More than simply “a place for everything and everything in it’s place”, these are the essentials that make the difference to allow for a smoother running morning, noon and night – every day.
Whilst the first step is to declutter so you can see the forest for the trees, once you’ve established a place for everything it’s important that you continue to use those places and you and other members of your household do so too. For a truly organised approach to life, once an item is taken away from its storage or resting place, it is essential to return it there after use.
1. Key caddy
A collect-all for your keys means you leave them in the same place every time – whether it’s morning, evening or any time in between. If you’re in the house, your keys are on the rack, or in the basket. Life is too short to spend time looking for your keys.
2. Shelf dividers
Dividers on your shelves make them work harder at maximising your storage space and keeping everything organised. Just remember to always return things to their correct spot.
3. Baskets and buckets
Keeping things in attractive containers is key to organising your life. Not only do they keep loose items together and tidy, it’s a fast way to stash things when you’re on the run. Examples are a basket at the front door for hats, or a central “swimming bag” for all your family’s swimming costumes, towels and sunscreen – just grab and go!
4. Noticeboard
A noticeboard with a calendar marked up with activities for the whole family works wonders in keeping lines of communication open and everybody organised. School notes, concert tickets, invitations and phone numbers are all within easy reach.
5. Labels on everything
You be the judge here –your kids’ room may need more labels than the bathroom linen cupboard perhaps, but clear labels help members of your household find things and return them to their place.
5. Drawer organisers
Any draw that collects many smaller items will benefit from dividers to keep things in order. In the kitchen cutlery, utensils, herbs and spices will all be easier to find, as will socks, belts, ties and jewellery in the bedroom and toiletries and makeup in the bathroom.
Larger drawers and bathroom cupboards may benefit from a lazy Susan, which allows you to reach items at the back without removing everything.
7. Corralling trays
Organising your display items on a tray can help ease your visual clutter.
Press into service a stylish tray on your ottoman to coral remote controls, coasters, candles and knick knacks. With attention to arranging items on display, you are more likely to continue to tidy things.
8. Lost property basket
Keep a basket at your front door for lost property, or items that need to be returned to people. You will walk past it they leave and be reminded of their errant item.
9. Incidental shelving
Efficient storage is a moving feast. If you find an area attracts a collection of items on a regular basis, consider setting up a storage container or holding place for such things. Dedicated drawers and shelving on adjustable racks make the most of your space and efficiency. Keep adjusting as your needs change, either with the seasons or as you family grows.
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