Organizing Tips for November

Somewhere in cyberspace are the organizing tips for October.  They did not appear as they should have when I signed in today. Perhaps they will appear as they were scheduled but just in case, I will post them again at the end of this post. It would be good to check over it if you are planning any special holiday meals.

On to November!

With such a dramatic weather event to end this October, it is hard to get in gear for the winter holidays that are just around the corner. Inevitably they will come and planning ahead will make the tasks much easier. Here are several reminders plus strategies for getting your kitchen ready for the holidays.

To begin the kitchen organizing, spend some time going through the kitchen equipment. Now is a good time to donate or sell those pots, pans, small appliances, tools and utensils you do not use. If you have not used an item in the past year, it should not be taking up valuable real estate in your kitchen. Consider storing it in a more remote place in the house if you cannot part with it.

Inventory the pantry. If yours is normally full it will be difficult to add the special holiday items you need this time of the year. Check the expiration dates on spices and some staple items you have not used in a long time. Eliminate or use immediately all you can to make more storage space.

To organize it, use the trays, containers, turntables, and/or racks to help you group items in the same category together. Keep items you use everyday in the most convenient spaces. Small boxes, envelopes or packages should be grouped in clear containers so they are not lost on the shelving and can be easily accessed. If shelving is deep, use baskets or trays to hold items so they can be pulled forward to access items in the back. Finally, try to leave a few inches of empty space between categories of food on the shelves. This allows room for new items and also gives an appearance of order.

Make a list of what your holiday recipes require and what you will need during the next few weeks. Some special seasonal items will disappear from the grocery shelves before the holidays so shopping for those now will be advantageous. Check off all ingredients you already have so you do not duplicate items that will take up valuable shelving.

Keep records of all you holiday planning, meals, events and reminders for future holidays. It will make planning for next year so much easier. I have a folder (on my computer) with the menus, grocery lists, guest lists, etc. that I update every year. I print those out, take notes on the printed copies and then update my original files.

Have packages for mailing out of town ready to send. Some overseas deadlines occur in November. Even packages to domestic locations should be ready to ship by the end of the month.

Now is the best time for online shopping. Almost all stores are offering free shipping and the selection is better now than later. Be sure to save receipts until after the holiday so items can be returned if necessary and to validate any charges on future credit statements. It is a good idea to keep these in a special envelope, folder, box, basket, etc. designated only for them.

Last month we reminded you to purchase holiday cards if you are particular about them. Now is the time to address and get them ready to mail. Email greetings can wait until December.

And I can never stress this point enough: If you choose to send a holiday newsletter, remember to keep it short and sweet. The shorter, the sweeter. No bragging is allowed; keep it newsy with love and appreciation for the input the recipients have had in your lives.

If you begin your holiday decorating early, be selective as you pull out the boxes of decorations. Pass on those items that you no longer like or use to save space and time. Permanent wreaths for the door can have the bow and a few leaves or flowers changed each season and will not have to be packed and stored. I purchase inexpensive wreath decorations for my permanent vine wreath each season and toss them after use. They are normally dirty or faded anyway.

Stand alone decorations specific to the holidays take lots of time in packing and unpacking each year and require more storage space. By simply adding decorative bows, etc. to lamps, candles, house plants, etc., you can make your home festive without needing extra storage bins and space after the holidays.

As I have advised every year, avoid shopping on Black Friday unless you absolutely must go and be sure to stick to your “needs” list. Going into the stores with their displays of special pricing, etc. is an emotional trap waiting for your hard earned cash. And all that stuff you don’t really need will clutter your house.

After years of getting up before dawn to hit the sales, I have learned it is much smarter to just stay home that weekend, get more sleep and decorate. If you love the adventure, if you only buy what you need and is on your list, and if you don’t mind crowds and insane traffic jams and parking, go for it and send me your stories! maryfrances@OrderlyPlaces.com

Organizing Tips for October

Fall is officially here. In some parts of our country the weather may not show it, but it is time to get moving towards the season filled with decorating and entertaining. This month we will concentrate on getting the dining room and/or eating areas organized and ready for holiday entertainment.

• If you have a dining room that is not used often, the table can become a dumping ground for items put there temporarily. What starts out as the mail mutates into miscellaneous things coming into the house. Start today to make it off limits for the temporary put down.
• Inventory your linens and purge what you haven’t used in years. If some hold sentimental value, see if someone in your family can use them and give them the honor they deserve. If some are in need of repair, make the decision to take care of that or to move them on. Remember removing those that you do not use will make more space for those that you love and use.
• Look over your dinnerware and remove pieces that cannot be used because of chips or other damage. If there are odd pieces that cannot be used with other items, move them out, too. Complete sets that are stored in boxes and never opened should be sold, donated or given to someone who wants them. As with your linens, move on pieces that are simply taking up space.
• Provide adequate seating for all those eating together. Folding chairs can be used and stored in a closet or other storage area afterwards. Wooden posts located on the wall of the garage can be used to hang them so they do not take up floor space.
• Cloth or paper napkins can be placed in an attractive basket, bowl or tray and serve as a centerpiece.
• Placemats are more versatile to use than tablecloths and can be left on the table as decorations or stacked in the center with a napkin basket.
• Dinnerware, flatware and serving pieces should be located in an area convenient to setting the table and replacing after clean up.
• Special occasion or seasonal dinnerware or silverware should be kept only if used and you have sufficient space for it. .
• Table cloths can be stored in shallow drawers or hung over a dowel or hanger covered with the empty roll from wrapping paper or paper towels. Slit the roll on one side and slip it over the rod. Hang it in a closet. This will prevent additional wrinkles.
• Additional linens can be stored in the drawers or shelves of dining room furniture such as chests or buffets. You may also use a linen closet if one exists.
• Consider placing a clothing chest with drawers in the dining room if no longer needed for clothing. It is ideal for linens.

Additional Activities to make the dining room more functional

• The dining table may be a good choice for homework if the room is good for studying. A tote with desk supplies may be used and then stored when the work is done.
• It may also used for craft projects or other art activities. Cover the table with a protective cloth, cutting board or plastic before using it. Portable storage for those supplies make it easier to clean the area when done.
• If the family needs home office space, reserving a corner of the dining room for that activity is a good use of space. Choose a table or desk that compliments the other furnishings. Some items can be stored in the furniture already there or in rolling carts and file trolleys that can be moved to a nearby closet when not in use.
• If there is not space in the family room for board games and card playing, those items could be stored in the dining room for use there..
• When not used, keep the tops of buffets, chests and china cabinets clear and free of clutter..
• Keep the table attractive when not used with a centerpiece and/or tablecloth.
• Use washable decorative fabrics on surfaces to reduce the amount of dusting.

The end of the month also brings Halloween and the Trick or Treat invaders.

· First you want to be sure the pathway to your door is safe. Remember to clean the driveway, sidewalk, steps and porch while it is still daylight. Fallen leaves can be slippery especially when wet so they should be removed as well as any toys, twigs, etc. Make sure this area is well lit by leaving your porch light and any other light fixtures on during the Trick or Treat hours.

· It is recommended that you give only individually pre-wrapped candy. Since this is the beginning of flu season, you should not allow each child to reach into your container to get the candy since each one could be contaminating the other pieces with his hands. Rather, you should choose and drop the candy into each child's bag yourself.

· As an extra precaution, you may want to use disinfecting wipes to clean your doorbell or door handles if you keep it closed between visitors. This can be done periodically during the evening or at the end when Trick or Treating is over. Keep hand sanitizer near the door and use it yourself as often as you think necessary. It is a shame we need to be so careful, but it is always better to be safe than sorry and we want to do our part in keeping our homes and neighbors as healthy and safe as possible.

Organizing Checklist for September

This month marks a shift in the thinking and planning for many of us.  Summer vacations are behind us, we look forward to cooler temperatures and we plan for the upcoming holidays.  Below are some strategies to help us make in organizing clothing and closets.

Most of us have attachments to our clothing, especially those that were expensive.  I have had great success with a local consignment store and recommend them.  It is less hassle than a yard sale and you will get some return on your financial investment. 

Of course, I also recommend donating to worthy charities.  Not only will you make your space more livable, but you will be helping those who simply cannot afford purchasing clothing otherwise.  It will be a double blessing!

o       In the closet, remove all empty hangers first.  Look at each piece of clothing and make a decision to sort as follows:

o       It fits, I wear it—leave it in the closet

o       It does not fit—donate/sell pile.  It will probably be out of style when it does fit.

o       It needs repair--if it is useful, place in a repair pile.  If not repaired in one month, remove it.

o       I do not wear it or like it—donate/sell pile

o       I am not sure--place in separate pile, label and date.  If not worn in one year, donate/sell.

o       Clean the closet area, and reconfigure the rods, shelves if needed or desired.

o       Additional hanging space can be made by installing an adjustable hanging rod.

o       Replace wire hangers with more suitable ones but save a few if needed in garment bags when traveling.  Orderly Places has a tip sheet on types of closet hangers.

o       On closet shelves, clamp on dividers can be used to separate clothing or they can be placed in suitable containers.

o       Use hanging racks for the backs of doors or on rods to store bulky or specialty items.

o       As you return items, sort the clothes you will wear and keep by type-blouses, pants, dresses, skirts, etc. Sub sort these by colors as much as possible.  Place items worn together with each other.  This makes it easier to know what you have and find items easier.

o       Look at what you have and make a list of items you really need but are not there for future purchases.  Determine to buy only what is on your list.  One suggestion is to limit the number of prints and multi color designs and use mainly solids.  This allows more flexibility in creating outfits and using accessories.

o       Clothing in drawers or chests or on shelving should be organized with the same process as with closets.  Use dividers or containers to separate categories, colors, etc. in the drawers.

o       Some clothing can be rolled rather than folded to make sorting and access easier.

o       Shoes can be stored on hanging sorters or under shorter clothing in racks or shelves.  If they are stored in boxes, use clear plastic or label with pictures or descriptions.  I also recommend sturdy under the bed containers for off season shoes.

o       Evaluate the accessories you have to determine if they are still usable.  I had quite a collection of scarves back when Oprah made them popular and finally gave them up after taking my own advice.  They still have not made a comeback and if they do, they will be different, I am sure.

Additional unrelated tips:

In the next month or so, stock up on cold and flu products.  It is often difficult to find those you prefer when they are needed most.

As much as I hate it, now is the time to plan for the holidays.  Pencil in some activities, gifts, meals, etc. in your planner.  More tips will follow in the months to come.

Organizing Tips for August

Illustration from marthastewart.com

There are two areas that benefit from organizing in August: school and office.

Many states have a weekend of freedom from sales tax to help with school supplies. Many office and stationery supplies are covered, too. These stores will identify covered items for you. In Virginiathe tax holiday is the first weekend in August. What's Exempt: During this three-day period, in general purchases of qualifying school supplies selling for $20 or less per item, and purchases of qualifying clothing and footwear selling for $100 or less per item will be exempt from sales tax.

Most stores have increased their inventory of school and office supplies. You can find a better selection and better prices this month. Make a list and try to find those things you need while there are good choices. Plan ahead for consumable items like printer paper, notepads, etc. Be sure you have room to store these items. For children, check the supply list created by the specific school or teacher.

Clean out stationery and office items that are no longer useful or in disrepair. Organizing your files is a great indoor activity when the weather is too hot for outside work. Look for free shredding events in your area to dispose of confidential papers without burning up your shredder. We have personal experience in that activity!

Think ahead in purchasing children’s clothing. My oldest child grew 3” the first two months of his 9th grade year. The clothes I purchased early in August to get the best selection were too small in October. (This was before long baggie pants were acceptable.)

If you plan on having a yard sale in the fall, begin planning now. Start gathering items that you need to move on, clean and price them. Young children have probably outgrown last year’s school attire. Take an inventory to see what you can sell or donate now. As colder weather and winter approach, you may need to take another look at heavier clothing to see what can be eliminated.

Go to Craig’s list or EBay to determine a reasonable price for selling your items. In fact, you may want to put some of the items up for sale on those sites now so they won’t take up storage space in your home. If you want to join with others in a sale, pick a date now that is good for everyone. Remember, you can always donate items to a local thrift store or charity and possibly bless someone less fortunate. It is good to pay forward.

Organizing Tips for July

Elfa Over Door Media Storage

from The Container Store

      It is July and it is hot and humid as always.  I wonder if we spend as much time in air conditioning in the summer as we do the heated rooms in the winter.  Since we are enjoying our living rooms, family rooms or dens, let’s get them organized this month.  Here are some tips that might be helpful to you.

• Arrange electronic items such as televisions, CD and DVD players and video games in one area so the wires and cables can be contained together.
• Label each end of cables and wires related to the computer and other electronic equipment.  It will save much time in connecting or reconnecting
• Use wire baskets that can be mounted under shelves or cable ties to contain wires.
• Purge videos, CDs and DVDs that are no longer used.  Sell or donate them to a local charity, nursing home or hospital.  If you want to locate one again, they can be rented or borrowed from local libraries.
• Renting or borrowing movies and games is an excellent organizational choice and sets a good example for your children in managing finances and spaces.
• Store CDs and DVDs in their case vertically on shallow shelves or if space is limited, they can be removed from the case and placed in notebooks or cases with plastic sleeves.  Sort and arrange by category.
• Videos can be stored vertically on shelves or in shoe box type containers.  Do not stack flat as accessing those on the bottom is more difficult.
• Remotes and game joysticks should be contained in a basket, decorative box or container designed specifically for them.  Keep them within easy reach of the chair or sofa.
• Place a table or shelf near every seating area.  Large coffee tables can take the place of several small end tables.  Choose one with storage shelves, cabinet doors or drawers.
• Provide an area for playing with toys if you allow that activity.  A lower cabinet can be used to store those items or they can be taken back to the bedroom in a tote box or rolling crate.
• For reading areas be sure to have a comfortable chair with adequate lighting and a place to store books, magazines, newspapers, etc.
• Books should be purged from bookcases.  Keeping fiction books that you have read serves no purpose except to prove you own them.  Sell or donate them knowing you can borrow it from the library if you have time to read it again.
• Non-fiction books should be grouped by category.  Since information is always changing, using older books as reference many not provide recent findings.  Let them go and use the Internet to find the latest information.  The books are not your brain and letting them go will not cause you to forget what you have learned.  (Old age, however, may cause you to forget.  I speak from experience once again.)
• Sets of encyclopedias are dated the moment you get them.  Use the Internet or library for research.  Use their encyclopedias if you want to teach your children how to use them.
• Make friends with the library.  It is a wonderful place of knowledge and entertainment for your children and prevents book clutter from residing in your house.  Most offer excellent programs for adults and children.
• Mix books, plants, attractive storage containers or photographs on bookshelves for more interesting arrangements.
• Upper bookcase shelves and over the window shelving can be used to display collectables and photographs.
• Collections of similar items are more attractive when grouped together in displays.
• Keep an attractive container with pens, pencils, note pad and scissors in a convenient location in case they are needed.
• Card tables can be used for board games, craft activities or other projects.  When you are finished it can be folded and stored under the sofa, behind large furniture or in a nearby closet.
• If the family office is located in this room, reserve a space for a table or desk.  A drawer or attractive containers can hold desk supplies. 
• If a computer will be located in this room, consider placing a wireless system in your home to eliminate having to connect all of the components with cables.

Organizing Tips for June

Illustration from RealSimple.com

June is filled with activities and it is difficult to think about organizing.  The best approach is to work in the areas that are already requiring time.  Since it is the end of the school year and the children or grandchildren will be around, one subject to consider is their spaces and the keepsakes you have been saving for them.  Of course travel is on the mind of most of us, too.

An avalanche of school papers may be arriving for you to handle this month.  My best advice is to let the child decide which to keep.  Keepsake boxes or binders can be used for these.  Give one to each child and let it be the only place for special saved items.  If it gets too full, let the child decide what to keep and what can go.  Resist the urge to get more or bigger boxes.  Think about how many things you really need from your childhood to remember the good times.  Of course there are items they have made that you will store with your keepsakes, but be selective. 

Children now have time to go through their rooms and eliminate items they have not used or no longer want or like.  Clothing that no longer fits can be sorted for sale or donation.  Children grow quickly and by fall most of what they wore during the past year will not fit.  Thankfully not much variety in clothing is need for the summer months.  If you are storing them for younger siblings, remember to label them as to sex, size and season.

Children need limits on everything except love and affection.  They should not be allowed to collect an unlimited amount of matchbox cars, Barbie clothes, t-shirts, flip-flops or anything else.  Let the space determine how much can be easily organized in the given space and draw the line there.  You will be teaching them good organizing habits and a lesson that there are limits in life.  Should they want a new item, remind them something they already have must go.  This is the “one in—one out” rule that we all should follow.

Too many of anything means none of them are special.  This includes collections such as china, dolls, salt and pepper shakers, stamps, etc.  If space is limited and many of these items are stored in the attic or closets, consider saving only those that have special meaning and letting the remainder go to other family members or donate or sell them to anyone else who will appreciate them and has room for them.  Storing keepsakes out of site does not honor or respect the memories that go with them.  Put those that you choose to keep in a place where they can be enjoyed and given the honor and respect they deserve.

Photographs are another source of keepsake clutter.  Save only the best from each activity.  No one needs 100 pictures of the beach vacation.  A few special pictures are all that is needed to capture that special time.  There are lots of ways to sort and save them in colorful scrapbooks and online in creative formats.  I am not a scrapbooker, but I do admire the projects and products available from Creative Memories and other sources.

Make a point of enjoying the outdoors while the weather is nice.  Keep outdoor umbrellas closed when not in use.  It will extend their usefulness and prevent damage during high winds or thunderstorms.  I have personal experience with this one.

And speaking of storms, this is the beginning of hurricane season.  If you live in an area affected by hurricanes, high winds or rising waters, you should review the list of necessary emergency items and secure those now.  Be sure to update your household inventory.  More information on it can be found on a previous Blog I posted: http://organizingtipsfromorderlyplaces.blogspot.com/2009/06/pictures-for-inventory.html

If you will be traveling this summer, create a permanent travel kit with activities for yourself and family.  If it is only used for travel, the items will appear to be almost new and more interesting. 

If you travel often and if you have storage space, create a permanent supply box or bag with items you always need.  Some of these may be duplicates of items you use everyday at home but you will not need to disturb those.

A permanent travel checklist that you keep on your computer or in a convenient notebook is a great strategy to prevent forgetting items you always need.  I keep one just for quilt retreats, my favorite travel experience! 

For information on organizing your suitcase, check out this article I posted for the local newspaper:

http://hrblogs.typepad.com/homeandgarden/2011/05/organizing-your-suitcase.html

Enjoy this month of weddings, graduations, flowers and outdoor opportunities.  June is special in many ways.

Organizing Your Car

Some of us would argue we live in our cars.  And it appears the more space it has, the more stuff we carry in it.  If you transport young children, then the amount grows exponentially. 

With the recent empahsis on organizing, I have found there is a plethora of products to help us keep order within our vehicles.  The pictures above are some of those I found online but any automotive parts store or section in local box stores has them, too.  While I am all about using products designed for specific tasks, I think some everyday products we already have could be useful in containing and separating car stuff. 

One problem I have is keeping food from rolling out of the plastic or cloth grocery bags as I drive from the store.  Most are too full  or awkward to tie up and it seems every stop and go releases at least one item from those bags.  Some vehicles have hooks installed on the back of seats to hang bags, but since many do not, I am recommending using totes, boxes or bins with firm sides to hold those flimsy bags.  The totes that fold down flat when not in use are especially convenient.  One large plastic bin would keep several bags secure and can be used for sporting equipment, emergency supplies, etc.

For items you like to have handy while you are on the road, there are organizers that fit on the seats, between the seats and hang over the seats.  The style that hangs on the back of the seat in from of children seem to be popular for storing items children can access to keep them occupied and happy. I am certainly in favor of those.  I use a dishpan between the front seats in my van to hold a box of tissues, pens, paper, a toiletries bag (be prepared is my motto, too) and a water bottle.  It is waterproof and easy to move in and out.  Other specifically designed products have dividers to help keep items organized.  I recommend any of them, too. 

If attractiveness is a high priority or if your car is used for business and you want to apprear more professional, there are product lines that have matching sets of totes, boxes and bins.  These are good investments if you plan to keep and use them for longer periods of time. 

This discussion could not be complete, however, without mentioning the importance of maintenance.  Like any other space, it is important to continually monitor the amount and types of things in the car.  Clean out items you no longer need or use, eliminate trash that may collect in the containers and wipe up any spills before stains become a problem.  Even grit and dirt can accumulate causing wear and tear. 

Items that roll around in the car as you drive can be a distractions and even worse dangerous.  Containers are a great way to keep the interior and trunk of the car in order.  Find some that work for your situation and put them to use.

Organizing Tips for May

No one wants to be inside in the month of May.  Flowers have been blooming, the weather is mostly nice and we are tired of being in the house.  This is a good time to work on organizing the garage and getting the outdoors ready for summer activities.

Since the Garage is never first on our list of projects, let’s begin there.  During the winter it often becomes a temporary dumping ground for items.  If this is the spouse’s territory, be sure to work together as a team.  God forbid that you should purge or arrange items that were “special”.  I have found the most effective way to motivate a spouse is to begin purging and organizing your things.  Sometimes the guilt factor is motivating.  Sometimes.  Regardless, you never really can win a battle with a spouse.

Take advantage of systems that will allow you to organize your items off the floor.  It is much easier and faster to clean with fewer items on it.   For pennies or hundreds of dollars, you can invest in organizing solutions that will work for you.  Check out the home improvement stores for hooks, peg boards or shelving units to hold items that are now stacked on the floor. Be sure to label bins and cardboard boxes used for storage. 

Move out items you no longer need.  Only things you continually use should be kept.  Boxes of old magazines, newspapers, etc. should be recycled.  Let’s face it.  You didn’t have time to read them before and you won’t later on.  There are too many new ideas coming at us everyday and those articles are outdated.

Review the sporting equipment to see if it is still needed.  Move on any you no longer use.  For those you save, look for specialty hooks, bags and shelves to store those.  Be sure to keep children’s things at lower levels so they can access them without your help.

A great plan would be to make room for the car if you have not already done this.  Your automobile is probably the second most expensive investment you have made so take care of it.  Mark off a space for it on the floor.  Identify a wall item or hang a string or chain from the ceiling as a marker for how far you should pull forward.

If outdoor, yard or garden items are kept in the garage, garden tools and accessories, look over each one.  Remove rusted, broken or stained plant containers, stepping stones and other garden fixtures.  Create racks or hooks for the tools and locate them together in one area.  Specialty items are also available to hang rakes, shovels, etc. so they do not get tangled together or take up floor space.

Outdoor furniture may need to be cleaned before using, so check over each piece.  Toys that are outgrown or no longer needed can be moved on.  If you have water sports equipment or pool accessories, try to store those in good condition in their own area for convenience when they are needed. 

Yard art is becoming very popular but be careful you do not allow it to take over.  It can become clutter just like anything else.  There is nothing more beautiful then flowering or luscious plants, shrubs and trees, so make them your focal point.  Adding hanging baskets or a border of blooming flowers can make a significant impact.

Once your garage is cleaned, you may consider a Garage or Yard Sale.  Here are some reminders.

**Collect, clean and repair items weeks ahead as you purge spaces. 

**Check prices of similar items.  Put on price tags and store in a common area.  (Preprinted price tags can be found in some stationery stores, dollar stores, etc.)

**Choose a sale date.  Join with neighbors if possible for a common date.

**Check community rules and get permits if necessary.

**Arrange for charity pickup or make plans for items not sold.

**Write ad for newspaper, Craig’s List, newsletters, etc.

**Make signs and flyers for bulletin boards and curbs where allowed.

**Obtain sufficient tables, racks, etc. for items to be displayed.

**Get change for large bills and newspaper, bags, etc. for fragile items or large sales.

**Use extension cords for testing electrical items.

**Place pens, paper, calculator, extra price tags, tape, and stapler at check out table.

**After sale, remove signs, clean area and dispose of unsold items as planned earlier.

A few other reminders for May:

Change the a/c filter and have a routine inspection of all its components before the scorching days of summer arrive. Clean ceiling fan blades and give other fans an inspection.

Clean the carpets and floors.  They were used and abused all winter and deserve a thorough cleaning.  If piles of clutter or stacks of items are on them, consider moving the items to shelving, cabinets or tables.  Floors are easier to keep clean when only furniture is on them. 

Organizing Checklist for April

April cannot decide if it will be warm or cool. Our area has the last day of potential frost as April 15^th but that has not always proved to be true. It is also the month of spring rain as in “April showers bring May flowers”. On the cool or rainy days, take some time to organize your linens and bathroom(s).

If space is limited in linen closets, consider placing extra sheet sets in the bedroom where they are used. They can be stored in closets, inside under the bed containers or even under the mattress of that bed.

Replace heavier bedding with lighter weight items. Some quilts or comforters need only to be put through the “air” cycle on the dryer to remove dust. Store them in pillow cases or the large plastic bags now available to keep them clean. Vacuum bags can also be used but be aware they will gradually allow air to return.

Remove sheets, blankets, etc. that are torn or in disrepair. If they can be fixed, find someone to do it, otherwise, recycle them to local pet shelters or other appropriate places.

We often collect pillows and other bedding to have on hand in case guests stay overnight. Evaluate what you have that has rarely or never been used. Perhaps some of them can replace those you have removed, or they can be donated or sold to allow room for better organization of the space.

Make similar decisions about your bathroom linens. Towels and wash cloths that are in disrepair should be removed and replaced with those you have been saving for a special occasion or purchase additional items on sale. Most department stores have linen sales throughout the year and discount or outlet stores also offer good savings.

Many cotton items will dry rot if not used over a period of time. This often occurs on the folded edges so check those that have been sitting on the shelf for a longer period of time.

Clear the bathroom counters and contain any times that must remain there. Use trays, baskets, bins, etc. to make clean up easier there. Be diligent in removing old or expired products and store duplicates of items in another area.

Be sure all products in the bathroom have a label. This is especially important with medicines. You may check out taking expired medicines to your local pharmacy or ask them the best way to dispose of them. Flushing in the toilet or garbage disposal is no longer recommended because of contamination of local waters.

If the bathroom needs updating, consider using hooks rather than bars for towels. Children find them much easier to use so be sure to put those lower on the wall or door. Consider using dark or disposable towels for removing make-up

Placing a magnifying mirror on the wall saves space and is more convenient that a portable model. Using pull out shelves or wire baskets under the sink will make access much easier to items stored in the back of those cabinets.

Keeping these areas organized requires daily maintenance because of daily use. Setting up a schedule and requiring participation of all the family members can help keep them clean and neat.

If you have organizing ideas or questions, I would love to hear from you. You can contact me by email: maryfrances@orderlyplaces.com

Emotional Attachments to our Stuff

One problem we have in staying organized is what to do with our things especially when we have too many to fit in our spaces.  The lasting solution is, of course, to reduce the number of things we have to those that will reasonably fit in the spaces designated for them.  Unfortunately we (yes I am including myself) hesitate to let our things go because we have emotional attachments to them. 

Over the last 2 weeks I have been reminded of these attachments through a sermon (do you own things or do they own you), a facebook posting (letting go of a well used but worn out bookbag was emotional) and an article summarizing a study on how materialism takes a toll on marriages (Daily Press, March 11, 2012).  In my work as a professional organizer, I see clients confront many emotions including fear and sentiment as they struggle with decisions in downsizing crowded closets, drawers, garages, attics, etc. 

Fear often manifests itself as "I am afraid to let it go because I might need it and won't have it", while the facts remain that it has been around for years and never used, and should it be needed in the future the opportunity to buy or borrow it will be there. 

Sentiment may be a much stronger deterent to letting items go because of strong emotional attachments to them.  Pictures of good times together, souveniers of special events, handmade items or gifts from special people, etc. create memories we love.  The struggle remains because we fear getting rid of the items will get rid of the memories.  The reality is those memories are stored in our brains and our feelings for those relationships will never go away.  It is, after all, the relationships that are important in our lives, not the things that represent them.

Another somewhat less emotional excuse for attachment is "I paid good money for it and letting it go is like throwing that money away."  This is valid if the item is not depreciating as you own it but actually gaining in value (very difficult for anything in this economy).  You pay for gas and burn it up, food and eat it up, clothes and wear them out, etc.  You get the picture.  The items are probably not worth now what you paid for them, but they may be important to someone less fortunate.  Passing them on may actually add value to them and a blessing to those that need them.

In the article on materialism, the lead author summarizes that materialism was associated with less emotional maturity in spouses.  In my personal and professional experience, I would not only agree with him but add that being able to let go of our excess and not crave more than we need is an expression of emotional and spiritual maturity.  In the big picture, it is investing time and energy in our relationships and not in accumulating and keeping stuff that adds to our quality of life.  This is a challenge for all of us.

Organizing Tips for March

Spring arrives this month, at least on the calendar. Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 11^th.  Set your clock ahead one hour.  This month we are concentrating on the attic and clothing.

• This is the time to get indoor tasks finished so you can enjoy the outdoors as soon as the warm weather is here.  Whatever the project, do not let it drag on or remain unfinished until next winter.  Make that final to-do list and get it done.

• The Attic.  Unless you are storing items for another family member, the goal is to keep as little as possible in the attic.  It is usually inconvenient to access and too hot or cold to spend time there.  The extreme temperatures are also not good for many items to be kept there safely.  In addition, you must take care to prevent invasion by critters.

      If you are storing items for adult children or other friends or family consider          asking them to retrieve them.  Setting a deadline to have them removed or they             will be donated may spur them into action.  In my professional and personal        experience, I have found that most people don’t really want them after being       without for awhile.  You may be surprised that is the case with items you may       have stored for others.

            For safety reasons and convenience, add lighting and secure floor boards in areas of the attic you must use.  

            For items you must keep, create zones for the types of items you are storing.          For example, holiday items can be labeled and stored together. 

            Use color coded containers or labels to help identify containers quickly.

            Take care to cover wood furnishings with sheets or blankets.  Upholstered furniture should not be stored in the attic for many reasons.

            The attic is not suitable for candles, photographs, soft plastics such as in dolls,       electronic media such as tapes, and many fabrics.

            If there are many items left to store after sorting, purging and cleaning the attic      space, it is a good idea to create a map of where items are located.  This will save        much time when it is necessary to recover them.

• Clothing   As the days are longer and warmer, remove the heaviest clothing you will save to summer storage.  This may mean to the back of the closet, to another closet or storage area, or out of the house permanently.  If they will be part of a future yard sale, store them in the area set aside for that.

  Winter clothing takes up lots of room in closets and drawers because they are   heavier and have long sleeves.  If there are items you did not use or those that        children have outgrown, consider moving them out now. 

  
  

        Clothing closets are one of the most frequently requested areas to organize.            While there are great strategies to use in setting up closet systems, the biggest             problem is too many items.  Pareto’s rule applies here.  You usually wear only        20% of your clothing 80% of the time.  Being willing to let go of those items that            you don’t wear, for whatever reason, will make the task of organizing the closet    much easier.

  
  

        While consignment shops usually only take current season clothing, removed          items can be donated to a charity or sold in a yard sale.  Moving them out will       give you more space for the items that you do love and wear.

  
  

  • If you have considered the possibility of having a yard or tag sale. It is never too early to plan and prepare for one.  This month is the time to set the date and work towards that goal.  May and June are great choices as it is not too hot and people are on the move.  Consider going in with neighbors or friends to draw more customers onto your street.

  
  

  In the March 2011 checklist, I promised not to complain about the summer heat after last year’s cold temperatures and I kept that promise.  The mild weather this winter was my reward.  My fall camellias were still blooming in January while the spring varieties were just beginning to blossom.  I love it! 

Using Containers Effectively

Using containers is one of the best ways to create and maintain organized spaces.  Items on shelves, in cabinets and even in drawers should be arranged so they do not fall on other items, move around in the space or mix with other items. 

There are some guidelines to remember in choosing containers.

• Use the most attractive containers in places where they are on display or seen. Decorative boxes and baskets are options for containers that will be seen by everyone.  Those containers used in closets, cabinets or drawers need not be as attractive or expensive. 
• Keep like items together in containers.  Do not mix types of items such as pens with paper clips or earrings with bracelets.
• If there is more than one of the same type of item, containerize them together.
• Separate items from each other in a drawer or cabinet with dividers or containers.
• Group small items on a shelf in containers.  Sauce packets in a pantry and rings in a jewelry box are examples of items that could be grouped together and contained.
• Containers should fit the space and hold the designated items in an orderly fashion.  Using the same size, style, etc. creates a more attractive system.
• Measure spaces and items before purchasing any containers.
• Use square or rectangular containers whenever possible as they are more space efficient than round or oval ones.
• Clear plastic containers are the most versatile and functional because you are able to see the contents clearly.  Label containers that are opaque.
• It is preferable to used stacked drawers units rather than stacking more than 3 containers together.  It is too difficult to get to the items in the lowest container.
• Use trays or shallow boxes to contain items on dressers, vanities, counters, etc.  It makes cleaning those surfaces quicker.
• Consider recycling boxes and other containers in the home for a new use rather than purchasing new containers the same size.

In today’s organizing happy world, there are containers available in every size, shape, color, material and price.  There are even stores and outlets opened specifically for selling containers and organizing supplies.  With so many choices, there should be something for everyone.  Make using containers a habit and your organizing and cleaning tasks will be much easier.

Organizing Checklist for February

January was a busy month. If you have packed away the holiday items and worked on your files, inventory and budget you can take some time this month to enjoy your entertainment and hobby spaces.

• Sort through videos and CDs and remove those no longer used. Let’s face it, if you haven’t run them in the last couple of years, you probably will not. Our tastes in music and movies change over the years. Sell or pass them on to someone who wants them.
• Clear the bookshelves of fiction you have already read and reference books. It is unlikely you will reread fiction and reference books become outdated quickly. Use the Internet to keep up to date on those topics. You can sell or donate those items and make room for more good reading on cold winter nights.
• Review your cookbook collection and recipes you have collected. Consider online sites for new recipe ideas. I promise you can find any type of recipe you want with Google. Save only those with recipes you continually use or those with sentimental value.
• Review the holiday magazines you purchased last fall, clip out items you want to save and recycle the rest. Consider donating them to local doctor’s offices, beauty shops, etc. I promise they need them. I personally am tired or reading Golf magazines when I am in waiting rooms.
• Purge those catalogues, too. They are simply printed commercials and you know how much you hate those interruptions. Why waste time on the printed version? If you must, save the back page with the promotion codes, etc. If you need to make a purchase, you can go online, find the item and use the current discount.
• Make the most of indoor time by finishing up indoor decorating projects and/or enjoying time on indoor hobbies. Sort through your supplies and remove those no longer useful.
• Begin planning for early spring activities. Buy seeds now and consider planting them indoors for early blooms and crops. If that is not convenient at least you will have better seed choices now.
• Make preliminary plans for spring or summer vacations. Early reservations are usually less expensive. Insure all travel tickets.

The days are getting longer now and with daylight savings time coming early in March, we will soon be spending more time outside. I look forward to spring flowers and green leaves on my trees