Plastic Storage Tubs

SuzyQ · #1 (**permalink**) 05-25-2002, 09:19 PM

I store out of season and to grow into clothes for my kids in the plastic storage containers in the basement. I think they are great! What else do you store in yours???

I have one for my Xmas decorations (OK I have 3 for xmas), and novelty cake pans in another. I don't want to be a hoarder...just maybe free up space in the living areas.

Shawn · #2 (**permalink**) 05-26-2002, 02:03 AM

I store anything anf everything in all sizes of those totes.

Craft supplies, gardening stuff, beanie babies, books, tools, patio cushions, etc... the list can go on and on...

Jenna · #3 (**permalink**) 05-26-2002, 08:23 AM

Hi SuzyQ,

I am currently storing Christmas and other holiday items in the large Rubbermaid totes. I also have quilt fabric in the big totes too. I don't think I would do this again though. Fabric is very heavy and it makes them almost too heavy for me to move around. I think I would consider smaller ones if I ever replace them.

When my kids were still growing(17 and 20 now!), I kept extra clothes that didn't fit yet in totes. It is important to make sure that you have all stains out before your store for any length of time though. It is amazing what stains will show up later! I have also read that you shouldn't use fabric softener in the items you wish to store. I'm not really sure why, but I always did it with good results.

Hope this helps!
Jenna

Renee · #4 (**permalink**) 05-27-2002, 05:40 PM

I have Christmas decorations in some too! Let's see, what else? Some craft things and fabric (they sure do get heavy), and an air-mattress. I got fed up with the price of them a few years ago. I have 2 plastic (new) garbage cans in the attic with comforters and pillows for company. I got them at the Dollar General Store and they were much cheaper than the totes. They just don't stack, but I have room for them in the attic. I also have two long totes made for under the bed that I have Christmas and Birthday wrapping paper in.

SuzyQ · #5 (**permalink**) 05-27-2002, 06:15 PM

I hadn't heard not to use fabric softner before storing. I'll keep it in mind. I've learned about stains...they magically reappear!

I store the clothes by sex, season and size. Luckily my boy is first, so things that are unisex end up in girls clothes after he grows out of them! (and aren't forgotten!) I find I need to sort them before & during each seaon. (am I alone on this?)

emajmom · #6 (**permalink**) 05-28-2002, 06:39 AM

I hear ya Suzie Q....storage containers are my life...my huband thinks im crazy...i have storage containers for pictures for craft supplies important paper and yes i have THREE for xmas decorations too...lol.....STORAGE CONTAINERS ROCK

HOMEWriter · #7 (**permalink**) 05-28-2002, 07:58 AM

Have you read my article on clothing storage? (Changing with the Seasons) I wish I had known about the fabric softener tip when I wrote that!

Kelly H.

SuzyQ · #8 (**permalink**) 05-28-2002, 06:20 PM

I just read your article...great information! My mom was a barrel storer over -um- I guess I can admit it was over 30 years ago! Some lessons are learned early!

I just realized that I do group outer clothing together. I have tubs for insulated coveralls, coats, snow suits, hats & mittens etc.

I am in debt to my tubs!

Ian' s Gram · #9 (**permalink**) 05-30-2002, 08:47 AM

I think one of my favorite uses for the plastic storage tubs is for my "plastic collection". LOL I love Rubbermaid and Tupperware, but how much can you really use in one day? It's really almost a seasonal thing. My husband tells me to just throw them away. I'll throw them away if he throws away his tools!!! I keep them in the clear Sterlite tubs - easy to find - easy to see. We have a walk-in attic, which helps a lot.

I also have a separate one for each of my grandchildren's toys for when they come to visit and that works out pretty well.

And, of course, the seasonal change of clothes. That is a must where we live.

Christmas ornaments - stuffed animals. OMG and this is still after a major declutter!!! Little by little I've been replacing all of the boxes in my attic with the clear storage tubs and it makes it so easy to find anything and everything.

I just retired after having work for forty years and have found a wealth of information on these boards. I'm not as lonely as I thought I'd be thanks to you all.

Thanks so much.

sheilaanderson · #10 (**permalink**) 06-02-2002, 07:10 PM

hello to everyone!!!!

storage totes are great. sure beat corregate boxes!!!!

i use them for craft supplies-small clear shoe boxes to huge ones for wreaths.
i use them to store holiday decorations.
i use them for moving books, cleaning supplies, dishes, etc. when we move our house hold.
i use them to store outgrown clothes-my 3 yr old sons-and ours. Hehe.
i love to use them to store toys and the big totes make great toy boxes. safe and fun to leave one empty to play in. he pretends its a car, boat, airplane etc.
also great for organizing stuff in the garage-keeps it clean and dust free-same for the attic.
also makes a great outdoor toybox for outdoor toys on the deck.
what would we do without plastic?????????
sincerely-sheila ann anderson