7 Remote Control Storage Ideas for a Shared Living Room

A weighted flap or non-slip backing helps the pocket stay in place when someone sits down or shifts the cushions. Reuse a sturdy organizer if one is already around, or choose a simple pocket with only enough sections for the controls used daily.

Keep the pocket on the outside of the arm if the inner side gets compressed by cushions. Check the backing against delicate upholstery, especially velvet, loose weaves, or leather that may mark or snag.

Worth knowing: A sofa-arm pocket can look bulky on a narrow arm and may slide around on very smooth upholstery.

Use a tray already in the house, such as a small serving tray, catchall, or shallow dish with enough room for the remotes to lie flat. A low edge makes it obvious where each control goes and easy for guests to use without asking.

Position it away from the table edge and outside the usual drink area. If a remote uses a coin-cell battery, keep the tray out of reach of young children and make sure the battery cover closes securely.

Worth knowing: An open tray still leaves remotes in view, so it will not suit a very minimal coffee-table setup.

Small bins, leftover packaging inserts, or adjustable dividers can create simple sections without changing the furniture. Arrange the most-used remote at the front and reserve the back sections for occasional controls.

Choose a drawer near the main seat rather than one across the room. Check that the drawer closes without pressing buttons, and avoid storing loose batteries beside the remotes.

Worth knowing: A drawer keeps visual clutter away but is less intuitive for visitors than an open storage option.

A divided basket, utensil caddy, or compact desk organizer can work if its sections keep the remotes upright or separated. The handle gives the household one object to carry instead of several controls that can be set down in different rooms.

Give the caddy a permanent landing place so it does not become another item that wanders. A low, stable style is best in homes with children or pets, since tall narrow caddies can tip when bumped.

Worth knowing: A portable caddy only works if everyone returns the whole caddy to its usual shelf or table.

A removable tie, loop, or other non-permanent attachment is a practical choice for rented furniture and chairs with fragile wood arms. A simple canvas or fabric pouch can also soften the look of plastic remotes against an upholstered chair.

Keep the pocket on the exterior side of the chair so it does not interfere with sitting down or resting an arm. Check it occasionally for crumbs and dust, especially if the chair is beside a sunny window where fabric can fade over time.

Worth knowing: A chair-side pocket serves one seat well but may not be convenient for people sitting across the room.

A small wire basket, hanging shelf basket, or lightweight woven container can work if it is wide enough to reach into easily. Choose an open design so controls remain visible rather than becoming mixed up with cords, manuals, or spare batteries.

Use only a sturdy shelf and confirm that a clip-on basket will not pull it forward or scratch the finish. Keep the basket clear of television vents, media equipment, and bookcase edges that could make it easy to knock down.

Worth knowing: This option depends on having a secure shelf close enough to the viewing area.

Repurpose a desk organizer, mail sorter, or small divided box instead of buying a purpose-made remote holder. Add removable color dots or plain labels to the slot fronts so household members can match each remote quickly.

Set the organizer on a stable media console or side table where the slots are visible from the usual seats. Leave enough room around it to grab a remote without knocking other controls over, and avoid enclosing equipment that needs airflow.

Worth knowing: Marked slots require occasional updating when devices or remotes are replaced.