A few years ago, teachers discovered the RÅSKOG rolling utility cart from IKEA … and they fell in love. Soon, this popular piece was popping up everywhere, personalized to make the perfect teacher cart for every classroom. This year, we predict teacher carts will be more popular than ever, as teachers adjust to the ever-changing learning environments in a COVID-19 world.
Whether you need to travel from classroom to classroom, turn your home office into a virtual learning center, or just keep your classroom clutter under control, this teacher cart is the must-have accessory on every list.
Can’t get to IKEA? No worries! Amazon carries similar versions. With hundreds of 5-star reviews, the CAXXA 3-Tier Rolling Cart gets our recommendation. (WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales if you buy using that link. Thank you for your support!)
1. This rolling cart is a teacher organization dream
It gets rave reviews from users, who love its simple sturdy design. This teacher cart is popular because it can stand up to years of use (and abuse).
Source: @abubblyclassroom
2. If you add a wood top, it turns into a mobile desk
This simple accessory makes your teacher cart a desk-on-the-go. And since most teachers are constantly on-the-go themselves, it’s a perfect match!
Source: @simpsoninthemiddle
3. Use it to keep hygiene supplies front and center
Teachers will be relying on hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes this year more than ever before. Stock your teacher cart with cleaning supplies to stay safe.
Source: @teachinghistoryinthemiddle
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4. It’s great for virtual school teachers too
If you’ve traded your classroom desk for a dining room table, this cart helps keep all your teacher supplies in one place. That way, you can wheel it into the living room and spread out on the couch to work on lesson plans and grading!
5. Don’t be surprised if you wind up with more than one teacher cart
Get one for each subject or every class period. They really should sell these at a bulk discount, don’t you think?
Source: @suzannes_plans
6. Remember to accessorize
The metal construction means you can easily add magnetic hooks. Hang baskets off the sides, add racks and bins, or even hang a pegboard … this thing is sturdy enough to hold it all!
Source: @ibonsensei
7. Use it to organize all those papers
How is that in an increasingly paperless world, teachers still have so much paper to deal with? We don’t know, but we do know this teacher cart is one good way to get a handle on it.
Source: @life.is.sweet.in.2nd
8. Turn it into a makerspace
Does your classroom have a makerspace yet? A makerspace provides the tools kids need to take an idea and turn it into a reality. This cart is terrific for creating a mobile version.
9. Use them to organize learning centers
Sometimes, it’s easier to bring the materials to the kids rather than the other way around. Roll this cart to whichever group needs it next.
Source: @livelovecraft.teach
10. Stock a STEM station
STEM subjects have all sorts of required materials. Stash all your math manipulatives and science experiment materials in one place for easy access.
Source: @abcsinroom123
11. Sort and store Chromebooks and iPads
This idea is downright brilliant. At the end of each day, simply roll the cart to your charging stations and take care of everything all at once. (Tip: Tuck a container of screen wipes into the cart so you can clean them while they charge.)
Source: @imthediyteacher
12. Prepare for indoor recess
Rainy days can be rough, so keep an indoor recess cart ready to roll! Store your favorite inside toys and games, and don’t forget to add a few coloring books and art supplies.
13. Create a themed play space
Organize toys and learning activities by type, so kids can easily find everything they need. This cart is a Play-Doh station, but you could also assemble coloring books with crayons and markers, LEGOs and other building blocks, or dress-up clothes … just to name a few.
Source: @mrshenryinfirst
14. Create a library cart
This is a nice way to showcase your classroom library, or at least a part of it. School librarians can use this for classroom visits too.
Source: @primarypride
15. Once you try a teacher cart, you’ll wonder how you lived without one
Seriously, there’s a reason these are so unbelievably popular. This cart is a blank slate waiting to become exactly what your classroom needs!
Source: @teachcreatemotivate
Could a teacher cart replace your desk altogether? Here are 7 Teacher Desk Alternatives to consider.