How to find drawer organizers that fit: measure these three things

How to find drawer organizers that fit: measure these three things

The short version

• A · inside width
• B · depth
• C · height

Compare all three numbers with the maker's listed size before you buy an organizer.

https://justenoughroom.com/drawer-organizers-that-fit/

To find drawer organizers that fit, start with the drawer, not the organizer. An organizer that is too big will not sit flat or will stop the drawer from closing; one that is too small slides around. Three inside measurements decide it.

Measure the inside of the drawer box, not the drawer front. The front can be wider and taller than the space you can actually use.

1. Empty the drawer and pull it all the way out

   Take everything out so the tape can sit flat on the bottom. If the drawer stops partway, measure what you can reach and note that the back part is hidden.

2. Measure the inside width at the front and at the back (A)

   Measure from one inside wall to the other near the front, then again near the back. A drawer can be slightly out of square. Write down the smaller number: that is the width an organizer has to fit.

3. Measure the inside depth (B)

   Measure from the inside of the drawer front to the inside of the back panel. If the drawer has a lip or a stop near its back panel, stop the tape there.

4. Measure the inside height, then check the cabinet above (C)

   Measure from the drawer bottom to the top edge of its side walls. Then look at what sits just above the drawer when it is closed. If there is a frame or a rail, a tall organizer can catch on it even when it fits the drawer itself.

5. Compare your numbers with the organizer's outside size

   When you look at an organizer, find its outside width, depth and height on the maker's page and compare them with your three numbers. If an organizer expands, make sure its smallest size fits your width. Leave a little room on each side so it lifts out easily.