20 Effortless Dollar Store Hacks For Decorating And Storage
My Favorite Easy Dollar Tree Crafts
Are you tired of living with cluttered spaces that seem to swallow up your time and energy? Look no further than the humble dollar store! While its products may not be top-of-the-line in terms of quality, they can still play a vital role in helping you get organized without breaking the bank. From storage solutions to decorative touches, the dollar store offers a treasure trove of affordable options that can help transform your space in no time.
With a bit of creativity and elbow grease, you can turn messy junk drawers and countertops into tidy, functional areas that actually make you want to spend time in them. And the best part? You don’t have to sacrifice style for savings – many dollar store items are surprisingly stylish and easy to incorporate into your existing decor.
In this post, I’ll be sharing 20 of my favorite dollar store hacks for organization and decoration, from clever storage solutions to clever decorating ideas. So if you’re ready to get organized and make the most of your hard-earned cash, keep reading!
Dollar Store Hacks for Storage
Pen/Pencil Holder
Elevate an oversized glass mug by incorporating a collection of stones. For a versatile look, opt for neutral-toned pebbles that complement a variety of colors. Alternatively, you can choose vibrant stones to inject some personality into the space. By containing them within the mug, you’ll eliminate clutter and misplaced rocks from your countertops, replacing it with a unique decorative element.
Soft Storage Bins
The counter had become a cluttered space with no consideration given to the items’ placement. To remedy this, I employed a cloth storage bin, utilizing its compartmentalized design to house various essentials like tissues, hand sanitizer, and other miscellaneous items in one convenient location. The result was a visually more organized area that also allowed me to corral my phone while it’s charging and provide a designated spot for my wallet upon arrival home. This simple organizational solution can be effectively replicated in the bathroom as well, where it can be used to store hair products, brushes, and other personal care items.
Acrylic Organizers
With the living room organized, it was time to tackle the oft-maligned junk drawer. Every household has one – a catch-all for miscellaneous items that don’t quite fit elsewhere. For me, this space had become a repository for random goods, with no discernible order or logic. Inspired by my visit to Dollar Tree, I decided to employ their clear acrylic bins to impose some much-needed structure on the chaos. A few strategically placed compartments later, and suddenly the junk drawer was transformed from a source of frustration into a tranquil oasis. The cord storage station on the counter had been a stroke of genius, but it was the labeled acrylic organizers that truly revolutionized my storage game. Not only could I now quickly locate specific items within the drawer, but I’d also discovered an unexpected use for these versatile containers: categorizing batteries by voltage, size, and rechargeability. And to think, one of these organizers had started life as a ‘nail polish holder’ in the Dollar Tree – just another testament to the power of creative repurposing.
Three-Tiered Tray
As I entered my bathroom, I was greeted by a sea of styling products, jewelry, and toiletries scattered across the countertops. In an effort to reclaim some space, I decided to get creative and whip up a DIY solution. I rummaged through my supplies and found a few plates and candle holders that would serve as the foundation for my project. With a bottle of glass/wood glue at the ready, I got to work, carefully adhering the pieces together. Once the glue had dried, I was left with a sturdy three-tiered tray that perfectly suited my bathroom’s needs. Not only did it provide a stylish way to corral my belongings, but it also helped to free up some much-needed space on the countertops. The best part? This little project cost me a mere $5 to complete.
Lazy Susan
When it comes to organizing spices in your living space, whether you’re calling a dorm room or apartment home, a lazy susan can be a game-changer. By keeping your spices neatly arranged and within easy reach, this simple hack saves you the hassle of rummaging through an entire cupboard just to find the one you need.To create your own lazy susan for spice storage, start by gathering two circular cake pans or pie tins that are identical in size. You’ll also need a bag of marbles. Place half the marbles in one pan and set the other pan on top, allowing it to spin effortlessly – a clever and practical solution for your kitchen organization needs.
More Dish Drying Space
When it comes to washing dishes, not everyone relies on the convenience of a dishwasher. Some people even prefer to wash by hand. But, let’s face it – running out of drying space mid-cycle can be frustrating. The good news is that expanding your dish drying station doesn’t have to break the bank.
One simple and affordable solution is to invest in a dish mat. I found one that’s conveniently placed near the sink and features plush cushioning for comfortable drying. What’s more, this type of drying mat can be easily stowed away in a drawer when not in use – no bulky dish rack necessary.
Reusable DIY Swiffer Duster
Making your own DIY Swiffer dusters is an excellent way to save money and reduce waste, while still effectively picking up dust. With just one pack of microfiber cloths from the dollar store, you can create reusable dusters that fit on a Swiffer handle. This small project requires some basic sewing skills, but if you’re not confident in your abilities, don’t worry – there’s an alternative.To make these reusable dusters, start by cutting two pieces of fabric to 7.5 inches square and two pieces to 30.5 inches long by 3.5 inches wide. Round the corners on the top edge of each piece. Then, place one small and one large piece together, sew them down the middle, and stack them with the small pieces facing outwards. Sew along the middle again to connect everything.Next, move the two small pieces to the side and sew the larger parts together, leaving a 1.25 inch by 6 inch slot. Slide in the plastic Swiffer duster holder and snip around the edges to trim any excess fabric. Take your new DIY duster outside and give it a good shake to remove any stray fibers.And that’s it! You now have a reusable Swiffer duster that can be washed and used multiple times, reducing waste and saving you money in the long run.
Shower Cap Food Covers
Shower caps are often overlooked for their versatility, but they can be used beyond hair care. A quick and creative hack is to repurpose them as makeshift covers for food containers. Instead of reaching for cling wrap or aluminum foil, simply snap a shower cap over the top of your bowl or plate to keep leftovers fresh. And the best part? These reusable caps can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing waste and saving you money in the long run.
Adhesive Hooks
When it comes to reducing, reusing, and recycling, a simple yet effective tactic is repurposing plastic bags as trash can liners. To prevent the bag from sliding off the edge of the trash can, a clever solution involves attaching adhesive hooks to the sides. I stumbled upon this pack of 9 hooks in the automotive section of my local dollar store – what a revelation! Had I known about this hack beforehand, it would have spared me the annoyance of constantly readjusting the bag.
Hair Iron or EyeGlass Holder
Transform plain potholders from the dollar store into a practical travel case for your hair iron or eyeglasses. The two-pack allows you to create two separate compartments, each with its own unique function. Start by folding the potholders in half and then sew them together, leaving a small opening at the top. This will give you a sturdy enclosure that can securely hold your hair iron, allowing you to hang it up for easy storage. Alternatively, dedicate one compartment to storing your eyeglasses, providing a scratch-free environment when not in use.
Entryway Organization
Winter’s wrath on my doorstep was a thing of beauty, as gloves, hats, and scarves would accumulate in a chaotic mess. In an effort to corral this disarray, I turned to an unlikely solution: 5 cups and binder clips. By fastening the cups together with these trusty clips, I created a sturdy base that could withstand the onslaught of winter gear. Next, I employed Command Strips to securely anchor this newfound container to the wall, rendering it both functional and visually unobtrusive. And so, the winter accessories that once littered my floor now reside in their new home, neatly organized and ready for next year’s snowy siege.
Ice Tray Trinket Holder
Organizing small items such as earrings, bobby pins, or other jewelry finds its perfect home within an ice tray. Its compact design allows for efficient storage, keeping countertops clutter-free and the bathroom drawer tidy. When placed strategically in a bathroom drawer, it effectively streamlines the space, providing a sense of calm and serenity.
Shower Caddy
To transform your garage into a haven for your vehicles, start by leveraging affordable solutions. A simple yet effective approach is to utilize a shower caddy from your local dollar store to corral all essential car-related items. By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to creating an organized space that fosters joy and efficiency.
Wire Bucket
Struggling with limited bathroom storage? One simple solution is to utilize a wire basket to organize and store larger toiletries like deodorant, toothpaste, and razors. This practical hack also offers the added convenience of being easy to transport, making it an ideal choice for students living in dorms or shared spaces where space is at a premium.
Keep Boots Upright
I recently stumbled upon a unique find at my local Dollar Tree – Blow Up Boot Holders! These innovative products have made a significant impact on my daily routine, particularly when it comes to organizing my footwear. For just $1, you can get a package that includes one pair of inflatable boot holders. What’s impressive is how quickly they inflate – each one takes around 15 seconds to reach its full shape. Once blown up, these boot holders are designed to keep your boots standing upright, eliminating the need for additional space or constant adjustments. This simple solution has not only saved me time but also reduced clutter in my closet.
Dollar Store Hacks for Decorating
DIY Gumball Machine
If you’re a fan of crafting unique gifts, consider creating this charming gumball machine that doubles as a desk decoration. With just a few simple supplies, you can bring your creative vision to life.
To get started, gather the following materials:
• A tin bucket (I opted for a vibrant red hue)
• Half dome Styrofoam ball
• Small Styrofoam ball
• Fish bowl
First, prime the Styrofoam pieces with a coat of black spray paint. I repurposed leftover paint from another project to give my gumball machine a sleek finish.
Next, secure the small ball to the rounded surface of the half dome using your preferred adhesive. This will form the foundation of your whimsical creation.
Once you’ve achieved this step, fill the fish bowl with Hershey’s Kisses, gumballs, or any other type of candy that catches your eye. Then, attach the fish bowl to the tin bucket, ensuring the Styrofoam top rests comfortably on top.
Finally, add a decorative touch by wrapping ribbon or raffia around the bucket and incorporating words or phrases that resonate with you. And just like that, your one-of-a-kind gumball machine is complete!
Magnetic Board
Another effortless craft project is transforming magnetic burner covers into personalized magnet boards. These versatile covers come in packs of two, allowing you to create a unique display for your home. To give them a more polished appearance, simply glue a piece of paper over the cover and add some ribbon for a finishing touch. Alternatively, drill small holes and thread the ribbon through to hang your creation on the wall. The result is a functional magnet board perfect for displaying lists, photos, or other keepsakes. With the ability to customize with your favorite colors and patterns, you can place it anywhere in your home.
DIY Bookends
Elevate your book collection with a DIY approach to bookends. Instead of settling for generic store-bought options, create unique and personalized bookends that reflect your personal style. You can upcycle plastic toys like hippos by giving them a fresh coat of paint or add a rustic touch by combining old wood pieces in a creative way. For instance, you can join wooden strips at right angles to create a sturdy base for holding your books upright.
DIY Dry Erase Calendar
Transform your ordinary calendar into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece by crafting a unique dry erase calendar using 7 small picture frames. Begin by arranging the frames in an unconventional shape that reflects your personality, then secure them together with glue and hang them on the wall. To complete the project, write the days of the week using a dry erase marker, allowing you to easily plan out your week while enjoying the added bonus of being able to reuse and refresh your calendar as needed.
Olive Oil Dispenser
I recently stumbled upon a charming glass container at the dollar store, which sparked an idea to elevate my kitchen’s ambiance with a sophisticated olive oil holder. The sleek design and functional spout make it effortless to control the amount of oil poured, while the added garlic not only enhances flavor but also adds a touch of visual appeal. For those seeking a similar product, I found that similar olive oil dispensers typically cost around $10 on Amazon, making this find an impressive bargain!
Conclusion on dollar tree hacks
Transforming your living space into a cozy haven doesn’t have to break the bank. By incorporating storage solutions and decorative items from the dollar store, you can give your home a fresh new look without draining your wallet. The beauty of shopping at this price point lies in its ability to provide functional items that serve similar purposes as their more expensive counterparts, yet at a fraction of the cost. This thrifty approach encourages creative thinking, allowing you to improve your life without sacrificing style or substance.
What’s one clever dollar store hack you’ve discovered? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below!