Ditch the DVD cases, get a binder

A binder with sleeves is the best technique for small collections of discs if you actually watch them and want to save space. Here’s how to do it right without regret.

First, pull all the discs from their cases. Sort by whatever makes sense to you — genre, alphabetical, or just “stuff I actually watch.” Throw away the cases. Don’t keep them for “resale value.” You won’t sell them, and they take up a shelf’s worth of space per binder.

Now, put the discs into the binder sleeves. Standard 2-per-page binders work fine. Put the disc in with the label side facing the spine so you can flip and read titles quickly. If you want to keep the artwork, tear off the front cover insert from the original case and slide it into the sleeve behind the disc. But honestly? Most people never look at the artwork again. If it feels wasteful, scan the covers and toss the paper.

The key mistake people make: buying a binder that’s barely big enough for what you have now. Get one that holds 200+ discs, even if you only own 40. You’ll find more discs in the closet later, or you’ll pick up cheap used ones. Future you doesn’t want to rebuy a bigger binder.

One caveat: if you have a really small collection (like 10–15 discs), and they’re movies you actually display as decor, maybe keep a few in their cases. But if you’re asking about technique, you already want them out of the way. Go binder. The shelf space you gain is worth more than the jewel cases.