10 Ways to Use a Label Maker You’ve Probably Never Considered

A label maker is one of those tools that most people have but rarely use to its full potential. It usually sits in a drawer gathering dust until you need to quickly label something for organization. However, a label maker can be used creatively for many other handy purposes around your home, office, or school. Keep reading for ten clever ways to get more use out of your label maker.

1. Personalize Storage Containers 

Tired of grabbing the wrong storage container lid because they all look the same? Use your label maker to customize clear plastic containers with names for different categories. For example, label some “snacks,” “school supplies,” “art materials,” etc. This makes containers easily identifiable when stacked or shelved. You can get very specific with your labeling too – instead of just writing “snacks”, consider labeling containers for sub-categories like “sweet snacks”, “salty snacks”, “fruit snacks”, etc. The more detailed you get with your labeling system, the easier it will be to find exactly what you need.

2. Create Mini Signs

Mini signs made with a label maker can help organize your space or make things easier to find. Stick helpful little labels on shelves, drawers, or baskets to mark contents. Or use strips of printed tape to guide guests with labels like “guest towels,” “wifi password” or “pet food.” Get creative with mini labeling in communal spaces – use it to label which shelf or cabinet everyone should put their own groceries or toiletries into. The label maker allows you to create uniform, professional looking labels for a cohesive feel.

3. Label Cords

Prevent cord chaos by using your label maker to identify what each cord and cable is for. Put labels along the length of cords and at the plug end, so you can swiftly sort out which cord belongs to which device. This is especially handy when packing for travel or moving. Color coordinate your cord labels for an extra visual aid – blue for computer cords, red for TV cords, green for phone chargers, etc.

4. Organize Food Storage

Let your label maker help you get your food storage space in order. Make labels for jars, cans, boxes, and freezer bags denoting contents and dates. This keeps your pantry tidy and helps prevent mystery leftovers or expired foods. Consider color coding labels for certain types of food as well, like yellow labels for canned goods, blue for baking ingredients, green for snacks, etc. This makes it easier when you’re looking for a certain item.

5. Create DIY Spice Labels

Tired of rummaging through a jumbled spice drawer? Print out uniform labels for all your spice jars. Include the spice name, any relevant info like expiration date, and even a photo of the spice. These customized spice labels will make your cooking life easier. For the photophobic, consider using a small sample of the actual spice glued with a glue stick onto the label rather than printing a photo. This allows you to identify spices by sight and smell.

6. Label Kids’ Items

A label maker is great for identifying your kids’ belongings, especially useful for daycare or school. Put names on lunch boxes, backpacks, coats, etc. so items don’t get mixed up. Waterproof and weatherproof label tape works best for labeling items that go outdoors. Let kids get in on the labeling action too – allow them to create and customize their own labels for an added sense of ownership.

7. Organize Files and Folders

Stay on top of paperwork with a label maker. Print labels for folders, binders, boxes, and filing cabinets. Include keywords or codes related to the content so you can instantly know what’s inside. Keeping files neatly labeled makes documents easier to sort and find later. Use consistent label formatting, font, and sizing for a streamlined look.

8. Create Your Own Arts & Crafts

Get creative with homemade crafts using your label maker! Print out sticky words or images to decorate cards, scrapbooks, gift bags, and more. Or use it to customize clothes tags, iron-on images for t-shirts, or fun stickers for kids. Make customized name tags and place cards for parties or events. The labeling possibilities are endless for crafty types!

9. Label Wires & Cables

Prevent a tangled mess of wires behind your TV, computer desk, or entertainment center by labeling each cable’s purpose. Use coded labels like “A/V Receiver” or “Router” so you know what device each wire connects to. This makes swapping out cords easier later on. Consider bundling together cables going to the same appliance with twist ties and labeling the entire bundle for a clean, organized look.

10. Help Young Kids Learn

Make a label maker part of playtime for toddlers and preschoolers. Let them print out and stick labels on toy bins, clothes, furniture, or food packages to learn words, letters, and objects. Supervise their label making to ensure they don’t stick them where they shouldn’t! Turn it into a game by calling out an object and having them find the right letter to label it. Kids can also practice their spelling by sounding out words to label toys or belongings.

A simple label maker has many functional and creative applications beyond basic office supplies. With some innovative thinking, this handy gadget can help organize your living space, simplify storage, and add unique personal touches. So the next time you need to label something, take a moment to also consider any other ways your label maker could be put to use!

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