ADHD Storage Solutions: Finding the Right Balance Between Open and Closed Storage

Jan 2

ADHD Storage Solutions: Finding the Right Balance Between Open and Closed Storage

If you’ve got ADHD, staying organized can feel like a never-ending challenge. You’ve probably heard the phrase “out of sight, out of mind,” and for many people with ADHD, that’s painfully true. That’s why it’s so important to find a storage system that actually works for you—not against you. A combination of open and closed storage can be a game changer, helping you stay organized, focused, and less overwhelmed. Let's dive into why having both types of storage is key to making your workspace work for you. a good sign you still have more work to do.

Why Open Storage is a Lifesaver

Open storage—think shelves, pegboards, or baskets—is perfect for keeping everything you need front and center. When you can see your stuff, you're way less likely to forget about it, which can be a big issue for people with ADHD. Open storage provides visual reminders of what’s important, and it makes it super easy to grab what you need without rummaging through drawers.

Why It Works:

Visual Cues: Open storage helps you remember what needs to get done. When you see your to-do list, your notebooks, or the project you’re working on, you’re less likely to get sidetracked.
Quick Access: No more digging through drawers trying to find what you need. With everything out in the open, you can grab and go, keeping your flow uninterrupted.
Encourages Tidiness: Believe it or not, having things out in the open can actually help you stay more organized. When your stuff is visible, you’re more likely to put it back where it belongs because you’ll notice when it’s out of place.

When to Use Open Storage:

Daily essentials like notebooks, pens, or planners.
In-progress projects that need to be top-of-mind.
Fun décor or inspiring objects that help keep your energy up.

Why Closed Storage is Your Secret Weapon

While open storage is great for keeping you on track, too much visual clutter can feel overwhelming—especially for those with ADHD. That’s where closed storage comes in handy. Whether it’s cabinets, drawers, or bins, closed storage helps you hide the chaos and create a calmer, more focused space.

Why It Works:

Cuts Down on Distractions: Too many things out in the open can pull your attention in a million directions. Closed storage helps you keep distractions at bay by hiding items you don’t need in the moment.
Organized Spaces: Closed storage makes it easier to categorize your stuff. You can stash similar items together—like cords, extra office supplies, or important paperwork—so they’re easy to find when you actually need them.
Tames Clutter: It’s perfect for those things you don’t use every day but still need around, like old documents or backup supplies. These can stay neatly tucked away so they’re not adding to visual clutter.

When to Use Closed Storage:

For less frequently used items like files, extra tech gear, or backup supplies.
Things that tend to clutter your workspace (like papers or cords) and cause distractions.
Miscellaneous stuff that doesn’t need to be out all the time but should still be easy to find.

Finding the Right Balance

The magic happens when you mix open and closed storage to suit your unique ADHD needs. A combination of both can help you stay focused, cut down on clutter, and keep your workspace functional without feeling overwhelming.

Here’s How to Do It:

Active Work Zones: Use open storage in areas where you need to move quickly and stay on task, like your desk or workspace. Shelves, pegboards, or baskets work well here.
Calm Zones: Keep closed storage for areas where you want a little more peace and quiet—think drawers or cabinets nearby that can store things you don’t need right in front of you.

Pro Tip: Tiered Accessibility:

Tier 1: Immediate Access: Use open shelves or desk organizers for items you’re constantly reaching for, like pens or notebooks.
Tier 2: Nearby But Hidden: Keep closed drawers close by for things you use often but don’t need to see all the time, like files or supplies.
Tier 3: Long-Term Storage: Use closed cabinets for items you rarely use, like archived documents or backup supplies. Out of sight, but still easy to grab when necessary.

Customizing Storage for Your ADHD Brain

One size definitely doesn’t fit all, especially when it comes to ADHD. You need a storage solution that works with your brain. Some people thrive with mostly open storage, while others need more closed-off spaces to reduce distractions. Here are a few ways to make your system even more ADHD-friendly:

Label It: Even in closed storage, labels are your best friend. Clear labeling can help you find things quickly without the stress of rummaging.
Visual Aids: Use clear bins or color-coded folders to make it easy to see what’s inside without having to open everything up.
Keep It Fresh: If you get bored easily, try rotating what you display in your open storage. Changing it up can keep things interesting and help you stay engaged with your workspace.

Wrapping It Up

When it comes to ADHD-friendly storage, it’s all about finding the right balance between open and closed spaces. Open storage helps keep you on track with visual reminders and easy access, while closed storage reduces visual clutter and minimizes distractions. When you blend the two, you create a workspace that’s organized, calm, and set up for success.

At Vulture & Vine, we specialize in designing functional and beautiful spaces tailored to how you work best. Whether you need more open storage to stay on track or closed solutions to cut down on distractions, we’re here to help you create a workspace that works with your ADHD brain, not against it.