We keep cords in a large shoebox with a lid, light bulbs in another large box, low-frequency tools in a third... Basically separating things by function and making them stackable. That makes it easy to grab the subset of stuff you want, and easier to find the things in that mound. Ikea has some pretty useful white bins with lids that could fit the bill for some things, although of course the odd shapes of hardware stuff means you always end up needing some open-topped groupings.

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10280203/

(These come in a range of sizes, but I linked the largest.)

Be sure to bundle up extension cords to store them. I use VELCRO ties for this. The tie is designed so that it remains on the cord while it's in use (i.e., the tie won't get lost, and you don't have to remember where you set the tie down when you last unbundled the cord). This will save a lot of time/frustration and look much neater in the bin. Or if you choose to put up hooks, it's simple to hang the bundled cord. HTH.