Do You Have a Junk Drawer or a Clutter Drawer? | Luxury Pro Organizer Houston

Junk Drawer Refresh

If you haven’t used it in a year, it probably doesn’t belong. Seasonally toss dead pens and stray odds and ends to keep it functional year-round.

I’m Carol Appelbaum, founder of Luxury Pro Organizer in Houston, Texas
I’m passionate about organization and design, and I love helping people create systems that make their everyday lives easier. I’d be truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this piece. Junk drawers are such a universal topic, and I believe thoughtful structure can make even the smallest spaces feel intentional.

Think of a junk drawer as part of your command center. The essential must-have items every household should keep in its junk drawer are scissors, pens, a Sharpie, and a sticky note pad for quick notes, matches or a lighter, mini screwdrivers, a tape measure, a mini flashlight, a few various-size batteries, an eyeglass repair kit, and spare keys that are labeled. Some households keep first-aid items like bandages and ointment for quick scrapes in a small pouch in the drawer.

Everything has a purpose in a junk drawer. A clutter drawer is where random cords, coupons, dried-out pens, unsharpened pencils, and unused gift cards end up. If you haven’t used it in a year, it probably doesn’t belong.

Painter’s tape in a junk drawer is an underrated item that’s great for temporary labels, light repairs, or corralling cords without sticky residue. It’s surprising how useful it can be.
Another underrated and often surprising item is a small pouch with spare buttons and safety pins is another great essential to add to your drawer. You’ll be surprised how often you reach for them.

It’s more efficient if this drawer is organized and not a dumping ground. Use shallow dividers or stackable trays that slide side to side, so everything stays accessible. Place small labels inside each compartment so others in your household know what belongs where. Seasonally toss dead pens and stray odds and ends to keep it functional year-round.

If you don’t have a traditional junk drawer, a labeled, well-organized bin with a lid inside a cabinet works well. The key is keeping your essentials organized and together in one easy-to-grab place.

For more organizing tips, explore the Luxury Pro Organizer Blog or visit LuxuryProOrganizer.com to grab your free copy of “10 Ways to Save Money Before Hiring a Professional Organizer.” Your elevated, clutter-free lifestyle starts here.

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Carol Appelbaum, founder of Luxury Pro Organizer in Houston