Tips & Tricks
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 Welcome Back to Part 2 of College Level Organization!Here you will be able to find even more products and tips this pro recommends for those heading off to dorm life! Storage Drawers: A great use for these is to add storage under the bed or at the bottom of a closet. These drawers can create extra space to store clothes, food, and other items, they are easy to move-in/move-out, you can store items in when the semester is over, and they're available in many different sizes, can accommodate any size dorm. The only downsides is that they are usually made of plastic, can break over time, especially if you store heavy items, and they cannot be overpacked. The benefits to me far outweigh the negative and they are an affordable way to gain even more storage. Command Hooks/ Strips: For obvious reasons, colleges do not allow you to put holes in the wall, with the invention of Command hook/strips you can put up hooks, posters, pictures, and even small shelves with these removable strips. They are also easy to use, have a wide variety of weights they can hold, and come in a variety of options. The key when removing them is to be careful and slow, so that they do not rip paint off. In addition, with most dorms being constructed with cinder-block walls, sometimes they do not always stay for long periods of time, depending on the weight you are adding to the hook itself. It still is the easiest and most effective way to add some hooks, pictures, posters, etc, to your dorm room walls! Drawer Organizers: Drawer Organizers are great because you can effectively use all the space in your drawers and also create zones for clothing items, office supplies, or even organize food items & electronics. They do require some commitment to maintain the order but defining spaces within your dorm will allow you to know how many items you can have. Plus it makes putting things a way a breeze! Rolling Laundry Basket: I honestly went too long before I discovered this one. The benefit this creates is it doubles as a hamper and makes getting your laundry to the laundry room much easier. The only downside is you can't roll it down the stairs but you can just pick it up. As another tip, I always found the best times to actually do laundry are early in the morning (before everyone wakes up) or super late at night. Bed Risers: Dorm beds come in a few options, some you can loft so high it is like having a bunk bed, while others only go as high as to stuff some things underneath. Bed risers allow you to get a few more inches of space, so that you can store more underneath your bed. In one dorm, I was able to store my college provided dresser, my trunk, another 3 drawer storage unit, and my shoe rack. The other benefit is that you can find risers with outlets, so that if your bed is blocking any you can still use them! Additional Helpful Products:
Tips to Excel at Dorm Life:As I have said throughout this series, I am a former dorm dweller, though it has been a while since I have lived in a dorm there are a few things to this day I still feel are the best decisions I made.
I hope you enjoyed all these tips and tricks from a former dorm dweller turned organizing pro!
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 As a former dorm dweller, I can attest the worst part is moving in and out of a dorm. By the time I had reached the end of my sophomore year I was done with the arduous process of move-in/ move-out weekend. I do have to say one weapon I had in my arsenal was being organized. Now that I organize professionally, I have complied a list with my favorite products and a few tips that will hopefully help your move-in weekend go off without a hitch! The market for dorm specific products is rapidly growing, some of those products are great and others are not. After doing all the market research (my own college experience), I have complied 2 lists of products and tips that will hopefully help you move-in weekend go off without a hitch! Trunks:
Shower Caddy:
Velvet Slim Hangers:
Cascading Hangers:
Utility Carts:
Bedside Caddy/Table:
Over-the-Door Hook/Rack:
Shoe Rack:
Cascading Wall Document Organizer:
 With the school year ending, many parents are now looking to getting their child(ren) ready for summer camp. In my youth I spent every summer up until college going to both day camp and sleep-away camp. Using my personal experiences and knowledge as a pro-organizer, I have developed a survival guide for parents to assist with the frenzy that comes along with packing for summer camp. Know Your Camp:Every camp has different policies, procedures, & lay-outs, so the first step is to know exactly what your child(ren) will be walking into on that first day. A few good questions to ask are as follows:
Inventory:Most camps will provide a list of items your child will need to bring to camp with them. Be sure to get that list as early as possible and start taking an inventory of items you have on hand. Make sure to check sizes on clothing, especially if it is something they have yet to wear this year. If there are any gaps purchase them ahead of time. Do NOT wait until the night before to get what you are missing. Give yourself enough time to inventory, purchase, and inventory again before packing. Labeling:Label all of your child’s items before sending them off. You have to consider they will be living with multiple children and most likely they will have similar items. Whether it’s t-shirts, shampoo, flashlights, etc. Be sure to label everything with their name and not just their initials. This way there can be no confusion as to who has what. |
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Instead of a suitcase or duffle bag consider:
- A large storage bin- This can be easier to pack and transport. It also will keep out moisture and humidity. Also, if your child can keep this in their cabin with them, it can double as a space to keep extra items and food/snacks. Check out this 30 gallon bin from Wal-Mart!
- A drawer cart- this way you can separate out items by category and it doubles as their dresser for them. Check with your specific camp to ensure they can keep this with them. Check this one out from Wal-Mart!
- A large storage bin- This can be easier to pack and transport. It also will keep out moisture and humidity. Also, if your child can keep this in their cabin with them, it can double as a space to keep extra items and food/snacks. Check out this 30 gallon bin from Wal-Mart!
- A drawer cart- this way you can separate out items by category and it doubles as their dresser for them. Check with your specific camp to ensure they can keep this with them. Check this one out from Wal-Mart!
To separate out items, try using this helpful tools:
- Packing Cubes- This will allow you to separate out clothing by category and make transporting items easier. Whether you use a suitcase, bin, or drawer cart, it doesn’t matter. Check these out from Amazon!
- Shower Caddy- Even if their bathroom is in the cabin, use a shower caddy to keep all toiletries together. Make sure to put their name on it so they don’t get mixed up. Available at any online retailer or big box store!
- Plastic zip bags- These will most likely be your best friend. Use all sizes to store things from extra batteries to snacks to toiletries. This way nothing will spill during travel and when camp is over, they can place their items back in the bags. For a more eco-friendly approach, try purchasing re-usable document & puzzle bags. Check these out from Amazon!
- Mesh Laundry Bag- be sure to provide a laundry bag for them to toss in dirty clothes. This is a simple step to keep them organized and it makes it easy on you when they come home. Unworn or clean clothing can be placed back in packing cubes or back in their totes or drawers. Also send a garbage bag to pack wet clothing in for the trip home. Check out this one from Amazon!
- Pack for Days- when getting all your clothing together consider laying everything out they will need per day, this way you will know for a fact that each day is covered. Just grabbing a bunch of each category of clothing can lead to a situation where you have too much or too little of an item.
- Tight on Space- if you are not using the packing cube method or are tight on space considering rolling the clothes they will need for each day together. Put a pair of pants down first, then a shirt, then underwear and socks. This way your child can take out a roll and have all their clothing for that day!
General Packing List:
| Now that you have the tips for how to pack, here is a helpful general list of what to pack. Get a free download here! | 
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- Large tote, plastic drawer cart, or suitcase
- Packing cubes
- Mesh Laundry bag (plus garbage bad for wet items)
- Shower Caddy
- Toiletries
- Hair brush or comb
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Sleeping bag and/or sheets and blankets- for sheets at least 1, if going for longer than one week at least 2
- Pillow(s)- store them in a garbage bag to keep them clean and moisture free!
- Towels- you can send both beach and bath towels or just beach towels that serve both functions, send at least 4-5 towels
- T-shirts and/or tank tops- 2 per day
- Shorts- 1 per day + 1-2 extra
- Underwear- 2 per day
- Sports bras and/or regular bras- pack for at least 1 per day or 1 every other day
- Socks- 1 per day + 3-4 extra
- Pajama’s- plan for at least 1 new set every day or every few days
- Warm clothing- sweatshirts & sweatpants, always a good idea because even in summer temperatures can fluctuate
- Raincoat/poncho
- Hat
- Swimsuits- depending on swim schedule, plan for at least 1 new swimsuit, every other swim day.
- Shoes-
- Sneakers/athletic shoes- 2-3 pairs, including any specialty shoes for specific sports
- Water shoes and/or sandals
- Shower shoes- like flip-flops
- Swim goggles
- Sunglasses- you protect their skin from the sun, don’t neglect their eyes!
- Eyeglasses- pack a back up as well in case of damage or loss
- Contacts- always pack a few extra
- Contact lens case- pack an extra
- Contact lens solution
- Day backpack
- Flashlight and/or headlamp- don’t forget extra batteries
- Reusable, plastic water bottle
- Quite time activity that is small and portable (i.e.: books, coloring books & colored pencils/crayons/markers, E-reader & charger, etc.)
- Battery operated clock and/or watch- especially if they can’t have cellphones
- Cellphone- if they can have one:
- Charger
- Headphones
- Waterproof case
- Disposable camera- Yes, they still make these and yes, it is a good idea if they can’t have cell phones.
- Letter Writing Supplies- envelopes (pre-stamped & addressed, if possible), additional stamps, paper, pen/pencil, Addresses & Phone Numbers Sheet (Get FREE download below)
- Medications
- Important information sheet- Even though your child’s camp will have all important information, put this sheet in with your child’s camp gear, this way they will always have the information with them. (Get FREE download below)
I hope with these useful tips and tricks summer camp packing is a breeze! |
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With the holidays vastly approaching deciding what to get loved ones, friends, or co-workers, is on everyone’s mind. Throwing a wrench in things are the recent supply issues we have had in the country.
So the question becomes what do we get as gifts? This holiday gift guide is not only clutter free but will also increase the happiness of the receiver, which is the best part about the holidays!
So the question becomes what do we get as gifts? This holiday gift guide is not only clutter free but will also increase the happiness of the receiver, which is the best part about the holidays!
Experiences:
Gifting experiences is not only an easy task (many can be purchased online), but it will help the receiver of this gift create memories that they can have forever, opposed to something that is used a few times then forgotten. Some examples of experiences to gift are as follows:
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Personal Services:
Gifting a personal service shows the receiver that you care about their wellbeing and creates an excuse for them to take time for themselves. Some examples are as follows:
- Manicure/Pedicure
- Massage
- Spa Days
- Facials
- Tattoos
- Hair stylists
- Make up artists
- Car detailing
Classes:
Gifting a class for someone to try something they have always wanted to do or something new will creates a wonderful memory and skill they can use in the future. You also might help them find their true passion in life! Some examples are as follows:
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Time:
This gift CAN cost no money if you choose to offer the service or you can get a gift card for a time service. Offering someone a time gift can help assist someone in your life with an area they can use a break from. Some examples are as follows:
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Memberships:
Gifting someone a membership is a great way to provide a service for someone that they may have either not been able to purchase themselves or just didn’t think of. Some examples are as follows:
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Pay a Bill:
The average American spends $1,250 on Christmas gifts, sometimes even putting themselves behind for bills come January, paying a bill for someone can relieve some of that stress and they will greatly appreciate it.
Consumables:
These are items that a person can enjoy without taking up any space in their home, you can hand-make them or get them from a local business. Some examples are as follows:
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Giving one of these gifts can make the receiver happier and can provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for them. As always consider supporting a small business when shopping. And don’t forget the holidays are more about spending time with family and friends, not how much you spend on their gifts!
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If you live in an area that sees all the season like I do. September is a reminder that you have some long months coming up. Not only are you getting back to school, but you are thinking about upcoming holidays, colder weather, snow, etc. I have complied a detailed checklist of things to do to help ease those concerns and get ready for the fall and winter months!
Cold Weather Gear:
- Get an inventory of your family’s cold weather gear
- Make sure everyone has what they need
- Check sizing on coats, scarves, gloves, and boots for your children
- Discard/donate unwanted or unused items
- Find a central location to keep all items that will make coming in and going out of the house easier
Tidy the Garage:
- Put away summer decorations, outdoor activity gear, gardening supplies, grill
- Clean and put away/cover outdoor furniture
- Pull out items needed for fall lawn care- rakes, leaf blowers, etc.
- Pull out items needed for winter weather- shovel, salt, prep snow blower
- Pull out items for winter sports
- Inventory items
- Check sizing
- Make any repairs needed
Restock First Aid Kits:
- Restock items drained from those summer scrapes
- Restock cold medication- be proactive about making sure you have these items so you don’t have to run out when someone gets sick
- Restock tissues- runny noses and sniffles are coming your way ensure you have tissues for the house and small packets for on-the-go
- Restock/ wash facemasks (if needed)
Declutter Toys:
- Donate toys your children are no longer playing with or have outgrown
- Trash/recycle toys that are broken or missing parts
Clothing:
- Put away summer clothing
- Pull out warmer clothing
- donate/offload items that no longer fit or you no longer want from both summer and warmer clothing
- Go through you child(ren)s clothes, donate/offload any items that no longer fit or will not fit when summer comes around again
Lawn Care/ Gardening/ Outdoors:
- Mow the lawn for the last time and begin leaf cleaning
- Clean gutters
- Move tropical plants indoors (if needed)
- Order and stack firewood
- Cut perennials back for winter
- Plant spring bulbs
Car:
- Remove beach, picnic, summer items from trunk
- Deep clean your car
- Make a winter car kit:
- Small container of salt or cat litter
- Snow brush
- Emergency blanket
- Spare hat & gloves
- Handwarmers
- Phone charger
- Flares
- Deicer
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight & extra batteries
- Small shovel.
Other Household Fall To-Do’s:
- Have heating systems maintained
- Clean and set up humidifiers
- Put away summer quilts and linens
- Take out warmer, winter quilts and linens
- Test all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms (should be done monthly), replace any batteries needed
- Check flashlights make sure they work, replace batteries if needed, in case of power outages
- Start prepping for holiday season:
- Restock home bar
- Inventory spice rack and baking supplies, restock if needed
- Organize pots & pans, service ware, baking pans
- Organize table linens and seasonal dishware
- Deep-clean the oven
Fall Fun for the Whole Family:
- Go leaf-peeping
- Go apple and pumpkin picking
- Celebrate Oktoberfest by inviting friends & family over for craft beer & bratwurst
- Visit a haunted maze
- Make Halloween costumes & decorations
- Carve pumpkins
- Make Thanksgiving decorations
- Consider volunteering at local food banks or shelters
- Bake spooky cookies for Halloween
- Bake turkey and leaf themed cookies for Thanksgiving
Happy Fall Y'all!!
Remember to HAVE FUN too!
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With school in full swing, artwork and accomplishments are going to soon be flooding into the house. Every piece of it being important and sentimental. The question then becomes how to store all these amazing items?? Well here are a few suggestions to preserve these precious memories.
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Create a File Bin:
Creating a file box to store your child(ren)s accomplishments is a quick, easy set-up, and is flexible in terms of how you organize. This system also allows you to create individual bins if you have more than one child. Using the steps below you can create individual areas to store all that paper.
Step 1: Get a file bin. Like the one pictured above a file bin, as opposed to a box, will help protect the paperwork inside and allow you to store them in a basement, attic, or even garage. Check out this one from Amazon- $13.59 per box
Step 2: Get 13 expandable, hanging file folders, label them K-12. Using these expandable files allows you to store up to 400 pages in one file.
Check these files out from Amazon- $18.99/25 pack
Step 3: Get regular file folders, label them ARTWORK, REPORT CARDS, ACCOMPLISHMENTS, SCHOOL PHOTOS (any other ones you deem necessary), once labeled place one of each in every grade. You can color code them as well, for example, all report cards go in the red folders, all pictures in the green folders, etc. Labeling and/or color coding will allow for quick filing when these papers are coming in.
Check these files out from Amazon- $7.99/36 pack
Step 4: File! Once you have created the system you are all set up and ready to file all those memories.
TIP: School papers and artwork are a great way for your child(ren) to start learning what is special, what is not, what to keep, & what to get rid of. Don't make the decisions for them, teach them organizing strategies they'll be able to apply for the rest of their lives.
Step 1: Get a file bin. Like the one pictured above a file bin, as opposed to a box, will help protect the paperwork inside and allow you to store them in a basement, attic, or even garage. Check out this one from Amazon- $13.59 per box
Step 2: Get 13 expandable, hanging file folders, label them K-12. Using these expandable files allows you to store up to 400 pages in one file.
Check these files out from Amazon- $18.99/25 pack
Step 3: Get regular file folders, label them ARTWORK, REPORT CARDS, ACCOMPLISHMENTS, SCHOOL PHOTOS (any other ones you deem necessary), once labeled place one of each in every grade. You can color code them as well, for example, all report cards go in the red folders, all pictures in the green folders, etc. Labeling and/or color coding will allow for quick filing when these papers are coming in.
Check these files out from Amazon- $7.99/36 pack
Step 4: File! Once you have created the system you are all set up and ready to file all those memories.
TIP: School papers and artwork are a great way for your child(ren) to start learning what is special, what is not, what to keep, & what to get rid of. Don't make the decisions for them, teach them organizing strategies they'll be able to apply for the rest of their lives.
Digitize:
In today’s day and age you no longer need to keep physical documents if you don’t need/want to. This way is probably the easiest and most effective use of space.
Step 1: In whatever time frame you wish (weekly, monthly, quarterly) scan or photograph all important documents you wish to save.
Step 2: Upload to your computer.
Step 3: ORGANIZE! Use the same system you would in a file bin but store them digitally on a computer. Create folders with each grade for each child. Then create subfolders to separate the documents into.
Step 4: Back up the information on a flash-drive and you will never have to worry about losing those precious memories.
Step 1: In whatever time frame you wish (weekly, monthly, quarterly) scan or photograph all important documents you wish to save.
Step 2: Upload to your computer.
Step 3: ORGANIZE! Use the same system you would in a file bin but store them digitally on a computer. Create folders with each grade for each child. Then create subfolders to separate the documents into.
Step 4: Back up the information on a flash-drive and you will never have to worry about losing those precious memories.
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 | With school just around the corner, creating a homework station will allow your child(ren) to have a space where everything is organized & easily accessible to them. Below are some tips for creating the best possible homework station, no matter what amount of space you have! |
3 Types of Homework Station Set-Ups:
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- TRADITIONAL: use a desk set-up (Check this desk out-only $84.99 on Amazon)
- MOBILE: use a 3-tiered rolling cart- have each shelf be a different “zone”. Example: Top shelf- homework zone, middle shelf- supply zone, bottom shelf- paper zone (Check this cart out- only $36.99 on Amazon)
- SPACE SAVING: use a multi-drawer unit- same principle as the rolling cart, each drawer a zone, make sure to label them. Use the top of the unit as the homework zone. (Check this unit out- only $17.00 from Target)
Zoned Homework Station Set-Up:
Supply Zone:
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This zone focuses on all those school supplies your child(ren) need. Having these items in separate containers but in the same location will increase the likelihood your child(ren) will replace the items they use. Several different types of containers can be used to store these items such as:
- MASON JARS- label each container with its contents, most cost effective, smaller jars for small items like paperclips, larger jars for writing utensils (Available at retailers like Amazon, Target, Walmart, vary in price depending on size & quantity)
- ART CADDY- can store items of various sizes, multiple items & be carried to another location, limited space (Get one here- $15.99 on Amazon)
- PENCIL BOXES- store items that cannot be stored in a jar/cup. Label each box so that everyone knows where they can find these items. (Get a 3pk here- for $13.99 on Amazon)
Homework Zone:
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This zone focuses solely on homework papers. As much as there is parent paperwork from your child(ren), they have more paperwork than you do, upcoming assignments, workbooks, study guides, etc. Having a place to organize these is very important.
- MAGAZINE FILE HOLDER- use 1 for each child, within those holders, have a separate folder for every subject. Have specific folders for other things like “I need help” or “Check This”, at the end of each night go through & see what your child(ren) might need your assistance with. (Get this 12pk- $19.97 on Amazon)
- DOCUMENT SORTER- achieves the same goal as the magazine holder, no need for folders but can be used to keep documents upright (Get this 2pk- $37.64 on Amazon)
Paper Zone:
This zone focuses on all the paper you child(ren) need while in school. Having a central place to store this where your child(ren) can access it is an easy way to make them more self-sufficient.
- MAGAZINE FILE HOLDERS- store extra paper supplies, such as printer paper, colored paper, extra notebooks, loose-leaf paper, use 1 file holder for each type of paper
Parent Document Organization:
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There is a lot of paperwork involved with school and having a central location to organize it is important. The key to any of these organizational tools is to check them daily, weekly, & monthly to attend to any matters & clear out old items. There are many ways you can do this:
- CASCADING WALL ORGANIZER- label the files in the organizer that make the most sense for you & your child. Some examples include Documents to be signed, School Notices, Graded homework/tests, Urgent (Get this 6 Pocket Organizer- $12.93 on Amazon)
- have more than 1 child, use one section of the organizer for each child, then use file folders to separate paperwork within each section. Or get 1 organizer for each child.
- CLIPBOARDS- hang multiple clipboards on the wall and label them similarly to the hanging organizer (Get this 3pk- $7.15 on Amazon)
- CORKBOARD- pin large binder clips to the cork board and label each clip with the same sections you would use in a wall organizer (Get this one- $29.68 from Amazon)
Time Organization:
Events & Deadlines:
Every school year there are hundreds of events parents must attend, organizing yours & your child(ren)s time is imperative.
- 12-month wall calendar or 1-month dry erase calendar is useful for keeping track of everything. You can not only track school & family events but deadlines for projects/assignments so that you and your child(ren) won’t miss any important deadlines.
- Multiple calendars- one for each child and one for the family
- One calendar- use different colors to denote each child & yourself/family. This way its easy to keep track of where everyone is in one space.
After-School Checklist:
Using a task list is a visual reminder of things that need to be done every day. Most commonly used task-list items for children include:
- Afternoon snack
- Homework
- (X-time) of Reading
- Backpack Ready
- Clothes set-out
- Chores
- Shower/bath
Create a Simple, Easy-to-Use Afterschool Checklist:
- Take an 8x10 picture frame
- Download a pre-filled checklist OR a blank checklist at the bottom of this section
- Put checklist in frame
- Use a dry-erase marker for your child(ren) to mark off when they have completed a task
- Erase and begin again the next day
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Happy New School Year & Good Luck!
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When you have a home that doesn't have the luxury of a mudroom, your entryway becomes the main point of congestion and clutter. Everyone drops anything from backpacks to umbrellas there and without some sort of system to organize these things, it can get real frustrating, real fast. Here are some products I use that can help keep your entryway organized.
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MASK STATION- With kids going back to school and masks being required in many spaces once again, setting up a mask station at your entryway can serve as both a reminder to grab one and help keep masks organized for all family members. Custom mask stations like on the right can be found on Etsy (various prices- starting at $34.99) and generic stations like the one on the left can be found at Target for $30.00
COAT HOOKS- Putting hooks right at your entryway creates a designated space for you and your family put wet coats, hang backpacks, and keep access to your most used outwear. If you have young children, putting hooks at their height will ensure they can always place their items in the space. You can use individual hooks or a wall- mounted hook rack like the picture above. This hook rack and ones like it can be found at Target for $32.00
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BOOT RACK/TRAY- Being from the Northeast, my most used entryway item is a boot rack. This allows you a space to put wet shoes or snow-covered boots to dry without tracking the wet shoe prints throughout your whole house. Boot Racks/Trays come in many different options. The first shows a boot and shoe rack combo, that has space at the top to put decorative items or a key bowl. This option from Target is $38.00. The next photo is a simple boot tray, the come in various sizes this one is 1'7 x 3'3 and is available at Target for $9.99. The next option is a boot stand, this can be used on top of a boot tray or as a stand alone item. I also happen to know you can stick shoes on there too. You can get these from various places, the one pictured is from The Container Store, holds six boots, and retails for $39.99
KEY RACK/MAIL SORTER- Having a key rack by the door is the only reason I can find my keys in the morning. Having a single place where you and your family keeps their keys is a great way to make sure everyone can find their keys. A key rack with an attached mail sorter can provide a space for things that are needed when you go outside. You can use it to keep dog leashes, masks, sunglasses, lint rollers, hand sanitizer, wallet, or anything else you need to keep by the door. Though the mail sorter was traditionally used to place mail, they have evolved to be a catch all for things you need to grab before walking out the door. This option is available from Target for $30.00.
STORAGE BENCH- If you have the space a storage bench is an amazing addition to any entryway. You can keep shoes, umbrellas, winter gear, summer gear, and so much more. Plus having a place where you can sit down and put on your shoes or take them off, will help keep all the shoes in one place. This storage bench is available through Target for $170.00
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DECORATIVE BINS- I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, bins, bins, bins. Bins can add a pop of style to any entryway. I use a cute, little rope basket in my entryway to keep flip-flops in the summer and “fuzzy” slippers in the winter. You can also add them to most entryway storage benches. Create a bin for each member in the family to keep winter gear, shoes, or other grab and go items. Use a decorative bin to throw dirty masks in when they are done. Bins can be found at most retailers and vary in price starting at $5.00.
As a professional organizer I come into a clients house and organize anything they need help with but eventually I go home and it is up to them to keep it organized. I have put together a few secrets that help keep your home organized in the long run.
- DONATIONS: Have a donation bag, box, or bin ready for you and your family to drop items in. When the it's full take it to your local donation center.
- ROUTINE: Breakdown household chores into manageable tasks. Creating a 5-15 minute daily routine. Taking care of household chores daily will cut down on the amount of time overall you need to spend on each task. Instead of cleaning the whole house at once, break each room down and do one room or one section per day.
- PRACTICE: Practice makes perfect! Practice decluttering regularly if you want to be organizationally successful. Having donation bins and/or recycling bins set up in your home can make it easy to ready items to leave the house.
- CHECKS & BALANCES: For every 1 item into your house, 3-5 unwanted/unused items must leave. Items don't need to even be in the same category. For example: I am obsessed with coffee mugs but for every new coffee mug I buy, I recycle at least 3 water bottles/tumbler, glass, or even mugs. This way my kitchen cabinet is not over-flowing with stuff.
- 3 QUESTIONS: When shopping ask these 3 questions: How will I use this? (NOW, not some distant future), Where will it live?, Do I need it?. Preventing it from coming in, means you don't have to fight to get it out.
- PREVENTION: One ounce of prevention beats a pound of the cure. It takes commitment to yourself if you want to keep your house organized.
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Shoe Organizers
Are great for entryways, closets, and even on doors. They can be multifunctional:
- Entryway Shoe Organizers: can handle shoes, boots, winter gear, umbrellas, re-usable bags for the grocery story, and anything else you want to keep at the ready
- Hanging Shoe Organizers: can handle shoes, sandals, flip-flops, accessories (scarves, hats, gloves), they can be turned into a catch all behind the entryway closet door (I use mine to keep winter gear, re-usable shopping bags, and umbrellas), or they can become a make-shift pantry (you can use them to store cleaning products in a linen closet)
- Closet Shoe Organizers: can handle shoes of any kind and you can use them as extra shelf space by placing bins on top of them
Folding Board
I love my folding shirt board and take every occasion to use it. Not only do you get store quality folds but you can save so much space by folding all your clothing the same way.
They can also be used for sweaters, coats, and even fold pants!
They can also be used for sweaters, coats, and even fold pants!
Velvet Hangers
I own enough velvet hangers to stock 5 closets! These hangers are amazing because they are a slim space saving design and the velvet helps keep your clothes on them.
No more picking up clothes from the floor of your closet.
No more picking up clothes from the floor of your closet.
Pant Hangers
Pant Hangers are another little secret of mine, not only are they great for hanging multiple pairs of pants but you can use them for sweaters and dresses. The multi-tiered hanger helps save space in your closet as well!
Under-the-Bed Totes
These are great to hide all the things you stuff under the bed. I personally use them for sandals, hiking gear, beach towels, and more! They are easy to pull in and out and under a Queen size bed you can fit at least 4 or 5.
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Bins on Bins on Bins
From decorative storage bins like plastic weave, fabric, and wicker to outdoor bins, I cannot get enough!
Bins help create specific areas to put away things in. You can have bins for sheets, towels, electronics (batteries, cameras, etc.), craft supplies, planting supplies the possibilities are endless. Good thing is even if the bin inside is not super organized, you will appear organized because the mess is contained. 😉
Bins help create specific areas to put away things in. You can have bins for sheets, towels, electronics (batteries, cameras, etc.), craft supplies, planting supplies the possibilities are endless. Good thing is even if the bin inside is not super organized, you will appear organized because the mess is contained. 😉
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As a professional organizer people always ask how do I stay organized. Well on here I will share a trade secrets to staying organized.
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"With Organization Comes Empowerment"- Lynda Peterson |
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HoursM-F 10AM - 7PM
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Contact me directly(518) 729-7588
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email mesimplyzenorganizing@gmail.com
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