ᐅ How can I better organize the drawers of IKEA Besta units?

Hello everyone,

Some time ago, I bought the IKEA Besta shelving unit with drawers to create a neat storage solution in my living room. Despite its clean design, I’m having trouble organizing the drawers effectively so that I can quickly find what I need and make the most of the interior space. My main challenges are:

- Different item sizes (ranging from documents and cables to small electronic devices)
- No fixed dividers inside the drawers
- Things quickly become cluttered as new items keep being added

I’m interested in learning about the methods, tools, or tricks you use to keep your IKEA Besta drawers permanently and systematically organized. Are there specific inserts or organizers you would recommend? Or perhaps DIY solutions that work well?

I’d really appreciate any tips, and I’m happy to hear a bit about how you generally structure your drawers. Thanks in advance!

Hello telera,

Your question about organizing the IKEA Besta drawers perfectly matches my daily experience, as I have been dealing with the same challenges for years.

I generally recommend first clearly defining how you will use the drawers. For example, if you store different items like documents, cables, and electronics, it often helps to strictly separate these categories.

A useful step is to use insert boxes or organizers that fit the drawers and create distinct sections. IKEA itself sometimes offers organizing boxes that fit perfectly. Otherwise, there are modular plastic organizers or universal drawer dividers that you can cut to size.

It is important not to overload the drawers to avoid clutter. I have had good experiences with the “less is more” principle and regularly declutter.

If you like, I can also send you some examples I use – just write again and let me know your exact drawer size.

Hello telera,

I have carefully read your question and would like to provide a more detailed explanation regarding the organization of Besta drawers, as I have tried various approaches myself and encountered some challenges.

First, it is important to know the exact interior dimensions of your drawers. The Besta series offers different drawer depths and heights, and choosing the right inserts depends on this. Be sure to measure length, width, and depth — you also need to consider the height since not all inserts have the same height.

If you have items of different sizes, I recommend combinations of:

- Shallow, divided inserts for smaller items (e.g., cables, pens, USB sticks)
- Deeper boxes or small containers for electronic devices or larger items
- Document holders or shallow trays for papers

It is best to avoid fixed dividers that prevent later rearrangement. Flexible separators made of plastic or wood that can be positioned as needed are more versatile.

Jukin schrieb:
It is important never to overload the drawers to keep them organized.

Absolutely right. Organization often results from consistent decluttering. I also suggest keeping an inventory list that you maintain regularly, or at least having a rough plan for how to use the drawer. When arranging items, consider accessibility: place frequently used items at the front, and less used ones towards the back.

If you like, we can also discuss using special compartment systems (e.g., 3D-printed inserts) — I have made several myself.

How large are the drawers exactly? And what main items do you want to store in them?

Hello telera,

here are some quick tips for better organization in Besta drawers:

- Use drawer dividers that you can cut to the appropriate width.
- Sort items by category and keep them consistently separated.
- Only fill the drawer enough so that it closes properly.
- Label the containers or compartments to keep track of everything.

This way, you can quickly create more structure.

Good morning,

to systematically improve the organization of IKEA Besta drawers, I recommend a methodical approach based on space efficiency and ergonomic accessibility.

First, it is essential to clearly define the functional use of each drawer. This allows for a targeted selection of organizers that are compatible with the drawer dimensions. Precise measurements are crucial here, especially since Besta drawers have different internal dimensions.

A combination of adjustable drawer dividers made from durable plastic and flexible inserts is preferable to fixed partitions, as requirements may change over time. Light-reflecting, bright materials are also recommended, as dark interiors often create the impression of clutter.

Additionally, I suggest organizing less frequently used items in boxes or containers with lids to create a visually calm interior and to prevent dust accumulation.

kaubi schrieb:
Vermeide am besten fixe Einteilungen, die das spätere Umgestalten blockieren.

I fully agree with this. Flexibility promotes sustainable organization and adaptability.

For labeling, uniform, easy-to-read labels that are attached directly to the respective container without restricting functionality should be preferred.

If your drawers have different heights, please consider the height when choosing organizers to ensure the drawer can close completely.

telera schrieb:
Are there any special inserts or organizing aids you would recommend? Or maybe even DIY solutions that work well?

For DIY solutions, I suggest using foam rubber inserts. You can easily cut them to size and shape them to fit, so the drawer is not only divided but also rattle-free—especially handy for small electronic items.

Also, once you have the measurements, it’s worth looking into modular drawer inserts, like those from Made.com or similar brands. They can be expanded and customized as needed. Sometimes I supplement them with custom storage boxes printed on a 3D printer, but that’s a bit more involved.

Good luck with your project! If you have specific dimensions, I’m happy to offer more recommendations.