Thanks to Cindy Bernstein of Aim4Order for this episode of Tips from the Pros about organizing mistakes.
Some people believe if their home is clean, it’s organized. That is not necessarily true. Clutter can be hidden in closets or under beds. People may have trouble finding things because they don’t have storage containers clearly labeled.
How do you make sure you don’t take these organizing missteps?
Kitchen counters
You don’t have to have your kitchen counters completely clear. If you use your toaster every morning, keep it on the counter. Putting it away and taking it out every day is a waste of time. However, if you only use it every now and then, it makes sense to keep it off the counter.
Entryway
A completely clear entryway can make it hard to find a place for your coat, school backpack or a wet umbrella. Having a coat rack or hooks on the wall will keep your entryway clear all the time, not just after you have cleaned it.
Make the most of your shelves
Kitchen and bedroom shelving can waste space. If you have young children, shelves that are lower to the ground will help them keep their rooms tidy. If there is a lot of empty space in the kitchen cabinets you can add risers allowing you to add another row of bowls, dishes or glasses. In bedroom closets you can add a second rod lower to the floor to fit in more clothing.
Drawer dividers
Instead of throwing everything in a drawer, try using drawer organizers. They don’t have to be expensive, you can cut the bottoms of cereal or other boxes and fit them into drawers dividing up the space. Instead of a jumbled mess, everything is easy to find.
Buying storage bins
Most of the time you can find tins, boxes or other containers you already own instead of going out and buying storage bins. Save money, time and reuse empty containers you have around the house.
Too many things
Toys, shoes, photos in frames, books and other household objects can create clutter. Purge what you no longer need or use. With photos you can put them in collage frames that incorporate many images in one frame.
Collections
Do you collect dog figurines? Whatever you collect, keep it together in one location. Maybe even let go of a few items that are damaged or old. A collection is much more interesting to look at than just one thing here and there scattered around your home.
Remember that every space you have in your home does not have to be filled with belongings. Open space is nice too. If you have trouble paring down or organizing anything in your home, please contact me. I’d be happy to help.
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