Today there are many innovative ways to maintain an organized home. I love thinking of new ways to repurpose or recreate a space in order to make life easier and more enjoyable. Here are a few of my favorites for spring:
Organized Pantry Perfection
To create a perfectly organized pantry, use these simple ideas. Begin by removing all items and set on a clean counter space, keeping similar items together.
Picture by www.foxhomecenter.com
Cans and spices: Place cans and spices in racks to keep them visible and accessible.
- Quick-prep food: Store together in bins based on use (example: Idaho instant mashed potatoes and mac and cheese could go together in one bin, while baking goods would go together in a separate bin). Using bins with labels not only looks very orderly, but they also save time. You will only need to move one or two bins in order to get to an item rather than sorting through varying loose boxes and bags.
- Pasta: Keep in its original packaging and place (opened and unopened) in large containers with lids. A lid keeps the pasta fresh and prevents a mess if the container falls over.
- Grains: Once opened, give each type of grain its own airtight container. Be sure to clip off preparation instructions and grain descriptions from original packing and store with the products.
- Other pantry storage tips: Shelf dividers and labels are great for keeping pantry food items separated and organized. Use square or rectangle-shaped containers that stack whenever possible. They take up less space than round containers.
Utility Utopia
When organized and functional, the utility closet is a great space.
- Magnetic paint: Coat the entire utility closet with a layer of magnetic paint. This way you can hang items using a magnetic hook.
- Utility racks: Racks that range in size and style are useful for hanging mops and brooms, and storing cleaning supplies.
Kids Corner
When setting up or organizing your child’s room, remember to use furniture and décor that is kid-sized. This will enable them to utilize the room in a much easier and safer way.
Picture by www.HGTV.com
Bunk beds: Save space and provide extra sleeping quarters for friends.
- Storage: Under-the-bed storage is perfect for anything ranging from toys to shoes. Label with pictures if children are too young to read.
- Bookshelf: Make a nice place to display your child’s treasures and crafts by setting up a unit that is a neutral color and contains several shelves.
Garden Bliss
As spring arrives, we all want to start gardening again. In order to keep a sunny disposition you may want:
Picture by www.organizeit.com
Garden tool caddy: Invest in a garden tool caddy like the one shown. The wheeled storage keeps your tools in one location while you move about your yard with ease.
- Personalized garden maps and labels: Map out your vegetables and create labels with the Better Homes and Garden website for a crafty approach to your produce production. An example of a virtual map you can create on the website is shown here:
Outdoors Overhaul
The winter season brings leaves that clog your gutters and dirt that clings to your home’s every nook and crevice. Spring is a great time to give the exterior of your home some pampering.
- Power sprayer and sealant: If you do not already have a power sprayer, you can rent one from your local hardware store. Use the power sprayer to clean off your sidewalks, driveways, paneling on side of the house, decks, fences, and much more. Once you have given your home’s exterior a good cleaning, go over concrete and wood surfaces with waterproof sealant to protect them from the elements.
- Gutters: Debris from the winter and spring seasons tend to collect in gutters. As you clear your gutters, use a chisel to scrape old caulking away. Immediately apply beaded silicon in place of the old caulking. This will ensure that water will not get in-between your gutter and the siding of your home, preventing rot and mold in the future.
I hope these ideas and tips will provide a boost to your home organizing projects. Be sure to check out how you can personalize your projects by looking at the different options of label and storage designs. Good luck and happy organizing!
Warmly,
LauraLeist, CPO
Organizing with Laura