Organization 201
Ok, so you've read all the blogs about how to get organized...you've read that you need to PURGE, TOSS, DONATE, & FIND A HOME for everything in your home, right? Ok, I agree...that is the best method for getting your home under control. But, maybe you don't have time to do your ENTIRE home in one swoop (who does?)...I still have an attic and an out-of-control closet in my downstairs to tackle. But, I thought I would share a few different tips that I have learned along the way, that has helped me go from CHAOS to CALM.
Purchase a plastic garbage can for every level in your home. Line it with a large garbage bag. BUT, this is NOT for garbage. This I keep filling up as I find things that I want to donate. It is amazing, I usually fill up two bags each week to drop off at a consignment store. HOW!!?? I now see why I was under SO MUCH STUFF. I had to make clearing out a part of my natural routine, so it never gets out of hand again.
ROUTINES - I always make my bed when I am running my bathwater. (amazing how much better a room looks if the bed is made). I always load the dishwasher after supper (as well as sweep and usually mop). I always put my kids clothes away when they are in the bathtub, etc. Just simple routines that you do daily or weekly, that ensures certain tasks get done.
A RETURN BOX - I purchased a plastic crate to have in my mudroom, where I put all returns. This alone has saved me SO MUCH MONEY! It is so easy not to make the effort to make your returns. For example, my husband and I just cleaned out our garage and found tons of extra switch plates, etc that we purchased when building our home. There was a bunch of little things, so we took them back to Home Depot and came away with a $250 gift card (from all the little junk that was cluttering up some high cabinets)! Yea! That will be spent this spring on flowers for our flower boxes.
MAKE THINGS EASY - I hate to mop. I hate, hate, hate to mop. I would rather do anything than mop. So usually, I do. :) So, I purchased a Swiffer Wet Mop - now it is so easy (and almost enjoyable!), that I mop very regularly now. I even whip it out for a quick touch up by the doors and in the kitchen. Another thing I do, keep a set of cleaning supplies in every bathroom. It takes me about 5 minutes to clean my bathroom, if I don't have to hunt down the supplies.
I love organizing and having a SERENE, CLUTTER-FREE home. It is possible! If you had seen my home 5 years ago, you would be amazed at the transformation. All it took was a few extra steps...I will go through and detail what we did in each room to get our home under control and hope that it will help you in the process.
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