Too Many Coffee Mugs? This Simple Storage Fix Keeps Extras Safe, Tidy, And Easy To Find

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

If you're a mug collector or just a lover of unique coffee cups, chances are your cabinets are overflowing with sentimental pieces. But when every shelf is crowded, it becomes harder and harder to find the ones you actually use, and your extras risk getting chipped or dusty. That's where a divided mug storage case comes in. It's a simple, affordable, and easy way to organize the mugs you don't use every day while keeping them safe, clean, and easy to find.

A case with built-in dividers, such as the storageLAB Cup and Mug Storage Container, provides each mug with its own special slot with padded walls all around it, so you're not stacking them or letting handles knock together. The compartments also make it easier to see your collection at a glance. All you need is a fabric or sturdy box-style organizer with grid inserts. Once filled with mugs, you can slide the case into a lower cabinet, onto a pantry or garage shelf, or even under a bed (anywhere dry and easy to access). This kind of setup will turn a cluttered cabinet into an organized storage system and free up space in your kitchen for the mugs you actually reach for during the day. Much like the coffee mug storage hack that comes from a Dollar Tree must-have, it's an affordable, tidy, and smart solution to a growing cup collection.

To use a mug storage organizer, start by sorting your collection. Pick out your favorite mugs or those with sentimental value that you aren't going to use every single day. Place each one in a separate cubby of the organizer, ensuring they're secure before zipping up and storing the case. For travel mugs, leave one of the short dividers out of the organizer to create longer cubbies that can hold the taller drinkware.

This method works because each divider prevents mugs from bumping into each other, eliminating the risk of chips or cracks. It's also much easier to rotate your mugs seasonally. You can swap in holiday-themed ones or store away summer designs when not in use. Or, grab a few so they can stack on top of each other. For extra customization and better organization, consider labeling each case or using organizers like IKEA's JÄTTEBJÖRN that already have different-sized compartments for larger mugs. You can even add soft fabric liners or bubble wrap for delicate ceramics.

The value of this organization system isn't just for storage; it's for peace of mind. You're less likely to overcrowd your shelves or accidentally break a favorite piece when you have your extras stowed away neatly. While you can always use a broken coffee mug to make unique statement decor, nobody should be striving for damaged items. Whether you're a casual coffee drinker or an avid mug collector, a divided storage case makes keeping your collection tidy, safe, and accessible an easy part of your routine. If you're not into the divider idea, try some of these other affordable IKEA items that are perfect for storing and organizing coffee mugs.