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Author: Annette ReymanClutter General Home Organizing Organizing Products Storage

Measure Twice…Buy Once

Home is where you hang your hat. – Proverb

(That is, if you can find your hat and if there’s room for it on the hat rack.)

You’re walking through your local home goods store and you see the most attractive fabric storage totes that would be just perfect for finally organizing your bulging linen closet and you just have to buy them.  When you go to set them up the next day, you realize that not only are they too small to hold the contents of your closet but they are also too tall to fit on your shelves!

It can be so frustrating to spend time picking out a lovely basket or interesting storage piece only to bring it home and find that it is barely big enough to store half of what you had in mind.  It could be baskets to organize your pantry or plastic bins for sports equipment in the garage.  Whatever the intent, there are a few things worth considering prior to running out to buy organizing supplies.

Size:  It’s hard to choose the right sized storage piece(s) when you don’t know how much you have to store!  Before picking out the container

  • Figure out what amount you will be containing by gathering all related items together, discarding anything that is broken, expired or simply unwanted.  Make sure that what is left fits into the area that it will be stored.
  • Measure the space so that you can select a container that will fit – whether it’s a drawer, cabinet or simply an open area, write down the measurements or store a note or text in your cell phone.  This way you will have them handy when that “perfect” product or sale catches your eye!

Function:  The type of items and frequency of their usage should be taken into account when deciding what type of container to choose

  • Items, such as outdoor toys and sports equipment that will be frequently used are best kept in open containers that make for quick access and encourage easy clean-up.
  • Colored bins with lids may be best for seasonal storage, while clear plastic or wire baskets might be better for back-up supplies that you don’t want to forget you’ve purchased.
  • Items like nail polish that you may want to use in the den watching TV one time and at the kitchen table another, might be best kept in a handled tote.
  • Fabric baskets can help manage a linen closet while adding charm.

Placement:  Decide whether or not your container will be in public view

  • If you are looking for a storage solution that will help you organize items under a sink or in desk drawers, metal or plastic may be a perfectly acceptable solution.
  • On the other hand, do you have a lot of office supplies in your den that you need to keep handy?  A plastic rolling cart might fit the need but may not be something you really want on display.  Consider a small nightstand or cabinet that can offer storage while still complementing your décor.

Cost:  Your need for function or fashion will have some affect on the amount you will spend on storage.

  • Picking up some drawer inserts in the dollar section of your office-supply store is an appropriate and affordable solution
  • On the other hand, choosing a filing cabinet that is well rated and designed may cost more now, but will save you money in the long run – both monetarily and in your frustration.

Now that you have considered size, function, placement and cost, you can stroll confidently among aisles of home organizing tools, sizing up all the latest, greatest products with an eye for just the right one that fits your need.

Author: Sue FrostGeneral Home Organizing

Less Stuff, More Life – Count Your Blessings, Let Go of Your Burdens

I may have adopted my minimalist mentality from Aunt Evelyn.  She was the self proclaimed “first career girl” in the family. (“Career girl” was progressive language for someone born in 1918.) Working in Manhattan all her adult life, she had a great sense of style, built an impressive wardrobe, and had all the right accessories.

You couldn’t throw compliments around too freely in Aunt Ev’s presence.  One day I said, “Oh what a beautiful pin!  It matches that outfit perfectly.”  She asked if I really liked it, took the pin off, and handed it to me.

Seeing that I was mortified, Aunt Ev reasoned, “The first half of life you accumulate things, the next half of life you give them away.”  In one gesture she demonstrated her generosity and her practicality.  She was simply finished with the pin and gave it to someone who would appreciated it.

As we mature, build our homes, and climb the professional ladder, we accumulate clothing, furnishings, and decorative objects to fill our needs.  Our friends remember our preferences via birthday and holiday gifts.  Before we know it, our homes are filled with collections comparable to those at the Smithsonian.

After your needs are met, for every one thing coming in to your home one thing needs to leave, or clutter will accumulate.  Professional Organizers often ask clients if an item is useful, beautiful in their eyes, or if they love the object.  If a negative response is received to all of the above, the item may have outgrown its usefulness.

If you’re trying to organize a room, ask yourself these questions:

  • What is the purpose of this space? Items in the space should support that purpose.
  • As you come across items that are not used in the space, ask, “Where do I use this?” Move the item to that area.
  • “Does this item help or hinder my goal? If it’s a hinderance, a gently used item can be given to someone who will appreciate it, a’ la Aunt Evelyn. Donation is one of my favorite ways to deal with a bulk of items that are still useful.  If unnecessary items are worn or soiled be thankful for their usefulness and let them go.

Everything that comes into your possession requires care. Once you bring something home from the store you will be caring for it indefinitely.  So, make sure it’s really worth the investment.

The lifecycle of your new item goes something like this:  You spend hard earned money on it, possibly make payments on it, make room for it, wash it, dust it, polish it, fold it, maintain it, and eventually decide how to get rid of it.  Some people even hide it from their spouses.

Clients often tell me they feel a surprising sense of abundance after purging.  That’s because they are surrounded only by the things they love, clothing that fits and feels good, and rid of the burden of disorganization.

I believe the best way to stay organized, recycle, or save the planet is at the cash register.  If you set out to the mall to replace an often-used pair of shoes and see something irresistible on the way to the cash register, refer to these questions before you ring up that spontaneous purchase:

  • Do I need it?
  • Where will I put it?
  • Can I afford it?
  • Do I love it?
  • Does it help or hinder reaching my goal of order?

Lastly, think about it overnight.  If you still need it, go for it.

I once read that Ghandi owned only a few possessions at the time he died: simple clothing, a pair of sandals, a pocket watch, and a pair of eye glasses.  While I believe minimalism makes for a simplified life, we don’t need to be as successful with it as Ghandi to reap the rewards. I won’t be parting with my anti-wrinkle cream, anti-frizz hair products, or make-up any time soon.  But, I set reasonable limits that save space and money.

Listen to the thousands of advertising messages inundating you daily with a skeptical ear.  Only you know what you need.  Be aware that space is finite.  If you want an uncluttered space be discerning about what you put in it.

Aunt Ev passed away last month, but she left me a wonderful gift and a life changing lesson.  You can give the perfect gift without spending a dime – a gift to a loved one, a perfect stranger via donation, and a gift to yourself – the gift of organization.

Author: Annette ReymanClutter Holidays Home Organizing

Ten Clutter-Free Holiday Gifts

Need ideas for those hard to shop for people on your list?  Want to give something that won’t just sit around unused or add to anyone’s already full home?  Here are ten ideas for useful gifts to delight your friends and loved ones for the holidays:

1.  Collapsible fabric totes

These totes are the best!  They can be used in the top or bottom of a closet for a multitude of essentials: winter accessories, pet supplies, extra slippers, spare toiletries… just about anything!  And, when they’re not in use, they fold flat and store easily.  You can give a set of two or three, collapsed, or open each one up and fill them with snacks and treats to use as gift “baskets!”

2.  Slim non-slip hangers

Know someone with lots of clothes and not enough closet space?  These work great and take up less than half the bar space as the plastic ones.  Dress the gift up with a silk scarf (that will be sure not to slip off these hangers!)

3.  Craft Storage Case

Is there a knitter or crafter in the family?  So many craft stores now carry quite an array of craft supply organizers – from bead sorters to long knitting needle cases – thoughtful and practical gifts for anyone who loves to be creative.

4.  Under-bed Shoe Storage

Those zippered cloth shoe storage bags that can hold 10-14 pairs of shoes and slide right under the bed can be a perfect gift for someone who’s always wearing something different on their feet.  It keeps shoes out of the way, easy to reach and dust/pet hair free!  Want to add some pizzazz?  Top it with a pair of slippers or all-weather crocs.

5.  Lap Desk

Lap desks are perfect for almost anyone these days.  They offer a firm work surface while providing cushion for your legs.  They’re great for students sitting on a bed using a laptop or for grandma sitting on a couch doing a crossword puzzle.  And they store easily beside whichever seat you choose.

6.  Car Organizer

There are several different types of car and trunk organizers.  Some hang over the back of a seat and some sit upright on the floor or in the trunk.  Great for busy parents who are always on the go!

7.  Photo Storage Box

Although many stores carry photo organizers, my favorite type is the Power Sort Box sold by Creative Memories.  It holds and safely stores over a thousand photos and makes sorting them a snap!

If you know someone who has a lot of paper, numbers 8 or 9 might be the perfect gifts:

8.  Paper shredder

In this day and age of identity theft, there is nothing more necessary (or fun!) than having a paper shredder on hand.  It’s a wonderful gift of peace of mind.

9.  File Cabinet

If you’ve ever tried to battle with old file drawers that no longer slide easily, you can appreciate how much of a treat having a new, easy-gliding file cabinet would be!

10.  Gift Certificate

Make sure that any gift certificates you give can be used online or locally: Spa, Grocery Store, Movie Theatre, Babysitter… or time with a Professional Organizer!

Here’s wishing you and yours a happy, healthy and clutter-free holiday!

Author: Anna SicalidesGeneral Holidays Home Organizing

10 Tips To A Stress Free And Organized Holiday!

Dazzle your friends, family and maybe even yourself!  No more last minute holiday chaos for you.  Follow some of these tips and reap the rewards of a sane and organized holiday season!

Tip #1
If you use a lot of services, make sure you get them scheduled NOW.
•    Window cleaners
•    Carpet cleaners
•    Landscapers
•    Whoever installs your lights

Tip #2
Decide what date you will be decorating, set that time aside now. Many people do it Thanksgiving weekend. (Hopefully the weather will be good.)

Tip #3   Check & Order your wrapping supplies:
•    Personalized Wrapping Supplies
•    Eco Friendly
•    Bulk Wrapping Supplies

If you are having a party…

Tip #4    Choose your date (get it on the calendar and it will happen)

Tip #5    Create your guest list (you can always add and cut later)

Tip #6     Call your favorite caterer NOW

If you are doing a card…

Tip #7     Choose your photo now or, book your photographer holiday.

Tip #8    Review your mailing list

Tip #9    Choose how you are going to send your holiday cards:
Regular Card
, Photo frame, or the greenest of all Paperless Post

Tip #10    Create a holiday notebook (it can be digital, or paper). Create sections for your party, your cards, your gift lists, entertaining, travel, decorating. This is a great resource for the various components: List Plan-It

Now you have some tools that will help you approach the holidays with a smile on your face! Once you have these accomplished you will have a framework to sanity and organization. You will DAZZLE those around you, and maybe even yourself!

Author: Sherry CastaldiGeneral Home Organizing

10 Closet Organizing Tips

Looking for a calmer more relaxed start to the day? Consider starting your day by selecting your clothing and accessories from an Organized Closet.  Here are 10 Closet Organizing Tips to get you started.

1.    Use identical style hangers; wooden, clear plastic or tubular to give your closet consistency.

2.    Return metal hangers back to the dry cleaners as they leave indentations in your clothing and are not as sturdy as other style hangers.

3.    Purge, Purge, Purge.  If it doesn’t fit, is out of style, you never liked it, have no use for it, know you will never wear it – Donate It! This includes clothes, shoes, purses, and accessories.

4.    Do not hang your sweaters.   Neatly fold and store either in drawers or on closet shelving or neatly in containers.

5.    Have baskets or bins available for laundry and dry cleaning to keep laundry off the floor.

6.    Use shoe shelving to keep shoes organized in pairs and off the floor.

7.    Store small accessory items in drawers or small containers on shelves.

8.    Hang belts, scarves and ties for easy viewing and access.

9.    Do not store unrelated items in closets, such as; kids games with your clothes, husband’s clothing in baby’s room, kitchenware in coat closet.  Keep coats in the coat closets. Baby clothes in the baby’s rooms. Games with games, etc.

10.    Always take the extra minute to put things where they belong, such as hanging up a coat or putting shoes in a closet.

Remember:  Organizing is an on-going process, just like laundry, cleaning, cooking, etc.

New items are always coming into your home and other items are losing their function or style. You must continuously take stock of your inventory to keep it organized.

With an organized system in place, maintaining an organized space is much easier and more time efficient!

Author: Kathy LuskusClutter Family General Home Organizing

RECLAIMING SPACE AFTER CHILDREN LEAVE HOME

Even the most organized of us will get to a point after years in the same home where we find ourselves somewhat overwhelmed by the things we’ve collected. Raising children will attract items that represent memories that make us smile, and some that will send us screaming from the attic and basement. Now that you’ve saved all those art projects, sports trophies, posters and various collections of Beanie Babies, Polly Pocket paraphernalia, Matchbox cars, baseball cards, etc. over the years, it’s time to reclaim your space and do some purging. One word of caution here: Don’t purge the baseball cards. You’ll never live it down – believe me!

Funny thing about kids, even after they’ve gone to college or married and moved to another city, they still often feel like your home should serve as a storage locker for the items they no longer need and don’t want to sort through. As a result, 18 years multiplied by the number of children you’ve raised results in – well, you do the math on the clutter.

Sooner or later when you can no longer get into your attic or basement because it’s become a warehouse of memorabilia, it’s time to take control. You might want to use the space to create an office, craft room, exercise room or an organized storage room for other items that are sure to arrive at your doorstep in the coming years. At some point you’ll probably inherit your parents’ furniture and important files and begin to start saving all those photographs, art projects, and hand-made gifts from your grandchildren. Having gone through this transition, I have some things to share in the way of processing what to keep, purge and move along to someone else.

ALLOW TIME

Be sure to allow plenty of time to complete this project. After all, it took many years to amass these things, so it’s probably going to take more than an afternoon.

SERVE NOTICE

A good way to start is to alert your family that you are taking on this project and ask if there’s anything in the storage area that they would like you to pack up and send to them. They may have a short list of things they want you to hold onto for them. You’ll probably find that they can’t remember what’s in the attic and aren’t interested in most of what’s stored up there. If, however, they want to do the sorting and purging themselves, you can agree to use part of the room to be organized as a staging area where you’ll hold the items up to an agreed upon date.

GET HELP

This is not for the faint-hearted, so instead of trying to take this on yourself, ask a friend to work with you who is emotionally detached from your possessions. This is where it’s prudent to engage a professional organizer who is trained in what questions to ask so that you can make good decisions on what to keep and what to do with those things that need to be moved out.

PREPARING THE ATTACK

Before you start, gather some materials to help you work more efficiently.

  • trash bags – dark green for trash, so once something is placed in there you won’t need to see it again.
  • trash bags – white for donations, whether to friends and family members, or charities.
  • permanent black marker – for labeling the white donation bags.
  • boxes/bins – one for each of your family members for items they want to keep.
  • plenty of water and some snacks.

There’s some value in creating a place for items that you want to decide on later, but try to refrain from delaying decision and having to pick up the same item(s) multiple times.

THE PAYOFF

Completing a project like this will give you great satisfaction and probably inspire you to continue your organizing throughout your house. One additional benefit of this exercise is that it helps you to better identify what items are really of value and should be stored for posterity and what is probably not worth keeping as you move forward. That knowledge will help you to better maintain the area that just opened up for your craft room, or whatever purpose you decide for this reclaimed space.