Keep Reusable Shopping Bags Tucked Away & Organized With A Dollar Tree Essential

Reusable shopping bags are a game-changer when it comes to weekly shopping runs. They're eco-friendly and save you money at stores like Aldi or Sprouts, where bags come at a cost. But they have a messy downside — they take over cabinet space and create unnecessary clutter. The fix is simple: Grab a wire dish drying rack from Dollar Tree and fold the bags to fit into each slot. This budget-friendly solution keeps your reusable shopping bags organized and within reach.

To easily fold your reusable bag to fit perfectly into the rack, start by laying it flat on the table with the handles sticking out. Fold the bag up from the bottom two or three times, depending on its length, until it can't be folded anymore. It should form a rectangular shape. Next, fold one side toward the center, then the other, ensuring both sides are symmetrical so nothing hangs over the edges. Now, you should have a square shape. Wrap the handles around the folded bag to keep it tight and compact. If the handles won't stay in place, use a wide plastic bag clip or rubber band to secure it. Finally, stack your folded reusable bags into the slots of the kitchen drying rack for the ultimate organization hack.

If a drying rack isn't your style, try folding and stacking reusable bags inside plastic or woven Dollar Tree baskets. Deep, rectangular designs work best for keeping your eco-friendly bags organized, as they prevent them from spilling out. The mini collapsible storage baskets can hold multiple folded bags while clear plastic storage bins with lids keep bags dust-free and neatly tucked away. A wooden crate with handles provides yet another accessible option for storing away your reusable bags. And the best part? Most items cost just $1.25, though some storage bins may be priced higher depending on your store's pricing schedule.

Since standard tote bags measure about 12 inches high by 14 inches wide by 5 inches deep, a basket at least 4 inches wide is ideal. Folding in the sides reduces the width, so any storage container that can hold at least a third of the bag's width will keep your reusable bags organized and clutter-free. 

Should you have bulkier bags, like those oversized blue IKEA shopping bags you're not sure what to do with and never seem to fold neatly, the easiest way to fold them up is to push the bottom of the bag inward, flatten it, and fold in the sides to form a rectangle. Once it's compact, follow the steps outlined above to continue folding and secure it for easy storage. As you put this hack to use, it's also a great opportunity to clean your reusable bags, keeping them fresh and free from stickiness.