Perfect Classroom Storage & a Maker Space Idea with Oriental Trading

In my mind, the perfect classroom storage bins need 3 key features. First, they need to have lids so I can easily stack them. Second, they must be clear and easy to label so I can see what’s inside quickly and easily. I also like to label all the things, and I frequently reorganize, so I want to be able to change labels up easily. Third, they HAVE to be durable because classroom life can be rough on any item.

I was so thrilled when I found THE perfect storage bins from Oriental Trading recently!

I was sent the following products for a review, but all thoughts, opinions, and ideas are my own because only share products I really use and love!

These bins are PERFECT for stacking because the lid has grooves that perfectly match the bottom of the container! I love that the bottom bin “holds” the one on top in place. These bins are also clear, which for me, is a must. I like to see quickly exactly what is in each container.

And, let’s talk labeling. I’m all for easy and practical. I often rearrange my supplies, and I want to be able to change up my labels. I was able to label these with a dry erase marker. It easily rubs right off when I inevitably end up rearranging my supplies, and I actually really like the simple look!

I absolutely love these! They’re perfect for storing all of my favorite supplies and manipulatives, like these awesome fillable 3D shapes from Oriental Trading!

I don’t know about you, but I’m ALWAYS looking for new math manipulatives, and these are such a great tool.

My favorite part is that the lids come off, so that can be filled! Perfect for a lesson on comparing 2D and 3D shapes or volume!

I ended up with a few more bins than I needed, and was really excited because I decided to make a couple Maker Bins!

Maker Bins for Early Finishers

With STEAM being such a huge focus right now, a Maker Bin is a perfect way to allow your students to get creative if you don’t have room for a maker space! And since the lids are easy to remove, students can easily grab a bin and get to work creating if they finish their work early!

Here are some ideas of items to include, but really you can include just about anything! This is a great way to use scraps, random extras, and other supplies you’ve had for years and aren’t using, in a fun and meaningful way!

You can simply let your students be creative, but you can also give them a specific task to work on or a problem to solve like “make a boat that can actually float” or “make something to carry your money in”. As you can see, this is also a great way to recycle items like bottle caps, fruit cups, and more!

If you’re in the marker for new storage bins, I highly recommend checking these out from Oriental Trading, as well as their awesome selection of school supplies, manipulatives, etc! it’s basically teacher heaven!