11 Types Of Boxes That Can Make Clutter In Open Shelving Less Of An Eyesore

Using open shelves in any room is about creating a space that feels bigger and even brighter. It's a way to make a room feel more open, because there are less cabinets and doors in the space. Plus, this is also a smart way to create a display featuring some of your nicer pieces. However, with open shelving comes challenges when it comes to hiding potential clutter. If you're looking for simple ways to keep your open shelves organized, then you may be thinking of utilizing boxes as a form of storage. Boxes can make a difference when it comes to storing and organizing what you have on those shelves, because it allows you to hide the clutter while still letting you utilize the shelves the way you would a cabinet. That being said, you don't want to use a box that adds to the cluttered look. 

Even outside of the kitchen, choosing storage for your open shelves can feel challenging, but thinking about what makes good design is important. There are a lot of options for storage boxes that can look good and add to your overall design aesthetic. Instead of using a regular cardboard box, there are a number of more decorative or sleek options that you can use to eliminate the look of clutter on your open shelves. From photo boxes to fake book storage, there are some interesting options to choose from based on what you're trying to store and the look you're going for on your shelves.

If you're looking to eliminate clutter on open shelves, having covered boxes that look good can help. Photo storage boxes are a great alternative to a classic cardboard box. Not only do most of these boxes feature a small space for a label to keep track of what's inside, but the cover can help hide the mess. These are lightweight boxes that let you store what you want while also protecting things from dust and damage. And while they were originally meant for photographs, they can be used for a wide range of smaller items and memorabilia. 

Metal tins are a solid way to store smaller items on your open shelves. Depending on the design on your tin, you could create a decorative display that still eliminates the clutter on your shelves. While some tins may have removable lids, there are also options like the Luwint Tin Metal Storage Box on Amazon that has an attached lid with a small lock. This makes it easy to also store items that are more private, but which you want easy access to.

Although collapsible fabric storage bins don't always have a lid, they can be a great storage option on open shelving because you can still see what you have, but it reduces how cluttered your shelves are. These bins can be tucked away when not in use, while also being easy to move when you are using them on your shelves. These fabric storage boxes come in a variety of designs and colors to make it easy to work with your design aesthetic.

Galvanized metal boxes are a great choice for someone who likes a more rustic or industrial aesthetic in their home. Whether the boxes have a lid or not, using even one of these can also bring a touch of antiquity to your shelves. These boxes are a more durable option for storing small items, and they are just as versatile as other storage boxes. Plus, they can be found at thrift stores, online, and even at Home Depot, where there's a set of three decorative galvanized metal boxes with lids.

Linen boxes with lids that zipper close can be used for not only smaller items on your shelves, but also fabrics that need a home. These boxes tend to have handles on the sides and the Storage Bins with Zipper Lid in Cotton/Linen Fabric on Amazon even come in different sizes and colors that let you work them into the rest of your decor. Because of the zipper lids, these boxes can be stacked as needed. Linen boxes can bring a more modern or natural feel to your shelves.

Baskets in general can be a decorative option for reducing clutter when you're trying to store things in plain sight. If you pick up woven boxes, you get the same look of a basket, but sometimes with the additional benefit of lids. Woven boxes can give a clean look to your shelves that feels more sophisticated than a cardboard box. You can even get baskets like this in sets, such as the RoyalHouse Woven Stackable Storage Baskets on Amazon.

Faux book boxes are a great way to store items on open shelves without things being too obvious. Oftentimes the fake book boxes look real, right down to having actual titles and artwork, although you can get more decorative options as well. You can find faux book boxes at a wide range of stores, including Dollar Tree, which carries holiday themed designs too. On Amazon, they even carry sets which give you different sizes such as the Vintage Faux Leather and Wood Decorative Faux Book Boxes Set with Arabesque Pattern, which are between eight and 13 inches.

Wooden storage chests come in a variety of sizes and designs, so depending on how big your shelves are, you can find one that works for your space. These chests can store a variety of items including jewelry, small tokens, and even papers. It can look good on your open shelves, giving them a touch of vintage style, while also adding a decorative element to your shelf space. You can get simple chests or more elaborate pieces depending on what you want and your design aesthetic. 

If you're looking to repurpose cigar boxes around your home, these actually make a more decorative storage option on open shelves. They come in different sizes and materials, including wooden boxes that can be refinished to match your current aesthetic. These boxes can be used to store craft supplies, jewelry, small hardware, ephemera, and so much more. And you can find them at thrift stores even if you don't smoke. Decorate them or use them as is and add a talking point to your shelves.

Glass storage boxes, like the Cosmopolitan Gold Glass Decorative Jewelry Box at Walmart, are an elegant option that are often used for jewelry and more delicate items. These smaller boxes would be a great option for storing pretty pieces on open shelving so that smaller items are not loose and collecting dust. Glass boxes can be easily cleaned and they showcase what you have without looking messy or cluttered. And with the hinged lid that many of these boxes have, you don't have to worry about losing the lid or dropping and breaking it. 

A round box can add a touch of whimsy to your shelves, especially if they are hat boxes that come in different colors, designs, and sizes. In fact, hat boxes also come in squares or hexagons, although the rounds tend to be easier to find in more stores. These boxes often feature a corded handle that lets you carry the box with ease, so moving them is not a problem. While these boxes are obviously great for storing hats, they can still be used for other items as well.