Get Organized Without Losing It

You run to answer the phone and stumble over the toys on the floor, you try to find a pen to take down an important phone number but you have no clue where to start… heck you can’t even find a clean piece of paper to write on.

So what’s a mom to do when it feels like her home is coming apart at the seams… well for starters don’t lose it! Keep your cool and take a deep breath. You can get organized without losing it; it’s just going to take a little time, patience and perseverance.

The hardest part is starting…

Here are a few tips to help you organize your home before losing it!

If you make the storage options decorative and fun, it’s doesn’t seem as much like work. For example, if you want the kids to pick up their dirty laundry and put it in the hamper, put a basketball hoop over it. See who can make the most baskets in the least amount of time. That mound of socks and underwear will disappear in no time.

Under-the-bed storage boxes have been a staple of home organizing for years. They have new ones that have hinges, wheels, and all kinds of improvements that make them easier to use. They may seem expensive to buy enough for the whole family at once, but if you pick up one every couple weeks, or once a month, you’ll soon have all new storage for everyone. They are great for out of season clothes, toys or books.

Giving things away to charity not only helps someone else, but it helps you stay more organized by freeing up valuable space.

Even if your children don’t have to share a room, a bunk bed can be a great space saver. The top bunk can not only be used as storage, but it can make a great homework area for an older sibling when there are toddlers around that won’t stay out of their things. Use a thinner pad, instead of a mattress, some pillows, a lap desk, decent lighting, and you have a wonderful workspace. It also keeps all the homework in one area, so it’s less likely to get lost or clutter up the dining room table.

In order for the house to stay organized, the whole family has to be involved. If you are starting a new routine, be sure to explain the new rules to everyone, practice it for a few days, reminding everyone what needs done. If you stay consistent, it won’t be long before your whole home is in order.

July 21, 2008 | Filed Under Get Organized Articles