20 Popular Storage Ideas and Organizing Products in Japan
Making the most of limited space while creating a beautifully organized living area—that's the appeal of Japanese storage techniques. Even in compact homes or rental apartments, innovative storage products, and fresh ideas are gaining attention for their ability to improve comfort and efficiency.
In this article, we’ve rounded up 20 of the most popular and highly rated storage solutions used in Japanese households. From long-selling products by MUJI, Nitori, and Yamazaki to trending items praised on social media and review sites, you’ll find plenty of ideas to streamline your home and simplify daily life.
Popular Storage Ideas Ranked
- MUJI Polypropylene Storage Drawers
- Nitori Hanging 5-Pocket Fabric Organizer
- Yamazaki Tower Magnetic Fridge Side Rack
- IKEA SKUBB Storage Box Set (6 Pieces)
- CAINZ Skitt Storage Case
- Seria Stackable Storage Box (White Series)
- Heianshindo Adjustable Closet Shelf
- IRIS OHYAMA Under-Bed Storage Box
- Heianshindo Tension Partition Rack
- Yamazaki Tower Over-the-Door Towel Rack
- IRIS OHYAMA Tension Toilet Storage Shelf
- Nitori Slim 3-Tier Storage Cart
- Yamazaki Tower Rotating Spice Rack
- MUJI Polypropylene Organizer Tray (for Small Items)
- Nitori Expandable Under-Sink Rack
- IKEA VARDÖ Under-Bed Storage Case
- Kokuyo File Box Wagon (NEOS Series)
- Yamazen Entryway Bench-Style Shoe Rack
- IRIS OHYAMA Slim Laundry Rack
- Yamazen Outdoor Storage Bench
1. MUJI Polypropylene Storage Drawers
Source: MUJI Product Page
Overview:
A classic MUJI product, these semi-transparent drawers subtly conceal contents while offering flexible stacking. Ideal for closets and washrooms.
Key Features:
- Wide range of sizes.
- Compatible with optional casters.
Best Used For:
- Washrooms, living room storage, and clothing organization.
User Feedback:
"Great for building a unified look with the whole series—excellent stackability."
2. Nitori Hanging 5-Pocket Fabric Organizer
Item Code: 2115200001578
Overview:
A fabric storage rack that hangs effortlessly from closet rods or poles. Great for maximizing vertical space in compact areas.
Key Features:
- Foldable and requires no assembly.
- Lightweight and easy to move.
Best Used For:
- Inside closets.
- Next to the washing machine.
- Entryways.
User Feedback:
"Perfect for organizing small items—especially useful for storing seasonal goods."
3. Yamazaki Tower Magnetic Fridge Side Rack
Source: Rakuten Ichiba
Overview:
A popular magnetic storage rack that turns the side of your refrigerator into a versatile storage area.
Key Features:
- Holds paper towels, spices, dishcloths, and more.
- Made from durable steel.
Best Used For:
- Refrigerator side, beside the washing machine.
User Feedback:
“Helps make cluttered spots look clean and tidy.”
4. IKEA SKUBB Storage Box Set (6 Pieces)
Source: IKEA Product Page
Overview:
Fabric storage boxes are perfect for organizing the inside of drawers.
Key Features:
- Foldable and easy to store.
- Lightweight, available in multiple colors.
Best Used For:
- Clothing drawers, baby items, stationery.
User Feedback:
"Turns messy drawers into neat spaces in seconds!"
5. CAINZ Skitt Storage Case
Source: CAINZ Product Page
Overview:
A sleek white plastic storage case that balances visible and hidden storage.
Key Features:
- Stackable with built-in handles.
- Opaque design hides contents for a cleaner look.
Best Used For:
- Living room, study, laundry area.
User Feedback:
“Stylish with that classic CAINZ look—definitely worth buying in bulk.”
6. Seria Stackable Storage Box (White Series)
Overview:
A surprisingly functional and well-designed storage solution from a 100-yen store.
Key Features:
- Available in various sizes with optional lids (sold separately).
-Highly customizable for any space.
Best Used For:
- Washrooms, refrigerators, and inside drawers.
User Feedback:
“Stylish and affordable—this is my go-to organizer!”
7. Heianshindo Adjustable Closet Shelf
Source: Amazon
Overview:
A heavy-duty extendable shelf designed to maximize space in traditional Japanese-style closets. Perfect for stacking bedding or storage boxes efficiently.
Key Features:
- Easy tool-free installation.
- High weight capacity with secure hold.
Best Used For:
- Oshiire (Japanese closets), storage closets.
User Feedback:
“Feels like my closet's storage capacity doubled!”
8. IRIS OHYAMA Under-Bed Storage Box
Source: I
Overview:
A caster-equipped storage box is ideal for keeping seasonal items neat and tucked away.
Key Features:
- Transparent lid for easy visibility
- Rollers make it easy to slide in and out
Best Used For:
- Under the bed, under the sofa
User Feedback:
“The ultimate space-saving solution—perfect for seasonal wardrobe changes.”
9. Heianshindo Tension Partition Rack
Item Code: TWP-65
Overview:
A tension-based floor-to-ceiling shelving unit that installs without drilling—ideal for renters.
Key Features:
- Rental-friendly with no wall damage.
- Adjustable shelves and hooks for flexible organization.
Best Used For:
- Living room, bedroom, entryway
User Feedback:
“No DIY needed—works as both storage and a room divider!”
10. Yamazaki Tower Over-the-Door Towel Rack
Source: Rakuten Ichiba
Overview:
A minimalist towel rack that hangs over the door to make the most of bathroom or laundry room space.
Key Features:
- No tools required—just hang and use.
- Slim profile that doesn’t feel bulky.
Best Used For:
- Bathroom, laundry area, and back of toilet doors.
User Feedback:
“Perfect for rentals—hang towels without damaging the walls!”.
11. IRIS OHYAMA Tension Toilet Storage Shelf
Source: Amazon
Overview:
A space-saving shelf designed to utilize the often-unused space above the toilet.
Key Features:
- Adjustable shelves for flexible layout.
- Secure tension-style installation for added stability.
Best Used For:
- Behind the toilet, above the washing machine.
User Feedback:
“Completely transformed my cluttered toilet space!”
12. Nitori Slim 3-Tier Storage Cart
Item Code:8981137
Overview:
A narrow, multi-tier cart is perfect for filling tight spaces in kitchens or bathrooms.
Key Features:
- Comes with casters for easy movement.
- Great for organizing stock items and cleaning supplies.
Best Used For:
- Besides the fridge, between bathroom fixtures.
User Feedback:
“Finally made use of that awkward 5cm gap next to the fridge!”
13. Yamazaki Tower Rotating Spice Rack
Source: Amazon
Overview:
A compact, rotating spice rack that keeps your seasonings organized while saving space.
Key Features:
- Stores many spices in a small footprint.
- Stable design with non-slip base.
Best Used For:
- Kitchen, pantry, inside cabinets.
User Feedback:
“The perfect combo of space-saving and visibility!”
14. MUJI Polypropylene Organizer Tray (for Small Items)
Source: MUJI Product Page
Overview:
A drawer tray for neatly separating small items like stationery or cosmetics.
Key Features:
- Available in multiple sizes with modular combinations.
- Clean white design that keeps drawers looking tidy.
Best Used For:
- Study desks, vanities, and small storage in living rooms.
User Feedback:
“Now I can easily see and grab scattered pens and makeup!”
15. Nitori Expandable Under-Sink Rack
Item Code: 8987839
Overview:
A smart under-sink shelf that works around pipes to maximize space.
Key Features:
- Adjustable width and shelf height.
- Easy, tool-free assembly.
Best Used For:
- Kitchen, under bathroom sinks.
User Feedback:
“Fits perfectly—no more wasted space under the sink!”
16. IKEA VARDÖ Under-Bed Storage Case
Source: IKEA Product Page
Overview:
Part of IKEA’s popular bed storage series, this zippered fabric case is designed to prevent dust.
Key Features:
- Lightweight and breathable.
- Comes with a lid and a stackable design.
Best Used For:
- Under the bed, top shelf of the closet.
User Feedback:
“Perfect for storing seasonal clothing and linens!”
17. Kokuyo File Box Wagon (NEOS Series)
Source: Kokuyo Product Page
Overview:
A stylish rolling file wagon that fits A4 documents—great for home or office use.
Key Features:
- Holds A4 files perfectly.
- Sleek design fits modern workspaces.
Best Used For:
- Study rooms, home offices.
User Feedback:
“Makes it easy to move all my work materials around the house!”
18. Yamazen Entryway Bench-Style Shoe Rack
Item Code: GRX-39
Overview:
A multi-functional bench that lets you sit while putting on shoes and also offers storage underneath.
Key Features:
- Simple wood-and-steel design.
- Holds about 6 pairs of shoes.
Best Used For:
- Entryways, front hallways.
User Feedback:
“Sitting while storing shoes is surprisingly useful—great for guests too!”
19. IRIS OHYAMA Slim Laundry Rack
Source: Rakuten Ichiba
Overview:
A slim cart designed to turn tight spaces near your washing machine into proper storage.
Key Features:
- Perfect for storing detergent, hangers, and supplies.
- Easy to pull out thanks to casters.
Best Used For:
- Beside washing machines, in laundry rooms.
User Feedback:
“Just the right size—makes laundry day stress-free!”
20. Yamazen Outdoor Storage Bench
Item Code: OSB-90
Overview:
A bench-style container ideal for balconies or doorways, combining seating and storage.
Key Features:
- Waterproof and weather-resistant.
- Can store gardening tools, outdoor gear, and more.
Best Used For:
- Balconies, outdoor entryways.
User Feedback:
“A space-saving 2-in-1—great as a seat and storage box!”
Conclusion
In Japan, storage is practically a form of invention—an ever-evolving culture that combines functionality, space efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. From cleverly designed organizing products to layout-conscious ideas that fit seamlessly into daily routines, reasonable storage solutions can significantly elevate your quality of life.
For example, MUJI’s polypropylene drawers help families stay organized during busy mornings. Or Yamazen’s bench-style shoe rack, which makes putting on shoes at the entryway more comfortable and efficient. Small, thoughtful choices—like adding one item that someone once found helpful—can reduce household stress and bring more calm and order into your home.
Even the narrowest gaps in the kitchen or bathroom can become functional storage spaces with the right tools from Nitori or IRIS OHYAMA. Storage isn’t just about tidying up—it’s a way of rethinking how you live.
Among these 20 storage ideas and products, you're sure to find exactly the one you need. Start with the one that catches your eye; that one slight improvement could transform the way you live, making your space both neater and more enjoyable.
