Monday 03 February, 2020

How to Label Plastic Bins, Part 2


Before you go out to buy plastic storage tubs for your home, you will need to do some thinking about how many bins you need, what you plan to put in them, and how you will label and organize them so you can find everything later. In Part 1, I focused on suggestions for the […]


Before you go out to buy plastic storage tubs for your home, you will need to do some thinking about how many bins you need, what you plan to put in them, and how you will label and organize them so you can find everything later. In Part 1, I focused on suggestions for the system you use for labeling. In other words, I talked about what should go on your labels. In this part, I want to talk more about how you can label your bins. After all, you cannot simply write on a plastic bin and have it look good (or stay on well). So what do you do? Here are a few ideas for how to label plastic storage tubs.

The Quick and Dirty Method: Sticky Labels

This is the fast and easy solution. It’s not the best though for long-term use (the labels like to peel away), so I recommend that if you have the time, you consider the method below instead.

Use Badge Covers and Binder Clips

Attach labels with a few simple supplies. If you want a neat-looking method for labeling your bins, just gather a few basic supplies: some plastic slip covers for badges (like you use at events), binder clips and zip ties. Print label inserts and put them inside the badge holders. Use the zip ties to affix the badge holders to the binder clips. Use the binder clips to attach the labels to the lids.

While there are a number of steps involved with this labeling solution, it provides you with a much neater look than the sticky labels. Plus, if you need to change the labels, you just take the old one out and put the new one in; your badge covers are already ready to go.

Try Chalkboard Paint

Here is another fun and creative idea for how to label storage bins. Get some sticky labels—or use the method with the badge covers—and paint the labels with chalkboard paint to create a black surface (or another color of your choice). Then just write what is inside the bin on the chalkboard paint.

This method has a couple of benefits. First of all, it looks really cool! It is a great way to add a dash of nostalgia and visual charm to your plastic totes for storage. Chalkboard paint is very popular these days for adding decorative flair around the home. Secondly, it gives you flexibility. When you just write on a label with a marker or pen, you have to completely change out the label anytime you re-purpose the bin. But with chalkboard paint, all you have to do is erase and write something else!

Coming up with a labeling system for your plastic storage bins takes some thought and creativity—not to mention time and effort. But it is well worth it to make sure that your bins are effectively labeled. It will save you so much time in the future—and also make it easier for other members of your household to stay organized.

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