SHOULD YOU DONATE OR SELL YOUR DECLUTTERED ITEMS? PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS WEIGH IN

When decluttering, it is logical that the items we get rid of either go in the trash, get donated, or we try to sell them. But how do you decide if you should donate or sell something? While it is more obvious which items should go in the trash, working out which items are worthy of trying to make money from and which should go to the thrift store can be difficult and tiring – and can even make cluttering our home worse if we get it wrong. We talked to professional home organizers to learn the tricks for deciding what to donate and what to sell when decluttering a home – and it is easier to work out than you might think.  

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10 EASY WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOME LOOK MORE ORGANIZED FAST

Not a natural organizer? Don’t resign yourself to disorderly surroundings just yet – according to the pros, there’s plenty of easy ways to make your home look more organized at least, even if the reality is a little different. Whether it’s piles of laundry, cluttered countertops or overflowing storage, turning a blind eye to disorderly home organizing ideas is all too easy when you live with them day-in, day-out. You may think you’re fine with it, yet studies show a neat and tidy home makes for a happier lifestyle (not to mention happier guests) so now’s the time to start taking aesthetics into account. The good news is it’s a lot easier than you might think to make your home look more organized. Anyone can do it, especially if you’ve got ‘tricks of the trade’ to hand. 

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HOW A ‘SUNDAY RESET’ HELPS ME TO PREPARE MY HOME FOR THE UPCOMING WEEK

Picture this: it's Monday morning, and you're already feeling the weight of the week ahead. Your to-do list is a mile long, your inbox is overflowing, and your energy levels are at an all-time low. If this scenario sounds all too familiar, you're not alone. In today's 24/7, always-on work culture, it's easy to feel like you're constantly playing catch-up, never quite getting ahead of the game. But what if I told you that there was a way to break free from this cycle of stress and overwhelm? What if, by dedicating just one day a week to resetting and recharging, you could set yourself up for success in all areas of your life?

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NEVER THROW THESE 6 THINGS OUT WHEN DECLUTTERING - LEARN HOW TO ORGANIZE THEM INSTEAD

When it comes to decluttering and organizing our homes, the advice we often hear typically encourages us part with our possessions where possible. In fact, the professionals often make it clear that an important part of the entire process of achieving an organized home is letting go of your material items. But what about the things you should be careful to never throw away? Professional organizer, Lauren Saltman, owner of Living. Simplified., says, 'when you get in the groove of decluttering your home, it's easy to put items in your donate or recycle pile without much thought. It can even be fun, and you can really get into the moment. But we always want to be thoughtful about the items we are decluttering, because we want to avoid any regret down the line.'

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15 OF THE BEST JEWELRY ORGANIZERS - WHAT PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS USE TO ENSURE A TANGLE-FREE COLLECTION

Every shiny piece tells a story, and you never know what might eventually fall back into vogue. Until then, everything needs a home. We invest considerable time and money in our jewelry and watches, yet unlike the meticulous closet organization ideas we devote to expensive handbags, clothing, or shoes, jewelry often gets relegated to a mere jewelry box or the boxes they came in. Something about that doesn't sit right with me. Below, you'll find answers and recommendations from professional organizers, including Lauren Saltman, owner of Living. Simplified., who offers some tips to kickstart the process, and how to invest in closet organizers for your jewelry.

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HOW TO ORGANIZE GIFT BAGS - 7 WAYS TO CREATE A BOUTIQUE-GRADE WRAPPING STATION

If you love to go all out with your gifting you likely have an extensive gift-wrapping collection on hand, ready to wow your friends and family with both the gift and the presentation, too. However, akin to organizing a craft room, keeping these supplies neat, organized, and free from damage can be tricky – especially when you are dealing with long rolls of wrapping paper, a range of seasonal cards, and every sized gift bag under the sun. So how do you organize gift bags so that they are easy to find but out of the way when not in use? The experts recommend trying these seven tricks. 

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HOW TO ORGANIZE YOUR HOME AFTER BULK-BUYING GROCERIES - 10 WAYS TO STOP STORAGE OVERSPILLING

Stocking up on things you use often is a sustainable and cost-effective tactic (assuming you have space to store it all, that is), but knowing how to organize your home after bulk buying groceries and household supplies is essential if you want to keep track of what you have. Finding ways to stash surplus supplies out of sight – yet readily available – can be tricky, particularly if you’re organizing small spaces. The key is to establish practical storage ideas ahead of trip to the store, so you’re not tempted to buy more than your home can handle; the last thing you want to do is waste anything.

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HOW TO CREATE A FAMILY COMMAND CENTER - TO REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR FAMILY’S ORGANIZATION

Ever feel overwhelmed trying to organize the whole family? The solution can be as simple as creating a command center. This can transform the way you plan and organize, serving as a central hub for sharing information, coordinating activities, and providing a clear overview of commitments and schedules in the days and months ahead. This is one of the things the most organized families have in common, and for good reason. Establishing a command center, or family planner, can minimize the potential for miscommunication and scheduling conflicts – and, with any luck, alleviate you of the sole burden of organizing by encouraging each family member to take accountability for their responsibilities.

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10 CREATIVE USES FOR TEA TOWELS AROUND YOUR HOME

If you're like us, you likely have an abundance of kitchen linens—dish towels at the ready to dry hands, aprons to keep your clothes clean while cooking, oven mitts to keep your hands safe, and tea towels to wipe down plates, counters, and everything in between. The wonderful thing about tea towels, in particular, is that they come in myriad patterns, colors, and motifs, adding a touch of whimsy to our kitchens. If you have too many tea towels to count, just know that you can use them for all sorts of things besides drying household items. Ahead, we rounded up some of the most common, expert-approved uses for tea towels, from providing stability under your cutting boards to lining your bread baskets.

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HOW TO ORGANIZE GIFT BAGS AT HOME

If you love to go all out with your gifting you likely have an extensive gift-wrapping collection on hand, ready to wow your friends and family with both the gift and the presentation, too. However, akin to organizing a craft room, keeping these supplies neat, organized, and free from damage can be tricky – especially when you are dealing with long rolls of wrapping paper, a range of seasonal cards, and every sized gift bag under the sun. So how do you organize gift bags so that they are easy to find but out of the way when not in use? The experts recommend trying these seven tricks. 

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5 THINGS ORGANIZED PEOPLE WOULD NEVER KEEP IN THEIR BATHROOMS, ACCORDING TO PROS

Bathrooms are clutter collectors, and there are a few reasons why this tends to happen. It's an easy place to leave clothes and jewelry after a shower, it might have enough storage space to harbor extra supplies, and it's a seemingly logical spot to keep medicine. While these items are fine for a limited time, the trick to getting bathroom organization down pat is weeding out the items that shouldn't be there. To do so, we spoke to the folks who are most on top of their clutter-free game: professional organizers. We spoke to two who were happy to share the products you should keep out of your bathroom if you're trying to be more organized.

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PURSE STORAGE IDEAS - 10 WAYS TO KEEP YOURS PRISTINE

Investing in purse storage ideas that keep your collection safe, organized, and in good condition is well worth it. Whether they’re costly or not, you want them looking their best — they can make or break an outfit, after all. From chic purses and designer bags to chunky holdalls and slimline clutches, different shapes and sizes can make finding space tricky, particularly if your collection is on the larger side. We’ve quizzed the pros for their top tips, to ensure you store yours in style. Storing purses behind closed doors is a practical option, but if you’re wondering how to organize a bedroom to showcase your style, we’ve got plenty of chic 'on show' ideas, too. 

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SMALL OFFICE STORAGE IDEAS - 15 WAYS TO GET THE JOB DONE

Employing effective small office storage ideas is essential for creating a motivational work environment. Keeping work-related essentials neatly stored also ensures your home and work lives stay separate, so you can switch off at the end of a busy day. Whether you have a dedicated small office or you’re looking for ways to integrate one into your communal living space, our pros are on hand with stylish storage solutions to suit, with a few space-boosting buys penciled in, too. Functionality is key of course, but don’t be afraid to get a little creative with small space storage ideas in a home office. Inspirational surroundings boost productivity, as well as mood, so feel free to style up shelves as you like. 

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6 THINGS TO DECLUTTER IN MARCH TO GIVE A BOOST TO YOUR SPRING CLEANING

While we are in the throes of spring cleaning it only makes sense that we spend some time decluttering and organizing too, helping to refresh and revitalize our homes. Spring is often touted as the best time of year to declutter – and for good reason. The ‘month of renewal’ fills us with fresh motivation to declutter, so we are less likely to experience decision fatigue and low moods. These are the six things professional organizers urge you to declutter in March to help get your home in shape for spring and summer.

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THE 17 VERY BEST DRAWER ORGANIZERS - YOUR SILVERWARE DESERVES BETTER

Even as someone who’s obsessive about neatness, I find dealing with out-of-control drawers to be a real chore. The solution of let’s just shove this in and move on only works for so long. Getting a drawer organizer or dividers is the easiest fix, whether you’re corralling pens and batteries, kitchen utensils, or underwear and socks. I suggest first taking stock of what needs organizing and clearing out anything you don’t need. Then you can read on to find the best drawer organizers for your drawers and your stuff. I’ve organized this guide based on use-case — like the best drawer dividers for the kitchen or for dresser drawers — narrowing down the tools I heard about from professional declutterers, who use them to bring order to their clients’ homes.

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7 TIPS FOR CARVING OUT A HOBBY SPACE IN YOUR HOME, ACCORDING TO EXPERTS

There’s something fulfilling about having a dedicated space where you can get absorbed in your passion projects and mute the rest of the world. Yet, many of us refrain from starting a hobby because we think we don’t have room to do so. Not anymore. Here’s how to actually create space for your hobby (or hobbies), with tips and tricks straight from the home organizing pros. Spoiler alert: lots of creative storage solutions ahead.

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HOW TO ORGANIZE A BATHROOM - 10 WAYS TO FRESHEN UP YOUR ROUTINE

It may not be one of your favorite tasks, but learning how to organize a bathroom is well worth the effort. From towels and toiletries, to cabinets and under-sink spaces, getting things in tip-top shape makes for much simpler bathroom routines. Despite best intentions, clutter can build up fast in a bathroom. In our experience, the more streamlined your systems, the easier they are to stick to — a bit like a skincare regime. We’ve quizzed the pros on their top organizational tips, and thrown in a few of our own tried-and-tested ones, too. Every bathroom comes with its own requirements and challenges but it boils down to what works for your household. However, there’s a few small space organization ideas that work across the board.

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14 THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER STORE ON TOP OF YOUR FRIDGE

Unless you have an especially expansive kitchen, you probably wish you had more space for storage and food prep. Of course, there are many creative small-space storage solutions that make the most of every possible nook and cranny in your kitchen, but one spot to reconsider using for storage is the top of your refrigerator. We know what you're thinking—the top of your fridge is an empty, flat space offering storage that might not exist elsewhere in your kitchen. But, think twice before storing things like bread or vases up there. We spoke with experts who not only explained why it's a bad idea to store anything on top of your fridge but also called out the most common items that shouldn't be stowed there anytime soon.

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FUNCTIONAL UNDER-SINK ORGANIZATION IDEAS THAT WILL CUT THE CLUTTER

In the spectrum of home organization projects, it’s easy to overlook a kitchen or bathroom under-sink cabinet. It’s not at eye level so it’s not as visible and noticeable, and it often becomes a catchall for random items that you clear from countertops. A well-planned under-sink cabinet will help keep those precious surfaces free and clear of dreaded clutter. Giving it some love and keeping it tidy will make you more efficient and organized in the kitchen and bathroom. Plus, once you’ve created a good system, you’ll feel great when it’s done. Get ready to cross this task off your to-do list with professional organizer under sink organization ideas.

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HOW TO MAINTAIN A CAPSULE CLOSET - 6 TRICKS TO KEEPING CLOTHING CLUTTER TO A MINIMUM

One of the biggest sources of stress or anxiety in the morning can be trying to work out what to wear – especially if you have mountains of clothes that are difficult to sort through. This is only made worse if your clothes make you feel bad about yourself – be it that they no longer suit your style, fit as they used to, or make you feel guilty for how much you have spent. While decluttering a closet can help, it is often incredibly overwhelming. The solution is to try a capsule closet instead to help keep clothes clutter to a minimum and streamline your morning routine. Here is how the experts maintain a capsule closet to minimize stress. 

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SMALL ENTRYWAY CLOSET IDEAS - 10 WAYS TO MAKE A STYLISH ENTRANCE

With some clever small entryway closet ideas, you can turn the smallest, most awkward of spaces into a functional, streamlined closet that caters to everyone, guests included. Alongside our personal experience in dealing with small entryway closets (or no entryway closet at all, in some cases, so think yourself lucky), we’ve quizzed those in the know for their top tips on how to utilize the space you do have to best effect. from savvy storage to space-boosting buys, we’ve got you covered on all things practical.

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HOW TO DECLUTTER A SMALL ENTRYWAY - 10 IDEAS FROM THE EXPERTS

Learning how to declutter a small entryway and executing it like a pro will result in a sense of peace and calm every time you walk through the door. Your entryway sets the tone for your space, and keeping it clutter-free allows you to streamline its functionality and feel welcoming to boot. Our experts share tips on getting the task done, with organizational tools like key hangers, clever storage and secondary drop zones. Delve into the 10 ways our pros recommend to achieve a stylish, decluttered, and organized small entryway.

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15 PRO-RECOMMENDED CLOSET ORGANIZING PRODUCTS TO SHOP RIGHT NOW

If your closet is in desperate need of a good re-organizing, you’re not alone. Professional organizers spend tons of time helping their clients come up with practical closet organization systems that will last—it's one of their most in-demand services. Whether you are dealing with a bedroom closet, linen closet, or front hall closet, the right closet organizing products can make all the difference in the final result. Here are 15 closet-organizing items that professionals always recommend.

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4 THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER DECLUTTER FIRST WHEN TACKLING A MESSY HOME

It can be hard to know where to start when decluttering your home, and it can differ from person to person depending on your needs and the state of your home. The most important part of setting yourself up for a successful decluttering session may surprise you. It's not necessarily knowing where to start but knowing what to avoid when you start. Understanding this will allow you to sidestep decluttering when you feel overwhelmed or burned out. These are the four things you should never declutter first, according to professional organizers, and why it can make or break a decluttering session. 

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15 SURPRISING WAYS TO ORANIZE WITH OVER-THE-DOOR SHOE HOLDERS

As the new year grinds into gear, lots of us make resolutions to get organized. Whether you live in a tiny apartment or a rambling house, that inner call to declutter can be strong. But it can also be intimidating. Where to start? Get yourself an over-the-door shoe organizer. This storage solution provides quick and easy access to your belongings, streamlining them into uniform-sized pockets — all within a vertical space you wouldn’t have otherwise used. Imagine the satisfying feeling of slinging this holder over a door, then filling each pocket with all the items now cluttering your closet, desk or counter. Best of all, an over-the-door shoe holder can organize virtually anything, from toys to clothes to art supplies and beyond. We asked four professional organizers to offer their best 15 ways to use an over-the-door shoe organizer.

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PEOPLE WHO ORGANIZE HOMES FOR A LIVING SAY YOU CAN DECLUTTER SO MUCH SH*T WITH THESE CLEVER TRICKS

It feels good to come back to an organized, orderly home at the end of the day. If you’re having a tough time controlling the clutter, read on to discover clever tricks from people who organize homes for a living. From keeping a designated basket in your closet strictly for donations to utilizing a paper recycling bag to stop junk mail from accumulating on your counters, scroll on for genius solutions that you probably haven’t considered yet.

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PLAYROOM ORGANIZING MISTAKES TO AVOID AT ALL COSTS, ACCORDING TO THE PROS

A dedicated space to store toys, books, and general kid-related clutter is a real luxury, not to mention that it keeps the kids happy, so be sure to make the most of it by avoiding any playroom organizing mistakes. Get it right, and you buy yourself a good few hours of downtime, too. Shove a load of toys in, and the kids will play for hours, right? Wrong. That’s your first mistake (don’t worry, it’s a common one). There’s actually a lot more to organizing a playroom than you might think. And there’s a lot on the line, too; as any expert will tell you, there’s nothing like clutter to cramp creative play. 

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EXPERTS AGREE: THIS IS WHY YOUR HOUSE LOOKS CLUTTERED

There are obvious signs of clutter, like overflowing kitchen cabinets, a closet bursting at the seams, and piles of paper stacked on every flat surface. Then, there are the no-so-obvious sources that are harder for the average person to spot. To find out what we might be missing, we asked professional organizers and interior designers to weigh in on what causes visual clutter. Here’s what they had to say.

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HOW TO ORGANIZE A KITCHEN WITH CHILDREN IN MIND - 10 WAYS TO KEEP THINGS KID-FRIENDLY

The kitchen doesn’t need to be off-limits to little ones. By organizing a kitchen with children in mind, you can create an orderly, accessible and – most importantly – safe environment for them to spend time in, and perhaps try their hand at some cooking, too. With enthusiastic young chefs around, you’ll need to be mindful of those not-so-kid-friendly features when organizing a kitchen. Hot stovetops, sharp knives, breakable glassware - safe kitchen storage is essential. If you’re designing a kitchen from scratch, an ‘all-seeing’ kitchen layout and durable, easy-to-clean surfaces are also worth considering. 

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THE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF A CLEAN HOME

“Cleaning your room is good for your health,” might sound like something your parents may have told you to get you to tidy up your toys as a kid, but turns out, there’s some truth to it. Our environment plays an important role in our mental wellness, and keeping a clean home, whether that’s your bedroom, apartment or house, has a variety of benefits you won’t want to ignore. Learn about these benefits below, along with expert tips for cleaning your home and keeping it tidy

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12 THINGS PEOPLE WHO TAKE CARE OF THEIR HANDBAGS PROPERLY HAVE IN THEIR CLOSETS - “PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT!”

Handbags are like children — demanding attention and, at times, a hefty financial investment. Wrangling them into an organized system can feel overwhelming, especially if, like me, you've amassed a considerable collection over the years — totes, hobos, shoulder bags, clutches — the whole nine. Their sheer volume takes up a rather embarrassing amount of real estate in my NYC apartment. Eager to transform my handbag storage into a showroom-worthy display, I sought closet organization ideas from experts. Lauren Saltman of Living. Simplified. emphasized the importance of considering factors like heat and humidity: 'Store your handbags away from direct sunlight to prevent fabric fading and be mindful of dusting frequency,' Lauren suggests. 

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9 EXPERT-ENDORSED DECLUTTERING BUYS THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE FOR THE BETTER IN 2024, GUARANTEED

With 2023 in the rearview, it's high time for a fresh start — both literally and figuratively. Regarding the latter, I'm just going to go ahead and assume you left your ex back in December (you know the one), but regarding the former, I'm not as confident you've taken the steps to truly refresh your life on account of the year change (lord knows I haven't). As we've seen with pro favorite strategies like the 80/20 decluttering rule, one of the easiest and most tangible ways to do this is to toss away trinkets, toys, and tools you haven't touched in years. And put what's left back with a new sense of order.

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BEST SHOE STORAGE - 12 SOLUTIONS TO MAKE YOUR HOME LOOK AS GOOD AS YOUR OUTFITS

‘As with any organization project, the first step in organizing your shoes is to edit your collection. Gather all of your shoes together, from dress shoes to sneakers to winter boots. Then carefully go through them, checking for damage, comfort and fit. Set aside all of the shoes you want to keep, sorting them by type of shoe. For the shoes you no longer want to keep, throw away the damaged ones and donate ones that are still wearable,’ says professional organizer and owner at Living. Simplified. Lauren Saltman.

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HOW TO STORE HOLIDAY DÉCOR ACCORDING TO PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS

Putting up holiday decorations is a whole production — from hauling in a Christmas tree and hanging ornaments to stringing up lights and tinkering with a topper. But the post-production can feel like even more of a to-do, once all the gifts are unwrapped and all that’s left is the glitter on a bare tree skirt. So having a storage strategy is a good idea to protect precious baubles, keep garlands untangled, and make it easy to get everything out again next year. To that end, we asked professional organizers for their advice on storing everything from an artificial tree that didn’t come with its own storage bag to a surplus of wrapping paper. Just keep in mind that some of their favorite solutions are considered seasonal products, so you should shop early accordingly.

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THE MOST EFFICIENT WAY TO TAKE DOWN CHRISTMAS DECOR - TO MAKE PACKING AND STORAGE SMOOTHER

Taking holiday decor down is a tedious task at best, luckily, however, professional home organizers have found the most efficient way to take down Christmas decor so it doesn't take you all day. Once you know when to take down Christmas decorations, it is all about forming a plan and moving through your home room by room, taking decor down as you go, experts say. Here is how to pack away decorations quickly, and why working efficiently is important not just to save you time now, but next year too.

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THE BEST WAY TO STORE YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE - AND THE STORAGE SPOTS TO AVOID

After Christmas it can be a bit of a rush to get the decorations down and return to normal, leading us to shove artificial trees back in boxes and into the corner of the attic for another year. However, this is one of the worst ways to organize Christmas decorations for storage and could damage your tree without you realizing it. Instead, there are some prime storage spots in your home that are perfect for keeping your tree looking realistic year after year – here’s what the professionals do. 

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HOW TO FALL IN LOVE WITH ORGANIZING - 11 WAYS TO COMMIT LONG-TERM

You love the idea of a well-organized home, but the actual organizing itself, not so much. We get it. The thought of overhauling your belongings can be pretty overwhelming. But what if we told you there were ways to make it not just bearable, or even enjoyable, but actually… loveable? If you don’t believe us, take it from the pros, they do it for a living after all. Below, they divulge their secrets to a successful love affair with home organizing ideas, including decluttering tips (and decluttering mistakes to avoid) as well as advice on how to stay committed through the good times – and the bad. 

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5 NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS TO MAKE IN 2024, ACCORDING TO PRO CLEANERS

Clutter is a normal pain that almost everyone faces, especially when you’re juggling a busy work schedule, kids, pets, and all other facets of life. But with a new year comes a new opportunity to get your home in order and make a resolution (or two) to keep clutter at bay. Here are a few easy-to-do New Year’s resolutions that cleaning and organizing professionals recommend. 

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HOW TO ORGANIZE A KID’S ROOM ON A BUDGET - 8 WAYS TO KEEP COSTS DOWN

You don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve a stylish and well-organized kid’s room. Which is good news, given how quickly they grow up. Forking out every time their organizational needs (and their tastes) change will soon see you bankrupt, we can tell you that for free. Cutting back on toys and books is one way of keeping costs down, but when it comes to kid’s bedroom storage ideas, more is more – cluttered kid’s room ideas don’t exactly inspire productive play, nor a good night’s sleep, for that matter. That doesn’t mean blowing the budget though; with a little creative thinking (and some savvy DIY hacks) you can organize a kid’s room to perfection, and pull off a stylish aesthetic, too.

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THIS AMAZON BUY IS PERFECT FOR ORGANIZING YOUR ENTRYWAY, AND IT’S A GREAT ALTERNATIVE TO THE IDEA STÄLL

As we edge ever closer to the new year, I've been thinking about how I can upgrade the storage solutions in my home. One area that's always a struggle to declutter is the entryway but, finally, I've found a solution, and it's changed my organization game for good. Shoe storage can be notoriously difficult to manage, especially when faced with a small entryway and when you own an unhealthy amount of shoes. Having a tidy space is key to creating a warm welcome so, if you're after an elevated look that makes the right impression, you'll need to get that unsightly pile of footwear sorted.

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HOW TO STORE EXPAND YOUR EXISTING CLOSET SPACE - 6 TRICKS ORGANIZERS USE TO IMPROVE STORAGE

There is nothing more irritating in the morning than an overflowing closet where you can't find anything or put anything back. If you are guilty of trying to organize a closet with too many clothes and aren’t prepared to declutter some of them, you are not alone. Professional organizers come across this conundrum more often than you’d think, These are the six ways to expand your existing closet space without buying a whole new storage unit to keep your collections together. 

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HOW TO STORE SHOES IN A SMALL CLOSET - 5 EXPERT-APPROVED TRICKS THAT MAKE YOUR SPACE SO MUCH MORE ORGANIZED

Shoe storage is difficult enough at the best of times, especially when you're strapped for space. They are the most awkward items to store in a closet and inevitably end up in an unordered pile on the floor, which is both unsightly and impractical. We always seem to have more items to store than we have space for in our closet. No matter how much space you have, closet organization is always a challenge, especially the impossible-to-organize shoe section. In a small space, footwear is often neglected as we prioritize our clothes storage solutions, but we've finally had enough of staring at the clutter of shoes strewn across the floor. 

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BOOT STORAGE IDEAS TO ORGANIZE YOUR WINTER FOOTWEAR

Hopefully, by now you have realized it's time to retire the flip-flops. The cold weather has suddenly sprung upon us, meaning it's time to reach into the depths of your closet to pull out the boots, and with that comes to seasonal struggle of how to store them so they don't topple over. By this point, you probably have a system for your chunky knits and puffer jackets, but want about the ever-impossible-to-store boots? Every year I end up with an awkward pile of boots in my closet. Not only does it ruin the aesthetic of my otherwise organized space, but it also damages the boots in the long run.

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“RECLUTTERING” IS THE CELEBRATION OF STUFF YOU NEED RIGHT NOW

Recluttering is a celebration of your stuff — stuff that you just want to hold on to, stuff that makes you happy, stuff that makes you feel nostalgic for a moment, a memory, or a loved one. Lauren Saltman, a professional organizer and the owner of Living. Simplified. agrees with the approach of holding onto items like family heirlooms in a way that really makes you happy. “It’s a wonderful feeling to know you are eating dinner on grandma’s beloved table or sitting in your uncle’s favorite chair,” she says. “The key to enjoying these family heirlooms is that you actually use them and enjoy them. If you don’t like the look of grandma’s table, consider refinishing it. The same with your uncle’s chair — new fabric can go a long way.”

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16 KITCHEN CABINET ORGANIZERS THAT SOLVE ANY STORAGE COMPLAINT

Make better use of storage space with these kitchen cabinet organizers. Stop digging around in difficult spaces for what you need. Instead, spin it forward. Make better use of awkward corner cabinets by placing a lazy Susan on each shelf for easier access to condiment bottles, small boxes and jars. Lauren Saltman, professional organizer and owner of Living. Simplified., shares that “each lazy Susan can hold one category of items. One for baking supplies such as sanding sugars and sprinkles, another for tea and coffee.”

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THE FILE FOLDER HACK THAT KEEPS YOUR LINEN CLOSET ORGANIZED + MORE BRILLIANT TIPS

If you’re like us you’ve amassed years worth of beach towels, flat sheets, pillow cases, throws and more. It’s great to have all the extra linens for when you have company or to lighten your weekly laundry load, but, your linen closet is overflowing and you dread opening the door out of fear you many become buried under an avalanche of fitted sheets and duvets. So we asked professional organizers for linen closet organization tips to maximize space, avoid linen pile-ups and ensure you can find any item inside in a flash!

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HOW TO DECLUTTER A FRIDGE - 6 STEPS TO CLEAR OUT YOUR COLD STORAGE

There is a difference between a full fridge and a well-stocked fridge, and it all depends on how you declutter it, experts say. Although decluttering and organizing a fridge may not be at the top of your kitchen decluttering checklist, it is important to have a regular clear-out to avoid wasting food or allowing things to turn bad without your noticing. This is how professional organizers and chefs stay on top of their refrigerators to ensure that everything they keep is essential for their kitchens.

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THE BEST KITCHEN COUNTER ORGANIZATION PRODUCTS TO CUT DOWN ON CLUTTER

A major part of cleaning up is storing items back in their rightful place. However, there is a difference between putting items away and organizing them. Cleaning feels great yet seeing everything organized in a neat and proper manner is a whole other refreshing experience. An organized environment positively affects a person’s mental and emotional state. Moreover, kitchen organization is important as the average American spends over an hour a day in their kitchen. Autumn brings a change in seasons so don’t wait until the New Year to get rid of some things before winter in order to achieve an organized kitchen and healthier mindset. We compiled a list of amazing organization ideas to inspire and jumpstart your kitchen counter organization. We even onboarded some organization professionals to provide insight into their favorite kitchen counter home storage solutions.

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15 CLEVER UNDER-SINK ORGANIZERS TO TAME ANY MESS

The under-sink area is more than likely the least opened cabinet and most neglected space within a kitchen. It’s a dark space that is often made up of plumbing and generally reserved for cleaning supplies. It frequently acts as a mini utility closet where it hosts a plethora of cleaning products and tools for a variety of surfaces and purposes. Moreover, this small and often non-inventoried space has a high chance of being cluttered with new and old products. Scrambling around for the right cleaning item while fighting off a flood of products is not ideal, especially in a cleaning emergency. Fear not for these fun and inspiring under-sink organization ideas are not only time-saving but extremely convenient as well. We even onboarded professional organizers who provided their own under sink organizers to declutter and maximize that space.

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15 SPICE STORAGE IDEAS THAT MAKE SO MUCH SENSE

Kitchen Organization is one of the most challenging parts of keeping a home tidy. Not only is there always one “catch-all” drawer with rubber bands, old take-out menus and ancient condiments, but the kitchen has some of the smallest but most important items to keep cleanly organized. Think about the last time you encountered a chaotic spice cupboard. Buried in the depths was the tarragon only used for the Thanksgiving turkey and the cinnamon label had peeled off which led to this morning’s coffee getting a sprinkle of paprika. Whatever your experience with spice storage, one thing is certain: it’s one of the most important items in the kitchen while also being one of the most difficult to store effectively so that all spices are visible and easy to access. We’ve checked in with organization experts for their best tips for spice storage ideas.

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15 BEST KITCHEN DRAWER ORGANIZERS FOR MESS-FREE SILVERWARE

Just when you think you’ll never find a spatula again, hero products come to rescue your messy kitchen. But with multiple options and some subtle (yet key differences), how do you pick the best kitchen drawer organizer? Ask professional organizers, of course! Designed to bring more functionality to the drawer’s large open space, these organizers create compartments and smaller sections to group similar items together. Plus, dividers prevent items from getting lost or rattling around when opening and closing drawers. Adding kitchen drawer organizers is one of the kitchen organization ideas that makes all the difference.

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HOW TO CONVERT YOUR ATTIC TO LIVING SPACE

Are you looking to add more usable space to your home? Converting your attic is a great way to create a new livable room. With an attic remodel, you can add an extra bedroom to your home, create a new play area for your kids, or simply design a new storage area.

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PRIMPOVERS ARE THE NEW WAY TO REFRESH YOUR HOME WITHOUT SPENDING A DIME

Want to refresh your space—but don’t have the budget (or the desire) for a shopping spree? A primpover might be overdue. The new trend is meant to help you refresh your home affordably by using items you already have in your home. It’s simply a matter of reconfiguring your furniture, swapping a few items, and voila! Your space feels brand new. Curious to know more? Read ahead to learn what exactly primping is, when to start a primpover, and expert tips for how to successfully take one on. 

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15 ORGANIZING PROJECTS THAT WILL MAKE YOU FEEL ACCOMPLISHED IN JUST 10 MINUTES

There are few house projects more intimidating than standing in front of a closet that’s turned into a heap of clothes or staring down a utility closet that might have suitcases hidden somewhere behind wrapping paper, coats, and half-finished DIY projects. The idea of organizing the most disorganized corners of your home can send you into a spiral. But that’s when you should take a deep breath and, instead, tackle a project that will take just minutes to complete and leave you feeling accomplished and productive. Ready to get started? Here are 15 organizing projects that will get your home tidy in just 10 minutes.

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HOW TO STORE BAKING DISHES - 8 WAYS TO KEEP THEM NEAT

Of all the items in your kitchen, baking dishes are arguably one of the trickier things to store. Unless you have a matching set (which most of us don’t, let’s face it) they’re unlikely to nest perfectly, and even if they do, you inevitably need the one right at the bottom come dinner time. The first step towards organizing a kitchen properly is ensuring every item has a designated home. Whether you store them in drawers or cabinets, baking dishes should live in the ‘cooking’ zone – or the ones you use most often should at least, anyway. Once you know where you’re storing them, you can then start thinking about how to store them.

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10 THINGS THE MOST ORGANIZED PEOPLE HAVE IN THEIR ENTRYWAYS, ACCORDING TO ORGANIZATION AND INTERIOR EXPERTS

Entryways require quite a bit of preplanning to ensure they remain organized since by its very nature an entryway has a constant flow of in and outgoing items that can easily become cluttered and disorganized if you have not created some kind of system. The most organized individuals have a carefully curated entryway that balances both functionality and aesthetics by finding entryway storage and organizational options that combine the two. Our experts have shared the key things the most organized people have in their entryways.

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WHAT IS A BUTLER’S PANTRY, AND WHY DO YOU NEED ONE?

Not just a walk-in pantry, a scullery or a wet bar, a butler’s pantry is a transitional space between the dining and kitchen areas of a home that acts as a food-and-drink prep and storage space. And while butlers may be a thing of the past, butler’s pantries are seeing a resurgence—and not just as a luxury kitchen organization tool. These multifunctional rooms might feature countertops in addition to cabinets, a sink, wine storage and more, and they’re attractive kitchen storage additions for many homeowners—especially those who love to cook and entertain.

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ALL THE BEST STORAGE BINS AND BASEKTS WE’VE EVER WRITTEN ABOUT

We hate to be the ones to say it, but you’re going to have to put your swimsuits and sandals away for the season. Plus, the sand toys, beach umbrellas, and all the other summer stuff that’s in a big heap by the door. The whole process of returning to the real world in September can be a crazy-making puzzle, especially when you don’t have loads of closet space or a basement to toss everything into. So this week, we’re sharing home organizational essentials to make the transition a little easier.

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THE 21 VERY BEST JEWELRY ORGANIZERS. PUT YOUR PEARLS IN THEIR PLACE.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my decade of jewelry collecting, it’s that you need some sort of storage solution to avoid scuffed-up gold, shattered stones, tangled chains, and peeling pearls. This becomes even more crucial the more pieces you have, as the potential for damage — and the chance of one-half of a pair going missing — increases. That’s why serious collectors make up their own strategies to separate their holy grails (like a vintage Christian Lacroix cross choker) from everyday essentials (the Mejuris, Missomas, Ana Luisas & Co.). Whichever setup works best for you will largely depend on what you have. Take stock of your jewelry first, and then check out the boxes, trays, and catchalls listed below, which have been recommended to us by jewelry designers, professional organizers, and me, an obsessive collector.

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THE BEST LABEL-MAKERS, ACCORDING TO PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS

We hate to be the ones to say it, but you’re going to have to put your swimsuits and sandals away for the season. Plus the sand toys, beach umbrellas, and all the other summer stuff that’s in a big heap by the door. The whole process of returning to the real world in September can be a crazy-making puzzle, especially when you don’t have loads of closet space or a basement to toss everything into. So this week, we’re sharing home-organization essentials to make the transition a little easier. It’s Straighten Out Your Space Week on the Strategist. For the uninitiated, labels, and the label-makers that print them, may be an afterthought, but for organization pros who understand their usefulness, they’re essential.

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NURSERY STORAGE IDEAS - 9 WAYS TO CREATE A CALM AND CLUTTER-FREE SPACE

For someone so small, a new baby requires an awful lot of stuff. From diapers and clothing to blankets and burp cloths, you’ll need to employ sensible nursery storage ideas for everything, as well as ensure they’re easy to access, both day and night. Getting your nursery ideas picture perfect may feel like the priority, but if it’s a well-organized nursery you’re after, functionality comes first – you can’t afford to overlook sensible storage. That’s not to say you sacrifice on style though; the two actually go hand in hand rather nicely, assuming you know what you’re doing. That’s where we can help. Alongside advice from the experts on the most effective nursery storage ideas, we share top tips and lessons learned from our personal parenting experiences on how to get the most out of your nursery space. 

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6 ITEMS YOU SHOULD NEVER KEEP IN YOUR ATTIC, ACCORDING TO PROS

If your attic has been the main source of storage for all your home items, it may be time to go through it all to sort out what needs to be thrown out or stored elsewhere. Due to seasonal temperatures and unwanted pests, it's crucial to keep any important items out of your attic. Find out what six items home experts say you should never store in your attic.

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6 THE BEST STORAGE SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY PART OF YOUR DORM

While the size of a dorm room varies widely by college (and even within colleges), it’s not unusual for a dorm to measure around 20 feet by 12 feet — with two people sharing that space. In other words, it’s really small. Are you a soon-to-be dorm dweller wondering how to fit all your stuff inside? Here’s your first order of business: Start by learning just how tiny your room is. “Although the temptation to buy organizers before going to school can be strong, I would recommend only buying a few items until you have the measurements of your drawers, the available space under your bed, and what your closet situation will be,” says professional organizer Lauren Saltman of Living. Simplified. “Certainly, there are a few items you can purchase beforehand, but you don’t want to be in a situation where you’ve shipped several items that don’t fit in your given space.”

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6 ITEMS YOU SHOULD NEVER STORE IN YOUR BASEMENT, ACCORDING TO PROS

Basements are a boon for those homeowners lucky enough to have one. They are cooler, expansive, and offer a lot of opportunities for extra living space or storage. However, factors like rising temperatures and humidity levels can often damage your stored goods or even attract unwanted pests. We asked home experts about what items should never be stored in the basement, so you know what to look out for.

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TRY A PRIMPOVER TO UPDATE YOUR HOME WITHOUT SPENDING A PENNY

Did you ever rearrange your bedroom as a kid, just for the fun of it? It’s truly amazing how rearranging some furniture and décor can make a space feel brand new. Little did you know that childhood-you was giving your bedroom a primpover—reimagining the space by using furniture and décor that you already own in new configurations. As adults, it’s easy to convince ourselves that we need to buy new things to make a meaningful update to our space, but we really just need a little bit of creativity. The truth is, you probably already own everything you need to completely redesign your space. Sometimes, all a tired design needs is a little primping to give it a fresh new look.

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HOW TO ORGANIZE A BATHROOM WITH TOO MUCH STUFF

Whether you have a habit of buying lots of products, you share the bathroom with many people, or it’s simply become a super multi-functional room, fear not – there are many bathroom organization ideas that will create a calmer atmosphere. You wouldn’t be alone if your bathroom started off somewhat sparse and suddenly became a catch-all complete with everything from the necessary toothpaste and toothbrush to the not-so-necessary spare bobby pins and more shampoos than you care to think about. It might seem like a daunting task to get started with decluttering and organizing, but take it from us – there is a way!

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HOW TO ORGANIZE A GARAGE WITH TOO MUCH STUFF - ACCORDING TO PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS

The use of a garage can range from home office to gym, DIY space to storage, playroom to studio. With so many potential uses, the garage often ends up housing lots of stuff, much of which ends up being hard to find or simply forgotten about! There’s no reason why sorting this I-can-do-it-all room should become a dreaded task. Keeping the garage organized might seem borderline impossible, but worry not – below includes many ways you can get yours organized and keep it that way. 

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HOW TO DECLUTTER THE HOUSE WHEN YOUR PARTNER IS A HOARDER

Finding the time to declutter your home can be challenging, but if your significant other is contributing to the amount of physical stuff you have in the house the job becomes much more difficult. Hanging onto items that are in the house is a tempting and common thing that a lot of people deal with, however, having this hoarding mentality can quickly get out of hand. This can be more complicated when your partner is the one that is hoarding items and you are not. This has to be approached with a level of sensitivity and understanding, however, there are many decluttering tips that help in this circumstance, including how to decutter your home when feeling overwhelmed.

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8 POSSESSIONS DECLUTTERING PROS SAY YOU’LL REALLY REGRET THROWING AWAY - AND WHAT TO DO INSTEAD

The need for a decluttering session comes gradually and then all at once. Before we get carried away and purge everything we own, experts have some decluttering tips to share. Whether you are moving house, downsizing, or have simply reached a point where kitchen cabinets and closets are overflowing, now is a great opportunity to clear out your possessions. Before you dive in, make a decluttering checklist and take note of these tips from professionals to avoid decluttering regret.

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HOW TO ORGANIZE MAIL - 7 WAYS PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS PRVENT POST FROM PILING UP

From letters and bills to invites, ads and the inevitable ‘junk’, organizing mail can be a time-consuming task, particularly if it requires attention first. Ignoring it sure feels like the easier option, but the problem with post is that it just keeps on coming. Those piles will soon build, and they don’t look pretty – no matter how neatly you stack them. More importantly, you also run the risk of missing something important. The most effective home organizing ideas are those that keep both your home – and your life – in good working order, so when it comes to mail, establishing a sensible sorting system is paramount.

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HOW TO HIDE A LAUNDRY BASKET - 7 FUNCTIONAL HIDING SPOTS SUGGESTED BY DESIGNERS AND ORGANIZERS

Laundry baskets are essential in our homes but they can be bulky or even unsightly, sticking out like a sore thumb in our otherwise meticulously designed bedrooms and bathrooms. But how do you hide a laundry basket? To help keep doing laundry simple and make sure we actually put our clothes in the basket and not on the floor, it is vital to find a practical place to hide our hampers that is also within easy reach. Here, interior designers and home organizers share their thoughts on how to hide a laundry basket without making it a chore to use. 

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HOW TO ORGANIZE KITCHEN APPLIANCES - BOTH ON COUNTERS AND IN CABINETS

A kitchen wouldn’t be a kitchen without a vast array of appliances – both essential and fun – to make great meals. But how do you organize kitchen appliances when your kitchen is already full to bursting? The trick to organizing a kitchen with so many bulky machines is to declutter them first. But once you have worked out what you need to keep and what can go, it is important to find the best place for everything – whether that means putting it in a logical place where you can access it easily, or storing it somewhere safe to prevent accidents. Here, professional home organizers have shared their top seven organizing and decluttering tips for kitchen appliances, so you can create a perfectly pragmatic workspace.

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BABY BOOMERS: 7 BEST WAYS TO DOWNSIZE YOUR HOME IN RETIREMENT

As you approach your retirement years, or even once the kids are out of the house, you might be faced with the choice to downsize your home. Downsizing can be beneficial in many ways. Not only can it simplify your lifestyle, but it can also lead to lower maintenance costs or a cheaper cost of living. On top of that, it can also be a great way to refresh your way of living and set you on the right track for the next stage of your life.

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5 DORM STORAGE HACKS THAT ARE PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER APPROVED

If there's one type of residence that's in dire need of clever storage, it's a dorm. To get the best dorm storage ideas, we reached out for expert opinions and product recommendations. Lauren Saltman, professional organizer and owner of Living. Simplified, did not disappoint. Her first suggestion? Communicate. "When it's time to move into a college dorm, be sure to chat with your new roommate to see what they may want to bring and how you can work together to make a comfortable space," she says.

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HOW TO ORGANIZE YOUR HOME BEFORE GOING ON VACATION - 10 PRE-TRAVEL HOUSEKEEPING TIPS

If it’s a relaxed, stress-free trip you’re after, pre-planning itineraries and pro packing tips aren’t the only things you’ll need to think about; knowing how to organize your home before going on vacation is equally important. Nothing brings you down from a happy holiday quite like returning to a messy, disorganized house, let alone one that’s been broken into, or damaged in some way. All these things are perfectly preventable; just a few simple tasks will ensure everything remains safe, secure and perfectly primed, ready for when you get back. ‘To ensure you get everything done, put together a ‘pre-vacation organization list’ and keep it somewhere easily accessible, such as on your smartphone. It’s also worth having a comprehensive packing list, too – knowing how to fold clothes for packing so they remain neat and wrinkle-free will save you a lot of stress, and free up space in your suitcase, too,' says professional organizer Lauren Saltman, founder of Living. Simplified.  

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HERE’S HOW TO ORGANIZE A SMALL BEDROOM

Here's the truth: our bedrooms are our sanctuaries. It’s where we rest, relax, and (if we can’t sleep) occasionally watch TV on our laptops. Even a small bedroom can function as a place of refuge. But if your bedroom seems cramped or busy, you might be in need of a serious organizing overhaul. By decluttering, concealing, or just finding the right place for your items, you can impart that feeling of relaxation you should be feeling in your cozy space. With these helpful tips from professional organizers, you can transform your small busy space into one that better suits your everyday life. 

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WHERE TO PUT UTENSILS IN A KITCHEN WITHOUT DRAWERS - 10 ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO CONTAIN YOUR CULINARY TOOLS

Working out where to put utensils in a kitchen without drawers can be a bit of a head scratcher, but there are plenty of space-saving solutions you can employ – some you may find more preferable, in fact. Whether you’ve got drawers or not, knowing a few alternatives for storing utensils can actually make for a smoother-running kitchen overall. Not only does it give you more freedom to position them where you need them, it also frees up space for other kitchen items – handy in general, but particularly when organizing a small kitchen. There’s even potential for a bit of kitchen styling, too. With the help of the experts, we’ve compiled a list of the most innovative ideas on where to put utensils in a kitchen without drawers. They might not all suit your kitchen layout, but even incorporating one or two could make all the difference. 

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HOW TO DECLUTTER BOOKS - 10 NOVEL WAYS TO STREAMLINE YOUR COLLECTION

Decluttering books can be an emotional process, one that many of us put off. And that’s fine – if you’re at your happiest when surrounded by piles of books and story-stacked shelves, there’s really no problem. However, if you’d prefer more organized bookshelf ideas, or if you’re decluttering to downsize, it’s probably time to get comfortable with cutting back. ‘Remember, your home isn’t a storage unit. You want the books that you keep to be meaningful to you and your family, to showcase your interests, to know that you can locate a favorite book to reread, or put your hands on a new one to enjoy’, says professional organizer Lauren Saltman, owner of Living. Simplified. 

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6 WAYS YOU ARE WASTING SPACE IN YOUR KITCHEN - AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT

In a busy spot such as the kitchen wasted space is often wasted effort. Many of us are likely guilty of trying to fit more into improperly organized spaces and, as a result, struggle to work seamlessly, often battling against falling baking trays and limited workspace. While we could find ways to make more kitchen storage space, it is often how you organize a kitchen that makes the most difference to how efficient the space is and, more often than not, we are passing up excellent storage opportunities without even realizing it. Here, professional home organizers have highlighted where you could find wasted space in your kitchen, and explain how to fix it to make your workspace more seamless – and even free up a cabinet or two. 

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PROFESSIONAL CLEANERS SAY YOU COULD SAVE A SH*TLOAD OF MONEY WITH ANY OF THESE CLEVER TRICKS

There’s something that makes cleaning and household chores even more annoying to do each week: how expensive it is to keep all of my go-to cleaning products stocked up. It’s even worse when I spend money on viral cleaning tools or try out new sprays, and they don’t actually work.

So, I decided to ask professional cleaners how to save some serious money on my cleaning routines and what things really work. Luckily, they all have a ton of super clever tricks that are guaranteed to save a ton of money — all while keeping a home spotless. 

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10 THINGS PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS URGE YOU TO STOP DOING TO MAKE DECLUTTERING EASIER

When it comes to decluttering your home there are plenty of organizing mistakes to be made, but we often don't stop to think about the bad mental habits we are consistently repeating that make things harder. Whether indulging in negative self-talk or trying to tackle a whole house declutter on our own, there are several decluttering mistakes professional organizers are urging us to put a stop to – both for our mental health and our homes. We have asked professionals for their thoughts on the most detrimental things we need to stop doing when decluttering and organizing, and they offered their tips for making tidying a more positive experience. 

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8 ITEMS YOU SHOULD NEVER STORE IN YOUR ATTIC, ACCORDING TO EXPERTS

Just like a decently spacious basement, an attic can feel like a practically perfect place to store your excess items. They usually provide ample space for everything from seasonal clothes and holiday decorations to family keepsakes and knickknacks. Of course, ensuring everything stays nice and organized can be a significant undertaking in itself. But before you go to stash just anything in your home's upper level, you might want to take a second look at what's going up there.

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CONTRACTORS SAY YOU SHOULD NEVER DO THESE THINGS AROUND YOUR HOME - & HERE’S WHAT TO DO INSTEAD

Keeping a home feeling clean and comfortable is no easy task; luckily you don’t need to hire professionals and spend big bucks to avoid making the major mistakes that make your home worse — or correct them. For this list, I’ve pulled together advice from a variety of contractors including professional organizers, plumbers, HVAC technicians, realtors, and more. Scroll on for all the mistakes you’ll want to avoid and what professionals recommend you do instead to update and declutter every room in the house.

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THE 13 BEST STORAGE BASKETS OF 2023

Here's the truth: Even the most organized people have trouble keeping the clutter in their homes to a minimum, but the right storage basket is a super easy answer to help you establish a little bit of order by giving your goods a home. Think baskets dedicated to large blankets and pillows, baskets for little toiletries, or even fabric baskets for your cute folded sweaters.

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WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR KIDS DON’T WANT YOUR HEIRLOOMS

Whether they’re downsizing or just decluttering, many people hoping to pass treasured items on are discovering that members of the next generation aren’t willing recipients. Discovering your kids don’t want your heirlooms can be disappointing. However, before you let hurt feelings get the best of you, here’s some expert advice for overcoming disappointment and maybe even turning these uncomfortable situations around.

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HOW TO ORGANIZE A BATHROOM WITH NO STORAGE - 4 FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS FOR SUCCESS

A lack of built-in storage space in the bathroom is all too common, but there are lots of flexible options out there to contain our toiletries and towels – even when it initially feels like there's nowhere to put anything. Organizing a bathroom that doesn't have any drawers, shelves or cabinets is doable, it just requires more savvy solutions and a little discipline. Some good bathroom organizers will be your best friend, and keeping backup products elsewhere is also a must. Here's how to get around the issue of zero bathroom storage.

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HOW TO ORGANIZE A CLOSET WITHOUT HANGERS - 8 EXPERT TIPS TO MAKE USE OF AWKWARD SPACE

Clothes hangers are usually considered an essential closet item, but if you don't have enough of them, or simply don't have any hanging space, it can be tricky to keep things organized. The good news is that professional organizers have been faced with these challenges before – and know exactly what to do when organizing a closet without hangers. Here, they offer their best tips, including how to make the most of the vertical space. 

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HOW TO ORGANIZE YOUR HOME WITHOUT SPENDING ANY MONEY - 8 PRO TIPS

The whole point of organizing is to make life easier, and it certainly doesn't mean parting with a load of money. In fact, one of the most common home organizing mistakes we make is getting carried away with too many containers or baskets that don't actually fit our pantry shelves or bathroom cabinet drawers, leading to wasted space and headaches. 

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THE CLUTTERBUG PHILOSOPHY - FIND OUT WHICH ORGANIZING STYLE BEST SUITS YOUR TIDYING HABITS

A lot of current decluttering trends and systems work on the idea that we need to get rid of a vast majority of our things in order to have a peaceful home. If you struggle to reduce clutter in your home because of this, then it may be that you are a so-called ‘ClutterBug’. But what is a ClutterBug? The ClutterBug Philosophy is a system that breaks clutter-lovers into four categories or organizing styles which then helps to design the perfect home organizing system for their lifestyle.

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SMALL LIVING ROOM DECLUTTERING CHECKLIST - ITEMS TO CLEAR UP NOW TO FREE UP SPACE

Small living rooms can become drop zones of their own, attracting phone chargers, coats, abandoned socks, and all kinds of other day-to-day paraphernalia. And when we're trying to tidy this petite but multifunctional space and can't find anywhere to put things away, we enter a vicious cycle. Everything needs to earn its place in a small living room, and below are things we think you can get rid of without a moment's thought.

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THE 9 BEST SPORTS EQUIPMENT ORGANIZERS

Footballs, baseball bats, golf clubs, and yoga mats can easily become unorganized when you go to grab one thing from your ever-growing sports collection. Reach for that dusty tennis racket and everything else can come toppling down into one big mess! We know all too well that sports equipment can sometimes include some of the trickiest items to organize in the garage or closet, thanks to so many differently sized and awkwardly shaped pieces (hello bowling ball and volleyball net!).

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10 SIGNS YOUR KITCHEN ORGANIZING SYSTEM ISN’T WORKING - AND WHAT TO DO INSTEAD

We have all heard of organizing systems by now, but just because you have one doesn't mean that it works. In fact, many organizational systems don't work for every household, especially in a busy space like the kitchen. But what are the signs your kitchen organizing system isn't working? Professional home organizers say there are some clear indicators that the system you have in place is not the best for your family. Here, they break down how to spot a failing home organizing system, and what you can do to rectify it.  

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THE 19 VERY BEST DRAWER ORGANIZERS

Dealing with out-of-control drawers is one of the tasks that most of us look forward to the least. Opening a drawer can be like going down a rabbit hole. Clutter takes over when you’re not looking — and suddenly you’re staring down a gaggle of kitchen gadgets you hardly ever use, a snarl of mismatched socks, or a weird mix of batteries, buttons, and other bits and bobs. Getting a drawer organizer is an easy fix, whether you already have a system in mind or are reluctant to throw out years-old receipts. To help you find the best options for your own space, I asked professional declutterers about the drawer organizers and dividers they rely on.

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37 BOOK ORGANIZATION IDEAS: THE ULTIMATE EXPER GUIDE

If you’re like most people, chances are you have accumulated many books over the years. But what do you do with all of them? How do you keep them organized and easy to find when you want to reread or recommend them to a friend? The task can seem daunting, but with a few creative and practical ideas, you can turn your cluttered bookshelves and scattered stacks into stylish, organized displays. Whether you live in an apartment in Boston, a house in Bend, OR, or anywhere in between, read on to learn how to organize your books.

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12 ITEMS YOU SHOULD NEVER STORE ON A WINDOWSILL - ACCORDING TO PRO ORGANIZERS

When organizing and decorating your home, a windowsill may seem to be a smart use of space, but, in reality, they can quickly look cluttered, and there are several things that should never be stored on them because they should not be exposed to heat, cold, damp or sunlight. Although it can be tempting to use every home organizing idea you can think of, especially when organizing small spaces where windowsills provide a handy extra surface, many common household products require specialized storage, otherwise, they can quickly be damaged. Even in a small space, some strategic decluttering will free up room in your home so that you can relocate items from your windowsill that shouldn't be there.

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THIS IS HOW YOU *REALLY* NEED TO ORGANIZE YOUR PANTRY, ACCORDING TO ORGANIZATION EXPERTS

All it takes is watching a couple episodes of The Home Edit for you to want to completely declutter your house and rainbowify every single room. And for most parents, their pain point is the pantry, where bags of half-eaten chips and cookies seem to add to the clutter. But if you want to be able to see how much cereal you really have, you’re going to need to know how to organize your pantry. Although everyone has that one closet that they pray no guest ever goes into, it seems that the pantry also poses a problem, too. Here’s how you really need to organize your pantry so that can make a meal in no time (and have instant access to those snacks that you love).

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ORGANIZATION TIPS FOR FAMILIES - PART II

Every family can benefit from organizing. In this post I’ll share organization tips for families at every stage, from families with infants to empty-nesters like us. And from personal experience, it’s best to de-clutter and organize at every stage! We have a walk-up attic which made it far too easy to stash bins up there to deal with ‘later.’ You guessed it, big mistake. We’re still sifting through some of those bins! I’ve learned that time spent organizing, as discussed in Part I of this series, can actually save time and money and improve your mood.

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'YOUR HOUSE IS NOT A MUSEUM’ - HOW TO DECLUTTER SENTIMENTAL ITEMS WHEN IT FEELS HARD

From separating the item from the memory to flexing your decluttering muscles, experts share their secrets on how to clear out those items that are particularly hard to part with. There's no doubt about it, sentimental items are the hardest to declutter. When we do let go of heirlooms we never really liked and children's 'artwork,' it feels liberating – and it frees up valuable space for things you actually use.

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10 PERFECT WAYS TO STORE PURSES, ACCORDING TO PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS

A plentiful purse collection is the pride and joy of many of our closets, but trying to store all these bags in one spot can be difficult, and leaving them cramped at the back of our closet. So how can we organize our purses while keeping them the center of attention? There are plenty of home organizing ideas to make your purse collection stand out as a focal point of your clothes collection, whether you have an expansive walk-in closet or a smaller storage solution, hundreds of purses, or the odd few special additions. Here are 10 perfect purse-organizing tips professionals use in all their clients' homes for you to copy in your own space.

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PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS SAY YOU CAN DECLUTTER SO MUCH CRAP WITH ANY OF THESE GENIUS TRICKS

If your home constantly feels like a disorganized mess, you’ve come to the right place. We asked professional organizers and declutterers to give us their top tips and tricks for organizing the crap around your house and, lucky for you, we’re sharing the scoop. Whether you’re a self-proclaimed Monica Geller or you’ve never dreamed of owning a label maker (yet!), these genius tricks will help you declutter, clean, and organize your home in no time.

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5 ITEMS NOT TO STORE UNDER THE KITCHEN SINK, ACCORDING TO EXPERTS

While the cabinet under the sink offers seriously valuable storage space, it's not the best home for a few key household items. If you're currently organizing under the sink, bear in mind that potential leaks can cause mold and mildew. Plus, it's somewhere little ones can easily reach, so when organizing a kitchen it's important to store any laundry or household products up and out of the way.  We spoke to home organizing professionals to find out what not to store under the kitchen sink for a well-organized and safe heart of the home.

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EXPERTS SAY YOUR HOME WOULD BE A LOT LESS GROSS IF YOU TRIED ANY OF THESE GENIUS TRICKS

If it feels like you spend all your time cleaning up, trying to find time to clean up, and wishing you had cleaned up because people are on the way to visit, changes to your space can reap great rewards. A dwelling that relies solely on human energy — rather than clever systems — to stay clean is a challenge to manage. Fortunately, there are hacks, tricks, and organizers that help keep your place looking presentable even when you have absolutely no time to dust or vacuum. To get the best of these ideas, we consulted the pros.

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THE BENEFITS OF ORGANIZING FOR FAMILIES - PART 1

What if you could start one new habit this year that saved time, money, and even improved your mood? Would you do it? Yes? I thought so. The habit I’m speaking about is organizing! While not the most glamorous, this practice can change your life in the best ways possible. This two-part series will cover the benefits of organization and include some terrific tips for families at every age and stage.

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THE 15 VERY BEST STORAGE BINS

In the home-organization hierarchy, storage bins fall somewhere in the middle. They’re below shoe racks, the crown jewel of closets, but above desk-drawer dividers, which are really only glorified catchalls. Most frequently found beneath a bed or in a basement, they typically hold things we don’t need often or want out of sight. I say this lovingly as the writer charged with the Strategist storage-solutions coverage: They’re usually nondescript and even forgettable (though the market has plenty of decidedly design-y alternatives nowadays). As any professional organizer will tell you, that’s what makes them sort of an unsung hero.

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5 OF THE BEST HOME ORGANIZING APPS, ACCORDING TO EXPERTS

Whether you’re looking to declutter a closet or do a whole room overhaul, organizing around the home can feel like a mammoth task. Thankfully, there are a number of home organization apps that can help make the job easier. “The key to benefiting from using home organization apps is to commit to regularly updating them,” says Lauren Saltman, professional organizer and owner of Living. Simplified. in Newfields, NH.

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8 BEST UNDER-CABINET SPICE RACKS IN 2023: REVIEWS & BUYING GUIDE

Although they are a great way to store and organize your spices and condiments, spice racks can clutter your countertops or take up a lot of space in your cabinets. However, using one that can help you utilize the unused area under your kitchen cabinets is a great way to maximize space while keeping your spices tidy and easily accessible.

Whether you are looking for a stylish pedestal for your spice collection or a simple holder for your frequently used flavorings, this list of the best under-cabinet spice racks will provide you with excellent options. Continue reading and find the perfect storage solution for your spices.

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WHAT IS CLUTTER AND WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT IT?

Books, toys, tools. Clutter builds up in no time. What is clutter, and why is it important to reduce it? Everyone deals with clutter. Even extremely organized people declutter periodically. That’s probably why they’re so organized. And maybe they know clutter doesn’t just make a home look messy; it negatively effects on our mental health. “Clutter can have a negative effect on your emotional wellbeing,” says Lauren Saltman, a professional organizer and owner of Living. Simplified. “Looking around your home should give you a sense of peace, knowing that everything you own in your home is useful to you and your family.”

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HOW TO STORE HOLIDAY DÉCOR, ACCORDING TO PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS

Once all the gifts are unwrapped and the eggnog is gone, then comes the dreaded holiday cleanup. It can be one of the most tedious parts of the holiday season. So having the right storage strategy is a must. Sometimes, the standard storage bin isn’t enough — you don’t want your heirloom needlepoint stocking to end up snagged by a rogue ornament hook. To help you tackle the task of putting away your holiday décor, we asked a number of professional organizers for their recommendations for storing everything from fragile ornaments to cumbersome front-door wreaths.

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6 WAYS TO MAKE ROOM IN YOUR PANTRY FOR ALL OF THOSE HOLIDAY GOODIES

One of the best things about the holidays? All the delicious goodies. One of the hardest parts about the holidays? Finding space in your pantry for all those holiday goodies. The good news is that you don’t have to completely overhaul your pantry organization. Instead, focus on high-impact organizing tweaks that create just enough room for everything you need and everything you want.

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THE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF A CLEAN HOME

“Cleaning your room is good for your health,” might sound like something your parents may have told you to get you to tidy up your toys as a kid, but turns out, there’s some truth to it. Our environment plays an important role in our mental wellness, and keeping a clean home, whether that’s your bedroom, apartment or house, has a variety of benefits you won’t want to ignore. Learn about these benefits below, along with expert tips for cleaning your home and keeping it tidy.

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8 CHRISTMAS STORAGE TIPS, ACCORDING TO THE INTERNET

As you’re ready to deck the halls and pull out all the rest of your holiday décor, take a look at your current Christmas storage. Are the twinkle lights all tangled up? Ornaments rolling around in disarray? And where did you put that tree topper in the first place? This year, vow to put everything away in order—your future self will appreciate the effort you put forth while you packed it all away. AD rounded up the best Christmas storage internet hacks and tapped ingenious influencers so you can start the New Year in order and prevent chaos next holiday season.

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THE 9 BEST OVER-THE-TOILET STORAGE UNITS OF 2022

Bathroom storage is essential, but can often be extremely scarce. No matter how cramped or large your bathroom is, there are tons of organizational solutions to make the space feel clutter-free and functional, though—right down to the last backup roll of toilet paper or container of cotton balls. We checked in with Lauren Saltman, professional organizer and owner of Living. Simplified, to find out more about using over-the-toilet shelving and storage units (known as an étagère) to maximize all the vertical wall space in your home, while adding extra storage.

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10 THINGS IN YOUR KITCHEN YOU SHOULD THROW AWAY

You don't have to wait until spring to declutter and maximize your kitchen space. The kitchen is the heart of every home. You spend so much time there you may have tucked away more items in your kitchen than you think. You don't have to wait until spring to declutter! We've talked to organizational experts and compiled a list of 10 things you can say goodbye to right away.

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18 THINGS EVERY STUDENT NEEDS TO PACK FOR COLLEGE

While I admit I got a little obsessive helping my son shop for his first dorm room this year—I joined a Facebook parents group, forwarded him YouTube tours of his school’s dorm rooms and hit up friends with college-age kids for tips—experts say a well-appointed room contributes to a strong start in college.

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SIMPLE ATTIC STORAGE SOLUTIONS TO TRANSFORM YOUR ORGANIZATION

High school yearbooks, out-of-season clothes and your grandfather’s old tools all share something in common — they’re in your attic, but you’re not quite sure where. While an attic is a great place to store odds and ends, it’s a helpless mess if it’s not organized. Instead of coming down with a fishing pole after searching for a Christmas wreath, consider these 7 attic storage solutions to get rid of clutter and chaos.

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THE 9 VERY BEST LAUNDRY HAMPERS AND BASKETS

Having a successful laundry day comes down to the tools you use. And it’s your hamper that’s the real workhorse, separating the dirty from the clean. To make doing laundry less of a chore, the right hamper should hold loads — a superior solution to a “clothes chair” — while still being easy enough to carry (especially if you don’t have an in-house washer-and-dryer combo). We asked ten experts — including professional organizers and cleaners — to share their favorites.

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THESE 10 SMALL BUT IMPACTFUL STEPS WILL MAKE YOU LESS WASTEFUL WHEN MOVING

Moving feels so wasteful, doesn’t it? All that extra plastic and cardboard tends to get thrown into the trash, where it goes on to pollute the environment. If you want to be more mindful of how you move — and more sustainable overall — follow these 10 tips from sustainability and moving experts.

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ORGANIZING UNDER A BATHROOM SINK - 10 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR SPACE ORDERED

Organizing under a bathroom sink offers up great storage for all manner of essentials, from cosmetics and toiletries to medicines and cleaning products. While this is great, it does mean it can easily descend into a dumping ground if not organized properly.

When organizing a bathroom, particularly one with limited bathroom storage space, it can be tempting to pack under-sink space full. However, with so many different items to house, taking a minimal and orderly approach is the best way to maximize its usefulness.

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HOW TO PACK FOR A MOVE

You’ve found a new house, and now it’s time to pack. Don’t panic as you look around at all the stuff you’ve acquired since you last moved. Packing can actually be a good time to clean, declutter and simplify your life.

We talked to some industry experts to get some tips on how to make packing as stress-free and simple as possible.

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5 CLOSET ORGANIZATION TIPS THE PROS ALWAYS USE

Closets are a bit of a blessing and a curse — they hide all of our stuff out of sight, but when we need something from inside the closet, it can be hard to find if the closet isn’t organized. If your closet or storage space is always a mess, it may be time to add “Organize the closet” to your spring cleaning to-do list.

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