Labels are the unsung heroes of organization, offering clarity and simplicity to even the most chaotic spaces. Whether you're organizing a pantry, playroom, or storage closet, the right label can make all the difference. Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to labeling! We're going to look into the types of labels, sizes, colors, and everything else you need to know about crafting the perfect labeling system.
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Types of Labels
Not all labels are created equal! Here are some options to suit different preferences and needs. We've numbered these from the simplest to the most bougie.
Handwritten Labels
Quick, easy, and budget-friendly.
Best for temporary use or casual organization.
Paper Printed Labels
Print them from your home printer and tape them on.
A low-cost option with a polished appearance.
Printed Labels (Using a Label Maker)
Professional and clean.
Label makers typically use two sizes of tape: 12mm or 24mm.
Pre-Printed Sticker Labels
Ready to use with minimal effort.
Ideal for those who value convenience and consistency.
Cricut Labels
Highly customizable in size, shape, and font.
Perfect for crafting a specific aesthetic.
Bonus: Bin Clip Labels
Great for large felt & hyacinth bins where labels don't stick naturally.
Easy to swap out as your needs change.
Label Sizes
Label size matters depending on your storage system:
Label Maker Labels: Available in two heights (12mm and 24mm). Ideal for everyday use.
12mm is great for cabinet shelves or inside drawers
24mm is perfect for bins, bin clips, large storage totes, and shelving
All other types: These are fully customizable to fit your needs. The key is ensuring the font or image size is consistent across the space.
Label Font
This will vary based on personal preference and overall aesthetic.
Label Maker Labels: These will come with a variety of fonts already built in to choose from
All other types: These are fully customizable to fit your needs.
Types of font:
Serif Fonts: This font has the 'little feet' at the bottoms and sometimes the tops of the letters. Think Times New Roman. This is a great choice for a warm, homey, traditional, or vintage feel. This is also great for someone who is elderly and used to seeing this type of font already.
San Serif Fonts: This font does NOT have the 'little feet' at the bottoms and sometimes the tops of the letters. Think Ariel. This is a great choice for easy reading or a minimalist feel.
Label Colors
Choosing a label color is more than just a stylistic choice—it can also enhance functionality:
Clear Backgrounds: Minimalist and sleek.
Perfect for people who prefer subtle organization.
Solid Backgrounds (Black or White): High contrast for easy readability.
Excellent for storage totes or individuals with ADHD or visual impairments.
Colorful Backgrounds: Fun and eye-catching.
These are especially helpful for kids' areas or households with ADHD.
You can use the different colors as different categories
What Should the Label Say?
The words on your label are critical. A good label answers the question, “What’s inside this bin?” Consider these guidelines:
Major, Minor, or Micro Categories
Major: "Holiday Decorations"
Minor: "Christmas Ornaments"
Micro: "Red Glass Ornaments"
Sometimes a mixture of multiple will make more sense using multiple labels. In a crafting space, you might have all the dye-cut pieces together, and then you minor sort by the occasion or holiday. It's helpful to label with both so you can easily find what you need.
Tip: Label for the "least organized" person in the house! Clear, detailed descriptions ensure everyone knows where everything goes. For more on category types, check out our podcast episode.
Label Placement
Placement can make or break a labeling system. Consider these tips:
Bins and Totes:
Centered in the top third of the bin or just under the handle.
Alternatively, place it in a corner for a clean look that also does not block the ability to 'see' the items or interfere with a handle.
Shelves:
Use smaller tape for inside cabinets.
Use larger tape on freestanding shelves for clear visibility.
Symbols and Images
This is great for kids or anyone who is more visual than text-oriented. This is a wonderful addition for anyone with children who cannot read yet. Adding symbols alongside words is a game-changer:
-- Great for playrooms, kitchens, or other high-use areas.
-- Encourages kids to put things back in the right place.
A good label maker will already have a set of symbols like these installed. If you use the one I use (keep reading), then you can also use your phone to upload an image.
Favorite Labeling Products
Here are a few go-to products to make labeling easy and effective:
Label Maker: A must-have!!!!
Cricut Explore 3 Machine: Perfect for custom labels and larger creative projects.
Cricut Joy Machine: Perfect for custom labels and limited space.
Pre-Printed Sticker Sets: Convenient and aesthetically pleasing.
Bin Clips: Flexible labeling for totes and temporary setups.
Labeling doesn’t just make spaces look organized—it also makes them function better. By choosing the right type, size, font, color, and placement, you can create a system that works for everyone in your home. We hope the ultimate guide to labeling helped inspire you! Let us know your favorite labeling hacks in the comments below!
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