Esselte Customizable Scratch Resistant Binder, 2-Inch

Binders can be indispensable organization and storage tools for academic, office or business use. These practical items have been around for over 150 years, and their design has not varied much over the years.

Binders differ by ring style and number, width, number and type of pockets and color, as well as some smaller details. For example, some have a hole in the spine to make it easier to remove them from crowded shelves. The most common design features three round, evenly-spaced rings — but especially for larger binders, a D-shaped or slanted D-shaped ring design is common as well. This design makes it easier to turn to specific pages when the binder contains a large number of documents.

When selecting a binder, consider the materials, as well as what size and ring design is appropriate. Binders come in sizes ranging from half an inch thick to four inches and are commonly made of plastic. Some of these plastics may be plant-based or otherwise eco-friendly, which gives options to the environmentally conscious. Most binders also contain a chipboard inside the vinyl or plastic covers, though some are simply made of thick material.

Another consideration is the customizability of the binder. Many binders come with clear plastic pockets on the front, back and spine. These can be easily labeled or customized by inserting printed paper into the pockets. You may wish to color-code your binders, too.

• Make sure the ring configuration matches the size, shape and position of the holes in your paper or the hole puncher you plan to use. While the standard three-ring binder is most common, there are a variety of other styles.
• For additional organization, some binders include pockets, expanding files, or other storage solutions.
• There are also binder inserts for sale that can hold your writing utensils, cards or other small items.
• Look for acid-free non-stick materials that won’t imprint ink from the paper contained inside.