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Jul 20
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5 Decluttering Projects to Tidy Your Spaces

By Blog, Home Organizing, Quick Organizing Tips No Comments

Quick decluttering projects are perfect solutions to create a fresh, organized vibe in your living and entertainment spaces for the summer!

 

In preparation for the busy season, start taking advantage of the longer daylight hours now. Tackle those forgotten-about corners to create some space for sunlight in your home today!

 

The good news is, you don’t need to set aside an entire weekend or trade hours of family fun for a more organized home. Today we’re giving you 5 simple 30-minute organizing projects that will transform key areas of your living space and teach you how to declutter your home.

 

Let’s get to it so you can enjoy your newfound sense of calm today!

 

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Decluttering Projects to Tidy Your Spaces

1 – Tidy the Desk Space

Your desk is the hub of productivity, a very important space! But it can also quickly accumulate a chaos of papers, office supplies, sticky notes, cluttered decor, and other miscellaneous items. Here’s how to declutter your home quickly in this area: spend just 30 minutes decluttering those unnecessary things and rearranging the surface of your desk. It’s that easy!

Work to create a space that offers you focus and creativity. Clearing your physical space helps in clearing your mental space, so try to store away as much as you can in drawers, cabinets, binders, and file folders. Be ruthless when decluttering papers – digitize what you can, file away what you need, and recycle what you don’t. You’ll be amazed at how much more efficient and inspired you feel once everything has a designated place!

2 – Clear the Kitchen Counters

Kitchen counters tend to attract clutter like magnets. They often become the dumping ground for keys, sunglasses, junk mail, dusty appliances, to-do lists, kids’ toys, and other odds and ends. Spend half an hour today to declutter everything on your kitchen counters. Reevaluate the items you regularly keep on your counters too. Ask yourself questions like, when was the last time I used this French coffee press? Do I use my bulky KitchenAid mixer often enough to permanently store it on the counter? Reclaim your meal-prepping space to one of beauty and order.

If you find yourself regularly dropping mail on one end of the counter, put a small basket there instead. Now that you know how to declutter your home, you’ll have a space to catch those odds and ends so they don’t take over your entire counter!

3 – Calm the Bedside Table Nightstand

Your bedside table should be a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, not a cluttered mess. If you don’t already have one, think about a bedtime routine you’d like to implement. What does it involve? Maybe you like to use a lavender spray on your pillow, journal or read a book, listen to relaxing music, and sleep with an eye mask, for example. Now that we know the contents you’ll be keeping close by, we can begin to organize the bedside table. Take just 30 minutes to declutter anything you don’t need, then organize what you do.

In our example that may look like a bottle of lavender spray, a pen and journal, reading glasses, your current reading material, earbuds, and a sleeping mask. Spend some time thinking about the necessities you want to have now so you can unwind before sleep and wake up to a calm and clutter-free morning, every day!

4 – Pare Down in the Linen Closet

Combat the embarrassment of not being able to find a matching sheet set for your guests (or even for your own bed)! Today, dedicate 30 minutes to decluttering and organizing your linen closet. Chuck out any linens with stains, rips, or worn-out spots. If you have pieces that don’t match, donate them. Ensure that everything you choose to keep is neatly folded and easy to access.

Once you’re comfortable with how to declutter your home here, an extra level of organization here could be sorting the linens one step further. This can be done by size (King, Queen, Double, Twin, etc.) and type (sheet sets with pillowcases, duvet covers, bath towels, etc.). Then label the shelves according to which bedroom they belong in or by bed size. Resetting your home every week when laundry is done will soon be a breeze!

5 – Lighten the Freezer Load

How many hot summer afternoons have you gone to defrost something for dinner, only to discover the items left in your freezer are unidentifiable? Save yourself last-minute grocery store trips and wasted money by decluttering your freezer in advance!

Invest just half an hour in organizing your freezer space(s) today. Sort through everything, discarding expired foods and setting aside or tossing unidentifiable ones. Then think about how a retrieval system might look for you. Make sure that it would allow you to easily locate and pull out your frozen items. Use bins to contain items and label them in categories like fruits, vegetables, chicken, beef, seafood, bread, and frozen treats.

Goodbye scrambled dinner plans, hello meal prep haven!

By learning how to declutter your home with these 5 quick decluttering projects, you can make significant changes to the way your home functions for you! Even decluttering just 3 of these spaces will lead you to a more harmonious living space.

 

Just in time for summer!

 

Grab your timer, put on some motivating tunes, and get started on bringing order and tranquility back into your home. One 30-minute project at a time!

 

Which space will you tackle first? Comment below!

 

 

 

 

 

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Jul 12
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Get Organized at Home Without Plastic!

By Blog, Home Office Organization, Home Organizing 4 Comments

 

“Is it possible to get organized without plastic?”

 

It’s not just possible, but actually easy to get organized at home without plastic!

 

Today it’s easier than ever to find sustainable, eco-friendly organizing products. With more and more people seeking alternative materials, you’re pretty much guaranteed to find something that fits your style!

 

Why is plastic bad for the environment?

 

I’m going to be honest… being able to see through clear, plastic containers can make it easier to find items. We still install plastic products at a client’s request because they do function well and last for many years.

 

However, there are a lot of newer products on the market that weren’t available just a few years back! We are definitely hearing more and more from clients that they would prefer having a plastic-free home. So we are using a lot of natural wood products that are just as functional and last for many years, too. These are perfect for giving your home or office a touch of natural elements with the warm and welcoming feel many are looking for!

 

A couple of things to keep in mind are that solid wood can be heavy and lighter, softer woods tend to dent easier. So we like to use a mix of natural products to suit our client’s needs and preferences.

 

To combat the over-consumption of plastic, I’ve spent a lot of time sourcing eco-friendly products for on-site clients. I always do my best to find equally functional, stylish, and sustainable options!

 

Below, I’m sharing some of my favorite storage solutions so you can get organized without plastic. Let’s get right into it!

 

 

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Get Organized at Home Without Plastic

 

Remember, the most sustainable option is to shop your home first!

 

Make sure you actually need more containers before grabbing any of the ones listed below. Organize with what you have for now, then measure your space and purchase anything you still need. Then you can get organized without plastic using all these pretty, sustainable products to fill in the gaps!

 

 

1. YAMAZAKI Home Storage Basket with Dual Handle

Use this simple yet stylish basket to organize almost anything! Yamazaki’s triple powder-coated steel is matte and water-repellant. The bamboo handles warmly complement any room and allow for easy carrying. Use it to store pantry snacks, bedside slippers, or even larger office supplies. Cleans easily with light soap and a damp cloth, making this basket a great option to get organized without plastic.

 

2. Cotton Rope Basket with Handle

This woven rope storage basket is made entirely of cotton. This ensures it is soft with no sharp edges – a great choice for kids and babies! This bin is perfect for all things baby; toys, diapers, clothes, wipes, bibs, soiled laundry, changing pads, burp cloths, and more. These baskets are made of good material, so you can throw them in the washing machine!

 

3. Bamboo Adjustable Drawer Dividers

This is my favorite kitchen product for getting organized without any plastic. You can use these bamboo dividers to create sections in the drawers of your kitchen, bathroom, dresser, and even office. Spring tension holds each drawer divider into place. Easily adjust or remove them to change up the space. Both ends have protective pads so they won’t scratch the insides of your drawers either.

 

4. 2-Tier Cabinet Organizer

These smooth-running drawers work well in any irregularly shaped under-the-sink space. No need to worry about scratching or marking any part of them as they are metal and items also won’t fall through the small mesh. Use these sliding baskets in any place you want to store bulkier things like in kitchens, offices, bathrooms, garages, etc.

 

5. Wood Cutlery Drawer Insert

Organize your kitchen drawers with my secret weapon for creating an IG-worthy kitchen… the wooden cutlery organizer! This clutter solution requires a simple drop-in installation and may be trimmed to fit various drawer sizes. It’s made with one of three classic hardwoods and has a UV-cured, clear finish. I recommend this over those extendable bamboo ones. They tend to dry out and crack with time. So to get organized without plastic, solid wood is a great option.

 

6. Anchor Hocking Montana Jars

The large mouth openings on these Acacia-lidded jars allow for easy scooping, making them an ideal place to store bulk ingredients! I love these jars’ tight fit around the lid for air-tight storage and less food waste. They are also dishwasher safe. The chic design makes it hard to keep these jars away in a pantry – I often use them for display on counters, too!

 

7. Betrome 48pc Square Glass Spice Jars

Uniform spice jars always upgrade the look of a kitchen. These lead-free, square glass jars are easy to grip. They also come with silver metal lids and customizable waterproof labels. The metal caps help your herbs stay fresher for longer!

 

8. Kitchen Wire Baskets

If you like to see the contents of your bins, these steel wire baskets are the right selection for you! They have a durable rust-resistant finish and built-in side handles. This makes it convenient to pull the basket down from a shelf, out of cabinets, or wherever you choose to store it. To clean them, simply just wipe them with a damp cloth.

 

9. IKEA KVISSLE Letter In-Tray

This steel letter tray uses the power of vertical storage to save space on your desk. The pull-out compartments give easy access to papers and have a non-slip cork lining to keep everything stationary as they’re being pulled out. I personally love the clean look of white metal and cork. This can fit just as well in the office as it can at home when you are trying to get organized without plastic.

 

10. Linen File Box

These versatile, stylish file boxes fit both letter and legal-size files. I use these file boxes frequently when working on-site with clients to organize their home offices. They’re a great alternative to plastic and chunky metal filing cabinets. I love the built-in handles that make it easy to carry and one other big bonus – it even collapses down for easier storage when not in use!

 

11. Desktop Storage Baskets, Set of 2

Next up we have these high-quality, delicately handmade wooden storage baskets. Made of eco-friendly, sturdy wooden chips, these gorgeous baskets are featherlight and easy to carry. These are more delicate than some of the other options above, so I recommend using them for gentler items like books, toys, or pantry items. They also work great for adding a touch of natural elements to your home’s decor!

 

12. Graf Lantz Modern Desk Pad Felt

Use this soft wool felt desk pad to get organized without plastic and protect the surface of your desk. Merino sheep are prized for their wool’s strength, flexibility, and moisture-wicking capability! These pads are very low maintenance. Hand wash or dry clean them, and flat iron if necessary. This product is built to last!

 

 

These are just a few great alternatives to get organized without plastic in your home! By opting for non-plastic organizing products, we can collectively make a huge impact on our planet.

 

Getting organized at home without plastic is incredibly important for the health of our planet. So, let’s make a conscious choice together to embrace stylish and sustainable options, and create a greener future for the next generation!

 

Which room in your home will you start swapping for sustainable products in? Comment below!

 

 

 

 

 

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Ultimate Guide: My Kitchen Organizing Process

 

 

 

 

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Jul 07
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Organizing The Perfect Summer Picnic

By Blog, Checklists, Inspiration No Comments

Organizing the perfect summer picnic is a wonderful way to combine spending quality time with loved ones and enjoying the great outdoors!

 

Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or a fun family weekend, arranging a picnic is sure to create beautiful memories. In this article, I’ll be covering everything you need to know about organizing the perfect summer picnic; from choosing the ideal location, packing essential supplies, and planning for any type of unexpected event.

 

And remember to set a great example for your children and others. A successful picnic not only involves enjoying the moment but also taking responsibility for cleaning up afterward!

 

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Organizing The Perfect Summer Picnic

 

Planning the Location

 

Scout and Pick The Perfect Spot:

Finding the perfect picnic spot is important for setting the right vibe! As well as making sure that your just-in-case weather preparations will work as desired if you need to use them.

 

Consider a location with picturesque views if you’d like to take photos, such as a grassy park, beach, or scenic lookout point. Take some time to scout the area in advance and choose a spot that offers enough space for everyone to relax comfortably. In some large, busy cities it can even be required to book your spot and required parking in advance, so make sure to check your favorite park’s requirements well before planning anything else! If kids are coming along, make sure there will be an area for them to play after the meal as well!

 

Check Out Parking Options:

Before the big day, research parking options near your chosen picnic spot. Ensuring convenient parking will save you from any unnecessary hassle or stress on the day of the event and allow you to set up your picnic with ample time. If you’re inviting guests who will be meeting you there, forward any necessary parking information to them as well.

 

Pinpoint the Nearest Public Bathroom:

It’s always wise to be prepared, especially if you’ll be bringing little ones along. Since nobody likes a last-minute scramble while hopping from foot to foot, make sure you have at least one option in mind before the big day. Research where the nearest public bathrooms are so you can provide directions for guests during your picnic.

 

Consider the Area’s Popularity:

This step is important if you want to avoid the disappointment of arriving and finding out your perfect spot has been filled by others! Find out how busy the area typically is on the day you’re planning your picnic. Google Maps can be a good reference if you are going to be at a public park as they have stats of when the busiest days and times are. Either way, plan to arrive early so you can secure your desired spot and not have to set up in a rush.

 

Supplies

 

Seating and Preparation:

Ensure you have comfortable seating by bringing along an outdoor blanket with a waterproof bottom. Some picnickers like to use a mini folding table or tray for a bit more table height and convenience. Additionally, you may want to bring wide, firm pillows for those who prefer sitting above the ground or even picnic chairs if needed.

 

Another way to spruce up the ambiance is to bring a portable speaker and make a curated picnic playlist in advance!

 

Picnic Basket Necessities:

Pack a well-equipped picnic basket or tote bag to store all your picnic necessities. To keep your food in its best condition until the event starts, bring ice packs and even a few extra in case you will need to keep some leftovers cool on the way back.

 

Think about including a camera to capture special moments, sunscreen to protect your skin, bug repellent or a citronella candle to ward off unwanted bug guests, and table decorations to create the imagined atmosphere. To make sure the fun doesn’t stop after eating, don’t forget to bring some cards, a board game, or a light outdoor activity to enjoy after the meal!

 

Serving it Up:

Gather all the necessary serving supplies well in advance. There’s nothing worse than arriving late because you were looking for something last-minute!

 

This includes plates, utensils for eating and serving, napkins, cups, and plenty of water. Bring a bottle opener if you plan on enjoying some beverages that will require one. Pack a cutting board and a sharp knife for any on-site food preparations. Additionally, bring salt, pepper, and any other desired condiments. This is a great time to use those extra condiment packets from takeout places I know we’ve all been “saving!” 😉

 

Cleaning Essentials:

Prepare for easy cleanup by bringing paper towels, wet wipes, some dishtowels (also good for packing plates and breakable items during transit), and extra food containers. Ziploc bags are also handy for packing up dirty utensils or storing leftovers. Pack a few trash and recycling bags to ensure you’re walking away from a clean space afterward. Consider bringing reusable bags to collect and transport your picnic supplies if you plan to bring a lot of items for setup.

 

More Tips

 

Keep it Fresh:

To keep your salads and sandwiches fresh, pack any wet dressings or condiments separately in small jars. Add them to your food once you’ve arrived at the planned picnic spot. This prevents the ingredients from getting soggy during transport!

 

Weather Preparedness:

Always be prepared for unexpected weather conditions when picnicking. Bring blanket weights or other wind deterrents to secure your blanket. If the sun is scorching or there is a possibility of rain, pick a spot with shade from trees, bring a gazebo that’s quick to set up and take down, a pop-up tent, or some large umbrellas.

 

Food Considerations:

Plan your picnic menu in advance, considering any allergies, dietary preferences (vegetarian/vegan), or a specific theme. Think about the ingredients, required preparation time, sealed containers to protect from bugs, and ice coolers for perishable items. If you’re having a potluck-style picnic, use Google Keep’s note feature to share with your guests so everyone is on the same page with what to bring! Pack a variety of drinks for guests to quench their thirst!

 

 

 

A successful picnic involves not only having a fun day with loved ones but also taking responsibility for leaving the environment as you found it (or even better!). Once you’ve finished your meal, be sure to clean up after yourselves. Dispose of trash properly and ensure recyclable items are separated as needed.

 

By practicing good picnic etiquette, you contribute to preserving the beauty of nature and ensure that future picnickers can enjoy the same great experience! So, gather your loved ones, follow this guide, and embark on an unforgettable picnic adventure!

 

Do you have a favorite picnicking spot? Comment below!

 

 

 

 

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Essentials for Your Summer First Aid Kit

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