How to choose a cleaning caddies
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
For most homes, the best cleaning caddy is a sturdy, open-top plastic tote with a comfortable handle and compartments sized for your bottles and brushes, while under sink organization relies on sliding wire shelves or tiered racks that make the most of awkward cabinet space.
What size cleaning caddy should you pick?
Caddies range from compact single-bottle carriers to large totes that hold a full cleaning kit. The right size depends on how many surfaces you clean regularly and whether you carry supplies between rooms. A medium-sized caddy with a generous handle clearance is the sweet spot for most households. Keep in mind that a larger caddy can become surprisingly heavy once it is fully loaded with spray bottles and brushes. Think about your carrying comfort before you commit to an oversized model. If you have mobility concerns, a smaller caddy that you can refill often may be a wiser choice.
How to choose materials: plastic vs. metal vs. fabric
Plastic caddies are lightweight, easy to rinse off, and resist chemical spills. They are the most practical choice for a cleaning kit, though some budget plastics can become brittle over time if exposed to harsh cleaners. Metal wire caddies offer a more open design that lets air circulate and water drain away, but coating can chip and lead to rust. Fabric totes are soft and collapsible, making them easy to store, but they absorb spills and are harder to sanitize thoroughly. For under sink use, stick with plastic or coated metal that can handle persistent moisture.
What features make a cleaning caddy truly useful?
A good caddy starts with a handle that is wide enough for your grip and not so tall that it bumps your arm as you walk. Compartments should be tall enough to hold spray bottles upright and wide enough for scrub brushes and sponges. Drain holes in the base keep water and chemical residue from pooling, which prevents mold and makes rinsing easier. Some caddies include removable trays or a sliding handle that tucks away for compact storage. These extras can be worth the slightly higher price if they match your routine.
How to organize an under sink cabinet for maximum space
Under sink cabinets are often the most awkward storage spot in a home because of plumbing pipes. Before you buy any organizer, measure the cabinet width, depth, and height, and note exactly where the drain pipe and shut-off valves sit. Stackable bins or adjustable shelves let you work around pipes without wasting vertical space. Pull-out sliding racks allow you to reach cleaners stored at the back without crawling on your hands and knees. You can also mount a narrow organizer on the inside of the cabinet door for small bottles, sponges, or scrub brushes.
What to look for in an under sink organizer
The best under sink organizers are modular or reconfigurable so you can adapt them as your supply needs change. Adjustable-height shelves let you fit tall spray bottles under the lowered basin of a sink. Choose wire mesh or ventilated plastic to encourage air circulation and discourage mold growth. Avoid any organizer that blocks the plumbing shut-off valve, you need to be able to reach it in an emergency. A shallow tray at the bottom of the organizer can catch drips from stored bottles, saving you from sticky cabinet floors.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a cleaning caddy for other purposes?
Yes, many people repurpose their caddies for shower toiletry storage, gardening supplies, or craft tool transport. Just be sure to rinse the caddy thoroughly between different uses to avoid cross-contamination.
How do I clean my cleaning caddy?
Most plastic caddies can be washed with warm soapy water or wiped down with a disinfectant wipe. For metal caddies, avoid abrasive cleaners that might scratch the coating. Let the caddy dry fully before putting supplies back inside.
Is plastic or metal better for a cleaning caddy?
Plastic is generally more practical because it is lightweight, rust-proof, and easy to sanitize. Metal caddies can look more polished but may rust if the coating chips and often have sharper edges that can be uncomfortable to carry.
How do I measure my under sink space before buying an organizer?
Measure the width between cabinet walls, the depth from front to back, and the height from the cabinet floor to the lowest part of the sink bowl or plumbing pipe. Also note the exact location of the drain pipe and shut-off valves so nothing blocks them.
What is the best way to store spray bottles in a caddy?
Choose a caddy with slots or compartments deep enough to keep bottles from tipping over. Some caddies come with adjustable dividers that let you tailor the space. Alternatively, look for a caddy with a tall back wall that braces the bottles while you carry it.