I bought this $4 IKEA tool for my kitchen, but it’s changed the way I organize my entire home

An closeup exterior shot of an IKEA store — (Image credit: Tom's Guide)

When it comes to savvy storage solutions, I can always count on IKEA to make all the difference. And while I've invested in all sorts of units and organizers to declutter any mess, there's one unexpected kitchen find that has become my go-to home storage tool.

This clever storage hack is not just incredibly versatile for use anywhere in your home, but it's also a budget-friendly option at just $4. So, what is this game-changing organizing hack?

What is the IKEA VARIERA bag dispenser?

IKEA variera-plastic-bag-dispenser — IKEA BURVIK Side table by bed (Image credit: IKEA)

This durable, white plastic, cylinder-shaped organizer from IKEA is specifically designed as a plastic bag dispenser. If you, like me, often end up with lots of plastic bags from the grocery store, this provides a great, fuss-free storage solution. Its design includes several holes, making it easy to pull out a single bag whenever you need one.

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Easy to use, you can either mount this to a wall or inside a utility cupboard with its adhesive stickers, or simply place it on the floor in a corner. What’s more, this humble dispenser can double up as essential storage, offering easy convenience to use around the home.

3 ways I use my IKEA plastic bag dispenser

In fact, there are so many clever ways you can use it as a neat organization tool. Here's how I've used mine in my home.

Plastic grocery bag holder

IKEA grocery bag dispenser (Image credit: Future)

If there's one item that tends to accumulate in my kitchen, it's an endless pile of grocery store bags. And since I'll often recycle them, the IKEA dispenser comes in handy to instantly store them all.

I like how it features various-sized holes that make it quick and easy to pull a bag out, without the need to dig deep into the storage container. Best of all, it instantly declutters my kitchen cabinet from unsightly bags.

Gift wrap roll holder

IKEA variera-plastic-bag-dispenser holding gift wrap rolls — IKEA variera-plastic-bag-dispenser (Image credit: IKEA)

Another item that clutters up my cupboard space is my countless gift wrapping rolls for every occasion.

Plus, I'd find these tricky to store without falling, unraveling, or generally looking like an untidy mess. The IKEA bag dispenser is perfect for holding all the rolls in one place, without getting damaged, and it stores away easily.

Entryway and closet storage

IKEA closet storage (Image credit: IKEA)

When it comes to entryway and closet storage, one of my gripes is storing umbrellas or other loose items that tend to clutter up the space.

Not only are items either too tall or cumbersome to store on my wall-mounted storage shelf, but they also never seem to stay propped up against the wall. Which is why this IKEA bag dispenser is the ideal tool for holding tall umbrellas or other outdoor items in the closet.

Plus, have you been storing your shoes all wrong? Here's what the experts say.

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As the Homes Content Editor, Cynthia Lawrence covers all things homes, interior decorating, and garden-related. She has a wealth of editorial experience testing the latest, ‘must-have’ home appliances, writing buying guides and the handy ‘how to’ features.

Her work has been published in various titles including, T3, Top Ten Reviews, Ideal Home, Real Homes, Livingetc. and House Beautiful, amongst many.

With a rather unhealthy obsession for all things homes and interiors, she also has an interior design blog for style inspiration and savvy storage solutions (get rid of that clutter!). When she’s not testing cool products, she’ll be searching online for more decor ideas to spruce up her family home or looking for a great bargain!

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I bought this $4 IKEA tool for my kitchen, but it’s actually changed the way I organize my entire home