The Dollar Tree Storage Baskets That Are An Affordable Alternative To The Container Store's

Finding easy storage solutions for all of the rooms in your living space means decreased clutter and less time spent rummaging through piles of clothes and other belongings. This translates into more time spent engaging in activities that you actually care about. Common organizational items, such as stackable bins, racks, and mounting shelves, are just some of the options available to help you clear out a messy closet or bathroom. Another great option is collapsible bins, such as this Medium Quilted Bin by The Container Store. But not everyone is prepared to spend almost $30 for a simple storage bin.

Fortunately, Dollar Tree also offers a collapsible bin, the Closet Essential Collapsible Storage Container, which closely mirrors the one offered by The Container Store. The most obvious difference between the two is that the one offered by Dollar Tree costs only $1.25, compared to the steeper price tag of $27.99 for The Container Store's option. On the surface, the two products look very alike in size, features, and design, but there are differences you need to know about.

Both baskets come in black with a white pin-stripped squares design across the outer body. However, Dollar Tree offers a reverse color option of a black bin with white stripes. In terms of size, The Container Store option may have an advantage as it offers two different sizes, which may mean more room to store those small items, such as makeup, personal items, and other essentials. These two bins have a lot in common, but the question remains: does the Dollar Tree storage find stretch your dollar further? And which one is the better buy?

From kitchens to garages, the best storage ideas for keeping small items organized are the ones that help you keep everything within reach and, ultimately, make your life easier. It seems that both bins are capable of this. The Container Store medium-size bin measures 12 ½" x 15 ½" x 10 ⅜", but it also comes in another size with slightly larger length and width dimensions. In comparison, the Dollar Tree version measures 11" by 10 ½" by 10 ½", making it slightly shorter and narrower than The Container Store bin. However, to some, the slightly smaller size may seem like a drop in the bucket compared to the significant difference in price.

The Container Store version has a simple design and is crafted from cotton and polyester, making it easy to collapse and store when not in use. So, for example, you can use it as a handy tote for trips to the beach (it's waterproof) or as a small laundry room hamper. The construction seems well-built and solid enough to carry small portable items, like mini speakers, lotion bottles, and food containers, or to store everyday home items, like children's toys or additional bath products.

Dollar Tree's version of this bin is made of cardboard and non-woven fabric. It's also collapsible and folds flat for easy space-saving storage. It has the same modern design, two handles, and works well for a messy bedroom closet or guest bathroom. You can use it as a decorative option to store personal care items, including washcloths, soap, and hair products. Or, it can go in a closet to bring order to the clutter created by loose items, such as belts, socks, and scarves.