What’s in our bags?
Our go-to products and tools for organizing (nearly) any space
OUR ORGANIZING TOOL KITS
As organizers, we never encounter two spaces that are exactly alike.
Still, we have a few tried-and-true items that come in handy on nearly every project.
Keep going to see what we never leave home without!
A note about these links: The links in this post are mostly affiliate links, meaning Tartan will receive a tiny commission if you purchase the item. We only include products with honest reviews and will only endorse ones that meet our Tartan standards. When we can get a discount code for you, we absolutely will (we love that win-win).
Quick Links
Explanations for the Detail Lovers
When we need to schlep all the things
Hulkens: The ultimate schlepping bag! Yes, they’re amazing. Worth the hype. Whether you’re toting product for work (hi, that’s us!), you’re an on-the-go parent (think carpool queen who needs everything from diapers to sports equipment), traveling, or hauling groceries, Hulkens will make whatever you're towing a lot easier. Use code TARTAN5 for 10% off your order.
Bonus: Lazy Bag cleaning
This sticky ball is a game-changer. I keep one in my purse and all of my luggage to pick up little debris. Rinse it every now and then to get the sticky factor back.
For measuring (and avoiding costly mistakes when ordering products)
Measuring Tape: A must when planning for any space! Whether it’s a drawer or an entire wall, always take the time to measure. We promise it will make for a smoother process organizing, not to mention it can save time and money in the end.
What we use as professionals: We often use this digital one for capturing multiple measurements. It’s an investment, but it’s worth it if you take on a lot of projects like we do. If you only measure occasionally, just keep it simple with the classics below!: Digital Laser Measurement Tool
If you’re looking to keep it simple:
For smaller/everyday jobs, a simple one is great: Retractable measuring tape
For larger, full-room projects, go for a contractor grade tape that will be sturdy
For labeling all of the things
A labeler is an organizer's best friend.
What we use as professionals: The Brother P-Touch Cube labeler has been our go-to for years; we have two versions of it now, and the newer (yep, more expensive) version is truly worth it. It’s a portable, wireless labeler so creating labels is as easy as printing from your phone (compatible with Apple and Android). We like to streamline labeling by using the same font style, size, and color when possible.
What makes this one better: If you just have general labeling needs, this may be overkill for you. If you’re picky though (and something tells us that if you’re reading this post… you might be), this really is the top of the line for customization, font options, tape options, and reliability. As far as tapes go, we’ve had mixed luck with the off-brand tape; some are better than others, so read reviews before trying to save a buck by buying “frother schlabel tape.” Don’t forget the case for your new baby.
If you’re looking to keep it simple:
This little thermal printer is affordable, does a good job, prints quickly, and doesn’t require ink. Get a case for it if you buy it.
For protecting your back and sanity
Appliance sliders: If you have a stand mixer, you know this struggle more than anyone. Appliances can be heavy, bulky and a pain to maneuver, ultimately keeping you from moving them for cleaning and maintenance (we’ve all been there). These self-adhesive sliders go on the base of small appliances like coffee makers, mixers, juicers, etc., making them MUCH easier to slide on countertops and also keeping your counters scratch-free. Win win!
For protecting your surfaces
Felt pads: They’re not just for furniture! Try sticking felt pads on the bottom of your pantry bins and baskets to help them slide the product in and out easily and avoid scratching your shelves. You can thank us later!
Get a variety pack; you’ll need the different sizes for different areas and items.
For getting things off of the ground
Command Hooks: We love, love, love getting things off the floor, and command hooks always do the trick. They are versatile, reliable and a really easy way to make spaces feel less cluttered and easier to manage. The uses really do feel endless: holiday wreaths, hats, purses, brooms and mops, cord management, those extra grocery bags stuffed in the back of your cabinet, outdoor lights, and so much more! Here are our favorite types and uses:
Utility: Great for just about ANYTHING!
Broom Grips: These are great for light, mid-size cleaning tools like Swiffer dusters and mops. You can place a label on the flat part too so that family members can put the cleaning tools back when they’re done (we’re laughing, too).
Bottle Holders: Great for under the sink, utility closets, bathrooms, etc. Have we mentioned how much we love and use command hooks?
Heavy Duty: Yep, you can hang heavy stuff, too.
Tiny Ledges: These are fairly new and very cute. Use them for light, small items (a tiny decor moment, a speaker, etc.).
For sorting and temporary labeling
Post-it notes + sharpies - nothing fancy here but we love using sticky notes for everything from categorizing during the initial sorting, questions to our later-self, placeholders, and more. It’s a simple way to stay organized during the process.
When we encounter pesky old labels
Goo gone + scraper tool - a dynamic duo for those inevitable pesky labels and stickers that just DO NOT want to come off.
Hot tip: first use your hands to rub the label/sticker to warm it up. A hair dryer also works, but be wary of melting the actual item. Still stuck on spots? Use a scraper tool to gently scrape the residue and/or wipe with goo gone until all residue is gone.
When we need things to stay PUT
Museum gel: Keep drawer organizers from sliding around by forming a small amount of museum gel in a ball and placing on the bottom four corners of the container. Voila!