This is the lesson that spurred my complete kitchen declutter about a year ago. I owned enough containers to fill two refrigerators with leftovers. And I could keep track of them and store them well enough that they didn't cause a crapalanche. But that meant I could go a LONG time without cleaning the fridge. Which made me put it off because it was gross (I'd go 6-8 months...I know thats horrible). Since I decluttered containers and started storing them this way, I've cleaned out the fridges probably 4 or 5 times in the last year. They are needing it again, and I'm thinking of moving the containers to a different cabinet (think: smaller container) to limit the amount even further.
This method works really well for me! About a year ago, I decluttered my kitchen cabinets and got rid of a lot of containers. I started storing the containers with the lids on them. It's made a big difference!
Yes! Yes!Yes! No more opening cabinet and food storage and lids flying out at me tumbling to the floor! Do I really need 72 odd lids with 47 containers? Umm No I do not! Thank you so much for this brilliant concept video that has saved future freak out moments in the kitchen. Wow I hope I don't miss that!😊
I love this method and FINALLY converted my mom to this method over the summer. She’s sooo much happier and we got rid of three paper grocery bags full of unneeded containers.
I will tell you that we are currently in a rent house, waiting for our new house to be built. Most of our belongings (especially kitchen) are in the garage. So, in order to continue my sourdough bread baking, I just ordered another set of Pyrex mixing bowls - with lids!!! Totally your influence!!!
your are right and having a designated spot for them is a must. I make a lot of my meals ahead of time for work so I like the lunch-size Pyrex glass storage ones as I can cook - freeze - take out what I need - microwave and when I'm done, wash and store (with lids on) in a designated spot so I know right where to go and if when the area starts filling up it means I need to make some more meals -works for me.
We used to have too many containers and keep lids separate it's was frustrating so I decluttered and put lids on the containers it's makes life so easy at first I was afraid we may not have enough since we do have big family and store foods in the fridge to last several days but we wash dishes every night and I clean out the fridge once a week so we have more than enough containers.
It's true it takes up a lot of space. And I resisted this for 4 years after I learned how popular it was. I am lucky because I was so wrong. [In my case] They all fit. But they do totally fill the space. The reason why i switched was bc i had a set of 3 of the 11 cup rectangular pyrex containers i got earlier this year and we were uing them constantly. We only have pyrex food storage so matching lids was easy enough. But then theses beloved new additions that I nested as I always have got STUCK. And I mean STUCK. And we tried for 2 months to separate different ways on the weekends. Brand new perfectly good premium brand containers. To no avail. And I decided once was enough, never again. I had to replace them and now I am fully on board.
I started this method two years ago and love it. I wish my daughters would switch to it. One has a deep drawer with lids and bowls askew. The other has a cabinet where the lid you want may be in the very back. She doesn’t have pull out shelves! I sent this to them in hopes they will like Dana’s method!!
This concept was a game changer for me! I do not like digging. I need quick easy grab and go. I started using this method about 2 years ago and I will never go back! 😊
100% agree. My mom did this with hers, but I did not recognize her genius at the time. I reorganized my food storage cabinet for the millionth time just today because my husband, who is the usual emptier of the dishwasher, has no concept of nesting like with like. It's a constant source of frustration- but no more. I surrender. Thank you, Dana K.!
Okay, Dana, so I thought this tip was not for me because I have A Unique Situation where my husband brings home leftover food from work in the summer, and we use containers to transport that food. Buuuut I thought I'd go ahead and prove you wrong and try it anyway. Um. Yeah. I stored the ones we use most with their lids on, and even though I still have a stack of cheaper plastic containers that I kept out just in case, we haven't dipped into those extras more than twice. So. I was wrong, you were right, and even in my unusual situation, this tip works for us.
I really like your containers. I might eventually go with glass. What I've done at this point...I found 1/2 cup, 1 cup, and maybe 1 1/2 cup containers that both stack and all use same size lids. I also found six more larger rectangular containers, also stack and use same size lids. The system has been my life saver, and I've gotten rid of many other containers.
Super helpful! I did the lid thing but my husband strongly disagrees... so we have a hybrid of his nested ones and my lidded ones. REALLY love the point of "forgetting" in the fridge and the being in chaos factor when we need one.
I was resisting your way because my nesting system was fine. I love love love your way it just looks amazing!!! Thank you for doing what you do!!! Love you!!!! Lisa in Nebraska
I resisted this method when I first heard you say it but I did this about a month ago and love it! I can always find the container and the lid with ease!😊
I love, love, love this system. I have been doing this for a while now it works fantabulously. I probably got this from one of your videos. You are on my faves list. Thx.
My only concern about this is that unless the cover and bowl is totally dry with a fleck of food stuck in a crack they will stink and especially if any plastic is involved I worry about bacteria growth too. The idea is perfect I want to add. Nothing wrong with it other than my own crazy sanitary concern.
I have the same question, maybe because I live in a humid place. Have you gotten any suggestions. I already leave tops to dry extra, but I still find drops of water in there sometimes the next day.
I have always kept the lid on the container when storing because it didn’t make sense to me to separate them and then have to match up the proper lid to the container. That is more frustration than I could handle. 🤣
Dooliwhopper? I was thinking Doololly already, and you switched it! 😂 Joking aside, if you can’t fit them with lids on in the cupboard, you can’t fit them in the fridge with the lids on. I.e. you can’t even use them all!!!
I could never understand why my mom stored the tops and bottoms separately. There was always one you wanted to use that the lid was missing. When she passed away and we cleaned out that cabinet. We put all the tops and bottoms on the living room floor (before I knew about not pulling everything out) and matched up what we could in the end we had a lot of trash, tops and bottoms that had no matches and ones that had seen better days. It really took a lot of time to get that all straightened out, like days of them cluttered all ov
Tried it and loved, loved loved it!! BUT, my spouse and his teenagers just cannot seem to manage placing the lid on the container then putting it on top of the other containers with lids in the cupboard. Who are these people??? Lol
You must be reading my mind…I just put several food containers in my “Goodwill” bag to donate yesterday since I never use them and the cabinet is always overflowing!
Questions for you: I noticed that all your containers are clear and it looks like they can go easily in the dishwasher. Is this by design? What do you do with all those little lunch box containers? Thanks for the great tips!
"Science projects happening in my fridge" 😂 I'm going to start using that one myself. We are guilty of having too much food stuffed in the fridge, and so some things go bad, is definitely something we need to improve on in this house. Putting smaller containers inside a bigger one is NOT a good idea as we have learned.
When I take mine from the dishwasher, they're still a little bit damp, so I'm hesitant to put the lids on. So I want them to "air out" in the cabinet. How do you avoid that?
My heat cycle leaves some after within the gasket portion of my lids too. I just give the lids a good shake when I pull them out and wipe off the droplets with a towel before putting the lids on. I’ve had no issues for over a year with any mold or anything like that.
@Kimberly Brown I have the same issue as you describe. Even with heated dry, mine seem to hold little droplets of water in places. I have resigned myself to flipping the container onto a drying mat and letting sit for a while before putting away. It is not ideal, but I don’t want any closed slightly wet containers.
@@veronicageorge7820 Yes, I do use the heated dry, and I even have a new dishwasher (a Bosch) that opens the door at the end of its cycle to further help with drying, and there's always a few water droplets. I do want to try Dana's method, so I may just try wiping them with a towel before putting them away.
Thankfully I don't have a problem with food storage containers. I have a set amount of actual Tupperware brand containers in drawers (round in one, rectangle in another) and then have the round lids in a drawer and rectangle lids in a different drawer. I collect lunchmeat containers for a while (in case I want to send leftovers home with my grown kids, etc) - but when I start having trouble closing the drawers, I get rid of them (the containers, not my grown kids) 🤣
My containers and lids are nesting. The big lids nest and the little ones nest on top of them next to the containers on the same shelf. If they didn't , I would do it this way
My problem is I do that a organize them with the lids, then I have kids come along and unloading the dishwasher is one of their chores and they just throw things everywhere! How do you go about getting your kids on board with keeping your organization plan together, I’ve had total panic crying fits over this issue, in more places than one in my house! I suffer as it is just getting my house decluttered and an organization system put in place, so it makes my hard work feel so disrespected and hurts my feelings.
I initially thought that "clutter threshold" meant "how much clutter can I deal with?" 😄 When I moved into my new place, I finally understood what a clutter threshold REALLY is! Apparently, mine is much less than I thought, but I really had to experience this to understand it. Thank you, Dana!!
Can confirm - this WORKS! I think this was the first of your suggestions I implemented when I found you and it's still going strong. When my Mom visited she told my Dad, "She's SO organized! You should see her tupperware!" I don't think I've EVER been called organized in my life (much less by my Mom lol)! I felt a bit like an imposter but hey, I'll take it. My containers are, indeed, organized!
It must be absolute KISMET that you did this video TODAY! Yesterday, I was trying (for I'm sure, my 12th time) looking for a lid to a square plastic container. In frustration, I tossed it in the recycle bin & announced to anyone within earshot: "If it doesn't have a lid, it needs to GO!" 😁 Also, we have WAY to many of one size nobody EVER uses. Once we (meaning "I") match all the containers & lids, any excess will be taken to the animal shelter. Dana, you're SO helpful to those of us who are totally like you (personality wise!) and to many others who aren't! Thank you!! 💟
Seriously so thankful for you. ❤ I'm listening through Decluttering at the Speed of Life & I actually remember so much of the book & I feel certain it's because of your specific stories, like the shoe shining kit & the dining tables & the claw foot tub. You're really doing a great job & making an impact on lives. ♥️ May God continue to lead you & bless you.
Also clear containers in the fridge helps me avoid science projects!! I recently got the glass bowls that all nest with the lids on because I have very little room. I love it!
I've started to implement. But what was funny both my husband and son at different times asked if I could just attach the lid to the container so THEY could find them easily. Hmmmm interesting.
I do this too but my issue is that I don’t put the lids on until I’m confident that they are 100% dry after the dishwasher so I put them in the drawer apart to dry but forget to go back and put them back together.
I empty the dishwasher while I am making coffee. I leave them on the counter after shaking them out and I move on to cook breakfast. After breakfast is done, they are typically ready to put away.
Karen here. Same problem!!! Concerned about mold, even the littlest bit, because of ridges in the top. OCD. So switching to some glass, others I will keep and leave on clean cloth to dry. Switching
Thanks to you, I have adopted this. It is so easy. Instead of getting rid of my excess containers to donation, I just gave them away with goodies in them with instructions - Do Not Return Container. Win Win. You ROCK, Dana. Have my timer set to watch you three dynamic ladies today concerning Christmas decor.
Is it bothering anyone else that the square one and round one are on top of the "wrong" stacks? Just me? I love this method, Dana. You and our other TYHB friends have changed my life.
When I first heard you say to store containers with the lids on, I was appalled! Horrified! Then two weeks later a tsunami of Tupperware fell on my head and I was done. Matched lids to containers and decluttered. We now have 4 sandwich size, 3 one-serving, 2 two-serving, and 2 round for liquids. Fits just right in the cabinet. In fact I could probably get rid of one of each size and not miss them. After about two weeks of the new system, Hubs, my dishwasher, said, "This is SO much better!!! Don't have to dig for lids and so much easier to put away!" Thank you Dana! ❤
Yep! Soon as "I do the dishes" the "crapalanche " cabinet is next. I keep having to deal with it a couple times a year, so obviously haven't decluttered enough. Good news is the mission truck comes to our community in 2 weeks.
After seeing this on another vid, and being someone who scoffed, saying it was a waste of space, I am now a convert. I switched to this method a few months ago and it has made my life so simple. No more frustration, not being able to find the matching lid, when I have two containers that look exactly the same but have slightly differently fitting lids. No more trying to find the perfect container to store all the lids. No more missing lid for the container I just filled with leftover casserole. This system works.
Since I've been hand-washing my dishes, I found that I can't stand most food storage containers. They have grooves that are hard to get fully clean, so I tend to put stuff in a bowl and use plastic wrap or something like that.
Good morning from Scottsdale. Unfortunately I am the home cook who does use many serving sized freezer containers. I make batches of chili or chicken enchiladas soup, etc. then freeze in individual servings. Great for lunch in fall and winter. I have the designated deep drawer and it is very organized. Just my thing. I have told my 60yo nephew,who was setting up his first home and is a fabulous cook, your secret container storage method. He loves it!
It really does depend on the person, doesn't it? My parents have tons of containers because they batch cook and freeze dishes, especially at the end of the growing season. They have 2 large freezers and a medium-sized freezer that they fill and are now considering getting a fourth one. In their porch, they have a 4-shelf cupboard unit with doors that they store containers in. It's very organized. I, on the other hand, prefer to cook enough for 1-3 meals and usually eat up leftovers before cooking something else, so I have very few containers and they're stored like Dana's.
Yes! This is one of my current problems and this month I am working on decluttering my kitchen. I’ve been avoiding my container cabinet because it is so bad. But I’m going to tackle it like you did. I’m so tired of always searching for the right lid!
When I put all the lids on and tried to store them in their "home", barely none would fit back in there. SO Here's how I decided HOW many containers to keep. Ate up all leftovers, fruit and veggies, washed all containers so all of them were clean at one time. On clean fridge day (the day before we grocery shop when that fridge is the most empty), I took them and placed them in my fridge, yes the empty clean containers with lids, I stacked them just how I would with fruit, leftovers or veggies. Then I kept one larger one that stays on the container w/ cookies, bars etc.ALL THE REST WERE DONATED. I mean why have them if they won't even fit in the fridge, I thought. I did put 2-3 in TWT bin for when our elderly friend comes over and we send leftovers home with him-- THEN he said how bout I bring my own leftover containers, then I won't have to worry about getting your nice containers back to you. TWT went to Charity. Problem solved.
We use our storage containers for freezing stuff, so we need lots of them (and there’s only very few that we actually can use for the fridge ;-). However, we keep the containers in a drawer, containers and lids stacked. No searching, no digging required, nothing can fall from a shelve. I love it! EDIT: We only use one make and three sizes of containers, which makes taking out the right sized lid easy.
I have a lot of containers, use to sell Tupperware so, those stay as they were not cheap! But I have a system where the lids are in there own space (square and round) and the bottoms are stacked together! I go through periodically and match them up so there’s no randoms around! Although I use the bottoms as containers too!
I have a hybrid system of storing ones like you and then I also keep stacked ones (with lids in a container) for freezing. Mainly it's produce out of the garden that gets frozen. But stacking definitely lets you know exactly what you have in your space.
I'm using this method but my issue is that my containers are still a little wet after coming out of my dishwasher so I need to put them on the counter to dry before snapping together.
I just did this after listening to your Decluttering at the Speed of Life book and it's LIFE CHANGING!! Thank you so much for this brilliant idea that I'm wondering why I didn't consider before! I got rid of so many extra containers plus the random extra lids that were taking up space.
I really like this idea. I have a question. I tend to toss mine in the drawer without thoroughly drying them and then stack after they air dry. Do you dry them really well before putting them away. I worry there will be a little moisture and cause an odor or germiness even if I towel dry them.
Storing containers with lids is a game changer. I have been doing this since the first time you introduced it and it works. I have never run out. When they get low I have to serve a dinner of leftovers. They all fit on one shelf. I have plastic give away containers (all the same kind that nest) on a different shelf. Thank you!🎉❤🙏
I can't throw out my containers. I make food in advance and freeze it. I put all of that into containers (don't use disposable ones). But they don't take up much space. I have about 50, but take less space than the ones in this video. The stack inside each other and use the same kind of lid.
If you have all one size from one maker, they stack nicely. It's when you can't resist the "30-piece set" with 8 different sizes in cute colors ... there lies madness.
I recently started storing my containers like this. I LOVE it, but unfortunately, I have children responsible for dishes and putting things away. So they don't get put away like this so I *eventually* end up doing it myself. I also have a bunch of "deli" containers that I like very much. Several sizes ALL have the same lid.
i think this is what i need to do. problem: kitchen is too small for all the things i need to organize. i need to make more room somehow to store all the containers with lids that aren't being nestled. and i do think i have way too much, i gotta get rid of some
I love this method. I store mine in a bin on a shelf, all willy-nilly, but it doesn't matter because the kids are ON. Put the lid on, throw it in the bin. If the bin is overflowing, I get rid of some.
After 20 years of fumbling with assorted glass baking dishes in my narrow cupboard, I decluttered them all. I then purchased 2-9x13 and 2- 8x8 Pyrex because that’s what fits and that’s what I use. I store them with lids on it’s amazing. I fully admit that sometimes I just open the cupboard because it’s so pretty and orderly.
When I first started watching your video, I thought ‘no way’ will all of my containers fit with their lids on and YES, they ALL fit! WOW! I’m in heaven right now!
If you don’t want to throw the excess away because you might need them during the holidays or after hosting larger events, put the excess in a larger box/container and keep them in the garage/basement/storage closet. Only keep in your cabinets what you actually use.
Yes this would work for me…except I’ve decided to “nest/stack” those cool whip ,sour cream & other flimsy containers my housemate gives & receives from others with special goodies. And I take it as a hint that having those stacks means I gotta either recycle them or fill them with goodies to give away.
I smiled through most of this video. This has been wonderful. 1. I had to declutter to fit my "container". 2. I do clean out my fridge more often. 3. I USED TO leave my containers on top of my counter because it was such a hassle to put away..... I cringe now when I see other people's Tupperware area. 🤣
The multi-size nesting and multi-shape sets are a waste of space. For your core storage, get one size, and get a lot of them. The best size is 16-20 oz because it's one adult serving. If you have 3 servings of lasagna left over, you don't need a bigger container, use 3 single-serving sizes. That way you aren't keeping one serving in a big container and wasting frig space.
Oh, and Tupperware parties! I have a permanent memory of one of my mom’s Tupperware parties; my brother and a guest’s son were playing “repair the playhouse roof” and asked 5 year old me to get a hammer. I got a tack hammer, which they hung on the monkey bars. I stood under it and said “Guys, I don’t think that’s a good idea!”, just in time to be hit in the head with it as it fell! I was just telling my kids about that, cause I have a spot where no hair grows!
I now try to use this system and find it is way more helpful than storing containers and lids separately. My only hiccup is that I have some IKEA containers that are glass and the lids are bamboo. I put the containers in the dishwasher and have to wash the lids by hand, so sometimes there is a lag in time between washing and then matching up and putting away. Maybe I just need to handwash the whole thing and keep them together.
OK. I'm short, single and have more containers than a family of 4 should have. Opening The Door just a little to get something was real. I tried your method and I love it so much!! Now, I'm not a waster and I could recycle the ones that don't fit now in the cupboard. However, I'm boxing the rest up to put in the shed with the extra plates, utensils, etc I don't need now. Sometimes a container will split or break and I get one out of the box of the size I need. Sometimes I'm tired of using a pattern of dishes so I'll go into the box and switch them out with other patterns I have. Just A couple at a time because I don't need a whole set. Then I'm happy because they are dishes I really like using and looking at and it feels like Christmas. I have the space for my extras in the shed. I also grow vegetables so old containers are used for growing seedlings. When they are too trashed they go into the recycle. That's how I'm doing it for now and when I go into a box to get something or switch it out and I get the urge to purge I will pull things out and fill the donate box/s.
This is the lesson that spurred my complete kitchen declutter about a year ago. I owned enough containers to fill two refrigerators with leftovers. And I could keep track of them and store them well enough that they didn't cause a crapalanche. But that meant I could go a LONG time without cleaning the fridge. Which made me put it off because it was gross (I'd go 6-8 months...I know thats horrible). Since I decluttered containers and started storing them this way, I've cleaned out the fridges probably 4 or 5 times in the last year. They are needing it again, and I'm thinking of moving the containers to a different cabinet (think: smaller container) to limit the amount even further.
This method works really well for me! About a year ago, I decluttered my kitchen cabinets and got rid of a lot of containers. I started storing the containers with the lids on them. It's made a big difference!
Yes! Yes!Yes! No more opening cabinet and food storage and lids flying out at me tumbling to the floor! Do I really need 72 odd lids with 47 containers? Umm No I do not! Thank you so much for this brilliant concept video that has saved future freak out moments in the kitchen. Wow I hope I don't miss that!😊
I love this method and FINALLY converted my mom to this method over the summer. She’s sooo much happier and we got rid of three paper grocery bags full of unneeded containers.
I love this!!!!
@@DanaKWhite a scammer is here, pretending to be you.
@@cindy844 Yep!! Tried to scam me!
I will tell you that we are currently in a rent house, waiting for our new house to be built. Most of our belongings (especially kitchen) are in the garage. So, in order to continue my sourdough bread baking, I just ordered another set of Pyrex mixing bowls - with lids!!! Totally your influence!!!
your are right and having a designated spot for them is a must. I make a lot of my meals ahead of time for work so I like the lunch-size Pyrex glass storage ones as I can cook - freeze - take out what I need - microwave and when I'm done, wash and store (with lids on) in a designated spot so I know right where to go and if when the area starts filling up it means I need to make some more meals -works for me.
I did the same thing a few years ago and it made a massive difference.
We used to have too many containers and keep lids separate it's was frustrating so I decluttered and put lids on the containers it's makes life so easy at first I was afraid we may not have enough since we do have big family and store foods in the fridge to last several days but we wash dishes every night and I clean out the fridge once a week so we have more than enough containers.
It's true it takes up a lot of space. And I resisted this for 4 years after I learned how popular it was.
I am lucky because I was so wrong. [In my case] They all fit. But they do totally fill the space.
The reason why i switched was bc i had a set of 3 of the 11 cup rectangular pyrex containers i got earlier this year and we were uing them constantly. We only have pyrex food storage so matching lids was easy enough.
But then theses beloved new additions that I nested as I always have got STUCK. And I mean STUCK.
And we tried for 2 months to separate different ways on the weekends. Brand new perfectly good premium brand containers. To no avail. And I decided once was enough, never again. I had to replace them and now I am fully on board.
This is one of the best ideas I have gotten from you!!! Wow! Problem permanently solved!! Thank you!
I started this method two years ago and love it. I wish my daughters would switch to it. One has a deep drawer with lids and bowls askew. The other has a cabinet where the lid you want may be in the very back. She doesn’t have pull out shelves! I sent this to them in hopes they will like Dana’s method!!
This concept was a game changer for me! I do not like digging. I need quick easy grab and go. I started using this method about 2 years ago and I will never go back! 😊
100% agree. My mom did this with hers, but I did not recognize her genius at the time. I reorganized my food storage cabinet for the millionth time just today because my husband, who is the usual emptier of the dishwasher, has no concept of nesting like with like. It's a constant source of frustration- but no more. I surrender. Thank you, Dana K.!
Crap-alanche! This is why we love you.
I’m doing this to my Tupperware container drawer right now!
I really like your point about the fridge. I've been running low on containers, and now I'm realizing I need to clean out my fridge.
I, too, have switched to your method! Neat, orderly, works!!!
I have to say, I really enjoy your videos, but I LOVE your credits SO much...always so witty. Thanks for making me smile. 😊
Okay, Dana, so I thought this tip was not for me because I have A Unique Situation where my husband brings home leftover food from work in the summer, and we use containers to transport that food. Buuuut I thought I'd go ahead and prove you wrong and try it anyway.
Um. Yeah. I stored the ones we use most with their lids on, and even though I still have a stack of cheaper plastic containers that I kept out just in case, we haven't dipped into those extras more than twice. So. I was wrong, you were right, and even in my unusual situation, this tip works for us.
I really like your containers. I might eventually go with glass. What I've done at this point...I found 1/2 cup, 1 cup, and maybe 1 1/2 cup containers that both stack and all use same size lids. I also found six more larger rectangular containers, also stack and use same size lids. The system has been my life saver, and I've gotten rid of many other containers.
I have 6 food storage containers. That's it. It really helps me to keep it neat to have so few.
Super helpful! I did the lid thing but my husband strongly disagrees... so we have a hybrid of his nested ones and my lidded ones. REALLY love the point of "forgetting" in the fridge and the being in chaos factor when we need one.
Easiest method ever!!! Works like a charm. Thank you, Dana!
I was resisting your way because my nesting system was fine. I love love love your way it just looks amazing!!! Thank you for doing what you do!!! Love you!!!! Lisa in Nebraska
I resisted this method when I first heard you say it but I did this about a month ago and love it! I can always find the container and the lid with ease!😊
I love, love, love this system. I have been doing this for a while now it works fantabulously. I probably got this from one of your videos. You are on my faves list. Thx.
If they are 100% dry this is awesome!
My only concern about this is that unless the cover and bowl is totally dry with a fleck of food stuck in a crack they will stink and especially if any plastic is involved I worry about bacteria growth too.
The idea is perfect I want to add. Nothing wrong with it other than my own crazy sanitary concern.
I have the same question, maybe because I live in a humid place. Have you gotten any suggestions. I already leave tops to dry extra, but I still find drops of water in there sometimes the next day.
I have always kept the lid on the container when storing because it didn’t make sense to me to separate them and then have to match up the proper lid to the container. That is more frustration than I could handle. 🤣
Oh so helpful to grab and go.
Dooliwhopper? I was thinking Doololly already, and you switched it! 😂
Joking aside, if you can’t fit them with lids on in the cupboard, you can’t fit them in the fridge with the lids on. I.e. you can’t even use them all!!!
I could never understand why my mom stored the tops and bottoms separately. There was always one you wanted to use that the lid was missing. When she passed away and we cleaned out that cabinet. We put all the tops and bottoms on the living room floor (before I knew about not pulling everything out) and matched up what we could in the end we had a lot of trash, tops and bottoms that had no matches and ones that had seen better days. It really took a lot of time to get that all straightened out, like days of them cluttered all ov
Er just to make sense of it.
Tried it and loved, loved loved it!!
BUT, my spouse and his teenagers just cannot seem to manage placing the lid on the container then putting it on top of the other containers with lids in the cupboard. Who are these people??? Lol
You must be reading my mind…I just put several food containers in my “Goodwill” bag to donate yesterday since I never use them and the cabinet is always overflowing!
Questions for you: I noticed that all your containers are clear and it looks like they can go easily in the dishwasher. Is this by design? What do you do with all those little lunch box containers? Thanks for the great tips!
Pmsl, even with the lids p.s make sure they are dry or turn gross! Mine still dissappear but this is a great method
Yippee I don't know how to do that but will try, thank you xx
I don't know how to but will give it a try! Thank you xx
"Science projects happening in my fridge" 😂 I'm going to start using that one myself. We are guilty of having too much food stuffed in the fridge, and so some things go bad, is definitely something we need to improve on in this house. Putting smaller containers inside a bigger one is NOT a good idea as we have learned.
Yes! 👏👏👏
Do you have two shelves full of storage containers or do just keep one?
I wait until the end to see Reid's comments😂
That’s how I store mine too! Much better!
When I take mine from the dishwasher, they're still a little bit damp, so I'm hesitant to put the lids on. So I want them to "air out" in the cabinet. How do you avoid that?
I use the heated dry so this isn’t an issue. I also run it after dinner and then empty the next morning.
My heat cycle leaves some after within the gasket portion of my lids too. I just give the lids a good shake when I pull them out and wipe off the droplets with a towel before putting the lids on. I’ve had no issues for over a year with any mold or anything like that.
@@DanaKWhite Brilliant.
@Kimberly Brown
I have the same issue as you describe. Even with heated dry, mine seem to hold little droplets of water in places. I have resigned myself to flipping the container onto a drying mat and letting sit for a while before putting away. It is not ideal, but I don’t want any closed slightly wet containers.
@@veronicageorge7820 Yes, I do use the heated dry, and I even have a new dishwasher (a Bosch) that opens the door at the end of its cycle to further help with drying, and there's always a few water droplets. I do want to try Dana's method, so I may just try wiping them with a towel before putting them away.
Thankfully I don't have a problem with food storage containers. I have a set amount of actual Tupperware brand containers in drawers (round in one, rectangle in another) and then have the round lids in a drawer and rectangle lids in a different drawer. I collect lunchmeat containers for a while (in case I want to send leftovers home with my grown kids, etc) - but when I start having trouble closing the drawers, I get rid of them (the containers, not my grown kids) 🤣
This is how I do mine. Exactly 100% same. I love it. I started doing it a few years ago and it’s great.
Reid’s comment 😂😂❤️
My containers and lids are nesting. The big lids nest and the little ones nest on top of them next to the containers on the same shelf. If they didn't , I would do it this way
If you store things with lids on, then they need to be 100% dry. I put things away when they are not 100% dry.
I take them from the dishwasher and have a counter space for final air drying, I live in a very dry climate so it does not take long.
I tried this for a while and liked it, but my husband puts dishes away still damp 🙃
Doolywhopper 😂🥰
My problem is I do that a organize them with the lids, then I have kids come along and unloading the dishwasher is one of their chores and they just throw things everywhere! How do you go about getting your kids on board with keeping your organization plan together, I’ve had total panic crying fits over this issue, in more places than one in my house! I suffer as it is just getting my house decluttered and an organization system put in place, so it makes my hard work feel so disrespected and hurts my feelings.
I’ll talk about this in a future live!
Don't they get musty though?
Mine don’t, I’ve been storing them with lids on for six years
Not if you make sure they're thoroughly dry before you close the lid.
Question: how do you avoid moisture being trapped in there and mildew collecting?
Yep, I live in a humid climate so I store mine open but w the lids under the container. I might have 2-3 in that stack but it works for me
I initially thought that "clutter threshold" meant "how much clutter can I deal with?" 😄 When I moved into my new place, I finally understood what a clutter threshold REALLY is! Apparently, mine is much less than I thought, but I really had to experience this to understand it. Thank you, Dana!!
Can confirm - this WORKS! I think this was the first of your suggestions I implemented when I found you and it's still going strong. When my Mom visited she told my Dad, "She's SO organized! You should see her tupperware!" I don't think I've EVER been called organized in my life (much less by my Mom lol)! I felt a bit like an imposter but hey, I'll take it. My containers are, indeed, organized!
It must be absolute KISMET that you did this video TODAY! Yesterday, I was trying (for I'm sure, my 12th time) looking for a lid to a square plastic container. In frustration, I tossed it in the recycle bin & announced to anyone within earshot: "If it doesn't have a lid, it needs to GO!" 😁
Also, we have WAY to many of one size nobody EVER uses. Once we (meaning "I") match all the containers & lids, any excess will be taken to the animal shelter.
Dana, you're SO helpful to those of us who are totally like you (personality wise!) and to many others who aren't! Thank you!! 💟
Seriously so thankful for you. ❤ I'm listening through Decluttering at the Speed of Life & I actually remember so much of the book & I feel certain it's because of your specific stories, like the shoe shining kit & the dining tables & the claw foot tub. You're really doing a great job & making an impact on lives. ♥️ May God continue to lead you & bless you.
Oh great idea I’m going to see if I can borrow the audio book version from my library
Also clear containers in the fridge helps me avoid science projects!! I recently got the glass bowls that all nest with the lids on because I have very little room. I love it!
I've started to implement. But what was funny both my husband and son at different times asked if I could just attach the lid to the container so THEY could find them easily. Hmmmm interesting.
I do this too but my issue is that I don’t put the lids on until I’m confident that they are 100% dry after the dishwasher so I put them in the drawer apart to dry but forget to go back and put them back together.
Right?!!
Maybe you can toweldry them before putting them in the drawer
I empty the dishwasher while I am making coffee. I leave them on the counter after shaking them out and I move on to cook breakfast. After breakfast is done, they are typically ready to put away.
Karen here. Same problem!!! Concerned about mold, even the littlest bit, because of ridges in the top. OCD. So switching to some glass, others I will keep and leave on clean cloth to dry. Switching
Same issue. Maybe I should switch to glass with bamboo lids?
Thanks to you, I have adopted this. It is so easy. Instead of getting rid of my excess containers to donation, I just gave them away with goodies in them with instructions - Do Not Return Container. Win Win. You ROCK, Dana. Have my timer set to watch you three dynamic ladies today concerning Christmas decor.
D.n.r.
Is it bothering anyone else that the square one and round one are on top of the "wrong" stacks? Just me?
I love this method, Dana. You and our other TYHB friends have changed my life.
When I first heard you say to store containers with the lids on, I was appalled! Horrified! Then two weeks later a tsunami of Tupperware fell on my head and I was done. Matched lids to containers and decluttered. We now have 4 sandwich size, 3 one-serving, 2 two-serving, and 2 round for liquids. Fits just right in the cabinet. In fact I could probably get rid of one of each size and not miss them. After about two weeks of the new system, Hubs, my dishwasher, said, "This is SO much better!!! Don't have to dig for lids and so much easier to put away!" Thank you Dana! ❤
Thank you for the short specific topic video reminders. I need them to reinforce what I have seen before but get lazy or forget to keep up. 🤦🏼❤️
Yep! Soon as "I do the dishes" the "crapalanche " cabinet is next. I keep having to deal with it a couple times a year, so obviously haven't decluttered enough. Good news is the mission truck comes to our community in 2 weeks.
I totally want to go back in time and attend one of your Tupperware parties.
After seeing this on another vid, and being someone who scoffed, saying it was a waste of space, I am now a convert. I switched to this method a few months ago and it has made my life so simple. No more frustration, not being able to find the matching lid, when I have two containers that look exactly the same but have slightly differently fitting lids. No more trying to find the perfect container to store all the lids. No more missing lid for the container I just filled with leftover casserole. This system works.
Since I've been hand-washing my dishes, I found that I can't stand most food storage containers. They have grooves that are hard to get fully clean, so I tend to put stuff in a bowl and use plastic wrap or something like that.
But if I ever start using those containers again, I'll certainly use this method for storing them!
Good morning from Scottsdale. Unfortunately I am the home cook who does use many serving sized freezer containers. I make batches of chili or chicken enchiladas soup, etc. then freeze in individual servings. Great for lunch in fall and winter. I have the designated deep drawer and it is very organized. Just my thing. I have told my 60yo nephew,who was setting up his first home and is a fabulous cook, your secret container storage method. He loves it!
I do find that the single serves or enough for two works better for me. No mysteries in the back of the fridge.
It really does depend on the person, doesn't it? My parents have tons of containers because they batch cook and freeze dishes, especially at the end of the growing season. They have 2 large freezers and a medium-sized freezer that they fill and are now considering getting a fourth one. In their porch, they have a 4-shelf cupboard unit with doors that they store containers in. It's very organized. I, on the other hand, prefer to cook enough for 1-3 meals and usually eat up leftovers before cooking something else, so I have very few containers and they're stored like Dana's.
Yes! This is one of my current problems and this month I am working on decluttering my kitchen. I’ve been avoiding my container cabinet because it is so bad. But I’m going to tackle it like you did. I’m so tired of always searching for the right lid!
The crapalanche I have been avoiding! This is a sign lol divine intervention
When I put all the lids on and tried to store them in their "home", barely none would fit back in there. SO Here's how I decided HOW many containers to keep. Ate up all leftovers, fruit and veggies, washed all containers so all of them were clean at one time. On clean fridge day (the day before we grocery shop when that fridge is the most empty), I took them and placed them in my fridge, yes the empty clean containers with lids, I stacked them just how I would with fruit, leftovers or veggies. Then I kept one larger one that stays on the container w/ cookies, bars etc.ALL THE REST WERE DONATED. I mean why have them if they won't even fit in the fridge, I thought. I did put 2-3 in TWT bin for when our elderly friend comes over and we send leftovers home with him-- THEN he said how bout I bring my own leftover containers, then I won't have to worry about getting your nice containers back to you. TWT went to Charity. Problem solved.
We use our storage containers for freezing stuff, so we need lots of them (and there’s only very few that we actually can use for the fridge ;-). However, we keep the containers in a drawer, containers and lids stacked. No searching, no digging required, nothing can fall from a shelve. I love it!
EDIT: We only use one make and three sizes of containers, which makes taking out the right sized lid easy.
I need to do this!
I was skeptical but I am totally trying this. I only ever use a few containers anyways so why the whole collection?!
I have a lot of containers, use to sell Tupperware so, those stay as they were not cheap! But I have a system where the lids are in there own space (square and round) and the bottoms are stacked together! I go through periodically and match them up so there’s no randoms around! Although I use the bottoms as containers too!
I have a hybrid system of storing ones like you and then I also keep stacked ones (with lids in a container) for freezing. Mainly it's produce out of the garden that gets frozen. But stacking definitely lets you know exactly what you have in your space.
I'm using this method but my issue is that my containers are still a little wet after coming out of my dishwasher so I need to put them on the counter to dry before snapping together.
Martha Stewart rule-
4 days- eat or freeze. And date stamp!
Great advice and llogic.explained it so well.
I just did this after listening to your Decluttering at the Speed of Life book and it's LIFE CHANGING!! Thank you so much for this brilliant idea that I'm wondering why I didn't consider before! I got rid of so many extra containers plus the random extra lids that were taking up space.
I really like this idea. I have a question. I tend to toss mine in the drawer without thoroughly drying them and then stack after they air dry. Do you dry them really well before putting them away. I worry there will be a little moisture and cause an odor or germiness even if I towel dry them.
That would also be my concern! Waterdrops inside are not sanitary!
I don't fully snap mine closed, so the lid is on there but not sealed tight. It's worked great for me so far
Storing containers with lids is a game changer. I have been doing this since the first time you introduced it and it works. I have never run out. When they get low I have to serve a dinner of leftovers. They all fit on one shelf. I have plastic give away containers (all the same kind that nest) on a different shelf. Thank you!🎉❤🙏
I can't throw out my containers.
I make food in advance and freeze it.
I put all of that into containers (don't use disposable ones).
But they don't take up much space. I have about 50, but take less space than the ones in this video.
The stack inside each other and use the same kind of lid.
If you have all one size from one maker, they stack nicely. It's when you can't resist the "30-piece set" with 8 different sizes in cute colors ... there lies madness.
I did this about a year ago. Totally works.
I recently started storing my containers like this. I LOVE it, but unfortunately, I have children responsible for dishes and putting things away. So they don't get put away like this so I *eventually* end up doing it myself. I also have a bunch of "deli" containers that I like very much. Several sizes ALL have the same lid.
i think this is what i need to do. problem: kitchen is too small for all the things i need to organize. i need to make more room somehow to store all the containers with lids that aren't being nestled. and i do think i have way too much, i gotta get rid of some
I love this method. I store mine in a bin on a shelf, all willy-nilly, but it doesn't matter because the kids are ON. Put the lid on, throw it in the bin. If the bin is overflowing, I get rid of some.
Like most I was reluctant to use this method. But… I LOVE it!! It always looks neat, never hunting around for a lid! 💥
After 20 years of fumbling with assorted glass baking dishes in my narrow cupboard, I decluttered them all. I then purchased 2-9x13 and 2- 8x8 Pyrex because that’s what fits and that’s what I use. I store them with lids on it’s amazing. I fully admit that sometimes I just open the cupboard because it’s so pretty and orderly.
I would do the same - admire the orderliness!
This 100% changed my life. No more wasted food. No more avalanches. No more lids without bottoms; bowls without tops. And soooooo much easier.
I think you were speaking directly to me lol
When I first started watching your video, I thought ‘no way’ will all of my containers fit with their lids on and YES, they ALL fit! WOW! I’m in heaven right now!
Hahaha I always stay till the end for the credits! 😂
If you don’t want to throw the excess away because you might need them during the holidays or after hosting larger events, put the excess in a larger box/container and keep them in the garage/basement/storage closet. Only keep in your cabinets what you actually use.
Yes this would work for me…except I’ve decided to “nest/stack” those cool whip ,sour cream & other flimsy containers my housemate gives & receives from others with special goodies. And I take it as a hint that having those stacks means I gotta either recycle them or fill them with goodies to give away.
I smiled through most of this video. This has been wonderful. 1. I had to declutter to fit my "container". 2. I do clean out my fridge more often. 3. I USED TO leave my containers on top of my counter because it was such a hassle to put away..... I cringe now when I see other people's Tupperware area. 🤣
I see your lucky to have the slide out shelves!
The multi-size nesting and multi-shape sets are a waste of space. For your core storage, get one size, and get a lot of them. The best size is 16-20 oz because it's one adult serving. If you have 3 servings of lasagna left over, you don't need a bigger container, use 3 single-serving sizes. That way you aren't keeping one serving in a big container and wasting frig space.
Oh, and Tupperware parties! I have a permanent memory of one of my mom’s Tupperware parties; my brother and a guest’s son were playing “repair the playhouse roof” and asked 5 year old me to get a hammer. I got a tack hammer, which they hung on the monkey bars. I stood under it and said “Guys, I don’t think that’s a good idea!”, just in time to be hit in the head with it as it fell! I was just telling my kids about that, cause I have a spot where no hair grows!
Crikey, my mum sold Tupperware 50 years ago when I was a kid in the UK !
She still has some of it 🤔🤢
I now try to use this system and find it is way more helpful than storing containers and lids separately. My only hiccup is that I have some IKEA containers that are glass and the lids are bamboo. I put the containers in the dishwasher and have to wash the lids by hand, so sometimes there is a lag in time between washing and then matching up and putting away. Maybe I just need to handwash the whole thing and keep them together.
OK. I'm short, single and have more containers than a family of 4 should have. Opening The Door just a little to get something was real.
I tried your method and I love it so much!!
Now, I'm not a waster and I could recycle the ones that don't fit now in the cupboard. However, I'm boxing the rest up to put in the shed with the extra plates, utensils, etc I don't need now. Sometimes a container will split or break and I get one out of the box of the size I need. Sometimes I'm tired of using a pattern of dishes so I'll go into the box and switch them out with other patterns I have. Just A couple at a time because I don't need a whole set. Then I'm happy because they are dishes I really like using and looking at and it feels like Christmas. I have the space for my extras in the shed. I also grow vegetables so old containers are used for growing seedlings. When they are too trashed they go into the recycle.
That's how I'm doing it for now and when I go into a box to get something or switch it out and I get the urge to purge I will pull things out and fill the donate box/s.