Storage Smarts
Finnegan Flynn
| 13-10-2023
· Lifestyle Team
Home storage and organization can be a challenge for many people, whether it's managing family life or dealing with rental spaces.
Often, it feels like no matter how much effort you put into tidying up, the mess returns within a day or two, or there's always something left unorganized.
To help you improve your home storage and organization, here are some simple and practical tips.
1. Utilize Storage Solutions
Bedroom: Plastic Organizers
- Plastic organizers can be a game-changer when it comes to decluttering your bedroom. These handy tools can be placed in the closet or under the bed, providing storage space for items like underwear, socks, foldable clothing, medicines, and miscellaneous items. They are also great for children's rooms or living rooms to store toys and more.
Note: When choosing storage boxes, opt for single-layer options. If you select multi-layer boxes, consider the weight of the items to avoid instability due to being "top-heavy."
Living Room: Multi-Compartment Storage Cabinets
- For those living in small apartments, especially young renters, a multi-compartment shoe storage cabinet near the living room or entrance is essential. This helps keep your living space tidy by neatly organizing all your shoes.
- If you have more room to spare, consider rotating shoe cabinets or customized options to maximize storage capacity, depending on your specific needs.
2. Develop Daily Organizing Habits
To maintain an organized home, make it a daily habit to tidy up. Try not to leave the task of cleaning and organizing for the end of the day or late at night. Dedicate at least 15 minutes each day to organizing your living space or use small pockets of free time for this purpose. Remember, today's mess should be dealt with today.
3. Create a Storage Plan
If your schedule is often hectic, create a prioritized list of items that need storage. Home organization doesn't happen overnight. Use a written record or your own time schedule to decide which areas of your home to tackle first.
4. Encourage Family Participation
Home storage and organization are a shared responsibility among family members. Parents can encourage their children to declutter their toys or books at least once every six months. This not only frees up storage space but also fosters a sense of autonomy in children.
5. Organize Based on Habits
Whether it's a suitcase or a storage box, assign designated spots for important documents and mementos for each family member. Everyday items should be organized individually and then consolidated in study areas, file cabinets, or other designated locations for easy access.