Recommendations from a pro

Ryen Loft, a San Diego professional organizer and founder of Simply Luxe, understands that good design is practical as well as beautiful. Here are a few of her favorite suggestions for useful organizing tools around the house:

Fridge placemat holder: This magnetic metal pocket file, 19.9 inches by 14.4 inches, attaches to the side of the refrigerator and can hold place mats for the table or store school papers. Comes in white or black. amzn.to/3yLumhO, $50

Slim rolling organizer: This ultra-slim cart on wheels, about 4 inches wide by 34 inches tall, slides in next to the refrigerator for handy pantry items. amzn.to/3yPHmDd, $75.99

White woven basket: The Montauk rectangular woven storage basket (available in multiple sizes) brings a cohesive look and works in many spaces, from the kitchen to the bathroom to the laundry room. bit.ly/3QVCaV1, medium size $29.99

Zipper pouches: You can use these transparent, waterproof zip-up bags, 16.9 inches by 12 inches, to decant games into, for a cohesive look, and keep all the parts together. amzn.to/3yPoxjp, $34.99 for a 20-pack

Clear multipurpose bin: This container works well to micro-organize items inside storage ottomans. bit.ly/3HKOinw, medium size $6.99

Hat organizer: This wall organizer for baseball caps can go vertical or horizontal and holds up to 20 hats. It’s a big space saver for your closet. amzn.to/386ICXy, $18.99

Ball organizer: This wall-mounted display clip can get sports balls off the floor or from inside a bin for quick access, either in the garage or in the bedroom. It also serves as display space for memorabilia — that special game ball can become wall art. amzn.to/3Lwv2KO or bit.ly/3QHqBQY, $14.99

VAL DOSTALEK PHOTOS Measure your space and buy trial options for what you need to organize, says professional organizer Ryen Loft of Simply Luxe. Then, go with what works best for you. For example, clear dividers may be more suitable than an opaque box.