Organize the Organizer - Volume 1 - Bags
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Welcome to my new series where I talk about my favorite tools in my organizing bag. This first volume is going to be my favorite bags. I have many different types of bags I bring to my clients, so let’s start off with my main utility tote bag:
TOPdesign utility tote bag from Amazon
I bought this bag originally because of all the pockets, which I love, but there are other reasons I adore this bag besides the pockets. First of all, the side mesh pockets are large enough to hold my gigantic water bottle (and that’s an accomplishment). The second thing I love is how easy it is to wipe down the bottom of the bag. I have to sit my bag down on some pretty dirty floors (sometimes I work in basements, garages, sheds, or homes that aren’t particularly clean). The material is easy to wipe down. There are two large inner mesh pockets and three smaller pockets, plus there are 6 solid pockets on the outside and 2 mesh outer pockets. The shape and structure allows for a portfolio, folder, laptop, and plenty of gear. This bag is a huge win.
That’s my bag!
This utility waist bag from Etsy seller Forage Design is the perfect size, shape, and quality for a busy organizer. It sits on your hip and upper thigh, not your butt, low back, or belly, and allows great freedom of movement. It washes in the washing machine and it holds everything from post-it notes and sharpies, to your tools, to your phone and keys.
Pouches
My absolute favorite organizing bags are these Patu zipper mesh bags. They come in so many shapes and sizes and every single size has a perfect use. I think I have at least 10 in my bag holding tools, cable ties, rubber bands, shelf pegs, labels, batteries, and countless other things I need on my jobs. They are mesh, so you can see what’s inside. Also, because they are mesh, they clean up easily with soap and water. I use these to pack for trips as well, and my trip-packing clients get a complimentary airplane seat-back pocket kit (using these bags).
Clear Zip Bags
I always bring a supply of clear plastic zip bags to jobs because they are so handy for organizing. We all know where to buy gallon and quart size Ziplock bags, so here are my favorite odd-sized bags that are constantly coming in handy:
These plastic zip pill pouches are the perfect size for tiny trinkets, coins, and other things I am constantly encountering (tiny rocks? loose gemstones?)
These 3x4 zip bags are a much handier size than “sandwich" bags” and they are thicker and more durable too.
Storage Bags
I keep a few Vacwel Vacuum Storage Bags of each size in my trunk. If you haven’t used vacuum bags before, you’re missing out on some serious space saving and preservation perks. They are perfect for pillows, blankets, puffy coats, snow gear, or anything with a lot of air in between the fibers. They will compress down to a flat little brick and save your client a ton of space.
Two-Gallon Ziplock Bags have come in handy so many times, it’s the bag I reload most often. They are perfect for tucking away “memory” items like a souvenir t-shirt that no longer fits or first baby or puppy blankets.
Desiccant - Any time you’re helping a client store something long-term in a plastic bag, you’ll want to toss a desiccant packet in there to absorb moisture and prevent mold, mildew, and stale odors from developing.
Donation Bags
Clear trash bags are great for packing away donation items. They allow your client to do a final check before items are hauled away and can prevent mistakes. Plus, the folks at the donation center will have an easier time sorting the bag if they can see what’s inside.
This concludes Volume 1 - Bags! I hope these bag suggestions have been helpful and you’ve seen some ideas you didn’t know about. Stay tuned for the next installment - Volume 2 - Tools.
Be Calm, Be Organized, Be You!
