How To Organize Game Controllers And Accessories In One Drawer

For gamers, a cluttered entertainment setup can disrupt focus and enjoyment. One of the most common pain points? Disorganized game controllers, charging cables, batteries, and dongles scattered across shelves or tangled at the back of drawers. Instead of wasting time untangling cords or searching for a missing trigger cover, you can streamline your gaming experience by dedicating a single drawer to all your controller-related gear—neatly arranged, easily accessible, and built to last.

This guide walks through a practical, sustainable system for organizing game controllers and their accessories in one drawer. Whether you own multiple consoles, use wireless peripherals, or collect specialty controllers, this approach scales to fit your needs while preserving both function and aesthetics.

Assess Your Controller Collection

The first step is taking inventory. Open your current storage space and lay everything out: controllers, USB cables, battery packs, charging docks, headset adapters, trigger locks, thumb caps, and any console-specific dongles. Group them by type and note which are used regularly versus stored for backup.

Understanding what you own helps determine the size of the drawer needed and the kind of dividers or trays that will work best. For example, a PlayStation user might have dualSense controllers with USB-C cables and rechargeable batteries, while an Xbox enthusiast may need space for AA battery compartments and sync buttons. Nintendo Switch owners often juggle Joy-Con rails, wrist straps, and small rail attachments.

Tip: Label each controller with tape or a discreet marker if they look identical—especially useful when multiple players share a household.

Declutter Before Organizing

Before placing anything into your designated drawer, eliminate duplicates and non-functional items. That frayed micro-USB cable from five years ago? Recycle it. Extra thumb grips you never use? Donate or repurpose them. A dead battery pack taking up space? Dispose of it responsibly.

Streamlining your collection ensures only essential, functional accessories remain. This not only frees up space but also reduces decision fatigue when grabbing gear for a gaming session.

Choose the Right Drawer and Location

Not every drawer is suitable. The ideal spot is near your primary gaming area—within arm’s reach of your console or PC setup—but out of direct sunlight and away from moisture sources like humidifiers or kitchen appliances.

Consider these factors when selecting a drawer:

• Depth: At least 3–4 inches to accommodate thicker items like charging docks.
• Width: Enough horizontal space to lay down two full-size controllers side by side.
• Accessibility: Front-facing access without obstructions (e.g., behind furniture).
• Security: Preferably lockable or child-safe if younger siblings or kids are around.

If your current furniture lacks a suitable drawer, consider retrofitting a shallow cabinet with removable bins or investing in a dedicated media console with modular compartments.

Upgrade with Drawer Liners and Non-Slip Surfaces

Prevent scratches and sliding by lining the drawer base with felt, cork, or rubber matting. These materials cushion delicate surfaces, reduce noise when opening/closing, and keep items from shifting during movement.

“Proper internal padding isn’t just about protection—it improves usability. When controllers stay put, users build muscle memory for where things are.” — Jordan Lee, Home Organization Consultant

Design a Custom Layout Using Dividers

A one-size-fits-all solution rarely works for mixed gaming ecosystems. Instead, design a layout tailored to your specific mix of devices and accessories. Start with adjustable foam organizers, modular tray systems, or customizable insert kits commonly used in toolboxes or craft storage.

Divide the drawer into zones:

1. Controller Zone: Designate slots for each main controller. Use cut-to-fit foam or silicone cradles to hold them securely.
2. Cable Management Section: Coiled cables should be grouped by connector type (USB-A, USB-C, Lightning) and labeled if necessary.
3. Battery & Power Hub: Store spare batteries, charging bricks, or magnetic charging docks here.
4. Small Parts Compartment: Keep tiny items like thumb caps, lens covers, or earbuds in labeled mini-boxes.
5. Swap-In Reserve Area: Include space for alternate joysticks, replacement sticks, or travel chargers.

Tip: Wrap cables using the “over-under” method to prevent kinks and extend lifespan.

Use Reusable Cable Ties or Clips

Velcro straps, braided sleeves, or magnetic cable clips keep cords tidy without damaging insulation. Avoid tight rubber bands or zip ties, which can degrade over time and pinch wires.

For frequent travelers or tournament players, pre-coil and label cables by device (e.g., “PS5 Charging,” “Switch Pro Controller”) so setup is instant.

Step-by-Step: Building Your Controller Drawer System

Follow this sequence to create a functional, long-lasting organization system in under an hour.

1. Gather Supplies: Drawer liner, adjustable organizer tray, small containers, labels, scissors, measuring tape.
2. Empty and Clean Drawer: Wipe down interior surfaces; remove dust and debris.
3. Measure Dimensions: Record width, depth, and height to plan layout.
4. Lay Out Components: Arrange controllers and largest accessories first to visualize spacing.
5. Install Divider System: Cut foam inserts or position modular trays to match item sizes.
6. Assign Zones: Place controllers in fixed positions, then allocate remaining sections.
7. Label Sections (Optional): Use removable stickers or printed tags for clarity.
8. Load Accessories: Insert cables, batteries, and small parts into assigned areas.
9. Test Accessibility: Open and close drawer several times; adjust placement if items shift.
10. Maintain Monthly: Realign contents and clean once per month to sustain order.

“Organization isn’t a one-time fix. It’s a habit. The best systems make maintenance effortless.” — Lena Torres, Productivity Coach

Smart Storage Solutions and Product Recommendations

While DIY options work well, off-the-shelf products can save time and deliver precision. Below is a comparison of popular storage tools suited for controller drawers.

Solution	Best For	Pros	Cons
Foam Tool Organizer Sheets	Custom-shaped controller cradles	Highly customizable, protects surfaces	Requires cutting; not reusable
Modular Craft Organizer Trays	Small accessories (caps, batteries)	Removable compartments, stackable	Limited depth for large items
Drawer Divider Kits (Wood/Plastic)	Adjustable layouts	Durable, reconfigurable	Higher cost, bulkier
Magnetic Cable Management Strips	Securing loose cords	Reusable, compact, easy to apply	Only holds lightweight cables
Stackable Acrylic Boxes	Visible storage of small parts	Clear view, dust-resistant	Takes up more vertical space

For hybrid setups (console + PC), consider a dual-layer drawer: upper level for active-use controllers, lower for backups and less-used dongles. Some users even install pull-out trays inside entertainment centers for seamless integration.

Real Example: The Multi-Console Household

Take Mark, a father of two who owns a PS5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch. His family frequently switches between games, leading to constant confusion over which charger belongs to which controller. After implementing a single-drawer system, he divided the space into three color-coded zones using blue, green, and red labels.

He used a foam insert to carve snug fits for each controller type, added Velcro straps for coiled cables, and placed spare AA batteries in a lidded container marked “Xbox Only.” Within days, his kids learned where to return items after playtime. Not only did clutter vanish, but charging efficiency improved because everyone could quickly locate the correct dock.

Mark reports saving nearly 10 minutes per gaming session previously lost searching for misplaced gear.

Checklist: Organize Your Controller Drawer in One Session

Use this actionable checklist to complete your project efficiently:

• ☐ Clear out existing drawer or storage area
• ☐ Sort all controllers and accessories by type
• ☐ Discard broken or unused items
• ☐ Measure drawer interior dimensions
• ☐ Choose divider system (foam, tray, modular)
• ☐ Line drawer bottom with non-slip material
• ☐ Assign dedicated zones for controllers, cables, batteries
• ☐ Secure cables with Velcro or magnetic clips
• ☐ Label compartments if sharing with others
• ☐ Test accessibility and adjust as needed
• ☐ Schedule monthly maintenance reminder

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even well-intentioned efforts can go off track. Watch out for these pitfalls:

• Overfilling the drawer: Crowding leads to damage and difficulty retrieving items.
• Ignoring ventilation: Sealing batteries or charging units in enclosed spaces risks overheating.
• Using adhesive organizers on delicate finishes: Residue can mar wood or lacquered surfaces.
• Skipping labels: Without clear identification, shared households revert to chaos.
• Forgetting future expansion: Leave room for new accessories or next-gen controllers.

Tip: Leave at least 15% of the drawer empty to allow for airflow and future additions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I store charged controllers in a closed drawer?

Yes, as long as the drawer allows some airflow and isn’t exposed to extreme temperatures. Avoid sealing lithium-ion-powered devices in airtight spaces for prolonged periods.

How do I prevent cable tangling without buying special tools?

Use the “over-under” coiling technique: loop the cord alternately over and under your hand as you wind it. Secure with a simple knot or twist tie. This prevents twists and extends cable life.

What’s the best way to store extra thumbsticks or caps?

Place them in small, lidded containers or repurpose mint tins. Label each box by console type (e.g., “PS5 Sticks,” “Xbox Caps”) for quick identification.

Final Thoughts: Turn Chaos Into Control

Organizing game controllers and accessories in one drawer isn’t just about tidiness—it’s about enhancing your gaming lifestyle. When every component has a home, you reduce friction, protect your investment, and create a setup that feels intentional and professional.

The system you build today will evolve with your collection. As new consoles arrive or accessories change, your drawer can adapt. What matters most is starting now, making thoughtful choices, and maintaining consistency.

💬 Ready to transform your gaming space? Pick one drawer, gather your gear, and apply these steps tonight. Share your before-and-after story in the comments—your journey might inspire another gamer to reclaim their setup!