Earlier this month in one of my posts, I asked a question, “is it time to break up with your filing cabinet?” If you haven’t already read it, click here to access that post. It gives examples of the ways that you can organize papers so they’re easy to find and stored neatly. The post focused on using things like binders, magazine holders, or baskets and bins for containing your paperwork. However, I know that some of us do still need some sort of filing cabinet.
The good news is that today there are plenty of options for filing paperwork that doesn’t necessarily call for your standard metal cabinet. Here are just a few of the endless options that I think are worth checking out:
Plastic File Totes
If you have a lot of paperwork that you need to hold onto but don’t necessarily need to access on a regular basis, then plastic file totes may be a great option for you. They offer flexibility to be able to keep your files organized but also out of the way. Plastic storage totes are a great option because you can fill them, stack them, and then forget about them in the basement or a closet because they are neatly tucked out of the way. You can check out a great example from the Container Store by clicking here.
*This is not an affiliate link and I do not receive any compensation for its use as an example.*
Pro Tip: You don’t want to forget about them forever! Use a label or dry erase marker to keep track of what is in each tote. You can also add a date when the contents can be trashed or shred.
Movable File Carts
When you need access to your files on a regular basis but still want something a little more versatile than a filing cabinet then a movable file cart may be the right option for you. This filing cabinet on wheels can be rolled right up to your desk or work area, and then rolled back into a closet or other storage area out of sight when you don’t need it. A great example Is this Vertiflex file cart that is available on Wayfair.
*This is not an affiliate link and I do not receive any compensation for its use as an example.*
Desktop File Holders
If you don’t have a lot of paperwork that you need to keep on file, then a simple desktop file holder may work for you. This style of file holder works great because you can have one on your desk for quickly filing things, or you can have more than one that can be displayed on a shelf or tucked into a closet. These are a great inexpensive option if you have different categories of filing that you need to have regular access to. For example, you can have one for personal items, one for household items, and one for career or business items. A great example would be this Pendaflex version available on Amazon.
*This is not an affiliate link and I do not receive any compensation for its use as an example.*
Beyond The Traditional Filing Cabinet
Okay, so you are still resigned to having an actual filing cabinet, but you want it to look a little better than your standard metal version. Unique styles like this one available from Pottery Barn have the function of a standard filing cabinet but look amazing at the same time. If that is not your style, and you are into the farmhouse style that is so popular right now, then a quick internet search will yield you plenty of filing cabinets with a more rustic farmhouse look.
*This is not an affiliate link and I do not receive any compensation for its use as an example.*
These days when it comes to document management there are so many options to keep you more organized than ever before. From electronic filing to more contemporary versions of traditional filing cabinets, there is an option no matter what your preference or budget.
If you are struggling with paper management or are overwhelmed by files but don’t know where to start, head over to my services page where you will find links to schedule a virtual consultation to see where we can help. You can also check out our private Facebook group the Organized Priorities Collective, where you can get ideas, ask questions, or find some inspiration and accountability.
Note: I do not receive any consideration or compensation for the links in this post. They are simply things that I love and hope you will find them useful as well.