/transparent, but are easy to label on the outside, either with lettering or color coding. Cheap, stackable, can be easily broken down for empty storage, and are not so large as you can pack nearly any weight item, and they can be lifted.

Compared the plastic to the cardboard and it looks as if the cardboard is winning as to price. I never thought of the cardboard, thanks.

keep in mind that cardboard can get mold/mildew/mouse nibbles.

If there is the least chance for damp go for the plastic totes. I have had mine for years..
get as many as you think you'll need plus a couple, all the same size for stacking and you'll be set.

I bought all mine at KMart, during the after Christmas sales.

we use them in the attic and the cellar and as kids toy boxes. the ones that crack are the ones the kids sit on or bang around. I've never had plastic break with ordinary careful use, but the cardboard just doesn't hold up.

I've used both and when I could afford it I went to plastic. My "good" totes I think from Rubbermaid are at least 15 years old.

Yes, it does depend on what you store in the boxes or plastic totes, as well as the conditions where they are kept.

For initial organizing, the cardboard works just fine, and we use it for basement storage, but have no moisture or vermin issues. Once you get things organized, you will be better able to purchase and invest in the right size plastic totes to fit the items you want to store, should you go that route.

Cardboard is not good for linens because of the acid in the cardboard (unless you get acid-free). This includes any textile keepsake (stuffed toys, quilts, clothes, etc.).

Write down the size of tote you want. Do this by going to any store and regardless of price, mark down what you need. Keep that with you at all times so when you see tote(s) on sale you can check if they are the right size. I've gotten them at Big Lots, home improvement stores, discount stores... just about anyplace. They tend to go on sale in January.

Love an organized storage area!

Not sure what type of items you need to store but I like to use clear totes for storage. Easy to see the items inside. You can also take pics of the stored items for later reference. Some of our totes in the attic are marked with a number system and the items listed on a note card. (But please don't ask where I have put those cards now).

Typically for brand, I like to use the R*ubber*maid products. They seem to hold up quite well. They also have the storage bins that will slide under the bed. They are hinged on each end.

Measure your storage space to determine "what" size totes to purchase. Purchase a few extra bins as it seems they are out of stock later when trying to match styles/size.

Don't forget that office supply stores have the plastic drawer rolling carts. Usually they have wheels for easy moving. I organize the drawers with smaller plastic storage bins that contain pens/markers/etc. One set just organizers my sewing items drawer by drawer.

Just a gentle reminder to donate/toss any unused items so you don't have added costs of storage containers.Good luck on your re-organizing project. It's a nice way to start off the New Year!

You can make your totes more moisture resistant by buying a roll of peel and stick weather proofing strips. Just line the lids groove with it.

Shop the after Christmas sales! I was just at Target and many of their totes were marked down, some to half off.