Lively Organizing

This or That: Shelving Edition

We need to settle the age old debate - open shelving or closed cabinetry? Comment below!

Summer is officially here! This means little ones around the house more often, looking for things to do. Now is a great time to include them in organizing!

Create Activity Zones: Designate specific areas (like a craft corner or toy bin) to encourage specific activities to happen in the correct spaces.

Make Systems Accessible: Use low shelves, clear bins, and picture labels so even little ones can grab and put away their own items.

Implement Time Limits: Set a 10-minute timer and see how much the kids can clean up before it goes off, introducing a fun, gamified approach.

Let Them Edit: Consistently designate a "donation bin" and allow your child to choose which items they have outgrown or want to pass along.

Everyone loves the look of a perfectly manicured pantry... rows of color coordinated, matching containers with a perfect labeling system. However, none of that means anything if the pantry isn't functional!

Avoid these pantry mistakes to ensure your organizational system is sustainable and works for you!
1. Avoid transferring all dry products into secondary containers. While there is definitely some benefit to this, especially with dry goods that don't self-seal, it can add an unnecessary purchase and step to the process.
2. Avoid organizing by anything besides "type." While that may look different for everyone, be sure to create "zones" and store like items together.
3. Avoid using only horizontal space. Most pantries lack horizontal space, but offer additional vertical space. Adding shelf inserts will allow you to use this space to your advantage.
4. Avoid keeping items "just in case" - including appliances, paper products, and food. My general rule of thumb is if it hasn't been used in a year, it's time to go.
5. Avoid organizing once and walking away. A "big organize" is just the first step in the process. You have to create a system that includes regular maintenance and adjustments.

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It's time for another Saturday Challenge - let's tackle those pesty cords and cables!

Whether you have a home office or not, you probably have bundles of cords laying around the house. I know I do!

Take some time today to sort through and declutter. Keep out the ones you use daily, store some back ups, and toss the rest. Anything with multiple duplicates, frayed wires, or outdated plugs needs to go!