Let’s be honest, the teacher load of juggling literally a million things is no joke! You’re creating lessons, handling student needs, grading papers, and of course, somehow trying to keep up with classroom organization.
I know how easy it is for things to spiral into a complete disaster zone. Beyond that, I understand how that leaves you feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
As a result, you’re left wondering when will “clean up the classroom” ever get done?
But what if your classroom could be a functional space?
One that’s not only easy to maintain but also actively supports your teaching rather than adding to your stress?
Why Classroom Organization Matters
Organizing your classroom isn’t just about aesthetics.
Rather, it’s about creating an efficient, productive learning environment that benefits both you and your students.
From your closet to supplies, I’m sharing practical strategies and container recommendations to help you maintain order all year long.
Ultimately, I want to help you reduce daily stress, create a system that works FOR you.
Set it up once with my Signature Bin Your Space Method and keep it maintained without overthinking. Let’s get into it!
5 Hacks to Organize Your Classroom (And Keep It That Way!)
1. The Teacher Closet for Optimal Classroom Organization
The definition of a place where supplies go to disappear. The reality is your teacher closet has the potential to be a highly functional extension of your classroom.
It’s easier to shove things in the closet and close the door. Still, this area begs for a system that works for you. The bottom line is everything you need flows in and out of here.
The Challenge
The teacher closet can easily become a dumping ground for supplies, decor, anchor charts, and even personal items.
Without a system, time is wasted searching through piles and bins full of who knows what.
The Solution & Container Recommendations
First, declutter.
Most importantly, before you buy a single container, pull everything out. Sort into “keep,” “donate,” “toss,” and “belongs elsewhere” piles. Be ruthless! You can’t organize clutter.
To keep curriculum you’re not using yet but will need soon, a sectional organizer is an organizational game-changer.
Next, consider labeled bins with lids that stack?
These are your best friends for classroom organization. Use stackable bins (grey or white) with lids for bulk supplies, rarely used manipulatives, or seasonal items.
Essentially, this will help you create a command center for your teaching materials.
Now, you’ll need drawer organizers for smaller items like paperclips, sticky notes, or desk supplies to keep everything contained. Being able to see what you have eliminates questioning where something is that you need in a pinch.
I used this set for a homeschool mom’s setup in her dining room. To see all the items I recommended to her, check out my entire list here.
2. Student Supplies: Fostering Independence
When students can access and return their own supplies, they start learning responsibility and independence.
Therefore, not only does this system save you time, it keeps the classroom organization system in tact.
The Challenge
First and foremost, shared supplies often become a messy free-for-all. On top of that, individual desk spaces get cluttered with broken crayons and stray papers.
Ultimately, it comes down to saving valuable teaching time that can get lost during transitions.
The Solution & Container Recommendations
To start, decide which supplies are individual (e.g., pencils, folders) and which are communal (e.g., markers, glue sticks).
Next, use tabletop caddies for communal supplies at group tables. These small, sturdy caddies with handles allow students to easily grab and return pencils, scissors, and glue sticks. Look for ones with divided sections like these!
My favorite hack for an organized classroom is implementing a student center. Like in the picture below, use clear, labeled bins for larger communal items like crayons, markers, or colored pencils.
Think of this like your student backstock. Keep these in an accessible central location as extra student supplies.
3. Math Manipulatives: Keeping Pieces Together
Similarly, math tools are essential, but their small parts can quickly become chaotic. It can become daunting to try and reorganize and reset the system without proper order.
The Challenge to Classroom Organization
Missing pieces, mixed-up sets, and difficulty finding specific manipulatives for lessons leads to frustration and wasted instructional time.
The Solution & Container Recommendations
The golden rule for manipulatives: One Set, One Home. Each complete set should have its own designated container or pouch.
Clear lidded bins with snap-on lids are perfect for base ten blocks, linking cubes, unifix cubes, counters, and pattern blocks. The perfect size? Ones that are like a shoe-box.
Being clear helps you see what’s inside and labels help visual knows what they are looking for.
This pack of 20 storage bins featured below is a STEAL!
In addition, these are my favorite open-front bins! However, they run out of stock often so grab them while you can! Try them out to organize frequently used items that don’t need a lid!
4. Classroom Library: Organization Meets Coziness
A well-organized library encourages reading and empowers students to choose books independently. But I bet you already knew that. So, instead, I want to share these hacks and containers I’ve used to help keep this area organized over time.
The Challenge to Classroom Libraries
Books scattered everywhere makes it difficult for students to find books at their reading level or interest. In addition, this mess creates a daunting task of reorganizing even if it is a classroom job.
The Solution & Container Recommendations
First, decide how you’ll sort your books: by genre, author, series, reading level (e.g., Guided Reading, Lexile), or theme. Consistency is key.
Second, incorporate sturdy plastic book bins that won’t topple easily. Cutout handles on bins allow covers to show, simplifying student access and browse. They can easily take the bins off the shelves and put them back after they’ve decided what to read.
Shop my recommendations shown below on Amazon!
Third, clearly label each bin clearly with both words and (if appropriate for younger learners) pictures or symbols.
Finally, keep a designated “Book Hospital” bin for books that need repair or cleaning. This prevents damaged books from staying on shelves.
Consider adding soft fabric bins or baskets in a dedicated reading area for a warmer feel. Fabric bins are perfect for chapter books or independent reading choices.
5. Organizing Small Group Materials
Most importantly, small group materials can quickly become disorganized. Throughout the day and between different subjects, lots of supplies are needed for each small group.
The Challenge to Classroom Organization
Materials for different groups get mixed up making it difficult to set up and pack away materials quickly between rotations.
The Solution & Container Recommendations
First, create dedicated bins or caddies for each small group or center.
Each bin should contain all the materials needed for that specific activity. For instance, create a bin for a specific reading group with books, pointers, and response sheets. Or a math center bin with a specific game and manipulatives.
Furthermore, name the groups a color and match the color bin to the name so there’s no confusion!
Another great option is rolling carts with drawers or shelves!
Load it up with all your daily small group materials and roll it directly to your table. Then, roll it on back to its storage spot at the end of the day or that lesson.
Don’t miss this next hack: Clear mesh bags are perfect for sets of flashcards, laminated activity cards, or differentiated worksheets. These heavy-duty pouches or zippered bags protect materials and allow for easy identification.
Label them clearly or use different colors for different groups.
Additionally, pullout drawer systems help keep the paper clutter down. The one pictured below is my favorite! They’re wide enough to hold regular sized paper making it easy to organize copies you might make ahead of time.
Get a 3-pack for different subjects, small groups, papers that need to be graded, or papers that need to be sent home.
Classroom Organization is Kinda My Thing!
An organized classroom isn’t just a dream – it’s a powerful tool that enhances your teaching and makes every day smoother.
By implementing these strategies you’re not just tidying up; you’re gaining precious time and energy.
Imagine less searching, fewer interruptions, and more intentional learning!
Start small, tackle one area at a time, and watch your classroom transform into the efficient space you’ve always wanted.
Need More Personalized Support?
While these tips offer a fantastic starting point, transforming your classroom can still feel overwhelming. And I’m here to offer personalized support for organizing your teaching space no matter where you are.
We can work together through:
- personalized in-person organizing services for local teachers near Maryland
- virtual coaching sessions no matter where you are
- or my DIY Classroom Guide packed with even more detailed strategies, printables, and step-by-step instructions
Whether you need a full classroom overhaul or guidance to get started, I’m here to help you!
Visit my services page to learn more!
Bonnie Hintenach | Bin Your Space
Professional Organizer for Homes & Classrooms
Maryland Professional Organizer
