The $5 IKEA Storage Gem You’ll Use on Every Shelf in Your Pantry (It’s Perfect!)
One word, three syllables, and a color palette that evokes a sense of Swedish pride and an aroma of fresh meatballs. Yes, the IKEA brand is so iconic that there’s even a psychological phenomenon, “the IKEA effect,” that explains why people place higher value on items they’ve self-assembled. But there’s also definitely something to be said about the retailer’s mastery of ready-to-use storage solutions, specifically its line of versatile boxes — and here’s one you’ll want to snag ASAP.
You may already be familiar with the eggshell-colored VARIERA box — it’s a bestseller on IKEA’s website, boasting a 4.9-star review average. At just $4.99, the storage container checks all the right boxes: It’s easy to use, well-made, aesthetic, functional, and goes for an unbeatable price. The two handles make it easy to move wherever you want it, and the curved edges and semi-flexible plastic make it both stylish and great for a variety of storage needs. While I love the timeless white, you can also opt for an inky black, or a kelly green.
Amongst some of the rave reviews, shoppers describe the box as “pantry perfect” and “organizational heaven,” detailing how the storage bins can be stored anywhere from under the sink to atop the highest cabinet. I own the box myself and keep it in the kitchen to hold small, miscellaneous bags of golden raisins, raw pecans, cacao powder, and the like.
Of course, you can also use the 9.5-inch-by-6.8-inch-by-4.1-inch box to bring order to any room of the house. One review sums it up perfectly: “A staple for organizing. Use it anywhere and everywhere — bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, offices. Solid and easy to clean.” True to its Swedish meaning “to vary,” the VARIERA box is a vessel for whatever your specific vision and needs are.
The box also comes in a larger size, measured at 13.3 inches by 9.5 inches by 5.8 inches, for $6.99. You can find these storage steals at your local IKEA or on the IKEA website.
In case you don’t live near an IKEA, or they don’t ship to where you live, you can also get the VARIERA box on Amazon for a few dollars more. Whether you use it in your fridge, pantry, drawers, bathroom, closet, bedroom, or truly anywhere else — enjoy storing in style.
Buy: VARIERA box, $4.99