Is Daiso Worth the Hype? A Professional Organizer’s Honest Take
TL;DR:
Daiso’s quality doesn’t compare to The Container Store, select Target brands, or iDESIGN (my personal favorite), but when it comes to quick, grab-and-go organizing solutions in a fun, easy-to-navigate store? Daiso should absolutely be on your list of stops.
🎌 What Is Daiso, and Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
Daiso is Japan’s leading “100-yen” (dollar store) chain, and they just opened two new locations in Thurston County—one on Olympia’s Westside near Nordstrom Rack, and another in Lacey off Sleater Kinney Rd SE and Pacific Ave near Fred Meyer.
This budget-friendly gem is known for its wide range of practical, affordable goods:
Storage containers
Kitchen tools
Gardening supplies
Stationery
Party items
Home decor
And a downright delightful snack section (seriously, don’t skip it)
My Pro Organizer’s Perspective: Does Daiso Pass the Test?
As a professional organizer, I visited Daiso with a critical eye. I’m picky about product quality—how it feels in the hand, how it looks on a shelf, and whether it actually helps you stay organized. Cheap plastic bins that break or feel flimsy? That’s not saving money; that’s just adding mental clutter.
That said…Daiso pleasantly surprised me. While not everything made the cut, I found a handful of items I’d absolutely recommend to clients—especially for those looking for affordable solutions that work right now.
🛍️BIG TAKEAWAY: Shop With Intention
Come with a list. Know your dimensions. Don’t wing it.
Daiso does not accept returns or exchanges, so all sales are final. This is not the place to “buy now, decide later.” Be specific—are you organizing greeting cards? Jewelry? Charging cords?—and measure what you’re buying for. You’ll thank yourself later.
🌟 My Top 4 Daiso Organization Finds
1. Small Ceramic Dish
So versatile! Use it in the bedroom for rings and earrings, in the office for clips and pins, or anywhere you need a tiny “grab zone.” Tidy, functional, and chic.
2. Vinyl Mesh Storage Envelopes
These are a total win. I tested them against similar ones from Temu—and Daiso’s quality blew them out of the water. They’re sturdy, stackable, and easy to label. I use them for:
Garden seed packets
Business receipts
Craft supplies
Takeout menus
the list can go on…
3. Storage Cases Galore
From pencil cases to document holders to hobby boxes, Daiso’s case selection is strong. Every one I tested had secure yet easy-to-open closures. Great variety in sizes and designs.
4. Clear Storage Bins (Daiso Brand)
A+ for hand-feel, secure lids, and a surprisingly nice range of sizes. These aren’t Container Store level, but they’re a solid alternative if you're organizing on a budget.
💭Final Thoughts
If you want to feel like you’ve teleported to Japan and score some functional organizing supplies, Daiso is 100% worth the trip. Just remember:
✅ Go in with a list
✅ Know your measurements
✅ Expect functional, not fancy
✅ Don’t expect to return anything
✅ And yes—organizing can feel good, even at $1.75 a pop.
Happy organizing,
Chloe
