ᐅ How can I better organize the drawers in my IKEA Brimnes unit?

Created on: 29 Jan 2024 20:37
P
paakeem56
P
paakeem56
29 Jan 2024 20:37
Hello everyone,

I recently got the IKEA Brimnes chest of drawers with multiple drawers. While I find it really practical as a basic framework, I’m having trouble organizing the drawers: they are wide and deep, and small items like office supplies, accessories, or various cables often end up in a mess.

Now I’m wondering: how can I better organize my IKEA Brimnes drawers to keep a clear overview and quickly find frequently used items? Are there tried-and-true methods, DIY solutions, or useful accessories (such as divider systems, boxes, organizers) that fit well in the Brimnes drawers?

What has worked well for you, especially regarding flexible adaptability in case the contents change? I really want to avoid having to empty the drawers completely just to find something small. I appreciate any ideas or experiences!
E
Elias
29 Jan 2024 21:12
I think your question is really important because many of us have similar issues with deep drawers – especially the Brimnes ones, which are quite large and tend to fill up quickly with items that aren’t well organized.
paakeem56 schrieb:
How can I better organize my IKEA Brimnes drawers so I have a clear overview and can quickly find frequently used items?

In my experience, it’s essential to create fixed zones inside the drawers – for example, using small plastic boxes or even reusable cardboard dividers. This adds structure, even if you casually put something down.

I’ve tried working with various small containers myself, but I found it hard to maintain the system. Sometimes it feels a bit overwhelming when the space isn’t exactly right and things shift around.

Maybe it’s similar to your point about flexibility: if you use several removable boxes, you can swap out the contents without having to overhaul everything. Sometimes it also helps to attach simple labels to such drawers so you know what belongs where.

I’m curious whether you prefer ready-made IKEA organizers or if you’re open to DIY solutions? Especially for cable clutter, I still think flexible cable ties and small pouches are a good addition, because neatness doesn’t just start inside the drawer but already with preparation.
N
Nabla64
30 Jan 2024 07:43
Hello paakeem56,

I want to organize my response a bit, because especially with the Brimnes, a well-thought-out approach is worthwhile:

- First, you should analyze and categorize the contents of your drawers. Tip: Write down which items you use most frequently and which ones you use less often.
- Then you can use modular dividers. IKEA itself offers flexible boxes in the “SKUBB” series, for example, which fit well in the Brimnes (their dimensions are approximately 19cm x 35cm x 24cm (7.5in x 14in x 9.5in)).
- For smaller items like paperclips or USB sticks, practical storage boxes with multiple compartments are suitable—such as plastic organizers often used for jewelry or tools.
- Tip: Take advantage of creating multiple layers or levels in depth. This can be done with shallow inserts or small stackable boxes that can be combined easily.
Elias schrieb:
Sometimes you feel a bit overwhelmed when the space isn’t an exact fit and things shift around.

That’s true, which is why I recommend always working with precise measurements and, if necessary, trimming the dividers to size with a cutting tool so nothing rattles.

From my experience, it makes sense to store frequently used items in the top drawer and seasonal or rarely used things below. This way, you avoid constantly having to rearrange.

If interested: I could later share steps for exact planning, for example how to measure the drawers and calculate the right dimensions for dividers, etc.
L
Laukau5
31 Jan 2024 14:22
Hello paakeem56 and everyone else interested here,

I would like to approach this topic from a technical perspective. The Brimnes drawers do not come with built-in dividers by default, which means many users have to improvise. The depth of about 52 cm (20 inches) can cause items at the bottom of the drawer to be hidden underneath smaller objects.

The following points are crucial for better organization:

- Precise measurements: Measure the internal dimensions of the drawer accurately, and if possible, also the height, as this defines the available space to accommodate any organizer accessories.

- Choice of materials for dividers: Plastic or acrylic dividers are recommended because they are sturdy, lightweight, and easy to clean. Wood might fit aesthetically but is less flexible.

- Flexible modular divider systems: Manufacturers like IKEA offer modular inserts that can be cut to size. Alternatively, adjustable telescopic dividers can be used to quickly and variably adjust compartments.

- Additional organizing products: Small containers for cables (e.g., with Velcro or zipper closures) help keep things tidy, not only inside the drawer but throughout the living space.

- Drawer inserts considering handle recesses: Make sure that organizers do not interfere with the drawer mechanism—sometimes dividers get stuck if installed incorrectly.

One more question: How exactly do you use the drawers? Are they opened frequently, and do you mostly want to stack items or store them side-by-side? This information can help tailor the organization even better.

If there is interest, I can gladly provide a step-by-step guide including detailed tool use and material recommendations.
F
Franck
1 Feb 2024 09:08
My tip: Buy or use small storage boxes and divide the drawers with them. This ensures quick access.
paakeem56 schrieb:
How can I better organize my IKEA Brimnes drawers to keep a clear overview and quickly find frequently used items?

Just label them and always use the same box for small parts. This way, you avoid long searches.