A fun, focused take on transforming junk drawers into beautifully functional spaces.
Every home has one: that drawer. The one filled with loose batteries, expired coupons, tangled cords, a screwdriver, and maybe… a spare button or two. It’s affectionately known as the “everything drawer,” —most of the time, it’s chaos.
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to give up your catch-all drawer. You just need to upgrade it—with a little intention, a touch of design thinking, and some smart cabinet solutions.
1. Decide What “Everything” Really Means
Before you start organizing, define the drawer’s purpose. It can’t hold everything—but it can hold the right things.
Ask yourself:
- What do I reach for daily or weekly?
- What do I want to access quickly without going into a toolbox or cabinet?
- What’s always ending up here anyway?
Then choose a focus. Some popular options:
- Tech drawer: chargers, headphones, screen wipes, backup batteries
- Family command center: pens, scissors, post-its, stamps, tape
- Home tools drawer: measuring tape, screwdriver, flashlight, batteries
- Wellness drawer: supplements, thermometer, hand sanitizer, Band-Aids
2. Rethink the Space—It Doesn’t Have to Be One Drawer
Who said the everything drawer has to be just a drawer?
Upgrade options:
- Use a double-drawer stack to separate messy categories (like tech + tools)
- Add a pull-out tray or sliding insert inside a deeper drawer
- Dedicate a small cabinet section to your “utility zone” for more space and structure
- Use custom drawer inserts that match your lifestyle (not just a generic tray)
Bonus: This is a great place to use narrower drawers that often go underutilized in kitchen designs.
3. Bring in Structure: Dividers Are Non-Negotiable
This is where the magic happens. You don’t need fancy organizers—just the right ones for your drawer contents.
Ideas to organize like a designer:
- Label sections if multiple people use the space (or to keep others honest)
- Go vertical where possible—think stacked organizers or nested boxes
Pro tip: Leave some empty space. It invites order, not clutter.
4. Hide It in Plain Sight (But Keep It Accessible)
The best everything drawer is one that feels like part of your kitchen, not a compromise. Integrate it seamlessly into your cabinet plan:
- Tuck it into your island
- Keep it close to the fridge or pantry for grab-and-go items
- Add a hidden charging drawer with built-in outlets or USB ports
Let it be a drawer you want to open—not one you avoid.
5. Keep It Beautiful (Yes, Even a Junk Drawer Deserves That)
Just because it’s a utility space doesn’t mean it has to look messy.
Elevate the experience with:
- A soft color palette that reflects your overall kitchen style
- Coordinated labels or icons for the aesthetic touch
- Thoughtful lighting—LED drawer lights aren’t just for show, they’re super practical
Treat it like a mini design project and it’ll never return to chaos.
From Junk Drawer to Design Moment
The “everything drawer” doesn’t have to be a black hole for clutter. With the right planning, organization, and design-forward features, it can be one of the hardest-working (and most satisfying) spots in your home.
