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I’ve tried my fair share of desk organizers, but none of them have been as functional (or charming) as a vintage one my mom recently unearthed in her basement. It’s a cult-favorite from the 1980s that’s been quietly making a comeback among design-lovers. When I finally found one in person, I understood the hype. The moment I saw its sculptural, boxy shape, I knew what it was: a Yaffa organizer.
What Is a Yaffa Organizer?
The Yaffa organizer my mom owned is a catch-all organizer with three tiers of compartments in varying sizes, including smaller front slots perfect for pens or note cards. It was created in 1982 by YAFFA Basic Line Inc. It’s no longer sold in stores, which makes it a unique vintage find. They’re sturdy but lightweight, easy to stack, and designed with two holes on the back for wall mounting.
Originally made from smooth plastic with clean lines and rounded corners, they come in a multitude of colors like white, tan, and black, as well as red, pink, and yellow, which are even rarer to find online. I keep mine on my desk to corral notebooks and stationery, but you can also use it for kitchen utensils, bathroom toiletries, or entryway drop-zone essentials.
Alternatives to Shop if You Can’t Find a Yaffa Organizer
If you want to score your own, try Etsy, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace and set a price alert. Common colors usually sell for $30 to $60, while rarer hues or larger shelving units can run over $100. You can also go the old-fashioned route and check estate sales (where I found my first one), flea markets, or even your parents’ basement — seriously!
If you don’t happen to find an authentic piece with “DESIGNED BY YAFFA” embossed on the front, these baskets from Mustard are just as fun. They come in 12 matte-finish colors and currently retail for $44.25. For something closer to the original Yaffa shape, Wayfair sells a three-tier iron organizer in black (it’s a bit pricier but the look is spot-on).
