Affordable, Eco-Fabric Bins from The Container Store

For our redesign and organizing business, we have frequent occasion to help people select storage bins to corral their stuff. More times than not, we revert to plastic bins. So we're delighted that the Container Store has introduced an eco line of storage options. These bins are made from...

69% recycled PET (plastic bottles) and 31% recycled cotton fabrics. And at $12.99 for a small bin and $14.99 for a large bin, they are relatively affordable.

But BEFORE you rush out to buy more containers to solve your organizational challenges, remember an important organizing principle: containers are the LAST step of a thoughtful organizing process, only after you've sorted and purged your belongings do you have a clear picture of the quantity of stuff left to be stored. And often times in the process, you'll discover you actually don't need more containers! But when you do, give these eco-bins a close look!

Also, click here for an AT San Francisco post about eco shoe storage from the same eco-fabric line from The Container Store.

Comments (7)

Oooh, I like those. If I end up needing storage bins for my bathroom, I'm definitely getting two of those.

posted by sparkle on October 22nd 2008 at 9:04am
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It seems to me that if you want eco-friendly storage, you should just use whatever old crap you or your neighbors or a free listing on Craigslist have lying around, instead of buying something that had to be manufactured and shipped. That's real recycling.

posted by MissAlison on October 22nd 2008 at 9:09am
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Agreed, MissAlison. There are plenty of storage solutions lying around my neighborhood - I picked up some old (but in suspiciously perfect) wood crates the other day on the street. Think creatively. I always find it funny that so many green initiatives involve buying something new, even sometimes to replace something you already have!

posted by amt230 on October 22nd 2008 at 9:18am
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Hi Miss Alison & Amt230 -

I couldn't agree more that the first step is to use what you have which I referred to in my post. And then next best is finding something secondhand, like you mention. But the reality is that people will continue to buy storage containers and these are now a good option.

Thanks,
Kyle

posted by boston_kyle on October 22nd 2008 at 9:24am
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The Container Store: An Exercise in Self-Control

For me, anyway.

posted by EasilyAmused on October 22nd 2008 at 9:36am
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Cool into on the website, Kyle.

posted by idea chick on October 22nd 2008 at 11:11am
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Another reason not to buy imported goods that you don't really need: the infestation of tree-eating beetles that is about to hit New England may have originated in a wooden crate from China. (On the other hand, for the same reason, I'm a little leery of bringing in baskets and such that I find on the street.)

posted by Ingrid on October 24th 2008 at 3:10am
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