Efficient Strategies for Streamlining Your Home's Organization Process
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A well-organized home sets the stage for a serene living space. Simple yet
clever strategies can transform clutter into order. Key holders and desk
caddi...
Thursday
Organizer Blog Owner Sharing a Word with Readers
I just wanted to take this moment to thank the contributors of this blog and all those who have shared their entries. I am so glad that so many do-it-yourself folks have found it quite useful. I look forward to having an even better year!
At this time we are welcoming any contributors who would like to be featured for their organizing tips on this blog. Also any individual or business who would like to purchase ad space, do make contact.
Feel free to reply to this post or contact me at nichollmcguire@gmail.com
Nicholl McGuire is the manager of this blog, a self-published author, inspirational speaker, and business owner originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She has been a featured guest on television and radio talk shows such as networks CBS and WPXI Channel 11.
At this time we are welcoming any contributors who would like to be featured for their organizing tips on this blog. Also any individual or business who would like to purchase ad space, do make contact.
Feel free to reply to this post or contact me at nichollmcguire@gmail.com
Nicholl McGuire is the manager of this blog, a self-published author, inspirational speaker, and business owner originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She has been a featured guest on television and radio talk shows such as networks CBS and WPXI Channel 11.
Wednesday
One of the Worst Things You Can Do When Undergoing Major Life Changes
Don't plan to take up the floor, knock down the walls, give everything away (including the kids) and start over with a new beau or gal all at the same time!
It can be quite tempting to do much after the death of someone, a divorce, job promotion, and more, but you are only adding more stress on yourself (and those you live with). Who knows when all that stuff you pulled out and up is going to be put away!
So often people get started with major home improvements in the middle of personal crisis while looking for others to help--this is also a bad decision. Be mindful that others have things they are doing and enjoy and then along you come the home wrecker causing havoc!
It isn't any wonder some young people will sigh and roll their eyes at troubled parents wanting to get everything done all at the same time after a major life crisis. Chaotic organizing is nothing more than added stress! Consider this, sometimes the help is just not going to be available, the finances will eventually run out, and unexpected issues just might show up--not only is your life a wreck but so is your dwelling. The new additions, décor and other things can wait a bit.
Get you life together first (those outside influences) and the home organizing projects will sure to follow. Allow yourself the energy to recharge before beginning any new project especially if you are a parent.
Nicholl McGuire
It can be quite tempting to do much after the death of someone, a divorce, job promotion, and more, but you are only adding more stress on yourself (and those you live with). Who knows when all that stuff you pulled out and up is going to be put away!
So often people get started with major home improvements in the middle of personal crisis while looking for others to help--this is also a bad decision. Be mindful that others have things they are doing and enjoy and then along you come the home wrecker causing havoc!
It isn't any wonder some young people will sigh and roll their eyes at troubled parents wanting to get everything done all at the same time after a major life crisis. Chaotic organizing is nothing more than added stress! Consider this, sometimes the help is just not going to be available, the finances will eventually run out, and unexpected issues just might show up--not only is your life a wreck but so is your dwelling. The new additions, décor and other things can wait a bit.
Get you life together first (those outside influences) and the home organizing projects will sure to follow. Allow yourself the energy to recharge before beginning any new project especially if you are a parent.
Nicholl McGuire
Friday
The Papers, Dusty Furniture, Scattered Toys, Dirty Dishes...Same Ole, Same Ole
A cluttered atmosphere grates on your nerves after awhile and when you have to clean it too, it can really annoy you. So you start with the small tasks, then the larger ones and before long everything is relatively normal until someone messes it up again.
Neat freaks, as well as not-so organized folks, all have their bad days when it comes to adhering to the "cleanliness is next to godliness" mantra. So if you are in a funk, don't worry, there is always tomorrow. But if the mess can't wait, turn on some music, crack open a window, and get to work!
Nicholl McGuire maintains a few blogs besides this one When Mothers Cry, Workplace Problems, and Apartment Leasing Tips, check them out.
Neat freaks, as well as not-so organized folks, all have their bad days when it comes to adhering to the "cleanliness is next to godliness" mantra. So if you are in a funk, don't worry, there is always tomorrow. But if the mess can't wait, turn on some music, crack open a window, and get to work!
Nicholl McGuire maintains a few blogs besides this one When Mothers Cry, Workplace Problems, and Apartment Leasing Tips, check them out.
Wednesday
Monday
Wednesday
Monday
Ideas for Using a Labelmaker
So you can think of a few things you might use a label-maker for, but is it really worth buying a quality one? Yes! I made the mistake buying a cheap piece of equipment and found that every other time I used it, I needed to replace batteries. If you should buy one, get the kind that comes with an adapter. Also, if you think you might want to do some fun things using labels, you definitely want one with cool features. Here are some things you can do with your label maker:
1. Label file folders.
2. Electronics.
3. Identify specific cords.
4. Use to mark children's pencil boxes, notebooks, books, pocket folders, etc.
5. Post on mailing boxes.
6. Gifts.
7. Seal envelopes.
8. Food organizers.
9. Shelves.
10. Plastic bins.
11. Drawers.
12. Jars.
I found reasonably priced label makers at Walmart, K-mart, and similar discount stores. Once again, avoid the inexpensive ones if you plan on using yours quite often. Avoid shopping at specialty stores for items like these, they are over priced. If you want cash back for your online purchases, join this site.
1. Label file folders.
2. Electronics.
3. Identify specific cords.
4. Use to mark children's pencil boxes, notebooks, books, pocket folders, etc.
5. Post on mailing boxes.
6. Gifts.
7. Seal envelopes.
8. Food organizers.
9. Shelves.
10. Plastic bins.
11. Drawers.
12. Jars.
I found reasonably priced label makers at Walmart, K-mart, and similar discount stores. Once again, avoid the inexpensive ones if you plan on using yours quite often. Avoid shopping at specialty stores for items like these, they are over priced. If you want cash back for your online purchases, join this site.
Sunday
Hoarding Again? Do You Just Have Too Much Stuff?
In this corner is a pile of stuff and in that one is a cluster of things that you don't need, but you just like, and then elsewhere is "their stuff." Is it any wonder that you can think some times? But how much is too much? Time to take inventory of what you have and whether or not it is really as useful as you tell yourself and others.
I recall a relative who enjoyed collecting stuff like a boy loves playing video games. She collected anything that looked like it worked, things that she thought others needed, and other stuff "that didn't look bad." It was crazy how much she accumulated and she lived by herself!
So when you look around and can't find anywhere comfortable to relax without stuff around you, can barely cook in your kitchen, use the bathroom, and do other things, you got to know, "I have too much stuff!" Tripping over things, moving one thing to get to another and another, weird smells, inadequate appliances (because vents are blocked, piping, etc.), will drive you mad!
Do things matter more than people? If your answer is "yes" (at least secretly), then you will need an assistant to help you stay focused, because chances are you have two characters living within yourself, one who has been comforting you with buying more stuff and the other who has been attempting to stand up for your well-being but is losing the fight. Then there is you who just wants to do something!
Now if you can clearly see that the books, electronics, home decor, furniture, collectibles, and outdated items need a home, other than yours, then why not create a plan like this while you still have your mind to do it.
MY PLAN TO BRING ORDER, BEAUTY and WONDERFUL SCENTS TO MY HOME
Week One - Make appointment for pick up, donating items families and homeless need i.e.) blankets, sweaters, appliances, etc.
Week Two - Selling things I don't use but in good condition i.e.) jewelry, electronics, organizers, etc.
Week Three - Calling relatives and friends to check out items I don't mind parting with.
Week Four - Throwing out anything that is broken, no longer works, etc.
After all those items leave, you will need to clean and make that place smell good in addition to getting some things fixed. Molds, mildews, and even rodents and insects are constant problems when one collects much. However, they all go away once the issues are dealt with slowly but surely.
In a month's time, you will see how all that stuff you thought were comforting you really wasn't. You might be shocked at first, maybe even angry or sad, but once the whirlwind of emotions leave you, you will feel so much lighter. Be sure you have a supportive network that will encourage you!
Stay positive! Think of how nice it will be to open up a cabinet and find just what you need. You will experience bliss again being able to sit or lie down in comfort without feeling suffocated by your stuff. You may even want to invite a few people over without feeling ashamed.
Sometimes what throws us into a state of collecting and buying goods is something hurtful happening to us. Rather than face our fears, pain, and other issues, we use things to comfort, but they never seem to do their job before we are back to getting things all over again.
Here are some helpful things you can do to stay focused on cleaning up your cluttered spaces:
1. Post a note or more than a few reminding yourself of how special you are and why you wanted to begin your quest to clear your space and your mind.
2. Display beautiful, positive things (a few inspiring pieces), but not those things that remind you of people, places and things that brought you pain.
3. Listen to inspirational music with or without words in your environment daily rather than songs that remind you of someone or something that hurt deeply.
4. Encourage yourself by focusing on what is right with you and be sure your environment displays that everyday.
5. Embrace cleanliness and order like you do a friend and use a fresh, well-organized environment to move you to create again. What are you good at?
Allow yourself the space to work again and then give or sell your wonderful creations just in time for the next holiday. The energy thrives in your environment when there is room to breathe, create, give, receive and give again!
Nicholl McGuire is the author of When Mothers Cry and other books.
I recall a relative who enjoyed collecting stuff like a boy loves playing video games. She collected anything that looked like it worked, things that she thought others needed, and other stuff "that didn't look bad." It was crazy how much she accumulated and she lived by herself!
So when you look around and can't find anywhere comfortable to relax without stuff around you, can barely cook in your kitchen, use the bathroom, and do other things, you got to know, "I have too much stuff!" Tripping over things, moving one thing to get to another and another, weird smells, inadequate appliances (because vents are blocked, piping, etc.), will drive you mad!
Do things matter more than people? If your answer is "yes" (at least secretly), then you will need an assistant to help you stay focused, because chances are you have two characters living within yourself, one who has been comforting you with buying more stuff and the other who has been attempting to stand up for your well-being but is losing the fight. Then there is you who just wants to do something!
Now if you can clearly see that the books, electronics, home decor, furniture, collectibles, and outdated items need a home, other than yours, then why not create a plan like this while you still have your mind to do it.
MY PLAN TO BRING ORDER, BEAUTY and WONDERFUL SCENTS TO MY HOME
Week One - Make appointment for pick up, donating items families and homeless need i.e.) blankets, sweaters, appliances, etc.
Week Two - Selling things I don't use but in good condition i.e.) jewelry, electronics, organizers, etc.
Week Three - Calling relatives and friends to check out items I don't mind parting with.
Week Four - Throwing out anything that is broken, no longer works, etc.
After all those items leave, you will need to clean and make that place smell good in addition to getting some things fixed. Molds, mildews, and even rodents and insects are constant problems when one collects much. However, they all go away once the issues are dealt with slowly but surely.
In a month's time, you will see how all that stuff you thought were comforting you really wasn't. You might be shocked at first, maybe even angry or sad, but once the whirlwind of emotions leave you, you will feel so much lighter. Be sure you have a supportive network that will encourage you!
Stay positive! Think of how nice it will be to open up a cabinet and find just what you need. You will experience bliss again being able to sit or lie down in comfort without feeling suffocated by your stuff. You may even want to invite a few people over without feeling ashamed.
Sometimes what throws us into a state of collecting and buying goods is something hurtful happening to us. Rather than face our fears, pain, and other issues, we use things to comfort, but they never seem to do their job before we are back to getting things all over again.
Here are some helpful things you can do to stay focused on cleaning up your cluttered spaces:
1. Post a note or more than a few reminding yourself of how special you are and why you wanted to begin your quest to clear your space and your mind.
2. Display beautiful, positive things (a few inspiring pieces), but not those things that remind you of people, places and things that brought you pain.
3. Listen to inspirational music with or without words in your environment daily rather than songs that remind you of someone or something that hurt deeply.
4. Encourage yourself by focusing on what is right with you and be sure your environment displays that everyday.
5. Embrace cleanliness and order like you do a friend and use a fresh, well-organized environment to move you to create again. What are you good at?
Allow yourself the space to work again and then give or sell your wonderful creations just in time for the next holiday. The energy thrives in your environment when there is room to breathe, create, give, receive and give again!
Nicholl McGuire is the author of When Mothers Cry and other books.
Friday
Organize Fast! Sort, Stack, and Pack
Sometimes there just isn't any time to buy bins, racks, and other things to get a room in order quickly. As much as you would like a closet, drawer or something else to look quite nice, when there is little time and money to make your home look neat and smell great, you have to do what you can. So here are a few tips.
1. Look around, items that are out in the open that don't make desks, counters, tables, and other surface areas charming, you are going to remove them.
2. Seek a place to store these things temporarily until guests have left. (Note: if you have empty bins, containers, or something similar use them, then tuck a way, read more below.)
3. Sort items only if you have time. Take those items that belong somewhere and add them to the rest such as: pens, papers, and other little things.
4. Now prepare to stack and/or pack any items that need to be put away.
5. Place items in those open spaces you found earlier. For instance, an open floor space in a closet, behind furniture, under a table, or inside a cabinet might be available for you to squeeze a few more things.
6. Ditch the dirty dishes in the dishwasher or cover them up with a towel if they are sitting in the sink. (NOTE: If you have no time to remove the clean ones, make room for the dirty ones and turn back on. Better to run the machine again then to have a guest walk into your kitchen and want to run back out.)
7. Dirty laundry is stored away in a far corner of a room or placed in a garbage bag (if you have no basket) and put in a closet.
Remember, these are temporary spots, so make yourself a note where you placed these things, so you can retrieve them later and put them in better spots.
Nicholl McGuire is a wife, mother of four and enjoys being neat and tidy. Check out her blogs: Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate and When Mothers Cry.
1. Look around, items that are out in the open that don't make desks, counters, tables, and other surface areas charming, you are going to remove them.
2. Seek a place to store these things temporarily until guests have left. (Note: if you have empty bins, containers, or something similar use them, then tuck a way, read more below.)
3. Sort items only if you have time. Take those items that belong somewhere and add them to the rest such as: pens, papers, and other little things.
4. Now prepare to stack and/or pack any items that need to be put away.
5. Place items in those open spaces you found earlier. For instance, an open floor space in a closet, behind furniture, under a table, or inside a cabinet might be available for you to squeeze a few more things.
6. Ditch the dirty dishes in the dishwasher or cover them up with a towel if they are sitting in the sink. (NOTE: If you have no time to remove the clean ones, make room for the dirty ones and turn back on. Better to run the machine again then to have a guest walk into your kitchen and want to run back out.)
7. Dirty laundry is stored away in a far corner of a room or placed in a garbage bag (if you have no basket) and put in a closet.
Remember, these are temporary spots, so make yourself a note where you placed these things, so you can retrieve them later and put them in better spots.
Nicholl McGuire is a wife, mother of four and enjoys being neat and tidy. Check out her blogs: Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate and When Mothers Cry.
Monday
Teach Children to Organize as Soon as They are Old Enough to Walk
Children can organize. Yet, some parents don't bother to teach children. They prefer to manage every room in the house which is merely showing their offspring they can rely on them to clean up. But what happens when parents are unable to manage the household? The dirty dishes will remain in the sink. Toys will stay in the center of the floor. Shoes will be everywhere but where they are supposed to be. When the home is in disarray to the point that adults can't even stand to live there, now someone is yelling, "Why aren't the kids cleaning up!?" They weren't taught or they were but someone dropped the ball on maintaining the discipline.
So let's get children on track, shall we?
1. Toys need a place. So they will need to be sorted. Use labels or stickers to show children where they belong. When they are done playing, have them clean up. No eating, drinking, praising, or fun stuff until they organize.
2. Be sure you and your partner are model citizens, kids will be watching. In other words, practice what you preach.
3. Place reminders near problem areas. For instance, Johnny Doe has the tendency to take his shoes off somewhere he shouldn't, place a sign there to remind him until he gets it (if he doesn't know how to read, display a mean face pointing at him). If the child still doesn't learn, hide his shoes and keep hiding shoes until he has none. He'll learn.
4. Tell children that if they organize something around the home without you having to tell them, they will get rewarded i.e.) toy store trip, arcade, mall, etc.
5. Walk children through the residence like they are guests and remind them where everything goes. Ask them what do they think about the way things are organized and do they have any suggestions.
6. Find videos (like the ones on this blog) and show children how to organize various things.
7. Inform visitors kindly about the way your home is organized and explain why you want them to help keep your place organized. "Grandma, please don't clean up after them advise them to manage their messes...Don't leave these things out, place them here...Toys are not left all over the floor while the child is somewhere else..."
When making purchases for organizers for children, be sure they are:
1. Stable and secure.
2. Not too high.
3. Smooth edges.
4. Easy to manage--wheeled bins are great for children who have large, heavy toys.
5. Colorful and fun.
6. Transparent for small items.
7. Few compartments.
Nicholl McGuire is the author of When Mothers Cry and other books.
So let's get children on track, shall we?
1. Toys need a place. So they will need to be sorted. Use labels or stickers to show children where they belong. When they are done playing, have them clean up. No eating, drinking, praising, or fun stuff until they organize.
2. Be sure you and your partner are model citizens, kids will be watching. In other words, practice what you preach.
3. Place reminders near problem areas. For instance, Johnny Doe has the tendency to take his shoes off somewhere he shouldn't, place a sign there to remind him until he gets it (if he doesn't know how to read, display a mean face pointing at him). If the child still doesn't learn, hide his shoes and keep hiding shoes until he has none. He'll learn.
4. Tell children that if they organize something around the home without you having to tell them, they will get rewarded i.e.) toy store trip, arcade, mall, etc.
5. Walk children through the residence like they are guests and remind them where everything goes. Ask them what do they think about the way things are organized and do they have any suggestions.
6. Find videos (like the ones on this blog) and show children how to organize various things.
7. Inform visitors kindly about the way your home is organized and explain why you want them to help keep your place organized. "Grandma, please don't clean up after them advise them to manage their messes...Don't leave these things out, place them here...Toys are not left all over the floor while the child is somewhere else..."
When making purchases for organizers for children, be sure they are:
1. Stable and secure.
2. Not too high.
3. Smooth edges.
4. Easy to manage--wheeled bins are great for children who have large, heavy toys.
5. Colorful and fun.
6. Transparent for small items.
7. Few compartments.
Nicholl McGuire is the author of When Mothers Cry and other books.
Saturday
Wednesday
Wednesday
Monday
6 Tips on Making the Best Use of Your Shelves with Safety Reminder
Ever watch a television program and notice the bookshelves in the background? They usually have a few decorations, some books neatly arranged, a few framed pictures, and a bowl, trinket, or vase taking up room on each shelf. We know the average home has a lot more stuff in it then what is presented on television, so what to do? Well if money is an issue, you are going to take what you have and maximize those empty areas on those shelves and don't worry so much about that clutter free look you see on TV. You have a lot of stuff and you want to keep it all--I get it!
1. Let's take a look at any shelf in your home. Is it scaling up the wall? If not, you could use some taller shelves or built-in units--they are great to view, spacious and easy to store items. Get those that run up to the ceiling if you can. But once again, if money is an issue, uh? Well, let's start taking items off the pre-existing shelves and rearranging.
2. Bowls, bins, baskets, boxes and more sitting on those shelves should be filled with your treasures. No ifs, ands, or buts. You want to keep your little items--you believe you will one day use them, so let's get creative. Make those useless items already sitting on your shelves, useful. Something should be in each and every one. But be sure that like items are placed with like items. So if I have some cool stuff I rarely use then there is no reason to leave them out on display. I would tuck them away and label the top of the boxes if necessary, rather than the sides so that everyone who walks into the room isn't reading every name on the shelf.
3. Check out your books. Do they have to be arranged like the local library shelves? Let's get creative with those good reads and make them lay flat, to the back, or used as a stackable art piece that we can put something on top of.
4. Now what about those obscure things? Can we hang something on them or in them? Do they need to take up room on a shelf? Is there another home for them, maybe on a small table near the shelves? Maximizing space is getting rid of bulky items in places where you could add 10 little things as opposed to just one.
5. So you are on a roll? What are you going to do with some of those items you use all the time? I say leave them out and make them easy to obtain. If children use some of those things, then they need to be within reach. Items that are forbidden to touch, store them up on higher shelves.
6. Be sure to utilize safety cords that might be strapped to the back of tall book shelf units or you can make your own. You wouldn't want them to tip and drop on your child or pet. (Note: this happened to one of my kids who liked to climb on the shelves. We put a security gate in the front of it to prevent that from happening again. Shelves are suspended to the wall.)
So your bookshelf project should be coming along. Check out this site on organizing any shelves or drawers in your home--enjoy!
Nicholl McGuire also maintains When Mothers Cry and other blogs.
1. Let's take a look at any shelf in your home. Is it scaling up the wall? If not, you could use some taller shelves or built-in units--they are great to view, spacious and easy to store items. Get those that run up to the ceiling if you can. But once again, if money is an issue, uh? Well, let's start taking items off the pre-existing shelves and rearranging.
2. Bowls, bins, baskets, boxes and more sitting on those shelves should be filled with your treasures. No ifs, ands, or buts. You want to keep your little items--you believe you will one day use them, so let's get creative. Make those useless items already sitting on your shelves, useful. Something should be in each and every one. But be sure that like items are placed with like items. So if I have some cool stuff I rarely use then there is no reason to leave them out on display. I would tuck them away and label the top of the boxes if necessary, rather than the sides so that everyone who walks into the room isn't reading every name on the shelf.
3. Check out your books. Do they have to be arranged like the local library shelves? Let's get creative with those good reads and make them lay flat, to the back, or used as a stackable art piece that we can put something on top of.
4. Now what about those obscure things? Can we hang something on them or in them? Do they need to take up room on a shelf? Is there another home for them, maybe on a small table near the shelves? Maximizing space is getting rid of bulky items in places where you could add 10 little things as opposed to just one.
5. So you are on a roll? What are you going to do with some of those items you use all the time? I say leave them out and make them easy to obtain. If children use some of those things, then they need to be within reach. Items that are forbidden to touch, store them up on higher shelves.
6. Be sure to utilize safety cords that might be strapped to the back of tall book shelf units or you can make your own. You wouldn't want them to tip and drop on your child or pet. (Note: this happened to one of my kids who liked to climb on the shelves. We put a security gate in the front of it to prevent that from happening again. Shelves are suspended to the wall.)
So your bookshelf project should be coming along. Check out this site on organizing any shelves or drawers in your home--enjoy!
Nicholl McGuire also maintains When Mothers Cry and other blogs.
Saturday
On Organizing Office Space - Too Much Paper, Stuff
Have you ever gone into an office space that was just riddled with paper, supplies, and things you didn't even know what they were? One of the first things you might have done was look from left to right, lifting up a few things, and making negative comments or deep sighing. If you are responsible for tackling the space, you might want to do the following to get the job done sooner rather than later.
1. Organize items based on the following: what you will be keeping, donating, and throwing away.
2. Big items need to be either moved out of the office space or off to one side. This way you can have a space to separate items.
3. Box items up that will be going elsewhere.
4. Take all paper and arrange in piles based on need.
5. Every drawer, shelf, and closet should be cleaned out.
6. Wipe furniture, clean unsightly markings, and do away with items that you won't be using.
7. Be sure that every item you are keeping has a place. Review the things you already have to help with organizing and only get additional items if there is a need for them.
Although this simplified way of organizing might help those of you who can visualize how you plan to organize your space. However, if you need some visuals for inspiration, check out videos on this site on organizing an office space.
To your success!
Nicholl McGuire author of When Mothers Cry
1. Organize items based on the following: what you will be keeping, donating, and throwing away.
2. Big items need to be either moved out of the office space or off to one side. This way you can have a space to separate items.
3. Box items up that will be going elsewhere.
4. Take all paper and arrange in piles based on need.
5. Every drawer, shelf, and closet should be cleaned out.
6. Wipe furniture, clean unsightly markings, and do away with items that you won't be using.
7. Be sure that every item you are keeping has a place. Review the things you already have to help with organizing and only get additional items if there is a need for them.
Although this simplified way of organizing might help those of you who can visualize how you plan to organize your space. However, if you need some visuals for inspiration, check out videos on this site on organizing an office space.
To your success!
Nicholl McGuire author of When Mothers Cry
Wednesday
Thursday
Sunday
5 Things You Can Get Children to Organize
Sometimes we don't think about young children helping us when it comes to organization projects. So following are some things you can get children to assist you with and reward them afterward with a fun trip, money, or most wanted item.
1. Organize bedroom dresser drawers (socks, underwears...)
2. Clear off toy shelves and put items back by type.
3. Put items back in bins, containers, shelves etc.
4. Organize desk drawers taking the time to put similar items in each drawer.
5. Assist with organizing tools in garage, shed or basement. (This is for teens).
Think of some more ideas...Happy organizing!
1. Organize bedroom dresser drawers (socks, underwears...)
2. Clear off toy shelves and put items back by type.
3. Put items back in bins, containers, shelves etc.
4. Organize desk drawers taking the time to put similar items in each drawer.
5. Assist with organizing tools in garage, shed or basement. (This is for teens).
Think of some more ideas...Happy organizing!
Saturday
Thursday
Good Housekeeping - Tips, Advice on Organizing
One of the most popular companies in the home organizing industry is Good Housekeeping. Don't sleep on the awesome advice on the site. Check out some useful tips on how to get organized at home. See here.
Wednesday
10 Tips on How to Know When It's Time to Rid Yourself of Some Household Items
Sometimes it isn't broke, tacky, or not useful anymore, some of those items at your residence you just don't like much, are still wondering what you really need them for, and create clutter. So when is it time to say, "So long?"
1. You move it from one area to one room and it seems to be always in the way.
2. Can you recall when you last used it? Do you really need it?
3. When guests come over and question, "Now how old are you again?"
4. When it just doesn't make the home look comfortable.
5. The item stands out, but that is all it does. It doesn't enhance the environment and isn't needed.
6. Guests are uncomfortable sitting on it, viewing it, and you are tired of them asking you a ton of questions about it.
7. It is so cheap or unstable that if someone applies just a little pressure it would fall apart.
8. When all it brings you is bad memories, grief, confusion, or rage if someone touches it.
9. The kids are fighting over it and you are tired of policing their fall-outs.
10. You just hate it and you don't know why.
Holding on to unnecessary items will begin to grate on your nerves. They will also keep you from buying what you really want because all you seem to think about is, "I have no room...I wish I had the space...I need to really get this but..." Save yourself the stress before the next time you shop, say goodbye to the things that aren't making life any easier!
Nicholl McGuire shares spiritual insight on YouTube channel: nmenterprise7
1. You move it from one area to one room and it seems to be always in the way.
2. Can you recall when you last used it? Do you really need it?
3. When guests come over and question, "Now how old are you again?"
4. When it just doesn't make the home look comfortable.
5. The item stands out, but that is all it does. It doesn't enhance the environment and isn't needed.
6. Guests are uncomfortable sitting on it, viewing it, and you are tired of them asking you a ton of questions about it.
7. It is so cheap or unstable that if someone applies just a little pressure it would fall apart.
8. When all it brings you is bad memories, grief, confusion, or rage if someone touches it.
9. The kids are fighting over it and you are tired of policing their fall-outs.
10. You just hate it and you don't know why.
Holding on to unnecessary items will begin to grate on your nerves. They will also keep you from buying what you really want because all you seem to think about is, "I have no room...I wish I had the space...I need to really get this but..." Save yourself the stress before the next time you shop, say goodbye to the things that aren't making life any easier!
Nicholl McGuire shares spiritual insight on YouTube channel: nmenterprise7
Tuesday
When was the last time you shampooed every area of your home?
Time gets away from us and before long, we realize that certain areas of our home, apartment, townhouse, or condo have yet to be managed. One thing that is often overlooked is carpeting.
Notice how much dust, debris and other things hide in the carpet fibers. If it has been a long time since you cleaned a carpet, consider sprinkling it with powders used to remove fleas and other insects seen and unseen first, let set for the time allotted on the product and then vacuum. A quick google search and you will discover things like carpet fleas that will bite when hidden in carpet before or after a shampoo.
When you begin to clean, be sure you remove as many items as you can off the rug you plan to shampoo. If you don't, you will learn as you move items how unsightly it looks when some areas have not been shampooed. You will also want to consider what you are keeping and what you plan to throw away.
Also before you begin your task, do dust, vacuum, and perform cleaning like wiping off items and walls. The room looks so much better when everything looks fresh and clean again!
Nicholl McGuire writes other articles and shares videos on Things to Do When Bored, see here.
Notice how much dust, debris and other things hide in the carpet fibers. If it has been a long time since you cleaned a carpet, consider sprinkling it with powders used to remove fleas and other insects seen and unseen first, let set for the time allotted on the product and then vacuum. A quick google search and you will discover things like carpet fleas that will bite when hidden in carpet before or after a shampoo.
When you begin to clean, be sure you remove as many items as you can off the rug you plan to shampoo. If you don't, you will learn as you move items how unsightly it looks when some areas have not been shampooed. You will also want to consider what you are keeping and what you plan to throw away.
Also before you begin your task, do dust, vacuum, and perform cleaning like wiping off items and walls. The room looks so much better when everything looks fresh and clean again!
Nicholl McGuire writes other articles and shares videos on Things to Do When Bored, see here.
Friday
Lazy Susan Turntables for Fridge, Cabinets, Shoes, Countertops, Under Sinks...
Lazy Susan Shoe Storage
Lazy Susan Under the Bed Storage
Fridge Organization - How to Organize the Refrigerator - Alejandra
One of the best YouTubers on organization, check out this useful video on organizing your fridge with Alejandra.
Sunday
A Checklist of What You Might Want to Do Before Spring
The weather will get better one day soon and you will want to get out more during that time. This is why it is always best to get indoor chores done before you get outdoors more frequently. So here is a To-Do list that will help some of you who have yet to get started.
1. Take a walk through your home and note messy areas, unorganized areas, and other places that haven't been touched in a long time.
2. List what needs to go, then set up an appointment with the local thrift store to come and take away those bagged and boxed items. You will need to share the list with the store, so they know what they are coming to get. Be sure you get a receipt for your donations because these will come in handy when you start itemizing your taxes (under charitable donations) for next year.
3. Look for ways to organize things better. If you have many little things, get necessary items to organize them. Search "how to organize..." include what you need to organize.
4. Enlist help only if you know the individuals will not try to get you to keep stuff.
5. Visit Ebay, the local pawn shop, a children's boutique, bookstores, take out an ad, and sell some of the things you don't use.
6. Remove large furniture away from walls, move boxes and shelves and examine your walls, baseboards and flooring. Those of you who receive much snow and rain might have a problem festering that you don't know about.
7. Check under cabinets? Is it well organized or could items be better managed. Also, check for signs of mold.
8. Clean rugs, wipe walls, inside of windows, and remove any trace of molds using bleach.
9. Dust off items especially things that hang from walls, vents, and items that sit low.
10. Remove any food products and medicines that are expired.
Taking the time to get your household organized while making some money and helping others will make you feel good. You will be so glad to have fun outdoors without the worry of how your residence might look or smell. Be sure to check appliances like water heaters, furnaces, air conditioners, refrigerators and more. You can search the Internet on troubleshooting these items and how what sounds mean trouble for your home. One other thing, be sure to get those indoor odors under control too--check for things online that might help. Periodically, open windows and shut off heat.
Nicholl McGuire shares wise tips about spiritually related issues on YouTube channel: nmenterprise7
1. Take a walk through your home and note messy areas, unorganized areas, and other places that haven't been touched in a long time.
2. List what needs to go, then set up an appointment with the local thrift store to come and take away those bagged and boxed items. You will need to share the list with the store, so they know what they are coming to get. Be sure you get a receipt for your donations because these will come in handy when you start itemizing your taxes (under charitable donations) for next year.
3. Look for ways to organize things better. If you have many little things, get necessary items to organize them. Search "how to organize..." include what you need to organize.
4. Enlist help only if you know the individuals will not try to get you to keep stuff.
5. Visit Ebay, the local pawn shop, a children's boutique, bookstores, take out an ad, and sell some of the things you don't use.
6. Remove large furniture away from walls, move boxes and shelves and examine your walls, baseboards and flooring. Those of you who receive much snow and rain might have a problem festering that you don't know about.
7. Check under cabinets? Is it well organized or could items be better managed. Also, check for signs of mold.
8. Clean rugs, wipe walls, inside of windows, and remove any trace of molds using bleach.
9. Dust off items especially things that hang from walls, vents, and items that sit low.
10. Remove any food products and medicines that are expired.
Taking the time to get your household organized while making some money and helping others will make you feel good. You will be so glad to have fun outdoors without the worry of how your residence might look or smell. Be sure to check appliances like water heaters, furnaces, air conditioners, refrigerators and more. You can search the Internet on troubleshooting these items and how what sounds mean trouble for your home. One other thing, be sure to get those indoor odors under control too--check for things online that might help. Periodically, open windows and shut off heat.
Nicholl McGuire shares wise tips about spiritually related issues on YouTube channel: nmenterprise7
Thursday
3 Things You Can Do to Save Money on Your Home Organizing Projects
Too often amateur organizers rush to the store to get something they really don't need, but because they saw cool organizing tools in other's homes or heard that there was a few on sale, they get them. They don't bother to think that what might work for others is not necessarily going to work for them. As for some of those bargain items, sometimes they aren't worth their prices much less bringing home.
When you begin your home organizing tasks, do take the time to walk your home, sketch out your design if need be, find useful ways to put away items, but without having to buy many boxes, bins, and other organizing supplies. Before you begin, consider the following.
One. List the things you will need for your home organizing project.
Simple enough, but so many don't do it. Once you have an idea of where things are going to go, you will need to have the items that will best suit your needs. Be sure that the things you select will not break easily, aren't hard to manage, and are useful. There is much out in stores that look pretty but are ineffective.
Two. Check your residence for anything that isn't being used effectively and re-use.
Some novices will store a few items in a large space, while overlooking the fact that large items around the home could be better organized. Others will take a small item and put it on one shelf while the others remain elsewhere--such a waste of space! Take a look at those things that could be organized well. Sometimes you will discover a box, bin or shelf that is available for your other stuff. (Don't forget rid yourself of what you don't need! Watch videos on this site about de-cluttering.)
Three. Research the products you need online and compare those prices using a "comparison shopping website tool" just keyword search the phrase along with the name of the product you need.
There are many sites that will list where home organizing items are located and how much they are to date. You can save time and money, if you simply look at what others are charging for your organizing supplies. Keep in mind, some prices look good, but the shipping costs can skyrocket the total cost.
Scroll around this site for home organization ideas and thanks for stopping by!
Nicholl McGuire is the author of When Mothers Cry, Laboring to Love Myself and other books.
When you begin your home organizing tasks, do take the time to walk your home, sketch out your design if need be, find useful ways to put away items, but without having to buy many boxes, bins, and other organizing supplies. Before you begin, consider the following.
One. List the things you will need for your home organizing project.
Simple enough, but so many don't do it. Once you have an idea of where things are going to go, you will need to have the items that will best suit your needs. Be sure that the things you select will not break easily, aren't hard to manage, and are useful. There is much out in stores that look pretty but are ineffective.
Two. Check your residence for anything that isn't being used effectively and re-use.
Some novices will store a few items in a large space, while overlooking the fact that large items around the home could be better organized. Others will take a small item and put it on one shelf while the others remain elsewhere--such a waste of space! Take a look at those things that could be organized well. Sometimes you will discover a box, bin or shelf that is available for your other stuff. (Don't forget rid yourself of what you don't need! Watch videos on this site about de-cluttering.)
Three. Research the products you need online and compare those prices using a "comparison shopping website tool" just keyword search the phrase along with the name of the product you need.
There are many sites that will list where home organizing items are located and how much they are to date. You can save time and money, if you simply look at what others are charging for your organizing supplies. Keep in mind, some prices look good, but the shipping costs can skyrocket the total cost.
Scroll around this site for home organization ideas and thanks for stopping by!
Nicholl McGuire is the author of When Mothers Cry, Laboring to Love Myself and other books.
Wednesday
The Quickest Way to Organize Anything Is...
Plan before you begin any project. Without a plan, you will find yourself taking far more time than you need to organize. Too often people jump right into organizing things but end up throwing out useful items while keeping stuff they really don't need. Check out this blog for the task that you would like to complete, then create your specific plan based on the information provided.
To your success!
To your success!
Saturday
7 Tips on Organizing Holiday Arts and Crafts - Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day
Some homes are overwhelmed with craft projects while others not so much. When you live in a small environment or are confined to a small space, it can easily become disorganized especially if you have children. So here are some quick tips you might want to implement to keep your holiday arts and crafts organized especially that school stuff!
1. Sort the Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day and other holiday arts and crafts. Keep those that you like, separate items that are not good, unsightly, and useless.
2. Throw away or donate items.
3. Rather than buy new organizing materials for your holiday keepsakes, check for those organizing tools that are not currently being used or aren't well-managed. Think of ways to take what you already have to help with organization.
4. Once you have available bins, boxes, containers, folders, and other things that can help with your organizing, you will place like items together and label each thing. For instance, pencils have a box, pens have a cup holder, markers have a container, binders have artwork, boxes have large keepsakes, similar books go on a shelf, etc.
5. You will also want to find ways to sort these items neatly on shelves, in closets, cabinets, and even under the bed if your space is tight. Other ways to organize is to use corners and stack items. If you have garage space you can designate an area for your keepsakes. Be sure the bin is clear and plastic with a tight seal so that bugs and debris doesn't get inside. Clear so that you can easily spot the items.
6. Decorate your organized space. If you find that the items you have are not that appealing, you can decorate the bins, boxes and containers or hide them in something that is pretty to view.
7. Be sure that the children's items are separated from yours. This eliminates future issues over what they should and shouldn't be using. Paints, pens and special tools can be quite expensive to replace, so if you don't want them using your items, put them away and out of view. Place their items in a separate area if need be.
Nicholl McGuire shares spiritual insight on YouTube channel: nmenterprise7.
1. Sort the Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day and other holiday arts and crafts. Keep those that you like, separate items that are not good, unsightly, and useless.
2. Throw away or donate items.
3. Rather than buy new organizing materials for your holiday keepsakes, check for those organizing tools that are not currently being used or aren't well-managed. Think of ways to take what you already have to help with organization.
4. Once you have available bins, boxes, containers, folders, and other things that can help with your organizing, you will place like items together and label each thing. For instance, pencils have a box, pens have a cup holder, markers have a container, binders have artwork, boxes have large keepsakes, similar books go on a shelf, etc.
5. You will also want to find ways to sort these items neatly on shelves, in closets, cabinets, and even under the bed if your space is tight. Other ways to organize is to use corners and stack items. If you have garage space you can designate an area for your keepsakes. Be sure the bin is clear and plastic with a tight seal so that bugs and debris doesn't get inside. Clear so that you can easily spot the items.
6. Decorate your organized space. If you find that the items you have are not that appealing, you can decorate the bins, boxes and containers or hide them in something that is pretty to view.
7. Be sure that the children's items are separated from yours. This eliminates future issues over what they should and shouldn't be using. Paints, pens and special tools can be quite expensive to replace, so if you don't want them using your items, put them away and out of view. Place their items in a separate area if need be.
Nicholl McGuire shares spiritual insight on YouTube channel: nmenterprise7.
Wednesday
Things Look Messy? 6 Things You Can Do Right Now to Get Organized, Feel Good About Your Living Space
Does sitting at your workspace or at home get you down sometimes? Do you feel disorganized, messy, or hate the way things smell? If you just take a moment to do some things to tidy up your area, you just might feel better about it. There are those times when we all get a little too comfortable in our environments to the point that we make ourselves sick! We might even complain about what we see, how we feel, what our area looks like, and the way it smells.
Giving your living space a little tender loving care will bring the life back into it and it doesn't have to cost a fortune doing it!
1. Throw useless paper away. Give away magazines and books. Paper collects and it makes an environment look messy. It also comes with its share of smells, dust, and allergens.
2. Create places to put things or put what you have taken out back in its proper place.
Sometimes the old way of organizing things just doesn't work anymore, so you might need to upgrade (check around this blog for ideas on what to buy). Other times it is simply laziness that keeps one from putting things back where they go.
3. Note what you need to do each day to get your environment in good shape.
Use your cell phone to help you keep up with your tasks or create your To Do List and place it somewhere so that you can see it everyday. Very messy environments will need to be broken down in simple tasks, this way you won't be overwhelmed about cleaning and organizing.
4. Avoid distractions that take up unnecessary time while you get organized i.e.) Internet surfing.
How many times have we started doing something and then got side-tracked because of people, places and things? Be determined to get things done! Stay focus and don't be afraid to tell others, "I'm busy right now!"
5. Spruce up your environment by wiping things off, vacuuming, and decorating.
You will feel better about your living space if you do. Sometimes people will organize, but won't bother to clean. Meanwhile, there are those dust webs and balls in corners, markings on walls, ugly spots, and more. It will be only a matter of time, when you feel like you didn't do much and begin to dislike your environment again. Get rid of things that put you in a bad mood like the spoils of war, you know those things from a previous relationship.
6. Get a nice smelling air freshener or diffuser and open window. Dry air? Get a humidifier.
Clean air always makes you feel and breathe better!
When you are often busy, it doesn't take long before one's environment becomes a wreck, so before you get really busy again, show your place some love--your guests will appreciate it if you have any.
Nicholl McGuire, author of When Mothers Cry
Giving your living space a little tender loving care will bring the life back into it and it doesn't have to cost a fortune doing it!
1. Throw useless paper away. Give away magazines and books. Paper collects and it makes an environment look messy. It also comes with its share of smells, dust, and allergens.
2. Create places to put things or put what you have taken out back in its proper place.
Sometimes the old way of organizing things just doesn't work anymore, so you might need to upgrade (check around this blog for ideas on what to buy). Other times it is simply laziness that keeps one from putting things back where they go.
3. Note what you need to do each day to get your environment in good shape.
Use your cell phone to help you keep up with your tasks or create your To Do List and place it somewhere so that you can see it everyday. Very messy environments will need to be broken down in simple tasks, this way you won't be overwhelmed about cleaning and organizing.
4. Avoid distractions that take up unnecessary time while you get organized i.e.) Internet surfing.
How many times have we started doing something and then got side-tracked because of people, places and things? Be determined to get things done! Stay focus and don't be afraid to tell others, "I'm busy right now!"
5. Spruce up your environment by wiping things off, vacuuming, and decorating.
You will feel better about your living space if you do. Sometimes people will organize, but won't bother to clean. Meanwhile, there are those dust webs and balls in corners, markings on walls, ugly spots, and more. It will be only a matter of time, when you feel like you didn't do much and begin to dislike your environment again. Get rid of things that put you in a bad mood like the spoils of war, you know those things from a previous relationship.
6. Get a nice smelling air freshener or diffuser and open window. Dry air? Get a humidifier.
Clean air always makes you feel and breathe better!
When you are often busy, it doesn't take long before one's environment becomes a wreck, so before you get really busy again, show your place some love--your guests will appreciate it if you have any.
Nicholl McGuire, author of When Mothers Cry
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