Freshen Up Your Home in 2025 with These Easy Organizational Tips

The new year often brings resolutions, and organizing the home is a common goal. This article, featuring insights from local designer Kourtney Harper of Closets by Design, offers practical tips for achieving a well-organized living space in 2023. The guidance spans various areas of the home, starting with the kitchen and pantry, which often accumulate clutter from holiday baking. Harper recommends first emptying all cabinets, drawers, and the pantry to facilitate thorough cleaning and the removal of unused or expired items. To optimize organization, she suggests investing in specific tools like clear plastic bins for the refrigerator and freezer, shelf dividers for cooking utensils, and spinning spice racks. Closets by Design also provides custom pantry solutions, including rolling shelves for cans and pull-out trays for baking sheets. Moving beyond the kitchen, the article addresses the challenge of storing holiday decorations. Harper emphasizes the importance of using dedicated storage containers for specific items such as wrapping paper, ornaments, lights, and garlands to maintain separation and order. Custom-designed garage cabinets from Closets by Design are also presented as a versatile storage option, featuring adjustable shelving for easy access to various items. A key principle for effective home organization, according to Harper, is the decluttering of unused items. She highlights the common tendency to hold onto possessions with the expectation of future use, even if they haven't been touched in six months or more. Her advice is to adopt a systematic approach by decluttering one room at a time and asking whether each item will be used in the near future. If the answer is no, the item should be donated or discarded. For families, tackling children's toys is another significant organizational hurdle. The article suggests several strategies to manage the accumulation of toys, books, and games. Low-access shelving units are recommended to keep toys within children's reach while also enabling them to put things away. Clear storage bins are advised, as they allow children to easily locate items without needing to empty the entire container, thus minimizing mess. For a more discreet storage solution, custom-built cabinets are offered as an effective way to conceal large quantities of toys. Closets by Design provides and installs both low-access shelving units and custom cabinets. Finally, the article focuses on closet organization, a common area of disarray. The solution proposed is a custom closet designed to meet individual needs. Closets by Design offers in-home consultations to create bespoke closet systems that can include specialized areas for pants or long dresses, adjustable shelving for shoes, and custom jewelry drawers for accessories like watches, bracelets, or sunglasses. By implementing these tips, the goal is to transform 2023 into a year of successful home organization, leading to more functional and stress-free living spaces. #HomeOrganization #DesignTips #ClosetDesign #KitchenOrganization #Decluttering #StorageSolutions #HolidayDecorStorage #KidsToyStorage

This article explores interior design trends and timeless advice from four Columbia alumni designers: Gideon Mendelson, Dorothy Day Huntsman, Nasozi Kakembo, and Shelley Cekirge. Each designer offers unique perspectives on creating inviting and functional living spaces. Gideon Mendelson, founder of Mendelson Group, advocates for a timeless and eclectic modernism. His approach involves preserving historic architectural details while integrating furnishings from the 1930s through the 1960s. Mendelson favors decorative finishes or wallpaper for wall treatments, emphasizing their ability to add texture, pattern, and depth. When mixing patterns, he suggests layering designs of varying scales to avoid competition. He also advises using a color wheel to find complementary or analogous combinations, often drawing inspiration from paintings or the colors people naturally gravitate towards in their clothing, noting that pale blues and greens offer a calming, nature-inspired palette. Mendelson highlights the importance of personal comfort in color selection. Dorothy Day Huntsman, founder of Dayhouse Studio, specializes in biophilic design, which integrates natural elements into homes to enhance well-being. She explains that this approach is rooted in the belief that natural surroundings benefit human health, citing studies that show stress reduction and improved cognitive function in nature-centric spaces. Huntsman's biophilic designs incorporate natural materials such as wood, stone, and organic fabrics, embracing imperfections and weathered textures for a lived-in feel. She uses decor like gemstones, sheepskin throws, and brass or copper for organic warmth and recommends soft, ambient lighting, fountains, and aquariums. Ideally, windows should offer views of gardens or landscapes, but houseplants can bring nature indoors for city dwellers. Huntsman cautions against overcrowding rooms, using harsh lighting, prioritizing style over comfort, and opting for "fast furniture" made from cheap synthetic materials. She advocates for investing in high-quality natural furnishings or gently used items, promoting healthier and more sustainable living spaces. Nasozi Kakembo, founder of xN Studio, focuses on decorative items from African artisans, with her design philosophy centered on ethical sourcing and objects with meaningful stories. Her first book, "The African Decor Edit," highlights African decor essentials such as organic materials, neutral colors, geometric designs, and traditional objects like art, stools, and baskets. She notes the versatility of woven baskets for storage, planters, and hampers. Kakembo advises taking time with design decisions, allowing spaces to evolve with lifestyle changes. She personally dislikes rainbow-organized bookshelves, preferring organization by topic or genre. She emphasizes the importance of selecting items that are ethically sourced and directly benefit the communities where they originate. Shelley Cekirge, founder of Shelley Cekirge Interiors, applies her theater design background to interiors. She typically starts with a neutral palette for walls and furniture, then adds vibrant accents through artwork, throw blankets, pillows, vases, coasters, and coffee-table books. For kitchens, Cekirge observes trends toward pendant lights, unique hardware, and countertops that seamlessly connect to matching backsplashes, valuing durability and practicality. Engineered quartz and porcelain are popular alternatives to marble for high-traffic areas, though she acknowledges the unique beauty of natural stone. Common mistakes she identifies include using oversized furniture that hinders movement and attempting to save money by reupholstering old furnishings when buying new might be more cost-effective. Cekirge also advises balancing whimsical designs with organic elements and neutral tones to avoid an overly flashy aesthetic. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #BiophilicDesign #EthicalSourcing #ColorPalette #FurnitureSelection #SustainableDesign #DesignTrends2025

This blog post explores a comprehensive collection of 34 simple yet effective organizers designed to help individuals declutter and maximize space within their homes. The article emphasizes easy solutions for various areas, from kitchens and closets to bathrooms and entryways, highlighting how these products can transform a messy space into an organized and functional one. The featured items begin with kitchen organization, presenting glass storage canisters for pantry staples, an under-cabinet wineglass rack for stemware, and a compact silverware sorter to free up drawer space. It also includes a double-sided tea organizer to eliminate bulky tea boxes, a slim storage cart on wheels for narrow gaps, stackable under-cabinet drawers for cleaning supplies or pantry items, and a bakeware rack for neatly storing baking sheets, cupcake pans, and pot lids. A customizable spice organizer for drawers is also highlighted, along with woven baskets for various storage needs and a storage lid organizer to manage container lids efficiently. For bedroom and closet organization, the article recommends a cap organizer that wraps around hangers, a boho-style hat hanger that doubles as decor, and a sock and underwear organizer to compartmentalize dresser drawers. Innovative solutions like collapsible hangers are introduced for maximizing closet space by holding multiple pairs of pants in a compact manner. Under-bed storage containers are suggested for out-of-season clothing and shoes, along with foldable closet organizers for seasonal items or extra linens. Bathroom organization solutions include a slender storage cabinet for toiletries and toilet paper in tight spaces and a shower curtain liner with built-in mesh pockets to store bath products. For general home organization, the post features wooden hooks for hanging coats, bags, and scarves, as well as a cable organizer box to conceal messy wires and extension cords. A vertical shoe rack is presented as an ideal solution for small entryways, and a pantry door organizer offers adjustable shelving for maximum storage of food or bathroom products. The article also touches upon a hanger stacker, a practical tool for keeping hangers tidy and preventing tangles in the closet. Additionally, a towel holder is recommended to achieve a hotel-like aesthetic and keep towels easily accessible. Each product description includes its key features, user benefits, and notable customer reviews, offering practical insights into how these organizers can improve home functionality and aesthetic appeal. The overall aim is to provide readers with a variety of affordable and simple organizing tools to reinvent their living spaces. #HomeOrganization #SpaceSaving #StorageSolutions #KitchenOrganization #ClosetOrganization #BathroomOrganization #HomeDecor #Decluttering #SmartLiving

The start of a new year often brings a desire to refresh and reorder one's living space, with an emphasis on creating a calmer, more intentional, and easily manageable home environment. Experts in organizing and storage anticipate five key trends that will shape home organization in 2026, offering practical strategies to integrate these concepts into daily life. One significant trend is smart multifunctional storage, particularly beneficial for those living in smaller spaces. Furniture pieces with hidden or dual-purpose storage, such as ottomans, benches, and side tables, are gaining popularity for their ability to keep items accessible while minimizing visual clutter. When selecting such pieces, prioritizing neutral or timeless designs ensures adaptability as home aesthetics evolve. The second trend focuses on eco-friendly storage materials, aligning with the ongoing popularity of biophilic design. This shift sees a preference for sustainable options like bamboo, recycled timber, glass, and fabric alternatives to plastic. There's also a growing movement towards repurposing existing furniture, encouraging individuals to re-evaluate their current possessions for new storage solutions rather than making new purchases. Hemitage and vintage-style storage constitutes the third trend, reflecting a renewed appreciation for nostalgic designs, richness, depth, and character. This includes heirloom pieces, heritage wardrobes, and classic dresser cabinets that celebrate craft and personality. These items can serve as both functional storage and chic centerpieces in various rooms, with sources like charity shops, secondhand stores, and online marketplaces offering opportunities to acquire and revive such furniture. The fourth trend addresses digital organization, a rising concern as digital clutter becomes as overwhelming as physical mess. This involves creating manageable systems for overflowing inboxes, consolidating cloud storage, and curating photo albums. The approach emphasizes tackling digital areas of frustration one at a time, implementing clear naming conventions, and well-organized folders to streamline file management. Finally, the daily reset routine emerges as a crucial trend for maintaining long-term organization. This involves dedicating a short period, typically five to ten minutes each day, to tidy up spaces and prevent clutter from accumulating. This routine, often set as a daily reminder, is more sustainable than infrequent, large-scale tidying efforts. When shared among household members, it becomes a collective effort to keep the home organized. These trends collectively offer diverse approaches to achieving a more organized and harmonious living space in the coming year. #OrganizingTrends #HomeOrganization #MultifunctionalStorage #EcoFriendlyStorage #VintageStorage #DigitalDeclutter #DailyResetRoutine #InteriorDesign #SustainableLiving

The article presents 25 stylish storage ideas to help organize every room in a home, transforming cluttered spaces into sleek, streamlined environments. It emphasizes that good storage is essential for a well-put-together home, regardless of interior design or character features, and highlights the importance of effective storage in maintaining order, even with regular decluttering. The tips aim to instantly elevate any room and were gathered from professional home organizers and interior designers. The first suggestion involves utilizing shelves, noting their versatility for both practical organization and aesthetic display. Shelves can hold anything from kitchenware to decorative items and books, adding personality and intrigue to a space when thoughtfully arranged. Next, the article recommends incorporating niches and storage nooks, especially in small bathrooms or bedrooms, for practical purposes like holding a glass of water or a book, even if they are not deep. Blending storage into the background by painting units the same color as the walls is advised for a streamlined look that conceals clutter and can make a room appear larger. For tight spaces, sliding doors are recommended over traditional hinged doors to save room and hide household items effectively. The article also suggests utilizing awkward spaces, such as nooks and gaps, by adding shelves, wall hooks, or form-fitting cabinets, turning them into bespoke storage solutions. Another strategy is to maximize vertical space with floor-to-ceiling storage units, which are ideal for displaying items or storing bulky seasonal belongings. Custom joinery can further tailor these units to specific needs, with the addition of library ladders enhancing both style and accessibility. Decanting goods into uniform containers, such as glass jars for pantry items or craft supplies, transforms functional storage into beautiful decor pieces that also help preserve items. Combining open and closed storage is encouraged, particularly in high-traffic areas like mudrooms or entryways, to balance display and concealment. Labels are highlighted as a crucial element for advanced organization, making it easier to categorize and locate items. The article promotes multi-functional furniture, like storage benches and ottomans, to provide discreet storage in various rooms. Pull-out drawers are suggested for maximizing storage efficiency, especially in kitchens and closets, by eliminating hard-to-reach corners. Choosing aesthetically pleasing baskets is presented as a way to hide clutter while adding a luxurious touch to a home. Drawer dividers are recommended to keep drawers organized and prevent them from becoming chaotic catch-alls. Utilizing the backs of doors with over-the-door organizers is another vertical storage solution for items that need to be accessible but out of sight. The article also suggests making storage a display piece by showcasing attractive items like cutting boards or cookware. Suspending pots and pans from racks keeps them accessible and protects them from damage while serving as a design feature. Under-bed storage solutions, such as drawers or bags, are ideal for smaller homes to store lesser-used items. For tools, using wall-mounted racks or pegboards in sheds or garages helps keep them organized and accessible. Hiding storage with curtains offers a whimsical alternative to traditional cabinetry, allowing for easy style changes and concealing appliances like washers and dryers. Bar carts and rolling carts are presented as stylish mobile storage options. Incorporating architectural details like arches and curves into storage designs can make organizing more motivating and visually appealing. Organizing by color, especially in closets, helps create visually inspiring storage and aids in managing wardrobe inventory. Separating seasonal storage, such as holiday decor or out-of-season clothing, into dedicated containers frees up space and keeps items fresh. Lastly, using uniform storage solutions and organizers, including matching hangers, label fonts, and soap dispensers, can contribute to a cohesive and luxurious aesthetic. The article concludes by emphasizing decluttering, reorganizing, and categorizing belongings as primary steps to maximize storage space, recommending hidden or built-in solutions for smaller homes and highlighting the versatility of storage baskets. #HomeOrganization #StorageIdeas #InteriorDesign #DeclutteringTips #HomeDecor #SpaceSaving #FunctionalFurniture #KitchenStorage #BedroomStorage

This article provides 35 expert-approved home organizing ideas designed to enhance daily life by reducing clutter and improving efficiency. Effective home organization goes beyond aesthetics, offering mental and physical health benefits such as stress reduction, increased confidence, and simplified cleaning routines. The first step involves creating a detailed plan, prioritizing areas to tackle to avoid feeling overwhelmed. This systematic approach ensures that efforts are focused and manageable, leading to a satisfying sense of accomplishment as tasks are completed. Before organizing, decluttering is essential to avoid arranging items that will ultimately be discarded. This pre-organization purge helps save money on unnecessary storage solutions and ensures that only valuable items are retained. The article recommends focusing on one room or area at a time to make the process less daunting. While some people benefit from the “chaos method” of pulling everything out, it is crucial to recognize individual preferences to prevent discouragement. Grouping similar items together, such as coffee mugs with a coffee maker, is a fundamental principle for creating efficient and intuitive storage systems. This not only prevents misplacement but also helps avoid costly duplicate purchases. Sustainable organizing systems are highlighted as a key characteristic of well-organized homes. These systems involve designating specific homes for all belongings, like a spot for keys near the door or a common location for sunscreen. Such routines cater to the collective needs of a household, promoting order and ease of access. "Drop zones" are also crucial; these are designated areas where items can temporarily land before being properly stored, preventing clutter from accumulating in high-traffic areas. Maximizing storage space, especially in smaller homes, involves creative solutions like utilizing dead spaces under furniture for items not frequently accessed. Measuring organizers before purchasing ensures a snug fit, optimizing every available inch without creating wasted space. Dividers for drawers and cabinets are invaluable for maintaining order within enclosed spaces, preventing items from becoming a disordered jumble. Transparent storage bins are recommended for enclosed areas, allowing for quick visual identification of contents and preventing items from being forgotten. Efficient labeling is another golden rule, particularly for opaque containers, to clearly identify contents and avoid unnecessary searching. Maintaining uniformity in organizers across the home can simplify the organization process for all family members. For personalized and highly efficient storage, bespoke joinery with specialized inserts is suggested, catering to unique needs like organizing spices or handbags. Embracing a minimalist mindset, which involves questioning the necessity of each item and adopting a "one-in, one-out" rule, is presented as an effective way to prevent clutter buildup. This approach encourages a slower, more purposeful consumerism. Keeping work surfaces clear, especially in the kitchen, enhances functionality and makes cleaning easier. Minimizing visual clutter by storing everyday essentials behind closed doors or in baskets helps reduce psychological stress. A "clear floor policy," where the floor is not used for storage, significantly improves tidiness. Space-saving solutions like vacuum storage bags for seasonal items minimize the organizational footprint. Monthly organization of clothes is crucial due to the constant flux of garments, ensuring closets remain functional. The “file folding” method is recommended for visibility and neatness in drawers and shelves. Prioritizing function over aesthetics is paramount; an organizing system must be practical to be sustainable. Maximizing vertical space with shelving, hooks, and stackable storage units helps reclaim floor space. Utilizing the backs of doors for accessories or pantry goods also offers hidden storage potential. Multifunctional furniture, such as storage ottomans, provides dual benefits, serving as both utility and aesthetic pieces. Avoiding a "junk drawer" by categorizing and maintaining essential items within organizers prevents chaotic accumulation. Minimizing piles, whether of laundry or mail, through designated drop zones and consistent routines, is a hallmark of organized homes. Upcycling and recycling materials for affordable and eco-friendly storage adds character while reducing waste. Making organizing accessible for children by providing open, labeled bins encourages participation in tidying. Mobile organization solutions, like rolling carts, accommodate changing routines and open-plan living. Digital decluttering, including monthly organization of documents and emails, safeguards important information. Finally, involving the entire family in chores and establishing daily "opening and closing shifts" for tidying are crucial for long-term home organization. These shifts, even if brief, prevent overwhelming clutter buildup and maintain a state of calm and order. #HomeOrganization #DeclutteringTips #StorageSolutions #MinimalistLiving #FamilyChoreManagement #SustainableSystems #ProductivityBoost #InteriorDesign #SpaceOptimization

This blog post explores 15 simple and effective life hacks to help organize a home, emphasizing ease and practicality. It begins by introducing the concept of simplifying life through organizational strategies and then delves into specific examples. The first hack presented is a wall storage hanger, suggesting a practical solution for cluttered entryways. By building a bin for items like boots, hats, and scarves and assigning each family member a bin, the system helps prevent tripping hazards and maintains order. Cord control is addressed as the second hack, proposing the use of Velcro strips to manage the cables of appliances such as crockpots, space heaters, and fans. This method aims to eliminate unsightly and tangled cords, promoting a neater appearance and safer environment. For holiday decorations, particularly Christmas ornaments, the article suggests either purchasing specialized bins or creating DIY versions using wooden rods and plastic storage containers. This approach secures ornaments and utilizes space efficiently. The fourth hack focuses on organizing children's toys, specifically toy cars. By attaching magnetic strips to a wall, cars can be stored vertically, preventing them from being left on the floor where they could cause discomfort or injury. Garage organization is tackled next, with a recommendation to construct a wooden storage unit using plywood and 2x2-inch lumber. This versatile solution can hold sports equipment, mops, and rakes, effectively decluttering the garage space. The article then moves to repurposing everyday items, suggesting cereal boxes as drawer dividers. By cutting and decorating empty cereal boxes, individuals can create custom organizers for various drawer contents. Under-sink storage is improved with the seventh hack, which involves installing a curtain rod to hang cleaning supplies or other items, thereby maximizing vertical space and keeping the area tidy. Wooden bungees are introduced as a versatile hanging solution, where a piece of stained wood and bungee cords can be used to hang a variety of objects, blending functionality with home decor. Pallet storage is presented as an eco-friendly and stylish option. Repurposing a wooden pallet by painting it and adding hooks creates a shabby chic organizational tool. For those with limited space, a flip-down wall desk is suggested. This hack allows for a compact workspace that can be folded away when not in use, optimizing room utility. Earbud tangles are resolved with a simple clothing pin DIY, providing a convenient way to wrap and store earbuds in bags. Sentimental items also find a place in the organizational scheme, with the twelfth hack recommending a DIY card book to store old birthday, graduation, and other greeting cards. This keeps cherished memories in one organized place. Art supplies can be neatly arranged using an existing wine rack, filled with plastic Dollar Store cups to hold markers and other small items. The fourteenth hack addresses kitchen container lids, suggesting wire CD racks to separate and organize plastic lids, preventing them from scattering. Finally, inexpensive plastic hooks are recommended for organizing foil, plastic wrap, and other rolls, providing a simple and effective solution to keep kitchen items in order and easily accessible. #HomeOrganization #LifeHacks #Decluttering #DIYStorage #SpaceSavingSolutions #HouseholdTips #PracticalLiving #OrganizationalIdeas #HomeImprovement

This article presents 80 expert-approved organizing tips to help declutter various areas of a home, ranging from frequently used rooms to small, often-overlooked spaces. The tips are designed to assist individuals in undertaking a deep clean or simply tidying up before guests arrive, and offer solutions that can be applied comprehensively across an entire home or incrementally to specific areas. The overarching goal of these methods is to maximize space and reduce clutter, fostering a more organized and functional living environment. The article provides specific strategies for different parts of the house. For kitchens, it suggests thinking vertically for shelves, particularly for items like cutting boards and baking pans, and utilizing pot rails for hanging cookware and measuring cups. Drawers can be compartmentalized using dividers to group similar items, while tiered shelves are recommended for pantries to easily view and access canned goods and other staples. For laundry rooms, mounting drying racks on walls helps to save space and improve functionality. Moving to other living areas, the article suggests creative uses of space such as converting a closet into a book nook with daring paint colors and bookshelves. For home offices, it advocates for space-saving desks that can fold away, keeping work supplies out of sight. Craft supplies can be neatly organized using mini bins and slide-out systems in drawers. Pet owners are advised on camouflaging pet gear by integrating dog beds and food bowls into cabinet spaces for a monochrome, tidy look. Dedicated work closets are presented as a solution for organizing office supplies, stationery, and invoices using a mix of sleek boxes and acrylic organizers. The article also covers general organizing principles and various hacks for common household items. It suggests creating a 'command station' in a spice cabinet using adhesive pockets for grocery lists and coupons. Shelf risers are highlighted for doubling storage space in medicine cabinets, allowing for easier access to items of different heights. For linen closets, towel racks can provide out-of-sight storage for extra linens. Drawer organizers are emphasized for maintaining order in desk drawers, promoting productivity by ensuring pens, pencils, and paper clips have designated spots. Innovative folding techniques, such as 'file folding' for towels and t-shirts, are introduced to maximize drawer space and visibility. The 'One In, One Out' rule is proposed for children's toys and clothing to manage accumulation and teach the concept of finite storage. Command Hooks are recommended for hanging pots and pans to free up cabinet space. Repurposing household items like trays and bowls for junk drawer organization, and using a non-slip mat to keep them in place, are also covered. Finally, hanging a towel bar over the sink offers a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution for keeping frequently used items within reach. #HomeOrganization #DeclutteringTips #SpaceSaving #KitchenOrganization #BedroomOrganization #BathroomOrganization #LaundryRoom #StorageSolutions #ProductivityHacks

This blog post offers 32 practical solutions to transform closet organization for the year 2025, enabling individuals to better see and access their belongings. The article introduces various products and systems, each accompanied by promising customer reviews and purchasing information. Highlighted items include an adjustable closet doubler, priced at $17.97 on Amazon, which is praised for doubling closet space and being easy to assemble and sturdy. Wonder Hangers, available in a 10-pack for $13.99+, are presented as a solution to triple closet storage and are popular on TikTok. Another product is a pair of non-slip pants hangers for $15.90, also suitable for organizing scarves and table runners. Legging organizing hangers, sold in a two-pack for $15.99, are recommended for differentiating between similar items and freeing up drawer space. For more extensive organization, a closet organizing system ranging from $106+ is featured, providing a foundational structure for clothing. A portable closet, starting at $56.99+, is suggested for spaces lacking a traditional closet or for those with extensive wardrobes. Slim-fitting velvet hangers, a 50-pack costing $24.19+, are proposed as a simple swap to create more closet room. Blank dividers, a 30-pack for $8.95, offer customizable categorization for quicker access to specific clothing items. Hanging vacuum bags, a four-pack from $24.99+, are introduced for compressing bulky seasonal items like coats without folding. A hanging bag organizer for $16.14 (two-pack) is presented as a way to protect handbags from dust and maintain their shape. An acrylic belt organizing case, priced at $34.99, allows for quick visual access to belts. A rotating shoe rack, available for $199.98+, is designed for compact storage of shoes, handbags, and accessories. A hanging boot organizer, a set for five pairs at $54.99, addresses the challenge of storing boots efficiently. Additional innovative solutions include a set of shoe stackers, a 10-pack for $32.95+, to optimize shoe storage space. A hanging shoe organizer for $14.99, featuring large pockets, is versatile for various accessories beyond shoes. A steel tank top hanger, a three-pack for $15.75, organizes tanks and camis for easier searching. A tie holder, a pair for $8.99, can store up to 20 ties while preserving their shape. Cap holders, available for $11.99, clear shelf space dedicated to baseball hats, complemented by a baseball hat organizer, from $19.99+, for compact storage. For improved folding, a shirt folder for $16.99+ is recommended to create neat stacks. An EZSTAX closet organizer and shirt folder, a 20-pack for $31.99+, offers an easy-access system for folded shirts. Clip-on shelf dividers, a set of eight from $27.99+, prevent piles from toppling. A hanger organizer, priced at $15.99, manages spare hangers. A cubicle organizer, starting at $31.98, provides built-in closet aesthetics on a budget. A cubby shoe organizer bench for $103.99, offers both storage and a convenient place to sit while putting on shoes. A T-shirt roll holder, for $16.99, utilizes unused door space. The article also includes a lockable mirrored jewelry cabinet for $109.99 and a hanging jewelry organizer for $8.48+, both designed to keep accessories tidy and accessible. #ClosetOrganization #HomeStorage #SpaceSaving #HomeDecor #OrganizationalTools #WardrobeManagement #Decluttering

The new year often begins with intentions of maintaining an organized home, a goal that can be challenging to sustain after post-holiday decluttering. Achieving lasting organization is attainable with the right tools, and professional organizers offer insights into effective products that can transform a living space. To help individuals invest in worthwhile organizational items, experts recommend five specific buys to kickstart the year with improved home order. The first recommendation is a spice organizer. This item enhances the cooking experience by eliminating the need to search for specific spice jars, thereby saving time during meal preparation and adding order to the kitchen. Various options are available, including integrated drawer systems, pullouts, freestanding countertop shelves, over-the-door systems, or shelf risers for cabinets. The ideal system depends on personal preferences and available space. Once implemented, a spice organizer can not only streamline cooking but also encourage greater use of one's spice and herb collection. A notable example is a space-saving option from Joseph and Joseph, particularly useful for small kitchens. Secondly, clear containers are highly recommended. While seemingly basic, their versatility makes them essential for any home organization project. They allow for easy visibility of stored contents. Professional organizer Ben Soreff highlights their effectiveness in deep pantries and linen closets for toiletries. For pantries, clear containers facilitate the categorization of items like pasta, rice, and baking supplies, preventing items from getting lost at the back. These containers come in various shapes and sizes, making them suitable for use throughout the house. The third key organizational buy is a command center. Professional lifestyle organizer Di Ter Avest describes it as a game-changer for maintaining an organized home and lifestyle, especially for busy families. A well-crafted kitchen command center typically includes calendars, to-do lists, and individual slots for each family member, ensuring everyone remains synchronized and informed. This central hub promotes cohesion and streamlines communication, from meal planning to important reminders, thereby freeing up energy to focus on other organizational tasks. Fourthly, bed sheet organizers address the common challenge of storing and organizing linens. These organizers simplify the task of folding sheets and make bed-making easier. Expert organizer Sara Bereika notes that sheets are often difficult to fold and store, leading to confusion about sizes and general messiness. Bed sheet organizers, such as those available on Amazon, allow for easy labeling, ensuring quick identification and preventing missing pillowcases. Finally, drawer organizers are deemed the most useful organizational product by Sara Bereika. She advocates for their use in every drawer, from junk drawers to sock drawers, because they simplify the process of finding items. They are also easy to clean and can be reconfigured for different drawers if needs change. Adjustable bamboo drawer dividers, like those from Target, are suggested for kitchen drawers, while shaped inserts, such as those from Amazon, are recommended for bedrooms or dressing rooms. These five expert-endorsed organizational products aim to prevent wasted time and money on less effective solutions, offering simple yet reliable ways to maintain an organized home. #HomeOrganization #ProfessionalOrganizers #SpiceOrganizer #ClearContainers #CommandCenter #BedSheetOrganizers #DrawerOrganizers #HomeDeclutter #NewYearResolution

The transition of seasons often brings a desire for organization, and professional organizers offer insights beyond standard advice like inventorying and decluttering. This article gathers fresh perspectives from five professional organizers on maintaining an orderly and beautiful living space, moving beyond a basic tidying routine. Diane Lowy, founder of New York at Home, emphasizes a system called “Farm Chores,” which involves dedicating 15 minutes in the morning and evening to tasks like putting away dishes, folding laundry, and returning items to their proper places. This routine, she explains, ensures a pleasant living environment and a sense of accomplishment. Lowy also suggests upgrading everyday utilitarian items to enhance daily experiences, citing an aesthetically pleasing spice rack as an example that makes cooking more enjoyable. Faith Roberson of Organize With Faith tackles limited closet space by advocating for seasonal clothing swaps, storing out-of-season garments in fabric boxes. She finds that this practice creates a feeling of having new clothes each season. Roberson also highlights the lazy Susan as an indispensable organizing tool, useful for everything from kitchen condiments to vitamins, making items easily accessible and visible. Her approach to decluttering is continuous, a weekly process of filtering and purging items to prevent accumulation. This includes clearing out the refrigerator before grocery shopping and assessing clothing during seasonal swaps. She practices “shop with intention,” creating a list of needed replacements rather than impulse buying, and advises getting rid of items when their maintenance becomes overwhelming, emphasizing that owning too much can lead to disorganization. Lowy further stresses the importance of an exit strategy for unwanted items, especially given the ease of online shopping. She recommends creating a designated “departure area” near the door for items like clothes for the tailor or donations. This prevents clutter from piling up and establishes a consistent habit of removing things from the home. Jen Martin, founder of Reset Your Nest, who manages a busy household with four children, emphasizes involving kids in the organizing process. She uses labels extensively to show children where things belong and assigns them tasks like decanting groceries, which not only keeps things tidy but also teaches responsibility. Martin also champions the use of hooks in various spaces for hanging items like towels, jackets, and hats, noting their versatility and effectiveness. For instance, she uses Command hooks inside closet doors for her son's baseball caps. Ryan Eisland, co-founder of Home Sort, suggests incorporating humor into organizing through custom, whimsical labels, such as “Laney’s Clothes That She Loves and Mom Doesn’t,” which adds a fun element while maintaining order. She also encourages creative storage solutions, like using unique vintage baskets for an eclectic touch. Beth Penn of Bneato Bar addresses the challenge of managing children's toys, advocating for frequent, sometimes discreet, purging of unwanted items using a dedicated cabinet for donations or trash. She also uses magnetic pouches with clear pockets inside kitchen cabinets to manage mail and to-do lists, keeping them out of sight but easily accessible. Finally, Penn advises against striving for unrealistic perfection in organizing, encouraging a mantra of “moving the needle” through small, consistent efforts. She acknowledges that maintaining an impeccably tidy home is often not feasible for busy individuals, and it is important to lower expectations and accept that not everything will always be perfectly in its place. #ProfessionalOrganizing #HomeOrganization #ClutterFree #DeclutteringTips #StorageSolutions #DailyHabits #FamilyOrganization #SeasonalSwaps

The start of the new year presents an ideal opportunity to reorganize and refresh one's living space. This article highlights the transformative impact of effective home organization, emphasizing the feeling of renewal that comes with decluttering and creating a more functional environment. It introduces a curated selection of 16 organizing products designed to streamline various areas of the home, regardless of size. The featured products are categorized for easy navigation, covering essential areas such as the bathroom, closet, entryway, kitchen, and pantry. For the bathroom, solutions include a turntable organizer for cosmetics and skincare, an under-sink organizer with functional side hooks for toiletries and cleaning supplies, a countertop turntable for easy access to beauty products, and a corner shower caddy designed to efficiently store shampoo, conditioner, and other shower essentials. Each product aims to maximize space and keep items neatly arranged. Closet organization is addressed with a drawer organizer divider for undergarments and accessories, a six-shelf hanging closet organizer with side pockets for folded clothes and shoes, and space-saving hangers for efficient storage of various clothing items. These products help maintain order and visibility within closet spaces. For the entryway, the article presents a console with roomy drawers and open shelving for essentials like mail, shoes, and pet products, available in two color options. Additionally, a midcentury-inspired sideboard is highlighted for its ability to conceal a significant amount of items, from glassware to reusable bags, freeing up cabinet space in other areas of the home. Kitchen and pantry solutions include a two-tier turntable for displaying cooking essentials and spices, a food container lid organizer to manage unruly lids, nesting trays for versatile storage, a pan organizer rack to keep cookware in order, a five-piece pantry organizing set with bins and risers, and a produce saver set with FreshVent technology to extend the life of fruits and vegetables. Many of these items also serve a dual purpose as decorative elements, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the home while maintaining functionality. The article encourages readers to explore these options to achieve a more organized living space. #HomeOrganization #HomeShopping #Declutter #StorageSolutions #HomeDecor #PantryOrganization #ClosetOrganization #BathroomOrganization #KitchenOrganization

A professional cleaner introduces the 'Launch Pad' organizing method as a solution to the common problem of morning rush chaos, where essential items like keys and coats go missing. This method, specifically designed for entryways, aims to simplify the process of leaving the house, reducing stress for busy households, large families, and individuals in compact living spaces. The core concept of a Launch Pad is to designate a specific, organized area near the main exit point of a home for daily essentials. This ensures that every item has a clear 'home,' preventing the frantic search for misplaced belongings. The expert, Miguel Olivera from Advanced Eco Cleaning Concepts, emphasizes treating the entryway as 'mission control' where everyone knows where their essentials are. He suggests utilizing wall-mounted hooks to create an overflow space system, especially in homes where the primary coat closet becomes easily overcrowded. A key component of the Launch Pad is a key organizer with individual, labeled hooks for each family member, which can include color-coding for easier identification. This visual cue system helps adults and children alike quickly locate their items, minimizing morning decision fatigue and stress. Olivera highlights that families adopting this system have reported saving an average of 20 minutes each morning. Practical recommendations for organizing products include magnetic, wall-mounted organizers for loose keys and message boards with chalkboards for reminders, like the ones offered by Yamazaki Home and Juvale. The height at which these organizing tools are installed is crucial; they should be accessible to all family members, including children, to ensure consistent use and prevent items from ending up on the floor. Olivera also advises against using a single, large shoe basket, which tends to become a 'chaos bin.' Instead, he recommends individual cubbies or a shoe cabinet to keep pairs together and maintain order. The guiding principle for shoe storage is 'one pair out, one pair away,' meaning only shoes in daily rotation should be kept in the Launch Pad area, with out-of-season footwear stored elsewhere, such as underbed storage or in the garage. Beyond just essentials, the Launch Pad concept extends to a 'drop zone' for items like school backpacks, work bags, and gym bags, preventing them from creating visual clutter upon entry. This dedicated space provides a targeted location for 'leaving the house' items and helps maintain a visually clear and stress-free environment. Miguel suggests using a small, decorative tray for smaller items like wallets, sunglasses, and garage door openers, noting that its size is important—too large, and it becomes a junk magnet; too small, and items spill over. He advocates for selecting products that encourage 'biophilic decluttering,' hinting at designs that blend functionality with natural aesthetics. Olivera outlines golden rules for setting up and maintaining Launch Pads: strategic location near the most frequently used exit, simplicity in the organizing system to ensure family-wide adherence, inclusion of all family members by making tools accessible, and adaptability to changing seasons (e.g., swapping winter gloves for summer essentials like sunscreen and pool passes). The article concludes by reinforcing that adapting organizing systems over time is vital for long-term effectiveness, and for areas that naturally accumulate clutter, considering methods like the 'desire path decluttering method' can provide effective storage solutions where they are most needed. #HomeOrganization #EntrywayDesign #DeclutteringTips #MorningRoutine #FamilyEfficiency #StorageSolutions #StressReduction #HomeManagement

This blog post, titled "Lifestyle - Cooking, Organizing, Gardening, Travel," is a curated collection of articles from House Beautiful, offering a comprehensive guide to enhancing daily living and home environments. The articles cover a diverse range of topics, including home organization, real estate insights, gardening tips, and design-inspired entertainment. It aims to provide readers with practical advice and inspiration for various aspects of their lifestyle. One significant focus is on home organization, with articles like "11 Household Items Pro Organizers Wish You Would Get Rid of ASAP," "What Pro Organizers Always Throw Away Before Moving," and "The 'Poop Rule' Is the Secret to an Organized Home." These pieces offer actionable strategies for decluttering and maintaining an orderly living space, addressing common challenges and providing expert recommendations. For example, the "Poop Rule" article likely presents a simplified yet effective method for organizing, emphasizing the importance of regularly discarding unnecessary items to prevent accumulation. Real estate and home renovation are also prominent themes. Articles such as "This Controversial Lawn Feature Might Be Negatively Impacting Your Home's Resale Value" and "10 Real Estate Red Flags That Are BIG Warning Signs for Buyers" delve into factors affecting home value and potential pitfalls for prospective buyers. "Here Are The Most Expensive Zip Codes in the U.S." provides insights into high-value markets, while "Realtors Always Use This One Trick for Boosting Sale Prices" offers practical advice for sellers. Additionally, "We Asked Interior Designers How to Cleverly Hide a Fridge—and Their Solutions Are GENIUS" explores design solutions for common aesthetic issues in home remodeling. Gardening is another key area, featuring articles that guide readers on plant care and cultivation. "Is There REALLY a Worst Time to Water Your Plants?" addresses a common gardening query, while "The Ultimate Guide to Growing Pumpkins" offers detailed instructions for cultivating specific produce. "Why Does Moss Grow on Roofs—and Is It Dangerous?" extends gardening concerns to home maintenance, providing information on potential issues and their remedies. The blog also incorporates design-related travel and entertainment content. This includes articles like "The 10 Coolest Things We Saw at High Point Fall Market 2025," which highlights new trends and products in home furnishings, and "These Homes Were Designed With Leaf Peeping in Mind," which explores architectural trends focused on seasonal beauty. Entertainment-focused pieces, such as "7 Things You Might Not Know About the New 'Selling Sunset' Star Sandra Vergara" and "HGTV Stars Reveal Their First Jobs Before They Got Famous," offer a glimpse into the personal and professional lives of public figures in the design and real estate industries. Other unique lifestyle articles include "The True History of Halloween Is Even Darker Than You Imagined," which explores cultural history, and "7 Items in Grandma's Closet That Are Secretly Valuable," which discusses the potential value of vintage decor. Overall, the collection of articles within this blog post serves as a resource for readers interested in improving their homes and enriching their lives through organized living, informed real estate decisions, successful gardening, and engaging entertainment. #HomeOrganization #RealEstate #GardeningTips #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #Lifestyle #Entertainment #Decluttering

Undertaking a home renovation in 2026 can be a daunting task, yet adopting specific design habits can streamline the process and lead to an elevated final product. A foundational step is to always commence with a master plan, regardless of the project's scale, and to invest in professional architectural drawings. This initial planning phase is critical for preventing measurement errors, saving time for contractors, and enabling clients to confidently visualize the finished space. While staying informed about interior design trends is beneficial for inspiration, it's crucial to avoid "chasing" them. Instead, designers advise selecting timeless anchor pieces for each room and then incorporating personal touches with elements that can be easily updated or changed over time. Experts emphasize the importance of prioritizing the architectural elements of a home, such as quality flooring, millwork, doors, windows, and insulation. These components form the "long-life" foundation of a home, contributing to a baseline of luxury that decor can then complement and evolve around. Neglecting these fundamental aspects in favor of superficial decor can lead to a less cohesive and enduring design. Furthermore, maximizing every inch of space, particularly in smaller homes, is essential. This involves clever uses of built-ins, banquette seating, room partitioning, and thoughtful storage solutions to ensure the home functions efficiently and stylishly. Integrated storage, including hidden charging docks and utility cupboards, should be planned from the outset to avoid costly and disruptive retrofits later. Proper lighting planning is another critical habit. The current trend leans towards a softer, more inviting aesthetic that utilizes layered lighting to create atmosphere, adaptability, and emotional resonance. This involves strategically incorporating task, accent, and ambient lighting, along with dimming capabilities and concealed LED lighting, with material choices focusing on diffused light, opaque or frosted glass, and natural textures. Such careful consideration of lighting placement early in the renovation prevents expensive modifications down the line. Sustainability and longevity should also be core principles guiding renovation decisions. This encompasses more than just eco-friendly materials; it extends to designing flexible layouts, choosing durable finishes, investing in repairable goods, and enhancing energy efficiency. Sourcing locally, utilizing low-VOC paints, and incorporating vintage or high-quality, artisan-made pieces contribute to a sustainable and characterful home that ages gracefully. Investing in high-quality finishes is advised, as cutting corners in this area often results in regret. A contingency fund for finishes such as hardware, trim profiles, and strategic lighting can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic. Respecting proportions and scale in furnishings is also vital for creating a balanced and cohesive room. Before making purchases, measuring everything and even mocking up key pieces with painter's tape can prevent imbalances. Maximizing natural light within the space should be addressed early in the renovation process, as it is difficult to alter post-completion. This can involve expanding openings, adding interior transoms, or adjusting floor plans to borrow light between rooms, which also contributes to a more sustainable home by reducing the need for artificial lighting. Finally, designers recommend selecting paint colors at the very end of the renovation project. Paint should complement the fixed elements of the home—such as flooring, stone, textiles, and lighting—rather than dictate them. Testing paint samples on walls in natural light over several days is crucial to ensure the chosen palette remains cohesive under varying conditions. Adhering to these habits, from comprehensive planning and budgeting to prioritizing sustainable choices and meticulous detailing, will help achieve a smooth renovation process and a sophisticated, functional, and enduring home. #HomeRenovations #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalPlanning #SustainableDesign #LightingDesign #SpaceMaximization #QualityFinishes #BudgetPlanning #NaturalLight #ColorSelection

This article outlines a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to organizing one's home effectively at the beginning of the year, with strategies designed for long-term maintenance. It addresses the common challenge of feeling overwhelmed by the task and breaks it down into manageable segments, ensuring the organizational system integrates seamlessly into one's lifestyle. The process begins with an initial walkthrough of the entire home, starting from the entryway. During this walkthrough, individuals are encouraged to use a pen and notepad or a digital notes app to meticulously record primary organizing tasks for each room. This includes identifying items for decluttering, donation, or disposal, as well as making a running shopping list for necessary organizing and cleaning supplies. The second crucial step involves decluttering storage spaces, such as closets and pantries, which often become areas for miscellaneous items. The article suggests tackling these spaces first to create room for items relocated from other areas. For instance, when organizing a bedroom closet, all items should be removed and sorted into three categories: items to keep, items to donate, and items to discard. Following this, the existing organizational system is evaluated, and improvements are made using storage containers and hanging racks to optimize space and prevent damage. A thorough deep cleaning is recommended next, even for homes with regular cleaning routines. This deep clean focuses on areas often overlooked, providing a pristine foundation for the newly organized spaces. A detailed checklist is provided, covering tasks like washing windows, steam cleaning carpets, polishing hardwood floors, dusting, cleaning blinds and baseboards, disinfecting hardware, and cleaning behind furniture. The process then moves to specific areas, starting with refreshing bathrooms. This involves removing all items for a deep clean, replacing linens, and reorganizing storage shelves and drawers by discarding old or expired products. The kitchen and pantry are identified as potentially the most time-consuming but necessary areas. The pantry is addressed first by emptying its contents, cleaning shelves, washing containers, and mopping the floor. To maximize space, an over-the-door tiered rack is suggested, and items are categorized into clear plastic bins or airtight containers, with labels added for clarity and aesthetic appeal. Reorganizing the kitchen follows, with a recommendation to divide it into sections (e.g., by walls or cabinets) for systematic cleaning and decluttering. Only frequently used items are returned to easily accessible locations, while less common items are stored on higher shelves or in alternative rooms. Organizing tools like drawer dividers are emphasized to maintain order and prevent junk drawers. The next step focuses on small, high-traffic areas like laundry rooms, entryways, and mudrooms. Seasonal adjustments are suggested, such as switching outdoor mats, using boot trays, and incorporating freestanding coat racks or wicker baskets for seasonal accessories to keep these transitional spaces organized. Finally, the guide advises tackling less frequently used rooms, such as guest rooms and guest bathrooms. Although not used daily, organizing these spaces ensures they are ready for visitors. The cleaning checklist from earlier steps is applied, and attention is given to clean linens, made beds, fresh towels, and stocked toiletries to create a welcoming environment for guests. #HomeOrganization #DeclutteringTips #DeepCleaning #PantryOrganization #KitchenOrganization #HomeMaintenance #NewYearResolution #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions