Blog : Life Uncluttered Custom Closets and Organizers

Metal vs. Wood: Choosing the Right Garage Cabinet Material

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 21:33:40 GMT

The right material for garage cabinets can take your garage far, affecting appeal, appearance, and longevity. While two of the most common materials are wood and metal, you have to weigh various factors carefully to choose the ideal option. For instance, you should consider your personal needs, budget, functionality, aesthetics, and durability.

Since cabinets for the garage are so valuable in organizing equipment, tools, and other items, you want to choose the ideal material. Wood and metal both have distinct characteristics that suit different types of needs and garages, so which is the right one for you?

Here’s information to help you choose the ideal custom garage cabinet material:

Key differences between metal and wood garage cabinets
Pros and cons of metal garage cabinets
Pros and cons of wood garage cabinets
Choosing the right material based on garage needs
Durability and maintenance comparison

In this post, we’ll teach you the differences between metal and wood for garage cabinets, so you can make an informed decision you don’t regret. Stay tuned!

Key Differences Between Metal and Wood Garage Cabinets

First, let’s investigate the disparities between wood and metal cabinets, as these differences impact the appearance and functionality of your garage.

Material Composition: Metal cabinets are usually made of aluminum or steel, both presenting a sleek, strong finish. Steel is the heavier of the two materials. Wood cabinets are of varying weights and quality depending on the type of wood used, whether MDF, hardwood, plywood, or a combination.
Durability: Wood offers a lot of customization options and warmth; however, it’s more vulnerable to pest damage, warping, and moisture. Between the two, metal is more durable, withstanding damage from regular usage, pests, and moisture. Plus, stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, notes steel hydration solution manufacturer Murdock Manufacturing .
Appearance: The sleek, modern look of metal provides garages with a clean, industrial aesthetic. Oppositely, the warmth and naturalness of wood makes any space feel inviting. Additionally, you can paint or stain wood to match your tastes and design preferences.

Pros and Cons of Metal Garage Cabinets

Let’s delve deeper into metal as a custom garage cabinet material choice with this list of pros and cons.

Pros

Security: Metal cabinets offer optimal security, as some include lockable doors to provide peace of mind when storing valuables.
Space Savings: The modular, stackable design configurations available at your fingertips are geared toward freeing up floor space. Similarly, you can select wall-mounted models.
Low Maintenance: Metal cabinets clean easily and require little maintenance in between, saving you time.
Durability: The durability of metal cabinets is quite renowned, as this material can withstand pests, heavy-duty wear, and moisture.

Cons

Weight: Although they’re durable, the weight of metal cabinets can be a lot, especially when they’re fully loaded.
Cost: You’ll need a bigger budget if you decide on metal cabinets for your garage, especially the high-quality options. They tend to cost a lot more than wood.
Aesthetic Limitations: If you gravitate more toward cozy or traditional designs, you might find that metal leaves you wanting.
Prone to Scratches and Dents: Lastly, metal is not impervious to all damage. Your cabinets can succumb to damage from dents and scratches, especially in high-traffic areas.

Pros and Cons of Wood Garage Cabinets

Since we dissected the virtues of metal cabinets, it’s only fair to compare wood garage cabinets in much the same fashion.

Pros

Aesthetic Appeal: The appeal of wood is undeniable. It’s a classic material for a reason, and with the option to incorporate various designs, finishes, and stains, you can make your wood cabinets look like whatever your heart desires.
Versatility: Wood is easily modifiable, and it can also adapt to specific needs, especially if you opt for a customized layout. That versatility is quite appealing to homeowners.
Strength: High-quality wood cabinets can support more weight than you think. Look into plywood and/or hardwood construction for the greatest durability and thus weight-bearing capacity.
Customizability: Yes, it’s worth mentioning again how wood is customizable to the nth degree, allowing you to get a garage cabinet that’s configured to any space configuration or specification.

Cons

Susceptibility to Damage: Wood is not a perfect material, though. It’s vulnerable to moisture, which can cause massive damage, including decay, warping, and swelling.
Maintenance: You’ll have to be ready to set time aside to maintain wooden cabinets, as they require more upkeep than metal. Water and humidity exposure especially demands more care.
Cost: While wood cabinets are available at a variety of price points, the highest-quality cabinets are costly, and that’s before considering custom-built units.
Pest Risk: Pests, like termites, like your wood cabinets as much as you do. If they gain entry into your garage and you fail to treat the cabinets, termites and other pests can destroy the wood.

Choosing the Right Material Based on Garage Needs

So, now that you know the virtues of metal and wood garage cabinets, how do you choose the ideal material for you? Let’s investigate some considerations to bear in mind as you narrow your options.

Heavy-Duty Use (Tools, Equipment)

What kinds of items do you plan to store in your custom cabinets? If they’re heavy, such as equipment and tools, you should choose metal. This cabinet material is less likely to suffer from wear and tear, and its durability means you won’t see damage.

Climate and Humidity Considerations

The higher the moisture levels and humidity in your garage, the more you should shy away from wood cabinets. Metal has much better water resistance, so you won’t have to worry about warping, swelling, or buckling.

Aesthetic Preferences

You know your tastes best, so which kind of aesthetic you crave for your garage will vary. If you want something homey that naturally blends in with your décor, wood is the preferred option due to its customization options.

Budget Considerations

Lastly, you’ve got to consider your budget. Wood is sometimes the more cost-effective choice, especially if you don’t customize your cabinets and select prefabricated designs. However, you may still end up spending more money than you bargained for when you factor in the long-term maintenance costs.

Durability and Maintenance Comparison

Maintenance and durability are two cornerstones of your decision-making surrounding the ideal garage cabinet material for your home. Beginning with metal, it’s a low-maintenance choice that lasts for many years. The minimal upkeep in the interim and easy cleaning make this material perfect for those who like fast maintenance in the garage.

Wood cabinets usually require more care, including regular treatments or sealing to keep out moisture and mitigate damage. You may also need to touch up or refinish the paint or seal over time.

Conclusion

Metal and wood are advantageous garage cabinet materials. Making the right choice for you requires weighing your needs, budget, and preferences. Both materials have their place in garage storage, with some better for specific scenarios than others. As you make up your mind, remember to consider factors, like maintenance, space, and climate!

Source

https://www.murdockmfg.com/benefits-of-stainless-steel

Custom Garage Storage Solutions: Looking at the Cost Factors

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 14:21:13 GMT

Customizing garage storage systems means easier, more efficient options for keeping household items, equipment, tools, and everything in between. However, while custom solutions are highly beneficial, they are also available at different price points depending on various factors. What are they?

The factors that affect the cost of garage storage systems are:

Type of storage solution
Materials and finishes
Customization and design complexity
Size and scope of the project
Additional features and accessories

That was a lot, but worry not. This post will break down all the key cost factors impacting garage storage, so you can make an informed decision.

Type of Storage Solution

Garage storage runs the gamut, especially once you delve into customized options. Just some of what you can select from is overhead storage, wall-mounted systems, shelving units, and cabinets. Each form of storage serves unique purposes, which means its price points differ from one to the other.

The complexity of some products influence their price, such as is the case with built-in cabinets. These are often more expensive than wall-mounted shelving because they require more in-depth installation.

Combination systems that incorporate slatwall, shelving, and cabinets cost more, although they offer the highest level of utility and customization.

When weighing what you should spend on custom garage storage, consider your storage needs first and foremost. Then, whittle down your choices according to your budget. Even smaller combination systems can still be efficient in many applications, as can standalone storage.

Materials and Finishes

The next factor impacting the cost of custom garage storage systems is the finish and material. Let’s start by discussing materials first. Options, such as laminate, metal, and wood, might have different levels of appeal, but their prices also vary. High-quality wood costs more than the basic stuff, and it also lasts longer. Metal is another costly material.

Various finishes for garage storage, such as cabinets, include custom painting, veneer, and powder-coated metal. Each finish has its advantages, such as moisture resistance, but all ultimately improve the storage system’s resilience and longevity.

Besides, embracing durable materials and premium materials saves you in the long run, even if it’s more costly upfront. Your storage solutions will last longer, giving you more time to appreciate their looks.

Customization and Design Complexity

Complexity and customization are two words synonymous with higher costs. There’s just no way around it. Custom features, like pull-out drawers, specialized storage compartments, and adjustable shelving, all contribute to your overall project costs.

And what of design complexity? More intricate designs that require specific configurations (such as for sports equipment or tools) and multiple compartments have higher price tags. Simplifying your design can help you control costs.

Ultimately, it’s your job as you build your budget to strike the right balance between storage requirements and customization needs. Although they’re an investment, you should still choose your customizations carefully to ensure you stay within your set price limit.

Size and Scope of the Project

The scope and size of your project can also drive up costs. That’s the case with an extensive storage system that has the capacity for items, like seasonal decorations, outdoor equipment, and tools. According to The Home Depot , the larger and more complex your garage storage system, the greater these costs will be.

On the other hand, smaller, more compact storage systems will be more cost-efficient. That said, this doesn’t immediately mean you should jump to the least expensive option. You have to consider your garage size and how much storage you need.

If you only require storage for a single section of the garage, you can keep project costs down, even with a bigger storage system, than if you require an integrated system that spans the entire garage.

Additional Features and Accessories

Lastly, the add-ons you request for your custom garage storage system can also make for a pricier bill. Add-ons from tool organizers to workbenches and integrated lighting make your storage systems convenient and enjoyable to use, as do hooks, pegboards, and locking cabinets.

However, that efficiency comes at a price. Your bill will initially be higher, although you’ll have better utility and a more organized home. Therefore, rather than foregoing any add-ons, be strategic about which you select according to your budget and needs.

Conclusion

Custom garage storage systems have many key cost factors associated with them, everything from add-ons to customization, project size, materials, finishes, and features. You must bear these factors in mind as you plan your project, then evaluate your needs and budget as you decide on a custom solution.

Source

https://www.homedepot.com/services/c/cost-install-garage-storage/1a3dd87db#:~:text=Depending%20on%20your%20needs%2C%20the,more%20than%20smaller%2C%20simpler%20setups

Custom Kids’ Closets vs Premade: Which One is Child-Friendly?

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 20:21:57 GMT

Let's be honest—keeping kids' rooms organized can feel like a never-ending battle. As a closet designer, I’ve talked with many parents, and they often mention the same issue – toys, clothes, books, and the other treasures of childhood seem to multiply overnight. Children take years to learn how to keep all of these belongings organized. What to do in the meantime? One solution to this chaos is a well-organized kids’ closet . But should you go for a custom-designed closet or opt for a premade one?

Let's dive into the world of kids' closets and explore which option might be the best fit for your family. In this article, we’ll talk about:

What you need to know about kids’ closets in general
The differences between custom and premade children’s closets
The child-friendly features of both types of closets
Some long-term considerations to keep in mind

At Life Uncluttered, we know how to create spaces that work for real families. With years of experience in designing custom storage solutions, we can help you transform your child's closet into a functional and fun space.

We’re going to talk about some ideas to think about when choosing the right type of closet for your child. Keep reading to find out why a custom kids’ closet might be the way to go.

Overview of Custom Kids’ Closets

Custom kids' closets are tailored to fit your space perfectly. It doesn’t matter if your closet is a standard size or if it has unusual features; everything is built to order, so there’s tons of flexibility in terms of working around the space you have available.

We work with you to design the closet that will meet your child's unique needs. We include adjustable shelves that can be moved higher as your child grows, hanging rods at the perfect height for little arms to reach, and personalized storage solutions that make organizing fun and easy.

Custom closets are all about flexibility and personalization. You can choose the finishes, colors, and accessories that match your child's personality, and we build a safe and sturdy closet system that will last. Because they're built with longevity in mind, your closet can grow with your child – adapting to their changing needs over the years. Picture built-in drawers for tiny socks now and school supplies later. We can even add an integrated desk for homework sessions.

Overview of Premade Kids’ Closets

On the flip side, premade kids' closets are the off-the-rack options. They come from your local home improvement store ready to install, usually at a lower cost and available the day you go in. These closets usually include a basic set of shelves, hanging rods, and maybe a few drawers or bins. They're a quick and budget-friendly solution that can help you get things organized in a pinch.

Premade closets have their limitations, though. They might not fit your space as perfectly as a custom closet would, which can lead to gaps or buckling. This is particularly important if you have a closet that’s narrower than average or if you have a sloped ceiling or other architectural features. While some premade options come in fun colors or themes, you won’t have as many choices as you would with a custom option.

Comparing Custom and Premade Closets

Let's break down the key differences between custom and premade closets to see how they stack up against each other:

Customization and Fit: Custom closets are made to fit your space, so every inch is maximized. Premade closets, while more convenient, might leave gaps or unused areas, especially in oddly shaped rooms. Custom closets are also installed by professionals, who are able to make sure every component fits perfectly, while you’d most likely be installing a premade option on your own.
Personalization: With a custom closet, you can choose every detail – from the materials and finishes to the layout and accessories. This means you can create a closet that truly reflects your child's tastes and needs. If your little one does better with cubbies and hooks than with hanging rods, for example, we can make that happen. Premade closets offer fewer choices, which might not always align with what your child wants or needs.
Durability and Quality: Custom closets are typically made from high-quality materials and built right in your closet space – making them more durable and long-lasting. Premade closets are generally more affordable but might not stand up to the wear and tear of a child’s daily use.
Long-Term Value: While custom closets come with a higher upfront cost, they offer more long-term value. As your child grows, you can reconfigure the closet to meet their new size, abilities, interests, and needs. Premade closets, while less expensive initially, may require replacement or upgrades over time. If you plan to sell your home, custom kids’ closets will tend to raise the value of your property, while premade closets probably won’t have any impact.

Child-Friendly Features of Custom Kids’ Closets

Custom closets shine when it comes to child-friendly features. First, you can design them with accessibility in mind. Lower hanging rods and adjustable shelves mean kids can easily reach their clothes and toys, which allows them to be more independent. Safety features, like soft-close drawers and rounded edges, help prevent accidents. We can even add built-in lighting, which will make everything brighter, more visible, and more appealing to your child.

Personalization is another big win for custom closets. Whether it's incorporating your child's favorite colors or adding themed decor, a custom closet can be a space that your child loves and feels inspired to keep tidy. Let's not forget about the fun factor—when the closet appeals to kids and has plenty of space for their little treasures, it will bring a lot of appeal. We can even add secret compartments or a section to display stuffed animals or trophies.

Child-Friendly Features of Premade Closets

Premade closets also have their benefits when it comes to kid-friendly designs. Many come with standard safety features, like anti-tip hardware and smooth edges. Nationwide Children’s Hospital outlines some of the basic safety features that you should consider when buying any furniture for your little ones. You will also likely be able to find some fun colors and kid-friendly themes.

However, the level of customization is limited. You might find a premade closet that fits your basic needs, but if you're looking for specific features or a design that evolves with your child, you might find yourself wanting more. Adding aftermarket products can help enhance functionality and safety, but it often doesn't compare to the seamless integration of a custom design. Every time you add accessories to a premade closet throughout the years, it also comes at an additional cost.

Long-Term Considerations

Thinking long-term is important when choosing a closet. After all, your child will be growing into an adult over the next decade or two, and they’ll still need to use the same closet. Custom closets are built to last and adapt. As your child grows, you can adjust the components to meet them where they are. For example, you can move the shelves higher or add additional storage for school supplies and sports gear. The investment in a custom closet pays off with its durability and flexibility.

Premade closets, while initially more affordable, might not offer the same longevity. Many are built from less sturdy materials, such as wire, and they won’t tend to stand up to heavy use the way sturdier customized systems would.

Also, premade closets can be great for the early years but might require quite a few modifications or replacements as your child grows. This can lead to additional costs and the hassle of finding new solutions that fit your child’s ever-changing needs.

Conclusion

So what's the verdict? When it comes to creating a child-friendly closet, custom options offer unmatched personalization, durability, and long-term adaptability. Premade closets, while budget-friendly and convenient, may fall short in terms of customization and longevity. Ultimately the choice will depend on your priorities and budget. Partnering with us can help you create a functional and appealing custom kids’ closet if you choose to go that route. Call today to schedule your free consultation!

Source

https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/700childrens/2016/03/furniture-tip-overs-tips-to-keep-your-kids-safe

Efficient Custom Closet Accessories for Limited Spaces

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 14:55:56 GMT

Getting your custom closet system organized perfectly sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? What if you have limited space, though? Can you enjoy a well-appointed, streamlined closet that holds all of your belongings? I have worked with countless clients who had the same question, and the answer is a resounding yes! I am chock-full of tips to help you maximize the space available in your custom closet.

Some of the best ways to make the most of the space in a smaller closet include:

Over-the-door organizers
Shelf dividers and bins
Pull-out drawers and trays
Hanging accessories
Lighting solutions
Customized closet systems

At Life Uncluttered, we are the closet organization experts in the Kansas City area. With over 20 years of experience, we work with local homeowners to transform their storage spaces. Our goals are to help you save time and money with our high-quality, affordable custom closets and storage systems. I encourage you to get in touch with us to schedule a free design consultation.

In this article, I’ll be talking about using custom closet accessories that are perfect for smaller spaces or when space is limited. Keep reading to learn about some of the various organizers you might decide are right for your closet system.

Over-the-Door Organizers

Over-the-door organizers are a clever solution to the too-small closet issue. They don’t take up any room on the surfaces of your closet, and they come in a wide variety of styles, so you can use them to arrange your shoes, purses, jewelry, and other small items. Some have hooks, some have compartments, and some even have shelves or baskets. Many are adjustable, too – giving you the ultimate in versatility.

Benefits of over-the-door organizers

Maximizes vertical space: In general, the space behind your closet door is often overlooked and under used, so making use of it will add to your storage space while keeping shelves, drawers, and the floor reserved for other items.
Improves visibility and accessibility: You’ll be able to see and reach your items when they’re hanging on the door. Also, if you’re moving items from a disorganized or crowded part of your closet onto the door, you’ll be making the rest of the space more accessible.
Easy installation and removal: Most of these don’t require any specialized tools or permanent fixtures. They can be appropriate for renters or for those who are planning to move soon.

Tips for implementation:

Plan what to store on your door: Before buying an organizer, think about what kind you need to accommodate the specific items you’ll be hanging. For example, if you have too many shoes to fit in your closet, you might choose a shoe organizer to hang over the door.
Measure your door: Make sure you know the dimensions of the door as well as the free space in the closet, so you can be sure that your door will still close completely with the organizer attached.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: If you’re doing this yourself, be sure to read the instructions and to mount the hooks securely to prevent damage and potential injury.

Shelf Dividers and Bins

You likely already have shelves in your custom closet, but are they organized? Including shelf dividers and bins will let you transform cluttered shelves into neatly arranged storage spaces. Each item can have its own designated space, and you’ll be happy with the level of organization these dividers can provide. Bins are perfect for holding small items, like socks, belts, and scarves. There are lots of varieties and styles available for both bins and shelf dividers.

Benefits of shelf dividers and bins:

Improved organization: By separating your shelves into sections, your items will be neatly separated. Stacks of folded items, like t-shirts, jeans, or sweaters, will stay neat and upright rather than toppling over.
Easier access: You won’t need to dig through piles when everything is organized in either a segment of a shelf or in a bin. Your clothing and accessories will be right where they are supposed to be.
Better use of shelf space: It’s easy to have unused space on a shelf, but with shelf dividers or bins, you’ll be able to use both horizontal and vertical storage more effectively.
Versatility: These organization tools can be used for a wide variety of items, including both clothing and accessories. This gives you a lot of control over your closet even as your wardrobe changes over time.

Tips for implementation:

Assess your needs: Before you purchase your dividers and bins, take a good look at what you’re storing. My team will do this during your free design consultation.
Measure your shelves: You will want to be sure that your dividers or bins are going to fit on your shelves or in the cubbies you have, so be sure to measure before purchasing if you’re doing this on your own.
Categorizing items: Group like items together to keep the closet organized and to make your system more intuitive to use.
Label your bins: If you’re using opaque bins, consider labeling them. This will help you not only find the items stored inside but also put items away correctly as you buy or launder them.

Pull-Out Drawers and Trays

P ull-out drawers and trays can elevate the accessibility in your closet. Particularly in reach-in closets where space is limited, these can maximize storage capacity by bringing items stored in the back of the closet to the front, where they’re easy to reach. They’re also attractive and add visual interest to your custom closet space.

Benefits of using pull-out drawers and trays:

Improved accessibility: You’ll be able to have everything within an arm’s reach, even if your closet is deep or if there are recessed corners. You won’t have to dig through your belongings or stretch into darkened areas to find what you need.
Increased storage space: By using the full depth of your closet, these pull-out elements will allow you to use every inch of the space available.
Better organization: Drawer and tray storage gives you more versatility and use than having only stationary items. Since they also slide back into place, you will be able to keep your open space relatively free.

Tips for implementation:

Choose high-quality materials: At Life Uncluttered, we use wood and thermally-fused laminate coatings to ensure your closet components are stain- and scratch-resistant.
Consider accessibility: You will have the option of choosing full-extension drawers to make it even easier to reach everything. There are also soft-close slides that can keep you from accidentally slamming the drawers or pinching your fingers.
Use customized organizers: Consider drawer dividers, inserts, and liners to make your drawers or trays simpler to keep organized.

Hanging Accessories

When you consider your closet, you probably mostly consider the hanging space. After all, every closet comes with at least one hanging rod. Making the most of this hanging space is going to be a game-changer when it comes to optimizing your small custom closet system. You’ll find that clutter is banished and that you’re able to find everything you want. Apartment Therapy shares many tips for organizing a small closet, and several focus on hanging items in a way that uses all of the space available.

Benefits:

Maximizing hanging space: When you use double closet rods, multi-tier hangers, and accessories, like hanging shelves, you’ll be able to double or even triple your hanging capacity.
Organizing small items: Hooks and hanging baskets provide a convenient solution for storing small accessories, like belts, scarves, neckties, and jewelry – keeping them in easy reach.
Keeping the closet tidy: Once you have a place for everything and everything is in its place, you’ll have a streamlined and well-organized space. This will make you feel calmer and more serene each time you glance into your closet.

Tips for implementation:

Choose the right accessories: Everyone has different belongings to store, so you’ll need to think about your specific needs. The options are nearly endless – multi-tiered hangers, hooks, hanging shelves, baskets, and even hanging shoe organizers might all have their place in your closet system.
Maintain your closet regularly: Periodically declutter and reorganize your accessories to keep your closet in good condition. Donate or discard items you are no longer using, and choose adjustable organizers, so you can reorganize as desired.
Follow installation instructions: If you’re working with us, we’ll be handling the installation. If you are taking this on as a DIY project, however, you should read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and make sure everything is securely anchored.

Lighting Solutions

Good lighting in the closet plays a crucial role – natural light is often limited in a reach-in closet, so you will want to be sure that every corner is illuminated and that every item you own is visible. Your lighting should highlight your wardrobe and make the closet as functional as possible.

Benefits of installing good lighting in the closet:

Improved visibility: Choosing the right lighting for your space makes it easier for you to see your belongings, even on overcast days or in darker corners.
Enhanced closet aesthetics: Depending on the type of lighting you choose, you can make your closet look more sophisticated, more upscale, or more in tune with your personal decorating style. It will make your space more visually appealing, in any case.
Ease of finding items: When you have the right lighting in place, you’ll be able to find the items you’re looking for. You won’t have to rummage around in a dimly lit storage space; it will be bright enough to see easily.

Tips for implementation:

Choose the right lighting solution: Select lighting options that suit your closet’s layout, size, and design style. Some options to consider might be recessed lights, LED strips, and overhead fixtures.
Install the lighting strategically: You’ll want to be sure that the darkest parts of your closet are enhanced by the lighting that you choose. You might need multiple sources of light to eliminate shadows and dark spots.
Use energy-efficient solutions: LED bulbs can reduce energy consumption. Dimmers and timed lights can also help you keep your utility costs down while still brightening your space enough to see well.

Customized Closet Systems

As a custom closet designer, I recommend investing in a custom closet system to help you make the most of your smaller space. Unlike generic storage solutions, a custom closet system is tailored not only to your space but also to your belongings and the way you use your space. It allows for personalized organization for each homeowner we work with.

Benefits of using customized closet systems:

Optimal space utilization: Custom closets are designed to fit your space perfectly. We maximize every inch of space – making sure no space is wasted and that your storage needs are addressed.
Personalized organization: With a custom closet system, my team can tailor the layout to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you have a large collection of neckties or hundreds of pairs of shoes, we can help by creating a unique storage solution.
Increased home value: A well-designed custom closet system can add value to your home, not only now but also in the future when the time comes to list it. Lots of storage space is often a must-have for potential buyers.

Tips for implementation:

Call for a free consultation: Your custom closet system with Life Uncluttered starts with a no-cost in-home consultation with one of our talented designers. We’ll take measurements and talk to you about your project.
Collaborate with us: We’ll work closely with you to develop a customized system that meets your needs, complements your existing decor, and fits your budget.
Schedule your installation: Once you approve of your design and your price quote, we’ll schedule your installation with our professional crew. We handle everything and leave your new custom closet clean and ready to use.

Conclusion

Creating a custom closet system that will maximize your reach-in closet can be a challenge for homeowners, but my team is poised and ready to help. We have the organizers and accessories that will transform your small, cluttered closet into the storage space of your dreams. Contact us anytime to schedule your free consultation to get started.

Source

https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/small-closet-organizing-ideas-207307

Walk-In Closet Design Ideas for Small Spaces

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 14:20:42 GMT

Many of the clients I work with have walk-in closets that aren’t as expansive as those you may see on television shows depicting the lives of the rich and famous. Even if you don’t have a full-size room to use as a closet, though, I can still help you maximize your space and add the luxurious touches that you’ve been dreaming about.

Here are some of my best tips for making the most of a small- to moderate-sized walk-in closet:

Make the most of your wall space
Add excellent lighting
Consider pull-out components
Work around architectural features
Improve your organization system

Are you ready to transform your cluttered walk-in closet into a spacious and better organized haven for your wardrobe? Keep reading!

Make the Most of Your Wall Space

If floor space is at a premium, it’s important to think vertical! Shelves, hanging organizers, or wall racks all allow you to minimize the impact on the floor space while maximizing your usage of the area overall.

Stackable storage bins, baskets, hooks, and pegboards are other options to consider. You can use them to hang bags, belts, or scarves, or in the case of bins and baskets, to store these small items. This keeps them off of the hanging rods and surfaces – making the space look neater and keeping the items safe from dust and falling on the floor.

Add Excellent Lighting

While adding lighting won’t make a small walk-in closet any larger, it will make it more usable. Particularly in a smaller space, good lighting will increase functionality. When you can see everything that’s in even the recessed corners of your closet, that will make the entire system work better and more smoothly.

Some options to consider include:

LED lighting: Place LED strips under shelves or inside cabinets to brighten potentially dark spaces.
Wall-mounted lamps: Add wall-mounted sconces to light up corners without taking up any floor space.
Motion lights: Having lights turn on automatically when you enter the closet (and turn off when you exit) will ensure you can see what you need each time you walk in.
Natural light: If you happen to have a window or skylight in your closet, make sure it’s uncovered or use only sheer curtains to allow the light to shine in. UV-blocking film will keep clothing protected from fading while still letting the sun brighten the space.

Consider Pull-Out Components

You may want a lot of various accessories in your closet – mirrors, hampers, an ironing board, or an extra rod, for example. In a small closet, though, how can you make them fit without sacrificing space needed for other components?

The answer here is to use pull-out or fold-down organizers. My team can put in a mirror that you can pull out to check your outfit, then roll it back flush against a wall when you’re done. A valet rod telescopes out to allow you to store the next day’s outfit, then slides back in later. Hampers, ironing boards, and tables for folding can all pull or fold out for you to use them, then simply tuck them back into place when you’re done.

Work Around Architectural Features

Some closets, even small ones, have features that take up space you might not have wanted to give up. If your room is on the top level of your home, for example, you might have a sloped ceiling in the closet. Many closets have cubby holes or attic access doors, and some even have windows.

The nice thing about a custom storage solution in your walk-in closet is that we can accommodate various features. A sloped ceiling can be worked around by installing shelves at different depths. We can build shelving around access doors, and maybe a bench seat that lifts up for more storage would be perfect under a window. Talk to your designer about your concerns, and we’ll give you some ideas for navigating your closet’s unique features.

Improve Your Organization System

In any closet, organization is the key to neatness, but this is even more true in a smaller closet. Carefully consider how you want to hang your clothes. Some options include keeping outfits together, keeping separates stored by type, or hanging everything in color order.

The Spruce recommends reserving the front and middle of the closet for clothes you wear the most, while putting the lesser-used items toward the back. If you have too many items, you might consider a closet purge. Learn all about this method on Tastefully Minimalist .

Conclusion

Putting some thought into how to best organize a smaller walk-in closet to accommodate all of your wardrobe needs while also maximizing its overall storage potential can be a challenge. That’s where my team and I come in! Contact us for a free consultation, and we’ll show you samples, walk you through options, and even design your custom closet system using our 3D software. We’re looking forward to working with you, so call today.

Source

Upgrading Your Existing Custom Closet Systems: Practical Tips

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 21:50:55 GMT

As someone who designs and builds custom closet systems , I’ve learned some valuable tips and tricks over the years. After you’ve had your custom closet for a while, you might want to give it a little facelift. There are lots of ways you might consider upgrading and updating your closet to make sure it’s still meeting your needs.

Here are some ways to improve your custom closet system:

Add drawers or drawer dividers
Invest in pull-out accessories
Upgrade your closet lighting
Update the color scheme
Check for damage and wear and tear

If you’re ready to spruce up your closet, let’s get started!

Add Drawers or Drawer Dividers

You might notice that your drawers are stuffed full. Decluttering will make a big difference, but it’s also possible that you don’t have enough drawer space or that the space you do have just isn’t working for you.

Adding drawers to your custom closet is one idea. This will allow you to better categorize your folded belongings. Another option is to add drawer dividers. These organizers can keep your socks, belts, jewelry, and other small items separated and easier to find. You can customize the layout of your drawers, which will make getting dressed in the morning less of a hassle.

Invest in Pull-Out Accessories

When you first had your custom closet system installed, you might not have added pull-out accessories. These help you make good use of every inch, as they are only out in the open when you’re actively using them. The rest of the time, they’ll fold, latch, or telescope back against the wall or in between the other accessories.

Some examples of pull-out accessories include a mirror that slides out for quick outfit changes, a telescoping valet rod to hold the next day’s outfit, or even a fold-down ironing board for touch-ups.

Upgrade Your Closet Lighting

The right lighting can make a tremendous difference in your closet system. Putting in brighter or better lights will let you see everything more easily and can give the space a whole new feel.

Consider installing LED strip lighting along the shelves or under cabinets to brighten dark corners and to make it easy to find items. Motion sensor lights are another option; these are great not only for convenience but also for energy efficiency. After all, if the lights turn off automatically when you leave the closet, you won’t ever forget to turn them off.

Update the Color Scheme

Another way to give your custom closet system a facelift is to put on a new coat of paint. While most people have neutral colors on their closet walls, bold colors are another option, according to Brush Brothers Painting . Be sure to take your time and tape off all of the closet components before beginning.

Sprucing up the color doesn’t have to be with paint. You can also add fun and decorative accessories, like wall art or small sculptures. If you have a colorful purse or shoe collection, putting these items behind glass doors allows you to display them while also protecting them from dust. You might also try arranging your clothing by color to add to the visual appeal.

Check for Damage and Wear & Tear

Finally, check everything over for damage and wear & tear. The closets I build come with a lifetime warranty on the wooden products. This means that if something breaks during regular use, we’ll replace or repair it free of charge.

Regular wear and tear wouldn’t be included, but you might be able to replace some pieces. For example, shelves and hanging rods are simple to replace; let us know, and we can help you get new ones to match what you have.

Conclusion

As we approach spring, many people are beginning to update their homes, and custom closet systems should be no exception. Follow the tips above to reduce clutter and upgrade your storage spaces.

Source

https://www.brushbrotherspaint.com/choose-paint-colors-closet/

Holiday Organization Tips: Decking the Halls Neatly & Effortlessly

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 14:30:11 GMT

Now that your holiday decorations are either already decorating your home or in the process of being set out, you might have said to yourself at least once, “I need to get these items in order for next year.” I hear you! I routinely transform chaos into order, and the holiday season is an excellent time to finally get all of that decor whipped into shape. Over the years, I’ve developed a comprehensive list of holiday organization tips that can help.

In this article, we’ll talk about these organization tips for holiday decor:

Keep only what you’re using
Categorize your decorations
Maintain a digital inventory

Are you ready to take control of your holiday decor this year? Let’s get started.

Keep Only What You’re Using

If your decorations are already set up and looking beautiful, you still may have some items left in your boxes and bins. Take a look at them, and decide whether you really want to keep them. After all, you’re not using them this year. Is there a temporary reason (perhaps that you have a toddler who might try to break glass ornaments this year, but you know you’ll be able to use them safely in another year or two), or do you dislike the decorations or otherwise not want to put them up at all?

If it’s the latter, consider donating gently used decor. Of course, if the items are not in good condition and you wouldn’t feel good about giving them to a friend, it’s best not to donate them to a thrift store. Instead, recycle them, throw them away, or find a way to repurpose them.

Either way, get these items out of your storage space now, before you have to put the rest of your decor away after the holidays have passed. It will make it much simpler to find a place to store everything and will give you less to sift through next year.

Categorize Your Decorations

Most people do categorize their holiday decor to a point, but it’s likely you found a few stray ornaments mixed in with your lights, or maybe your indoor and outdoor lights were all tangled together. Having disorganized decorations can be frustrating when it’s time to put them up again, so let’s remedy that now.

As you put your items away after the holidays, be mindful of putting them in the correct places. If you have already closed up the ornament bin and you find another one that had fallen behind the tree, go and reopen the box; don’t just stuff it in with your garlands. Trust me – by the time next December rolls around, you will thank your past self for having been vigilant about this!

Maintain a Digital Inventory

It’s likely you’re keeping your decorations in your custom closet system or in the garage. That’s great! Since you aren’t going to want to dig back through the boxes again until next year, though, it’s helpful to keep a digital inventory of what you have.

Why is this useful? There are a few reasons:

When you’re out at post-holiday sales and perusing the options available for 70 or 80 percent off, it’s helpful to be able to look at your list (easily accessible on your phone) to see what you have and what might complement your existing decor.
Next November, when you’re thinking about pulling out your decorations, you can look at your digital list to expedite the planning process. You won’t encounter surprises in the form of items you’d forgotten about or, worse, missing items that you’d forgotten you’d thrown away due to breakage. It will all be laid out for you to minimize hassles.
If a piece goes missing, you’ll be able to track it down. Look at where it is on the list. Did you store your tree skirt with your Christmas tree, with the topper, or in its own box? Are the colored strings of lights mixed in with the white ones, or do they have their own box? Practical Perfection shares some organization tips pertaining to proper labeling of holiday storage bins that you might consider checking out.

Conclusion

Keeping your holiday decorations can be a challenge. I have many clients who struggle with this, and I’ve struggled with it at times myself. By following the organization tips listed above, you can take control of the situation and find yourself in a much better organized position this time next year. Happy Holidays!

Source

https://practicalperfectionut.com/how-to-label-your-christmas-storage-bins-with-free-printable-labels/

Renewing Teenager’s Space: The Best Custom Closet Transformation

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 20:23:37 GMT

Teenagers – they’re on the cusp of adulthood, but they still enjoy many of the pleasures of childhood. Their tastes are constantly evolving, and so are their needs. A teenager’s custom closet system needs to be adaptable and personal. If you have a teen, you know all too well that they need a lot of storage space for not only their clothing but also their interests and hobbies.

Here are some ways to transform your teen’s storage space into the custom closet of their dreams:

Help them clear the clutter
Use adjustable shelving and hanging space
Decorate with style
Create space for accessories
Stay organized

If you’re ready to revamp your adolescent’s closet system, keep reading.

Clear the Clutter

Before you can renovate any space, you need to remove the clutter, and your teen’s closet is no exception. Put aside some time to help them clean out the space.

Teens are often resistant to cleaning their rooms, including their closets, but you try to make it fun. After all, the promise of a newly designed closet is a good incentive. Play their favorite music, have some snacks available, and don’t make any comments on the closet’s present condition.

Go through the clothing in the space, and help your teen decide whether to keep it or donate it. If something’s been outgrown, it’s time to pass it along to a younger sibling or cousin; you could also donate it to a thrift shop or consign it.

Once this task is done, you and your teen should have plenty of room for the subsequent steps.

Use Adjustable Shelving and Hanging Space

One nice feature of custom kids’ closets is that they come with adjustable components. Your teen’s needs today might not be the same in a year or two. Look for adjustable hanging rods and shelves that can be moved and reconfigured as their wardrobe evolves.

This will also be helpful when your teen goes off to college, as you will be able to use the space for your own belongings. If you’re currently struggling to stay organized in your primary closet, the professionals at South Bay Custom Closets have tips for whipping your walk-in closet into shape.

Decorate With Style

Your teen’s closet shouldn’t be strictly utilitarian. You’ll want this to be a place they’ll be proud of, as that will increase the chances they’ll take good care of the space. Find ways to use their favorite colors in the decorating scheme. You might want to paint the walls (do this prior to the custom closet installation), or you could choose to add colorful hooks, or line their shelves with decorative paper in their favorite shades.

He or she might also like to have some photos or artwork highlighted. Hang a bulletin board on one wall for them to have an ever-changing display, or keep a shelf or two clear for a favorite designer purse, a trophy, or some other treasure they’re proud of.

Create Space for Accessories

Teens often add accessories to their outfits as a way to express themselves, so it makes good sense to find space for jewelry, neckties, scarves, purses, and, of course, shoes galore. Compartments, hooks, trays, and other holders can help.

Don’t be afraid to be creative and to think outside the box – or, in this case, the closet. In some cases, your teen might not have enough room for a large collection of accessories, particularly if their closet is small. If this is an issue, think about ways to store items in other parts of the bedroom. The Spruce has some good ideas for finding storage space for shoes, and you can apply this to whatever your teen has a lot of

Stay Organized

Finally, you might need to teach your teen how to stay organized in their new closet. If they’ve previously been uninspired to keep their space neat and tidy, this can take some practice. Encourage them to take a few minutes each day to clean up anything out of place. Also, include closet-tidying in their expected tasks included with cleaning their bedroom.

You’ll want to “inspect what you expect.” Remember, teens aren’t adults, and it’s likely you’ll need to enforce the rules at least once or twice. Go in and make sure they’re keeping up with the necessary chores before turning over full responsibility for the brand-new custom closet system.

Conclusion

You can refresh and renew your teenager’s custom closet with a few simple steps and considerations. Help them clean out the space, make their new closet both adjustable and personal, and have expectations in place for keeping it tidy.

Sources

Unlocking the Value of a Built-In Custom Closet: Is It Worth the Investment?

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 18:15:09 GMT

Making your home more appealing and practical is a common goal to have as a homeowner. It’s important to look at each improvement as an investment in your home and in your future. Custom closet systems are a popular solution for improving the organization of a home, but are they a good investment?

Here are some reasons a custom closet might be an excellent choice for you and your home:

Custom closets improve functionality and organization
Custom closets can boost your home’s value
Custom closets can match your sense of style
Custom closets make your days run more smoothly

Read on to learn more about how a custom closet system can add value to your home and to your life.

Custom Closets Improve Functionality and Organization

Having a place to put each of your belongings is invaluable, and it will allow you to put your items away more easily, leading to better overall organization. Custom closets are chock-full of shelves, drawers, hooks, holders, and organizers that can hold just about anything you need to store.

When you’re able to put everything in its place, your stress level will plummet. You won’t come home to counters piled high with items that don’t have a home, and you won’t be standing awkwardly in your bedroom wondering where you can fit one more item. Having a fully functional home will improve your life in various ways.

Custom Closets Can Boost Your Home’s Value

When people are house-hunting, they have a list of wants and needs that can make or break a deal. For most, having adequate storage space is on that list of must-haves. Having custom closets installed can make your home more attractive and appealing to buyers when the time comes to put the house on the market.

According to HomeServe , custom closets have become more of an expectation than a bonus amenity among some homebuyers. No matter what your home’s price point is, adding custom storage spaces can make your home more likely to catch the eye and interest of a potential buyer, which can reduce the amount of time your home sits on the market.

Custom Closets Can Match Your Sense of Style

When upgrading your home, it’s important to choose improvements that mesh with your sense of style and current decor. While putting up shelves purchased off of the rack at your nearest home improvement store might not be exactly what you find appealing, a custom closet system will be built to your specifications, including finishes.

If you’re more minimalistic, you might like a sleek, white custom closet system with streamlined hardware. If you have more of a traditional style, you may prefer wood-grain finishes with classic hardware. Those with a bold sense of decorating style may want to consider a cool blue or green finish. Similarly, countertop options can range from classic marble to traditional wood-grain and more.

Custom Closets Can Make Your Days Run More Smoothly

If you’re often frazzled in the morning as the kids hunt for their shoes, you’re searching for your briefcase, and the dog ran off with your jacket, custom closet systems will help bring order to your lives. Knowing where everything is helps you get your day off to a great start.

You can hang up your outfit for the day on a valet rod the night before. When you wake up, all you need to do is look at what’s on the rod; it will be ready for you to wear. Your children will have dedicated shoe storage in their own closets, so their footwear won’t be missing. Your jewelry, belt, scarves, ties, and other accessories will be at your fingertips. Imagine the peace you’ll have knowing where everything is and being able to access it immediately.

Conclusion

Custom closets are an excellent investment in your present and your future. You’ll be upgrading your home, increasing its value, enjoying better functionality, and enhancing your overall organization levels. You can even create a system that incorporates your sense of style. If you’re looking for the perfect project to make a big difference in how your home looks and functions, consider built-in custom closets.

Source

https://www.homeserve.com/en-us/blog/home-improvement/custom-closets-home-value/

No Room for a Custom Closet? Here’s the Help You Need

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 17:31:27 GMT

Organizing in a room without a custom closet can pose a challenge when it comes to storing clothes and accessories. However, with a little creativity and strategic planning, you can create a well-organized space that maximizes efficiency and minimizes clutter. Take some time to explore several options for organizing your wardrobe and consider the different benefits of each one.

One or more of these possibilities can provide the practical, yet elegant, solution you’ve been looking for:

A Closet Armoire
Rolling Racks
Open Shelving
Storage Cubbies and Bins

A Closet Armoire

If a room doesn’t have a closet, you can always just add one of your own. A closet armoire is a versatile piece of furniture that allows you to store all the same things that a closet stores. It typically features a hanging rod, shelves, and drawers, providing ample space for clothing, shoes, and accessories.

Custom closet armoires can be built to fit neatly into any corner of your room, making them ideal for small or oddly shaped spaces. They can provide vertical storage, utilizing the height of the room while taking up minimal floor space. Apart from hanging clothes, closet armoires can be designed to include adjustable shelves and drawers. This versatility allows you to customize the storage space to accommodate different types of items, including folded clothes, shoes, handbags, and accessories.

Rolling Racks

Rolling racks are an excellent alternative for displaying and organizing your clothing items in a room without a custom closet. Rolling racks are designed with wheels, making them easily movable. This feature allows you to reposition the rack based on your room layout or changing needs. A rack could also be temporarily rolled out of the room if more space in the room is required. It’s one of the best options for rooms that may have changing purposes or a variety of different needs.

Unlike traditional closets, rolling racks provide an open display for your clothes. This makes it easier to see and choose your outfits quickly, especially if you enjoy planning your daily attire in advance. Many rolling racks come with hooks, which are perfect for hanging belts, scarves, or hats. Utilizing these maximizes your storage options and keeps your accessories well-organized.

Open Shelving

Open shelving is an excellent option for displaying and organizing clothes and accessories, especially if you have a collection that you're proud of. Like rolling racks, your clothes will be on display, but organized shelves full of attractive clothes and accessories aren’t a bad look for a bedroom or guest room. By organizing your possessions thoughtfully, you can turn them into a decorative element that adds personality to your room.

Open shelves provide quick, easy access, so it’s simple to put an outfit together even if you have to do it in a hurry. Open shelving is also one of the more affordable options if you’re putting a room together while you’re in a budgetary pinch. You can find ready-to-install shelves or even create your own using simple materials, like wooden boards and brackets.

Storage Cubbies and Bins

Storage cubbies or cubes and bins are versatile solutions that can be used in various combinations to create an organized wardrobe area. You can choose both cubbies and bins in different sizes and they can be configured in various ways to fit your needs. Stack them, place them side-by-side, or use some combination of the two. This custom approach to storage is also particularly portable, so it’s easy to rearrange them as your needs change or move them to a different place if required.

By adding labels to your bins or cubbies, you can quickly identify and locate specific clothing items. You do not only save time but also reduce your need to go digging through your stored clothes which can make a mess. You can even separate out clothing that you’re storing for use currently and clothing that you’ve put away for seasonal or long-term storage. Keep best practices for stored clothing in mind when using bins. According to Home Storage Solutions 101 , your clothes should be cleaned before storing, stored in a space that’s cool, dry, and well-ventilated, and should be protected against pests.

Conclusion

Organizing your clothes and accessories in a room without a custom closet may require some creativity, but it's achievable. You just must look for a solution that accommodates your specific needs, such as the type of clothing and accessories you own, before selecting the best option for your room. Whether you opt for a closet armoire, rolling racks, open shelving, or storage cubbies and bins, there are practical solutions to fit any space and personal style.

Source

https://www.home-storage-solutions-101.com/clothes-storage.html

10 Secrets to Finding Space in Your Small Custom Closet System

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 15:11:06 GMT

Sometimes, no matter how great your custom closet is, you may still struggle to keep the space looking organized, especially if the closet is small. There are, however, some great ways to maximize storage in a small space. Here are 10 of our favorite secrets to finding space in your small custom closet system .

Rotate your wardrobe
Maximize hanging storage
Use shelf dividers to maximize space
Stack or hang your shoes
Get rid of clutter
Use baskets or bins
Hang multipurpose hooks along the walls
Use the back of your door
Hang your pants on tiered hangers
Install drawers in the closet

Rotate your wardrobe

One of the biggest secrets to finding more space in a small closet is rotating your wardrobe every season. Clear out your heavy sweaters and pants when it is time for warmer weather, and pack them away somewhere else. Do the same thing in the fall when the weather is getting chillier, and pack away your shorts and t-shirts. This will help a lot with clearing out and creating some much-needed space.

Maximize hanging storage

The more you can hang up, the more you will have up off the floor. Use hanging organizers to hang up as many items as you can, whether it be for accessories, clothing, or even jewelry. There are so many different ones that you can get. Choose the organizers that work best for you and your closet.

Use shelf dividers to maximize space

Shelves are great for providing storage space, but sometimes they can get cluttered and messy, with items falling off or getting lost in the pile. Help keep your closet shelves organized by using shelf dividers to maximize your shelf space. They will prevent your folded clothing from falling over and making a mess.

Stack or hang your shoes

Shoes tend to create clutter in a small space, so it is important to find a way to organize them in your closet. There are many options for storing shoes. Shoe fences create space on shelves, while other shoe organizers rest on or just above the floor.

Use baskets or bins

Baskets and bins work wonders for helping to clean up and organize your belongings, and they come in such a range of colors, sizes, and styles, that you can easily find some to suit your needs and decor. Martha Stewart hails storage bins as one of the best organizing products to use. Set the bins along your shelves to keep your items stored neatly.

Hang multipurpose hooks along the walls

Maximize all of your vertical space within the closet by incorporating multipurpose hooks along the walls of the closet. Hooks are available in a range of sizes and styles, just like storage bins, so depending on what you’re looking for, you will be able to find some that suit your needs. If you’re using them for larger items like outdoor clothing, then choose bigger hooks that can withstand the weight.

Hang your pants on tiered hangers

Tiered hangers are a great way to maximize space in a small closet, as you can fit up to five pairs of pants on one tiered hanger. This helps you to make the most of your vertical space, hanging the pants on tiered levels, but only taking up the space of one hanger. These hangers are a great solution for small spaces.

Install drawers in the closet

Even though you would be adding furniture into a small closet, drawers have value when it comes to helping to organize a small space. They not only give you space for your folded clothes, but you could also choose a countertop that you could use to set up smaller items like your jewelry or accessories.

Conclusion

Even if you are working with a small closet, there are lots of ways you can maximize your space and keep your space looking neat and tidy. Try incorporating a few of these secrets to get your small closet looking the way you want it to.

Sources

Get Your Custom Closets Organized With These Little-Known Tricks

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 16:37:08 GMT

There are some obvious steps you can take to keep your closets neat and tidy, like setting a schedule for tidying up or removing clothes that you no longer wear. However, if you’re finding that’s not enough to keep your closet clean and uncluttered, you may need some next-level strategies.

Here are some custom closet organization tips that only intrepid closet organizers know!

Use Dividers for Shelves and Drawers
Add Another Hanging Rod
Roll Instead of Folding
Store a Stepladder

Take a look at some little-known ways to get your custom closet organized and under control.

Use Dividers for Shelves and Drawers

When you stack clothes on a shelf or arrange them in a drawer, you probably make sure they’re neat and separated. Once you start taking things off shelves and moving them around or opening, closing, and looking through drawers, though, the order starts to unravel. Soon, you have a shelf or drawer full of unfolded and wrinkled clothes. What went wrong?

It’s difficult to avoid disturbing your neat stacks when you need something on the bottom or at the back of the shelf or drawer. However, the more separated one stack is from the next one, the less you’ll end up disturbing as you use your shelf and drawer space. Use dividers for both shelves and drawers so instead of multiple stacks that affect each other as things are moved around, each individual stack has a barrier on each side. This prevents the different stacks from mingling and also limits how much the things in each section can move around, keeping the items neater.

Add Another Hanging Rod

Hanging clothes are part of every clothes closet, but when there are too many hanging clothes, it’s difficult to move them or even see exactly where specific items are. You can give yourself more room and make your clothes more accessible by adding another clothing rod.

Depending on the size and shape of your closet, you may be able to add a rod to a different wall in the closet space. If that’s not an option, though, you can always create two rows of hanging clothes by positioning one rod underneath the other. Move one rod slightly higher than the usual height and position the other one a few feet below that, so you have an upper and lower level of hanging clothes. Separate the clothes by using one rod for tops and the other for bottoms. This also makes pairing outfits an easier task.

Roll Instead of Folding

Are you still folding all of your clothes as you put them away? There are other options, and while some of those involve complicated and possibly intimidating folding techniques, at least one is fairly simple – just roll your clothes instead of folding them.

House Beautifu l explains that rolling can maximize limited drawer space and suggests a couple of different rolling techniques, like army rolling and burrito wrapping. Rolling is simple and doesn’t have the learning curve that vertical folding has, and rolled clothes can be stored vertically as well, which makes choosing the item that you want easier. This method also helps to decrease the incidence of wrinkles and creases in your clothes, so not only will you have more space, but you’ll be able to count on your item being ready to wear when you need it.

Store a Stepladder

Has this ever happened to you? You have a sweater, box, or blanket that needs to be stored on a high shelf in the closet. However, you can’t reach the highest shelves of the closet from the floor, so you put the item down "for now." Days pass, then weeks, and you might find yourself adding other items that need to be stored up high. Soon enough, you have a permanent pile of items on the floor or on a chair.

This is how closet organization deteriorates. Instead of letting this happen to you, store a small step ladder in a corner of the closet or on a hook on the wall. That way, you can always put things away as soon as you’re done with them, and you can get items off the top shelf right when you need them.

Conclusion

Keeping your closet organized isn’t always intuitive. You may need extra closet accessories or different strategies. Think about what happens right before your closet starts to get messy and use some creativity to address whatever problem is causing the mess.

Source

https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/organizing-tips/a25908506/why-you-should-roll-your-clothes/

Achieve Home Organization in 2023 With Custom Closet Systems

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 14:29:04 GMT

There’s nothing like starting a new year with a clean slate. Everything seems possible when you shed the baggage of the past year. Even getting control over a chronically disorganized home seems possible. If you want to achieve greater home organization in the upcoming year, the key is to start with your closets and storage spaces. When you have adequate storage, putting things away comes easily and items that you put away stay in their place instead of cluttering up the rest of the house. Custom closet systems may be just what you’re looking for to achieve home organization in 2023.

Purge and Take Inventory
Add Space for Hanging and Folded Clothes
Showcase Your Shoes
Remember the Accessories

Take a look at the steps you can take to achieve home organization with a custom closet system in 2023.

Purge and Take Inventory

Start by taking everything out of your closet. This will help you do two important things. First, it will give you a chance to go through your wardrobe and decide what you want to keep and what you’re ready to get rid of. Clothes that no longer fit or that you just don’t like anymore tend to accumulate in your closet, and they’re just taking up space that could be put to better use. Go through your things and be honest with yourself about whether you’ll really wear the item again. Even if you’re hanging onto something because you want to fit into that size again, would it be better to just buy new clothes when you do fit into that size?

The other thing you’re accomplishing is an inventory. After you separate items that you intend to sell, donate, or trash, you’ll have a fresh idea of what you have and what kinds of spaces you need for the pieces you'll be keeping. This will help you plan your closet design.

Add Space for Hanging and Folded Clothes

If your closet is currently disorganized and your clothes have a way of winding up on the floor or scattered around the bedroom, there’s a good chance that you don’t have enough space for folded clothes, don’t have enough space for hanging clothes, or both.

It helps to be sure of what items should be hung and which items should be folded. Martha Stewart explains that activewear, shorts, and thick sweaters should be folded, while dresses, pants, and blouses should hang. Jeans and T-shirts can go either way. You can increase hanging space by installing additional hanging rods. If you have a lot of separates, it can help to hang one a bit higher than usual and the other a bit lower, giving you a way to display tops and bottoms easily. You may also want to hang hooks for things like bathrobes or jackets. A custom cabinet with dressers can increase your space for folded clothes. Additional shelves can help too, especially for things like thick sweaters that can be stacked high.

Showcase Your Shoes

If you’ve ever been late for work because you couldn’t find the shoes that went with your outfit, you know how important organization can be. It’s not just the possibility of losing shoes that’s a problem; shoes can also get damaged when they wind up piled underneath other shoes or stuck under furniture. Getting your shoes off the floor and into a more organized system keeps your home cleaner and your footwear in better shape.

Consider showcasing your collection with shoe shelves. Not only does this make it easier to find the pair you want but it also makes your closet look great.

Remember the Accessories

If you can store your accessories neatly in the closet, you have more space in the rest of the house, and your jewelry, hairpieces, and other clothing accessories aren’t getting scattered or lost.

Jewelry trays can spotlight your favorite pieces of jewelry and give you a convenient place to store them. If you have a lot of scrunchies, headbands, and ponytail holders, you may want to store them in a small basket. Sturdy storage boxes of the right shape and size can be used to keep your favorite hats clean and undamaged. There are many closet accessories, so be sure to consider anything that may create more space for your closet items.

Conclusion

When you have a plan to clean your closet, inventory it, and customize it with closet storage features and accessories, you can achieve a more organized closet that helps you achieve better home organization overall.

Source

https://www.marthastewart.com/268737/hanging-vs-folding-clothing

Top 3 Ideas for a Laundry Room Organization Renovation

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 13:00:05 GMT

Laundry day may not be your idea of a fun time, but it’s going to come around with regularity anyway. You need clean clothes, so you don’t have much choice. However, there are some things that you can do to make your laundry days less hassle and even more fun. The trick is optimizing your laundry room organization system so it’s helpful and not a hindrance to you.

Here are some ideas for whipping your laundry room into shape:

Boost Organization with Better Storage
Improve Workflow with Functional Accessories
Add Extra Touches That Are Uplifting

Find out how to turn your laundry room into a space that helps eradicate laundry day blues.

Boost Organization with Better Storage

If your laundry room is messy or even chaotically disorganized, don’t worry. You’re not alone, and your problem is fixable. What you need is better storage options in your laundry room.

Adequate shelving in the room will allow you to store things like detergent, fabric softener, and bleach. You can put these away neatly rather than just leaving them on top of the washer or dryer or wherever you can find space. Wire baskets or plastic bins can help you separate these items so it’s always easy to grab the thing you need as well as corral items that may not necessarily stay on the shelf easily, like dryer balls that catch lint or other small items.

If piles of clothing around the laundry room are one of your issues, a laundry organization system is a simple solution. You can have hampers installed that allow you to sort the clothes into whites, colors, and delicates. You can even have space-saving tilt-out hampers installed if your laundry room is small and you need to preserve more room.

Improve Workflow With Functional Accessories

Once you’ve taken care of laundry room storage, you probably need to start considering laundry room function. After all, it’s primarily a room dedicated to doing a specific activity, not a storage room. Functional accessories can make your work in that room easier.

Are you always dragging the laundry to the living room or one of the bedrooms to fold? Isn’t that a waste of time or inconvenient to the other people who might be using those spaces? Instead, you can install a fold-down table right in the laundry room. These have hinges that allow you to fold them down, out of the way, when they’re not being used, giving you more space. You can also install valet rods for hanging wet or dry clothes, rather than letting them wrinkle until you get them to the closet to hang them.

Fold-out ironing boards are another space-saving feature that can help you turn your laundry room into a one-stop laundry location. Rather than having to leave to iron, you can take care of that as soon as you remove your clothes from the machine. You should also make it a point to store other clothing care items you may need in the laundry room. Use your new shelves, bins, or baskets to store a sewing kit, spare buttons, safety pins, and other small items that you might need for clothing care. That way, you can take care of everything all at once, right there in the laundry room.

Add Extra Touches That Are Uplifting

Even people who find the repetitive motions of folding and hanging soothing for a while often start to find it monotonous eventually. However, as long as you’re renovating the laundry room, why not add features to make the task less of a chore?

Something as simple as painting the walls can make a big difference. Repetitively folding clothes for a long period while looking at blank grey or beige walls can feel boring. According to Color Meanings , there are seven “happy colors” that have various effects on a person’s emotions and mood. Yellow can make you remember pleasant things and increase your energy levels. Light blue evokes serenity. Orange is the color of positive energy. Pick a happy color for your laundry room walls to boost your mood while you’re in there. Hang some artwork or pictures on the walls, too, so that you’re not just staring at the blank walls.

You should also think about bringing some entertainment into the laundry room. This can be as simple as setting a Bluetooth speaker on a high shelf so you can connect it to your phone and blast music while you work, or as complex as installing a smart home system that puts in screens and speaker systems that sync from room to room, so you can go about your chores, including in the laundry room, without missing anything. There are a lot of different options, but no matter which way you go, some audio or visual entertainment will make laundry day seem to go by faster.

Conclusion

A disorganized laundry room that slows you down isn’t just a fact of life. Speed things up with storage options that make the space more accessible, functional accessories that improve your workflow, and extra touches that make the space more fun and appealing to spend time in.

Source

https://www.color-meanings.com/happy-colors-boost-mood

What to Store & What Not to Store in Your Garage

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 17:43:04 GMT

Some items should be stored in the garage , and some simply shouldn't be. How many times have you run out of storage space in your house and stuck an extra box in the far corner of your garage without considering whether that's the best place for it? In the interest of decluttering and staying safe, here are some things you should and should not store in your garage!

What to store in your garage:

Car supplies are okay
A garage is a perfect place for tools
Outdoor furniture and bikes are fine
Garages are great for temporary storage

What not to store in your garage:

Avoid hazardous materials
Keep pests out
Nothing valuable or fragile

Are you looking to keep your garage uncluttered, clean, and safe? Here’s all you need to know to get there!

What to Store in Your Garage

Car Supplies Are Okay

With as much time as your car spends in the garage, it’s completely understandable that car supplies will find their way in there as well. Don’t worry if you’ve got spare parts and tire pressure gauges in your garage. The trick here is to optimize storage.

As Car and Driver notes, the best way to go about this is to "think in three dimensions." Your car will take up a sizable chunk of floor space, and your walls are where you’ll situate most of your storage, but don’t forget about ceiling space. The area above your car is especially perfect for mounting a spare roof rack or some light camping gear.

A Garage Is A Perfect Place for Tools

Everyone needs a place for their socket wrenches and power tools , and the garage is usually the safest bet. Along with the added accessibility that comes with keeping these items where they’ll be used the most, you’ll also help prevent grease and grime from entering the rest of the house.

A garage is a perfect place for storing outdoor tools as well. Shovels, rakes, and other assorted gardening tools can easily be stored on your walls with Slatwall racks . Designate an accessible corner for things like weed whackers and lawnmowers. Don’t forget a drip cloth underneath your mower, though, especially if it’s being stored during the cooler months.

Outdoor Furniture and Bikes Are Fine

If you’re looking for a place to store your patio furniture during inclement weather, the garage is your best bet. Lawn chairs can easily be hung on the wall when not in use, a patio umbrella can be closed and discreetly stored, and you can store boxes and bins in the space underneath your patio table. If you’re planning to store things on top of the table as well, be sure to stay under the maximum weight limit.

Do you have bikes that aren’t seeing much use? Keep them out of the elements by storing them neatly against a wall. Be sure to keep at least one functional bike pump, and fill your tires to the manufacturer-specified PSI before starting the next biking season.

Garages Are Great for Temporary Storage

There’s a reason why people use basements, attics, and garages for temporary storage: out of sight, out of mind. The important thing here is to designate a specific section of your garage for temporary or even long-term storage, and then stick to it. It can be all too easy for a garage to become a cluttered mess so by sectioning off the space and designating a function for each section, it’ll be that much easier to keep the area orderly.

What Not to Store in Your Garage

Avoid Hazardous Materials

If it’s flammable, dangerous, or prone to leaking or igniting, keep it out of your garage. Gasoline and propane are not safe to keep in your garage. Aside from the fire hazard, there’s also the matter of fumes. Most garages are not ventilated sufficiently for this type of storage, and uneven heating and cooling can lead to expansion and volatility of flammable liquids. Paint is another item that does not benefit from being stored in a garage. Although it's not exactly flammable, the temperature changes can cause paint to harden and ruin the consistency.

Keep Pests Out

Garages are already a prime target for insects, rodents, and other pests you don’t want in your home. The last thing you want to do is attract them by storing things like clothing, papers, books, wood, or bedding. It goes without saying, but pet food should never be stored in the garage either. All of the above items should be safely placed inside your home, in temperature-controlled areas.

Nothing Valuable or Fragile

Shifting weather can wreak havoc on valuables, leading to warping, cracking, or even water damage. Along with that, garages tend to be a prime target for burglars and thieves. The best way to keep heirlooms and other valuables safe and temperature-controlled is by storing them inside your house and away from your garage. You may want to consider investing in a small safe or lockbox.

Conclusion

It can be tricky to figure out storage options in your garage, especially if or when you’re overhauling the space. But by following the above tips, you’ll be well on your way to a decluttered, organized, safe, and fun garage in no time!

Sources

How to Organize Your Home, Room by Room

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 14:38:53 GMT

When it comes to organizing your home , you might feel overwhelmed by the sheer size of the project. Whether you tend to pile up clutter on the counters or your drawers and closets are overstuffed (or both), you might not know where to start.

The best way to get organized is to have the same general plan of attack for each room, from the kitchen and bathroom to the living room and bedrooms: Declutter, find a place for everything and make it easy to put your items away each time you use them.

Keep reading to learn how to put this strategy in motion for every area of your house!

Organize The Kitchen

Starting your organization project in the kitchen makes sense for a lot of people because it's where messes accumulate easily. When the kitchen is clean, that tidiness tends to extend to other areas of the home. Begin by going through each cabinet and thinking about which items you use on a regular basis.

Also, consider quantities: Do you really need 40 plastic storage containers? If you can't close the drawer where you keep the dishtowels, is it possible you have too many? Workweek Lunch explains what should go in a minimalist kitchen if you choose to go that route. For most people, asking yourself whether you truly use an item in question will help determine whether you should keep it.

Using drawer dividers and clear bins will help keep your equipment within easy reach. Also, consider which items should be kept together. While it might seem like keeping pots with their lids in the cabinet makes sense, this could be difficult if you have limited space. In that instance, stacking the pots and storing the lids upright in a nearby bin will conserve space and make it easier to find what you need. Go through the whole kitchen like this, evaluating whether your chosen storage spaces are the right ones based on your particular items.

Organize The Living Room

The living room is where the family typically congregates. If you have a den or family room in your house where everyone gathers to watch TV, play games, and spend time together, then that's the next room to focus on.

The types of items that need organizing in a living room are generally related to entertainment. A large entertainment center with plenty of drawers and bins might be the perfect place to stash board games, video games, DVDs, game system controllers, and so on.

Bookshelves can be used to hold board games in addition to books. If you have little ones, try placing the games and puzzles they use on the lower shelves so they can help themselves. Remember to declutter as the kids grow by donating games they've outgrown!

Organize The Home Office

Creating an office space that allows you to be comfortable and productive can be a challenge, especially if you're faced with a lack of space . First, clear anything unrelated to work out of the space. The home office shouldn't be an overflow area for other rooms in the house, so if you have children's toys, stacks of personal mail, or a pile of mending on your desk, get it out of there.

Try to keep your desk clear of anything you aren't using at any given moment. While you should have pens, legal pads, post-it notes, and highlighters in easy reach, they shouldn't be scattered all over the desk. Either use the drawers or invest in a few inexpensive bins to store these items.

A file cabinet or two is handy if you don't have a paperless office. You can often pick these up at yard sales or secondhand stores. If you're interested in going paperless, that will save a lot of space. HGTV has a helpful article on the steps to take if you're interested in going that route.

Organize The Bedroom

In an ideal world, the bedrooms in a home would all be neat and tidy, as this lends itself to relaxation and a good night's sleep. You can make this happen! First, go through the room with a basket or bag to collect items that don't belong in there. Household items that need attention tend to accumulate in the master bedroom. Find a different area for these belongings.

Make the bed, as that gives the room a tidy feel even if the rest of the space is a bit cluttered. Then go through one nightstand or dresser drawer at a time, pulling out items that you no longer use and putting the rest of the items back neatly. Declutter the surface area of the furniture, too. If you have a chair or loveseat in your bedroom, it should be empty except for a throw blanket and/or decorative pillow. Get the piles of clean laundry put away; don't let them languish in baskets on the floor, chair, or bed.

The closet is a separate project. Go through your racks of clothes, removing items you don't want or need. The only clothes you should keep are the ones you wear regularly and those you will continue to wear on special occasions. If it's been over a year since you've worn something, let it go. Pick your shoes off of the floor; use a shoe rack to keep them from being stepped on and tripped over. There are a wide variety of closet accessories you can use to keep yourself organized. Premier Closets and Storage Solutions recently published a piece called 7 Versatile Accessories for Organizing Your Custom Closets .

Organize The Garage

If one place in the house is likely to be disorganized, it's the garage; it tends to become the dumping ground for items that don't have a home. The biggest tip for getting this area under control is to purge, purge, purge. If an item has been exiled from the living area of the house and relocated to the garage, there's a good chance you don't need it anymore. In this case, have a garage sale, donate the excess items to a local charity, or, if something is broken, throw it away.

Once you've gotten rid of the clutter in the garage, it's time to make sense of the rest. Consider suspending bicycles from the ceiling using overhead racks; this is a great way to keep them from becoming damaged or, worse, scratching your car! Shelves or racks on the walls go a long way toward keeping items organized. Cabinets are also a good way to get items up off of the floor and behind closed doors, keeping them dust- and insect-free. If you can use the wall space around the perimeter of your garage, this will open up floor space for your car, a workbench, or even just letting the kids ride their bikes on a rainy day.

Conclusion

If you struggle with disorganization, your entire house in good order isn't going to happen in one day or even one week. Setting aside some time each day to begin going through each room will pay off more quickly than you might think, however. Work at decluttering each room, then focus on finding places to store each item. Before you know it, you'll have organized your home and can focus on simply maintaining it.

Sources

How to Properly Arrange The Clothes in Your Closet

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 18:57:51 GMT

If you're looking for tips on how to arrange the clothes in your closet , you've come to the right place! There are many methods to accomplish this very task so you can find the right system to fit your space and personality.

The first step is to go through all of your items and decide what to keep, donate, or throw away. Then, take an inventory of your pieces to decide the best system for your specific wardrobe. Some popular methods include arranging clothes by category, color, and seasons. Custom closets are a wonderful way to fully maximize space as well.

Ready to find the method that works best for your wardrobe? Learn more below!

Start With a Clean Slate Before Storing Your Clothing

Before organizing your closet, it's essential to pull everything out and decide what to keep, donate, or throw away. Although this can be challenging (attachment to clothing is a real thing!), The Spruce offers three questions that can make the job easier:

"Do you love it?"
"Do you wear it?"
"Does it project the image you want to portray?"

Objectively scoring your clothes and shoes against these three questions will give you clarity and help you detach from certain items. If you can answer "yes" to these questions, place the items in your keeper pile. If the answer is "no," donate or consign items in good condition. Throw away any items that are worn out, stained, or have holes.

If you're unsure or having trouble getting rid of something, put it in the "maybe" pile. Store this pile out of sight and come back to it a few months later. If you haven't used anything, you can be confident in donating these items.

Next, take inventory of the items you have. This serves two purposes. First, you might find more belongings to get rid of (do you really need seven oversized cardigans?), and second, you'll know how much storage space you need for each clothing category.

Finally, before organizing, take advantage of the empty closet and give it a good cleaning! Dust, wipe down surfaces, and even consider repainting if you'd like. When it's empty is the perfect time for accomplishing these tasks.

Decide on a System

It's time to decide what organizational system works best for your closet size, shape, and space! There are many ways to organize your closet, but here are a few tried-and-true methods:

Category Vs. Color

This method arranges your clothes either by category (pants, sweaters, etc.) regardless of color, or by color regardless of category. Each method has its own pros and cons, but the most important factor is what fits your personality and closet space.

Arranging by category allows you to go to each section and grab exactly what you need, but the scattered colors can give a disorganized appearance. However, while arranging by color gives a highly organized finish, your closet may not accommodate for clothing of various lengths to fit next to each other.

Seasonal Rotation

Rotating based on the seasons is beneficial for smaller closets. It also allows you to keep more pieces in your collective wardrobe. This method is fairly straightforward: every three to six months, update your wardrobe to the current season.

The downside to this method is you need additional storage space elsewhere in your house. While bins usually suffice, this can be particularly tricky for hanging garments that wrinkle easily. However, the frequent rotation allows you to donate items you didn't use that season, which saves storage space (and makes room for newer items!).

Custom Closet

Organizing your closet can be a daunting task. If you need assistance, consider bringing in a professional to provide advice on whether or not to invest in a custom closet system. Not only does this give you a beautiful and organized space, but a custom closet also adds value to your home , as explained by DASI Innovations . It's a win-win situation.

Keep It Tidy

You want to ensure your organizational method is sustainable; otherwise, your system will fall apart and your closet will once again be a jumbled mess. Here are some tips to keep in mind while you're organizing:

Folding Vs. Hanging - Which items should be folded, and which should be hung? MarthaStewart.com suggests flowy fabrics, linen, pants, blouses, jackets, and dresses should be hung, while thick sweaters, activewear, and shorts should be folded. T-shirts, jeans, and scarves can either be hung or folded.
The Right Hangers - Over time, wire hangers can become warped and plastic hangers break. Not to mention, sweaters become overstretched if hung on cheap hangers. Use wooden or velvet-topped hangers to keep your clothing in excellent condition and give a finishing touch to your closet. Hangers with clips are suitable for pants and skirts.
Accessibility - Place your most-used items at eye level and within easy reach. Store items you don't use as often up high. Use belt and scarf organizers to save space.
Shoe Storage - Placing shoes on a shelf or shoe rack instead of the floor will give your closet an extra-organized touch. If you have lots of shoes, consider rotating your pairs for the appropriate season.
Stick With It - A new storage system can be hard to get used to. It's easy to dump things where they used to go. But being intentional about putting everything away correctly will ensure your new organizational method sticks and all of your hard work pays off.

Conclusion

Before organizing your closet, make sure to take everything out and take inventory of your pieces. There are several ways to properly arrange the clothes in your closet; choose the method that fits your personality and space. Remember to prioritize your most frequently-used items, use the right hangers, and stick with your new system. This will help you store your clothing in a way that makes sense for you!

Sources

Kids Closet Organization Ideas

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 21:28:30 GMT

Unlike an adult closet, you are posed with unique challenges when trying to organize your childs' custom closets – namely their size and the size of their clothes (just think about all those teeny-tiny socks you have to keep track of). Aside from clothes, shoes, and toys, these spaces can easily be overcome by clutter.

Fortunately, keeping your kids' closets clean and organized is an obtainable goal, if you follow these tips:

Provide Room to Grow
Categorize and Catalog
Contain Clutter
Channel Your Inner Child
Fill in All Available Space

Keep reading for great suggestions to use when organizing your child’s closets (and some that can easily be adopted for yours as well).

Provide Room to Grow

Whether you are using a professional service to build custom closets or you are doing your own DIY version, flexible storage is essential. Kids' closets should be designed to change and expand as they grow. This is easy to do with adjustable hanging rods and shelves that can be raised as children get taller.

In What Accessories Are Available for My Custom Closets , the experts at Closet Solutions & Organizers note that sliding baskets are particularly popular for kids closets because they allow you to keep everything from clothes to toys organized and accessible.

Categorize and Catalog

Unlike adults, children are constantly growing – oftentimes in spurts. It may seem like they go to sleep one size and wake up the next day and nothing fits. That’s why many parents like to keep a few varied sizes on hand, especially with babies and toddlers. Using clothing size tags, like the ones you see in the department stores, allows you to plan for their growth. It's also a terrific way to keep things organized, especially if you like to take advantage of sales & purchase larger sizes.

When creating an organizational system, you want something simple. For hanging clothes, sort items by color or style. For example, you can keep shirts in one section and pants in another. You might even want to subcategorize, dividing sections into short-sleeve and long-sleeve shirts, jeans, and dress pants. If you keep it simple, your child can help out by putting away their own clothes after laundry day.

Another great organizational tip that comes from the home design experts at HGTV , is to create a pint-sized #OOTH (outfit of the day) station. You can use a hanging organizer to store your child’s clothes for every day of the week. Place each day’s shirt, pants, underwear, socks, and accessories on a separate shelf. This will make getting dressed for school a snap! You can also apply this clever idea for after-school activities as well. Instead of school clothes, put your child’s sports uniforms and activity supplies in each cubby.

Contain Clutter

Bins and baskets are a wonderful way to control clutter in your child’s room. An organized closet should have space to stash a few of these. You can use assorted colors to signify distinct categories, such as blue bins for books and red bins for toys.

If you are using baskets and bins to store clothes – and this is a great idea for items that don’t need to be folded neatly such as pajamas or smaller items like socks – be sure to use labels so that everyone knows what is inside each container. If your child is not old enough to read, use pictures instead. Find images of socks and t-shirts in magazines or online – or better yet draw your own! With easy-to-recognize pictures, even tiny tots can help at clean-up time.

You can avoid a great deal of clutter by constantly purging your child’s closet. Home design blog Grace In My Space , recommends doing this every few months, especially when your kids are little and growing quickly. When sorting through their stuff, separate it into what can be donated and what should be thrown away. Charitable organizations are always in need of gently-used children’s clothes and toys.

Channel Your Inner Child

When organizing your child’s closet, you will want to get down to their level – literally. Froddo , a European children’s shoe company with a great parenting blog, suggests squatting down or getting on your hands and knees to see things through your child’s eyes. This will help you decide where to place adjustable hanging bars and shelves and make sure that bins and baskets are easily reachable.

Fill in All Available Space

While your children are still small and can’t reach the higher shelves and racks, take advantage of the extra vertical space in their closets. Don’t be afraid to commandeer the top shelf to store out-of-season clothes or extra bedding (think bulky comforters and spare pillows).

The key to organizing a child’s closet – or any closet for that matter – is to use all available space. Wall-mounted hooks are ideal for keeping frequently worn jackets as well as school backpacks and sports bags within easy reach, yet out of the way.

Don't forget about the closet doors either! A hanging shoe organizer can store more than just sneakers. The little pockets are perfect for holding small toys, including Barbie dolls or small trucks. Another option is to use the plastic pockets to store accessories such as scrunchies and hair bows, belts, or even child-sized baseball caps.

Conclusion

Just like any other space in your house, you want your child’s closet to be clean and organized. This is not always easy to accomplish, considering kids are mess-makers by nature. The key to keeping their spaces under control is to utilize adjustable hanging rods and accessories, sort their wardrobes in a way that makes sense to them and to you, provide plenty of storage options to corral clutter, get rid of stuff that doesn’t fit, and make sure that everything is easily accessible. And don’t be afraid to adopt some of these organizational ideas for your own closets – they’re not just for kids!

Sources

Closet Jewelry Organizer Ideas

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 16:51:14 GMT

Do you have a wide variety of jewelry but end up wearing the same pieces because you don’t know what you have? Do you have tangles of necklaces, clumps of rings, and just too many pairs of earrings? Do you wish you had custom closets to find what you needed quickly to go with that day’s outfit?

Keeping your jewelry organized doesn’t have to be a chore! There are several ways to easily organize any size gem collection. Read on to discover clever closet jewelry organizer ideas for all of your necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings!

Standing Jewelry Armoires

If you have space in your closet for a small dresser or standing jewelry armoire, this decorative piece of furniture is an attractive and convenient way to store your jewelry collection.

Options include:

Tall 8 or 9 drawer armoires with padded drawers
Bureau or dresser style with varying motifs
Tall standing mirror/armoire combo
Over the door mirror/ jewelry armoire and makeup storage organizer

There are tons of jewelry armoires available for every style and budget. If you have the space, this is one piece of furniture that you will not regret having on hand.

Hanging Pocket Jewelry Organizer

You can find a wide variety of pocket jewelry organizers from decorative cloth or plastic over-the-door versions to ones you can neatly hang on a hanger in your closet.

Pocket organizers are ideal for storing:

Chunky bracelets
Statement pieces
Large pendants or pins
Scarves

Not meant for your fine jewelry, these organizers are great at organizing those hard-to-fit or categorized pieces that are always hard to find.

Behind The Door Storage

Better Homes & Gardens offers up more than a dozen creative solutions for organizing your jewelry, including clever behind-the-door storage.

Try these tips:

Use acrylic hooks to hang bracelets
Hang necklaces from decorative pins or pegs
Secure earrings to a wide ribbon and hang across the back of a closet door

Behind-the-door storage is a good use of space but not always the best place for your most treasured items, especially if the door gets a lot of use.

Decorative Jewelry Boxes

If you are like most people, you have at least one jewelry box on your nightstand or dresser full of favorite pieces that you wear. Jewelry boxes are one of the most traditional ways of storing jewelry that you wear on a regular basis. They're handy for keeping your preferred pieces nearby & easy to find. But what about pieces that don’t fit neatly in a box?

The downsides are: A jewelry box is too small to hold much & necklaces tend to get folded and tangled up. Too many jewelry boxes can take up a lot of space and make your room feel cluttered.

Jewelry Drawers in Custom Closets

The ideal way to store your jewelry, according to the organizing pros at Optimal Garages & Closets Inc. in Reorganize Your Custom Closets Using These 7 Versatile Accessories , is in a dedicated jewelry drawer. The drawer will blend in beautifully with the rest of your decor, keeping your valuable pieces hidden and out of sight, further protecting them from theft.

Shallow divided drawers keep items organized
Easy to separate by type: earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, watches
Keeps your items dust free and out of sight
Easy to access & organize

Conclusion

By designating space for jewelry in your closet, you'll finally be able to pair the right accessories with your killer outfits, ultimately making getting ready a breeze any time of day. You’ll feel more confident and organized and your space will be a whole lot less cluttered!

Sources

6 Tips for Organizing Tools in Your Garage

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 13:06:37 GMT

The tools you used in your most recent DIY project may have had a home at one time, but if you can’t get to them easily where do they end up? In the Twilight Zone of your garage, which is how you end up with twelve hammers and six wrenches of the same size. Organizing these items will help de-clutter your custom garage and allow more space for other things.

The following list consists of tips you can use as a starting point for getting the mess in your garage under control, one tool at a time!

1. Start Small

Organizing a messy, cluttered garage can seem like a daunting task, no matter who you are, but you have to start somewhere. It can be helpful to sort items into categories that coincide with their functions. For instance, lump fasteners together in bins. Put those twelve hammers together, and gather your drill bits up.

Forget using old mayonnaise jars for smaller items. Instead, to make finding specific items easier, consider labeling small Tupperware-like bins with a label maker or magic marker. Don’t be discouraged if this step takes a while – it’s arguably the hardest part!

2. Clean Up Your Act

It should go without saying that organizing and cleaning go hand in hand, but they really do. An organized but dirty garage is not anywhere near as satisfying as a clean and organized one, right? Take this opportunity to wipe down surfaces and tools as you uncover them. This doesn’t mean you have to start scrubbing your wrenches and putty knives. Simply laying them out on the driveway and rinsing off any dust and debris with a garden hose will suffice.

3. Take Inventory

Once you’ve sorted through your litany of household tools, you’ll have a pretty good idea about how to approach taking inventory. Do you have more hand tools or power tools? How much space does your power tool collection take up? This is a good time to pare down your collection if necessary. How many flat head screwdrivers does one person really need?

4. Look Up

While the garage is an excellent place to store your tools, and a great home base for home improvement projects, it does tend to serve another purpose. If you plan on parking your car in there any time soon, you’re going to have to look beyond the obvious floor space. While wall space is an excellent storage option, so is the ceiling of your garage, as Wayfair.com notes. Overhead storage makes a huge difference in organizing options and allows more space for your cars!

5. Get Mobile

Bob Vila adds that another handy solution is bringing rolling storage carts & cabinets, both of which will add even more versatility to your tool storage options. Depending on the location of your project, being able to take everything you need in one shot could really improve your efficiency and save you some steps.

6. Stick to It with Magnets

The potential household uses for magnets are endless. They can be incredibly handy when it comes to garage organization and storage as well. After all, most of the items that you’ll be organizing are made of metal.

If you have a number of oddly shaped tools, look to the walls for inspiration. For example, you can utilize your storage solutions by installing a magnetic strip on the wall and using it to hold lightweight items like screwdrivers and small wrenches. Or, use Slatwall racks to reduce your clutter and store things like garden tools, sports equipment, and even your kids’ bikes.

Conclusion

Organizing your garage tool collection may seem like a massive undertaking, but it's actually very doable. Just follow a few well-thought-out steps. If you break the process up into bite-sized pieces and tackle each piece individually, you may be surprised at what you accomplish.

Just think how nice it will be to finally be able to park your vehicle alongside a nicely curated and organized tool collection. Taking it a step further, imagine how many more home improvement projects you’ll cross off the list once you can actually find the supplies you need.

Sources

Garage Update Ideas

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 17:24:44 GMT

Initially, garages were created as spaces to store vehicles. It keeps them out of the extreme weather, allowing you to enter and exit without suffering from external conditions. In addition, your vehicles are well protected from thieves that may break in and steal your personal belongings.

Yet, most homeowners fill their garages to the brim with junk and end up using the precious square footage for storage. Instead, you might want to consider turning that area into usable space, even if you don’t want to park your car inside.

There are hundreds of ideas available to truly update your custom garage . You might choose to:

Build a Home Gym
Add Extra Living Space
Space for the Weekend Warrior

If you’re ready to take back control of your garage, then break out the broom and notepad and continue reading!

Before You Begin

No matter your plans for your garage update, you need to accomplish certain tasks before getting started. To begin, sort through everything you have in your garage. Keep items you want or need, donate things you don’t want anymore but are in good condition, and toss anything that's broken or worn out.

Next, invest in safe storage options for your items. Storage bins and cabinets are perfect for holiday decorations, sports equipment, tools, and cleaning chemicals.

Also, consider using your walls to hang items you can’t easily store in a container or cabinet. Take advantage of Slatwall racks to store sports equipment, tools, or even bicycles. Now, you have an orderly place to park your vehicle.

Finally, make a plan for your garage. Knowing where everything will go and how you want it to look will go a long way to ensuring that you turn this space into a usable area.

Building a Home Gym

Making room for your car is only one way you can update your garage. If you don’t mind parking in the driveway and want some extra space, you can always use the garage as an addition to your home. For example, you might consider repurposing it as a home gym.

Having a home gym saves you money on monthly gym membership fees and stops you from making excuses for not wanting to go back after a long day. So, how do you turn it into a home gym? According to Growingupbilingual.com , there are four simple steps to follow once you’ve cleaned out the junk.

Determine What Equipment You Want

When you go to the gym, what equipment do you use the most? Do you run on the treadmill, or do you opt to do cardio on the elliptical? Answering such questions will help you decide which pieces will be the most useful & beneficial to your space & health.

For the most successful home gym, you need to focus on both cardio and resistance training. This will ensure that you get as full of a workout as you would if you went to an actual gym.

And while you might think this is a great time to try something new, avoid the temptation. Unless you’ve tried or researched new equipment advertised on TV, it’s best if you stick with what you know, at least at first. That way, you are sure to use the equipment and not let it sit around and gather dust.

Don’t buy anything yet. Instead, wait until you’ve completed the next step.

Make a Plan

You know what pieces you want. Now it's time to figure out if your garage will hold everything and still give you room to work out. First, measure your floor space to know how much area you have to work with. Then, use the dimensions of the equipment you want to figure out if you have enough space.

Next, mark the floor with tape to indicate where each piece will sit. This will give you a great idea of how your home gym will flow when you’ve finished setting everything up. Don’t forget to take into account any additional floor space you need to operate the equipment safely.

Add Extra Touches

Once your equipment is set up, think about the additional touches that will help ensure that you’ll use the space. For example, add a sound system that can easily connect to your phone & blast your workout playlist. Consider mounting a small TV or building a place to put your tablet so that you can follow along with your favorite streaming exercise class.

While your garage floor can take the abuse from your equipment, you may still want to consider adding some workout mats or perhaps Swisstrax rubber floor tiles. If you do exercises that require you to be on the floor, your body will thank you for the cushy support!

Don’t Forget Climate Control

It’s easy to forget that while the garage is part of your house, it is not connected to your home’s heating and cooling system. So you need to take your area’s climate into account. For example, you might need to add a small window AC unit or a fan to your garage during the warmer months and a heater during the cooler ones.

Add Extra Living Space

Having your own home gym is nice, but not everyone wants to work out at home. For those who’d instead use the space to add more square footage, you have a wide array of options.

Whether you turn the space into a play area for the kids, a place to watch your favorite movies, or an added guest room, bear in mind that you may need to significantly renovate this site. As mentioned above, the space may not be tied to your home’s HVAC unit. You might need to call in a contractor to add ductwork and vents so that you have a climate-controlled room. You may also need to add electrical outlets if you don’t have enough.

Finally, ask your electrician to install ground-fault circuit interrupters to shut off if the outlets become overloaded.

Home Theater

Adding a home theater is a great way to spend time as a family. Once you have the climate control and electrical work you need done, it’s simple to remake your garage into a movie theater. Before you hang that 75-inch flat-screen TV, according to homeguides.sfgate.com , you should consider adding some soundproofing to the walls and ceiling. This way, you won’t disturb the neighbors or the rest of the house with your loud movies.

You can leave the floor as concrete if you desire and add rugs to make it feel cozier. The hard flooring makes clean-up more manageable but can be cold during the winter. Additionally, you should caulk around all openings and hang heavy drapery to make the room darker for movie time.

With your big screen on the wall and your surround system wired in, you need to consider storage. Custom garage cabinets give you space to store movies, games, snacks, and blankets for when you are ready to relax with the family.

Play Room

Theater rooms are fun, but sometimes they don’t fit what your home needs. For example, if you have children, especially small children, you might want a place where they can freely make a mess.

As stated before, you need to make sure the space is connected to your climate control system and add a few electrical sockets if necessary. In addition, ask your electrician to install tamper-resistant plugs so that small hands can’t poke things into the outlets.

Consider painting at least one wall with chalkboard paint. This will give your children a space where it’s okay to draw on the walls and get creative. Custom cabinetry is a must for this room. Select cabinets that can be installed low and are easy to open and close. It is best to leave the doors off in some cases so that little hands aren’t pinched when playing. You can use bins to organize their toys and games.

If you leave the garage doors in place, instead of putting up a wall, make sure they are sealed and locked so no one can open them. You don’t want your little ones to run out front without your supervision.

Space for The Weekend Warrior

Having an additional room for the family is excellent, but having extra space for yourself might be even better. Garages can be a great place for a work area or for the ever-elusive man cave.

Art Studio

Being creative can get messy. You spend a lot of time in your home trying to keep it orderly and clean, so it’s understandable if you don’t want the creative process all over your home. Turning the garage into a studio gives you room to be messy and space to have more than one creative outlet.

Whether your craft is painting, flower arranging, or woodworking, you need some sort of bench to work from. Install one that is the right height for you to sit or stand at comfortably. It should be long enough and wide enough to hold all of the supplies for your current project.

Your workbench should also have plenty of storage to keep frequently used items handy. For example, suppose you’re into woodworking. In that case, you may consider a Slatwall rack above your bench to hang tools and small containers for screws and nails.

Man Cave

Ah, the man cave . A place for men to go and enjoy their hobbies and sports without bothering the rest of the family. There are many options for a garage-to-man cave transformation.

This space may be a dual-purpose area. On one side, you can sit in a comfortable recliner and yell at the referees who made a call against your favorite team. While on the other, you have a place to do your favorite hobby. You may even consider starting a home brewery and having a place for a bar and your brewing barrels.

Conclusion

The garage is not only a great place to store your cars away, but it's also an awesome area where you can pretty much update any way you wish. You can get in shape with a new home gym or add on that home theater you’ve always wanted. Maybe you need a place to escape from the family. Whatever your needs, your imagination is the limit!

Sources

Garage Man Cave Makeover Ideas

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 14:29:04 GMT

The man cave. Safe house. Sanctuary. Whatever you call it, it can provide more than just a safe haven for a big weekend sporting event. For most men, this elusive room is perhaps the most important part of the household. After all, every guy needs a little bit of space where no girls are allowed. Or, you may want to let your wife in from time to time to help sell the idea.

If you have the space but you're fresh out of makeover ideas, do not fear. Follow these simple steps below to turn your custom garage into your dream man cave:

Clean and Organize Your Garage
Flooring and Wall Makeover
Think About Insulation and Acoustics
Proper Lighting is Everything
Finding The Perfect Furniture
Bar, Fridge, and Other Appliances
Man Cave Decor and Memorabilia
Protecting Your Man Cave

Further dive into the tips below to turn your garage into the perfect man dojo that impresses all of your friends.

Clean and Organize Your Garage

To really help visualize the possibilities of your man cave, you need to start with a blank canvas. Most garages are cluttered with boxes, tools, bikes, and cleaning supplies. You'll want to start the makeover process by getting your garage organized .

First, gather and sort all the junk in your garage into three piles: keep, trash, and sell. You'll need to find a home for everything you're going to keep. Everything you're going to trash can go straight to the recycling bin. For the last pile, why not try selling some items to help finance your man cave makeover? You can sell these via a garage sale or on eBay.

For everything you plan on keeping, look at storing them by:

Installing custom garage cabinets and organizers
Utilizing overhead storage racks
Building a workbench to house your tools
Taking advantage of stackable storage bins

Flooring and Wall Makeover

Most garages are not designed for people to live comfortably within their confines. Concrete floors are cold and uninviting, while most garage walls are boring and unappealing. Here's how to fix that.

For your man cave flooring, you have two options: either spruce up the floor or cover it up. Swisstrax interlocking floor tiles are heavy-duty, easy to maintain, & can be installed right over the concrete base. You might also consider installing wood flooring or carpet, but understand that if you go that route, either type would not be suitable to park your vehicles on.

The walls of your man cave are just as important as the flooring. Though you'll most likely cover the walls with decor and memorabilia (more on that later), you may want to consider giving your garage walls a few coats of paint. Think about the color scheme of your room. For instance, paint the walls the color of your favorite sports team. This will help give the room a good base to work with.

Think About Insulation and Acoustics

Another aspect of the walls you should consider is insulation and acoustics. In areas where the winters are especially cold, insulation should be a top priority since most garages are lacking in this department. The floors, walls, ceiling, and garage door will need insulation. After all, you want your man cave to be as cozy and warm as possible -- how else are you supposed to get away during crazy family functions?

Acoustics are also important, particularly for movie and music aficionados. In order to blast your war movies on your surround-sound speakers, or to crank the volume on your electric guitar, you'll probably want to soundproof the room first. Fortunately, this step can go hand in hand with insulation, just make sure it offers soundproofing capabilities as well.

Proper Lighting is Everything

Since most garages only have a single light in the ceiling, you'll need to add more to help illuminate your next poker night. Think about the theme of your man cave when deciding what types of lights to install. Pendant lights give off a more industrial vibe, while recessed lights veer towards more of a modern feel.

Finding the Perfect Furniture

Now that the basics are out of the way, you can start to really bring out the personality of your man cave. The best way to do that? Finding the perfect furniture to put in it! First and foremost, a recliner is a must.

Don't skimp on this chair either. After all, you're most likely going to spend a great deal of time in it. For your friends, either opt for multiple recliners or add a nice sectional. If you're on a budget, you could try finding multiple bar seats at a local furniture store. Whatever you decide, you just want to get enough seating for all the guys.

What's a man cave without game tables? Your furniture budget should also include room for a poker table, pool table, or foosball table. If you have extra funds to splurge, why not add a pinball machine as well? The more games you have, the more you can entertain your friends.

Bar, Fridge, and Other Appliances

A bar in a man cave is as important as the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office, many "important" decisions will be made around it. Whether you opt for a simple bar cart or you install a fully functioning bar top counter, you should keep it stocked full of your favorite whiskey, scotch, and other spirits.

You can take it one step further by bringing a fridge into your garage man cave as well. Again, you have options here. You can choose a full-size fridge or, depending on your space, you can get a compact refrigerator. In either case, you will want to keep it stocked full of beer. Want beer on tap? Homes.com lays out how to make a fairly affordable DIY kegerator that is made out of a compact fridge and tap handle. You can either brew and keg your own beer, or make a trip to the local liquor store.

Man Cave Decor and Memorabilia

Now is when you can match your man cave to your personality. For those sports fans, hanging signed jerseys on the walls could offer endless bragging rights. You can also strategically place autographed baseballs or footballs around the room. Have a mint condition rookie card? Place it in a frame around your bar.

Other great man cave decorations include neon signs. Look for neon beer or liquor signs at swap meets to grace your painted walls, just make sure they fit the overall theme of the space. Hand-carved wooden signs could be a great option for more rustic or modern man caves. Movie posters are great for movie-lovers, whereas hanging old record albums on the wall would be a great idea for music fans. The possibilities are endless!

Protecting Your Man Cave

One of the most overlooked aspects of a garage man cave is protection. Remember, the only security between your 75" HD 4K TV is a thin metal garage door that can be easily opened by hand. Security should be on your list of necessities and don't skimp on it either.

Purchase special garage door locks that can only be opened with a specific code, and guard that code with your life! Another great security addition in today's modern world is security cameras. Place them in strategic spots around the room, such as one pointing at that limited-edition, autographed Michael Jordan jersey.

Your man cave is your safe place, and you should do everything in your power to keep it that way.

Conclusion

Garages offer a great space to makeover into your man cave. You just need to clean and organize your garage, give the flooring and walls a makeover and install the proper lighting. Once that's done, you can fill your safe haven with manly furniture, decor, and memorabilia. Follow the tips above and your dream man cave could become a reality. Game on!

Sources

https://www.homes.com/blog/2017/10/9-great-man-cave-hacks-wont-break-bank-dad/

20 Pantry Necessities to Always Have on Hand

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 14:36:06 GMT

Cooking at home is a great way to save money on food costs. But it’s not fun to realize while you're cooking that you're out of a necessary ingredient. There are a few key ingredients you should always have available in your kitchen pantry , just in case.

In total, you'll want to have 20 simple ingredients available. Each item will be in one of these categories:

Seasonings
Dry Goods
Oils
Meal Items

Continue reading to gain an understanding of what you should continuously have stored in your pantry.

Seasonings

Nobody wants to eat bland, boring food. You need at least a few spices to add some kick to your meals. Thankfully, seasonings could last in your cabinets for up to four years depending on the spice. It goes without saying that all household pantries should contain salt and pepper, so be sure to keep that well-stocked!

Herbs

People have used herbs for centuries, and not just for tasty food. They have health benefits like antioxidants, cholesterol-lowering properties, and key vitamins as A. Jiang describes . Some basic spices to have on hand include:

Oregano: This is most commonly used in tomato-heavy meals like spaghetti, pizza, & tomato soup. It also pairs well with olive oil to help make vinaigrettes & marinades.
Basil: Also popular in Italian dishes, it can be used in salads. Food.ndtv.com notes that basil also helps treat throat infections.
Bay Leaves: These are often used in meals that take time cooking, like soups & stews.
Parsley: This herb helps keep control of your blood sugar level as explained by Healthline.com . It’s also a great seasoning that cuts the growth of foodborne bacteria.
Rosemary: This is one of the most versatile spices out there. You can use it to season any meat or pair it with a grain or vegetable.
Thyme: Light seasoning with thyme can add a huge boost of flavor to your meal. It pairs well with all of the herbs mentioned above.

If you feel like your kitchen pantry is too cluttered , you could also just buy a large container of Italian seasoning; it contains most--if not all--of these herbs. Or you can buy a container, buy the above dried seasonings, and mix it into one container. That way, your cabinets will have some extra space. Note that this tip should only be used when creating your own Italian blend.

Ground Spices

For the best bang for your buck, consider looking for these spices in bulk.

Garlic Powder: Not only is it a convenient way to add flavor, but it’s also great for spice rubs.
Onion Powder: Netmeds.com lists some of the health benefits of onion powder, including fighting off colds, coughs, & infections.
Crushed/Flaky Red Pepper: The experts at SFGATE examined this spicy ingredient and found that it can actually help with relieving stomach aches.
Cayenne Pepper Powder: Healthline.com adds that a great way to boost your metabolism and add some kick to your pot of chili is with a little Cayenne Pepper.
Cinnamon: A classic spice to give some extra boost to your desserts and your antioxidant intake.
Lemon Pepper gives fish, chicken wings, and other types of food a great taste without excessive amounts of salt.
Chili Powder: This is commonly used in many Latin dishes, but is also a nice addition to meats, beans, & stews. It’s also perfect for jazzing up nacho or taco night.

While these are the basics you should always have available, some additional choices include Cajun seasoning, French fry seasoning, or all-purpose seasoning (think Creole). However, be cautious of the sodium intake.

Dry Goods

Having these items in your kitchen pantry will prepare you for your baking & meal prep needs.

Baking Goods

These items are often listed in recipes, but they’re sometimes easy to forget. They seem small but play a large role in the outcome of the finished product.

All-Purpose Flour: Whether you want to make bread, cake, cookies, or other sweets, flour is a must-have. All-purpose flour is suggested versus other types for its versatility.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These two, paired with other baking ingredients, help items rise while in the oven.
Cornstarch: There are a few ways to make gravy but using cornstarch is one of the easier methods. Simply pour in some water, stir, slowly pour into boiling broth, then stir until thick.
Sugar: To add some sweetness to your life, always have some sugar available. Use it in your drinks, desserts, candies, and more.

Oils

Before you cook anything, you need to have something that prevents your food from sticking to the pan. Unless you have non-stick cooking spray or butter, not having oil may lead to messy results.

There are many options for oil: vegetable, corn, canola, coconut, olive, and avocado. The one you choose is up to your taste preferences.

For Your Meals

If you need a side item besides fresh or frozen vegetables to go with your main dish, try experimenting with:

Rice: This compliments almost any meal. It’s simple to make --just boil it in water-- and it helps make your meal complete. Rice goes great with gravy, too.
Legumes: These are healthy food options that are low in fat and high in iron and potassium. They’re great for making a vegetarian meal.
Nut Butter: Add an additional boost of protein with a healthy smoothy, mixed with a few tablespoons of peanut butter, or use it to jazz up your oatmeal or sandwich.

Conclusion

Having all of the above necessities in your kitchen pantry will keep you prepared for any cooking or baking adventure. Since you'll likely use these necessities often, consider buying them in bulk to save money.

Sources

Zen Home Office Design Ideas

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 19:17:10 GMT

Is your home office a calm and relaxing refuge, or do your stress levels shoot up every time you enter? If chaos and clutter are your constant workspace companions, your focus and productivity may be slipping. Concentrating on your work tasks is difficult with your desk covered with stacks of papers, sticky notes, and office supplies.

Instead of working in a space that zaps your energy and adds undue stress, your home office should be an escape from the hectic workday. Zen is a Japanese philosophy that encourages tranquility, simplicity, and minimalism. As Tom’s of Maine notes, applying Zen design accents to your home office creates a peaceful, calm and relaxing environment that inspires creativity, strengthens your focus and increases your productivity.

If you’re ready for a change, incorporate the Zen design ideas in this article into your home office and transform it into a relaxing and welcoming space in which you enjoy spending time.

Carve Out a Dedicated Workspace

Having an established home office enables you to leave household distractions behind and focus on work. Ideally, it would be a separate room but if that’s not possible, try to find a space elsewhere-corners make great workspaces. You could also convert a closet, attic, or long hallway into an office.

Banish Clutter

Clutter adds unnecessary stress to your day. To rid yourself of distractions, clear off your desk, discarding any old documents you no longer need or store them electronically. Sort and organize the papers you need to keep into folders and place them out of view.

Go through your desk drawers and throw away any old business cards, post-it notes, contact lists, or other unneeded objects. Use storage bins, baskets, and filing cabinets to keep your office supplies organized and out of sight. Finally, take time to declutter and organize your workspace at the end of each workday.

Give Everything a Place

Keeping your workspace neat and organized will allow you to work more productively and efficiently. When you take things out to use such as books or office supplies, return them to their designated spots.

Bring the Outdoors Inside

Plants help create a less chaotic environment, generate oxygen, and remove toxins from the air. Add a few potted plants to your home office. Succulents are ideal as they are easy to care for and only need watering once a month. If plants aren’t your thing, The Muse suggests a terrarium for a touch of the outdoors.

Take Advantage of Natural Light

Natural light is an automatic mood booster. Not only does it provide you with an infusion of Vitamin D, but it also brightens up your workspace and improves your mood. If possible, locate your home office in an area offering natural light and position your desk facing a window. If natural light isn’t an option, use bulbs mimicking daylight to get your dose of light.

Select the Right Chair

To set a relaxing tone in your home office, you need a comfortable and ergonomic chair. Since you spend a lot of time in your office chair, Virtual Vocations recommends putting comfort over decor when selecting this piece. Select a chair with an adjustable seat, armrests and excellent back support, as well as a swivel base and wheels.

Pick Calming Colors

In a home office, colors have more importance than you think. Color impacts your mood, energy, and productivity and sets the tone for your workspace. 21 Oak advises choosing a neutral color such as beige, ivory, white or olive green to promote calm and focus.

Focus on Goals

Hang a bulletin board or whiteboard on the wall near your desk to highlight your to-do list. Having a visible list will keep you more focused on completing tasks. Cross the items off after you finish each one.

Add a Personal Touch

Let your personality shine to inspire you. Hang family photos, your favorite piece of artwork, an inspirational quotation or another item with sentimental meaning on your wall.

Turn on the Sound

If you find silence distracting, stay focused on your work by adding calming noise such as meditation music, white noise or a desktop water fountain. Choose whatever sounds you find calming and relaxing.

Hide the Cords

With all the electronics you use every day, including your phone charger, printer and computer, your desk and workspace can become a maze of cords and cables. Go wireless as much as possible and use a cord organizer to hide the rest of the clutter.

Conclusion

Your home office should be a place where you feel calm, relaxed and productive. Use the ideas in this article to create a Zen workspace that will inspire and motivate you to do your best work.

Sources

How to Arrange a Home Office for Two People

Wed, 26 May 2021 20:07:36 GMT

More people than ever are working from home these days, and it can be a real challenge to carve out a space that lets you work productively and without distraction. Add a second person to the mix and it can seem nearly insurmountable, no matter how much you like them.

However, times are changing rapidly and it’s best to go with the flow and seize the opportunity to enjoy this lifestyle with someone you care about. Don’t let a disorganized space get you down! Just follow these simple tips to successfully arrange a comfortable home office for two:

Create two distinct zones
Don’t cling to a corporate style
Use creative storage
Have extra seating
Take advantage of walls and windows
Invest in a few must-have office supplies

Working from home has a host of awesome long-term benefits, such as developing a better sleep schedule, healthier eating habits, and saving money by not commuting. Read on for more detail about how to design a functional space that will keep your dynamic duo co-working successfully.

Pick Your Side

The first step to organizing an office for two people is determining each person’s priorities and needs. Some people need more than one monitor to get things done, and some just want a quiet place to sit with their laptop and latte. You might prefer to work facing out with a view of the rest of the house, or perhaps you would rather be snug in a corner, away from all distractions.

Evaluate your new office space by removing everything from that area and giving it a good cleaning. Decide on each person’s particular space and a neutral pathway. Once you figure out who will sit where it’s time to bring in the elements that will get you ready to work hard.

The Washington Post suggests using furniture like tables and couches to create separate work zones. Plants also purify the air, promote a feeling of well-being, and can be utilized to create the illusion of privacy. It’s also important to discuss in advance the things you will both need access to, like storage, printers, and bathrooms.

Show Your True Colors

One of the fun advantages of working from home is being able to decorate your home office however you like. As long as you have a professional background for any video calls, the sky's the limit with the rest of your space. You can tastefully decorate your new work area to match the rest of your house, or you can show off your creativity to your heart’s content.

Not being in a corporate setting also means you don’t have to rely on boring old office furniture anymore - perhaps a repurposed farmhouse table might be more suited for your needs. A vintage dinette set, a trendy new standing desk, or an antique escritoire - choose the one that makes you smile. Each person being comfortable in this space is key to establishing a peaceful work environment.

Choose Innovative Storage

Another crucial ingredient for your new home office is adequate storage for all of your stuff. If your office is on the smaller side , you need to make the best use of what you have available so you won’t feel crowded. Utilize vertical possibilities like cabinetry and shelves from floor to ceiling.

Drawer dividers can also organize smaller desk items, like pens, paper clips, and notepads. Commandeer some kitchen gear like cutlery caddies, serving trays, and wire baskets to hold office supplies you can’t live without. Better Homes & Gardens recommends using shelf risers typically found in a pantry to help you increase your available desktop space for the things you use every day.

Have a Seat

Don’t get trapped in an uncomfortable and old-fashioned office chair - treat yourself to an ergonomic seat. Even if you’ve embraced the standing desk trend, it’s vital to have supportive seating in your home office. A combination of movements throughout the day like sitting, standing, and walking is the best routine for your back and will ensure that you keep any extra pounds away.

A comfy loveseat or overstuffed bean bag can also add a relaxing change of scenery to your home headquarters. If you have clients visiting from time to time, create a charming coffee corner with a cabaret table and chairs that will be perfect for a quick meeting.

Maximize Wall and Window Space

Another crafty way to build a home office with enough room for two is to make sure you are using your wall space intelligently, and not letting any prime window-front real estate go to waste. Some co-workers do well with one long desk, floating down the length of an entire wall, which creates two distinct work zones while opening up a vast amount of floor space.

Perhaps in your house, extra room is at a premium and you need to get especially creative when staking out a new office. A long table placed at right-angles to a window can support two opposite-facing workstations and provides a relaxing view. Natural light is an important source of vitamin D and also helps people deal with seasonal depression.

Bare Necessities

You’ll need to be flexible when setting up a dual office, and you may not be able to have everything you want, at least at first. But there are a few things that you simply must have in order to share an office successfully:

Noise-canceling headphones are a blessing.
Quality computers - don’t scrimp on technology.
The fastest possible internet speed so you don’t drive each other crazy.
A good keyboard and mouse - using a laptop keyboard is bad for your wrists.
Adequate lighting to brighten your work/ life balance.
A sense of humor and patience .

Stock your new shared workspace with these required items and you’ll be on the way to building a home office for two that’s fun and functional.

Conclusion

Sharing your home office with someone else might seem like a drag at first, but you can definitely make it work. With some creativity and inspiration, you and your new office buddy can arrange a productive space that feels spacious and comfortable.

Sources

Six Simple Methods for Preventing Closet Pests

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 17:19:59 GMT

You walk into your custom closet to grab your favorite sweater on the first crisp day of the year to find it has holes in it. Closet pests ruin not only your clothes but your carpeting and other items. You need to get rid of them, but how can you go about doing so?

Getting rid of closet pests is not always easy. However, there are things you can do to help drive them out without resorting to harmful pesticides. After you identify the intruders, you should:

Remove dirty clothes
Vacuum regularly
Store off-season items in airtight containers
Reduce clutter
Use a clothing brush
Use natural repellents

Are you ready to save your wardrobe and make your closets pest-free? Keep reading to learn how.

Identify What Pests You Have

Each area has pests that are more common than others. Residents of Kansas are more prone to seeing carpet beetles and carpet moths than other types of insects. However, you can also fight against ants, cockroaches, and rodents.

Ants, roaches, and rodents can be problematic in almost any room. They are primarily attracted to food. Mice like to find soft things to make their beds and chew holes in clothing to get what they want.

Carpet beetles and carpet moths are pests that are harmful to fabrics of all types. They feed on these fibers. They are not harmful to humans, but they can cause rashes if they make contact with your skin.

Remove Dirty Clothes

Storing your dirty clothes hamper in your closet might not seem like a big deal. You may even have a built-in hamper to make it simpler to change clothes. However, you should try to find a different place to toss your dirty clothes and not keep them in the same room as your clean ones.

Pests are attracted to dirt and sweat deposits on your clothing. Clothes you have only worn for a couple of hours will still have oils and dirt on them. Always wash your clothes before returning them to your closet.

Vacuum Regularly

Weekly vacuuming can help to cut down on the number of pests you see in your closet as well. Vacuuming helps to cut pests off from their food supplies. When you vacuum, empty the canister or bag immediately.

Store Off-Season Clothes in Airtight Containers

You need to keep your closets from getting too crowded as it helps reduce the likelihood of pests and mold . Rotating your seasonal clothing is a good idea to free up space. If you store your seasonal clothes, you want to make sure they are clean before putting them away for several months.

Store your clothing in airtight containers to protect against dirt and pests. If you are worried about your fabrics getting musty from being shut up for months at a time, add a small satchel of lavender. The lavender will keep your clothes smelling fresh and deter pests.

Reduce Clutter

You might not realize it, but having jam-packed closets is an invitation for bugs and pests to come in. To reduce your risk of an infestation, keep clutter to a minimum.

Periodically go through your piles of stuff to determine what needs to stay and what needs to go. When possible, store your items in airtight containers to keep pests from making a meal or a home out of your belongings.

Use a Clothing Brush

According to Realsimple.com , investing in a clothing brush is an excellent way to help cut down on some fabric-eating pests. It is best to brush your clothing outside in the sun. The brushing action helps to destroy and knock off pests, which you don’t want to inadvertently infest your freshly cleaned carpet. Sunlight causes them to release from clothing and fall off.

Use Natural Repellents of Lavender and Cedar

As thespruce.com notes, there are several natural repellents to help keep pests at bay, lavender being one of them. It’s simple to use, just fill some muslin cloth bags or sachets with dried lavender. Hang the bags on your clothing rod or place them in your closet drawers. You may even consider sprinkling lavender essential oils around the room.

Cedar is another good deterrent for pests. You can use cedar blocks or cedar chests to protect your clothes. If you use a cedar chest, make sure you sand and refresh the oils every three years. Cedar pieces older than three years will not drive pests away.

Also, ensure that the cedar does not directly touch your clothing as cedar oil can stain. To prevent this from occurring, line your chest with tissue paper before putting clothing inside or place cedar chips in a cotton bag and hang it away from your clothes.

Conclusion

Pests are a part of life. They share the world you live in. However, that doesn’t mean you have to live with them getting into your house and destroying your clothes. Reduce the amount of food available to them by removing dirty clothes and storing off-season items in airtight containers. With routine vacuuming and cleaning, you can protect your closets and your home from pests.

Sources

How to Organize a Small Guest Room

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 19:18:14 GMT

Having a small guest room doesn’t have to mean a home organization nightmare for you. You can easily get your guest room in tiptop shape before you have company coming. And, you can benefit from a tidy room year-round too.

Learn how to organize a small guest room and what items to put in it below!

Get Inspired

The first step in organizing any room in your home is to get inspired. Look online for small space design ideas. There are lots of options out there, and seeing what draws you in most will help you narrow down what you want your room to look like.

Ask yourself a few questions before getting started:

Do you want your room to have a theme? Having a theme in mind can keep you focused on what items and style elements you want to incorporate.
How big is your space? You know what they say-- “measure twice, cut once.” And when it comes to your small space, a similar idea applies. You want to know exactly how much space you are working with so you use the right items in the right locations.
Who will be using the space the most? While this is a general guest room, you might have specific guests visiting you more often than others. What would make this space more comfortable for them?
What are your organizational needs? Small spaces can present big organizational challenges due to, you guessed it, space! Figure out what organizational needs your room has. This will help you figure out how to make the space most functional.

Remove Clutter

Everyone has some amount of clutter, and it looks overwhelming when you have clutter in a small space, especially if you are using it for extra storage. When it comes to decluttering and home organization, start with one side of the room at a time. Looking at the room as a whole will make you not want to work on it, so take it in steps.

Keep your important documents, sentimental items, and anything that you are 100% sure you want to keep in one location. For items that you no longer want or need, make a pile to donate and a pile for the trash. Soon, you’ll have a decluttered space that is ready for the next step.

Add-In Your Design Elements

Now that you have gotten inspired and removed the clutter from the room, it’s time to make your space a luxurious and peaceful guest room. When you add furniture and decor, remember that you want to make sure the space remains functional.

Here are some ideas of what to put in your small guest room to make it beautiful and useful:

A bed that fits the space: Since you have a smaller space to work with, consider having a bed that can fit two people without taking up the entire area of the room.
Nightstand with lamp: Your guests may want to read before bed or may not want to use the overhead light. Include a nightstand that has a drawer for keys and wallets as well as a good, well-lit lamp.
Accent rugs, mirrors, and add ons: Rugs add a cozy ambiance to a space and can match the theme of your room. Mirrors and little touches like a small care package with a toothbrush and toothpaste really go the extra mile.
Closet space : Don’t leave your clothes in the guest room closet. Your guests will need a place to hang their clothes, too.
Storage options: Just like the closet space, make sure you have storage options for your guest room as well. This could include space in drawers, a jewelry box, a tie rack, or a folding rack for luggage.
Under the bed storage: This is a great solution since the space under the bed is often overlooked. You can easily store your personal items in under-the-bed storage and leave the closet open to your guests.
Door Hooks: Mydomaine.co m suggests adding hooks to the back of the door frees up closet space and gives your guests a place to hang their coats or handbags.

Conclusion

Home organization for a small guest room doesn’t have to make you want to pull out your hair. Remember, start by finding your room inspiration and removing clutter. Then you will be able to see your space more clearly. Give these simple, yet effective tips a try, and you will have a guest room that all your visitors will be talking about.

Sources

https://www.mydomaine.com/small-guest-room-ideas-4767893

14 Simple Home Organization & Storage Ideas

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 19:39:58 GMT

Clutter has a way of piling up without you even realizing it. If your home is feeling crowded, it may be time to organize it. While home organization can be overwhelming, the right tools and strategies can make this task easier.

Maximize your space and put some order back in your home with these easy home organization and storage ideas.

1. Declutter

Before you start organizing, declutter and purge your home of items you no longer want or need. Many professional organizers advise getting rid of items you haven’t used in at least a year.

2. Start in One Room

If you have several areas to organize, don’t try to tackle them all at once. It’s too daunting, and you may give up before you begin. Starting in one room keeps the task manageable. Select an area that is the most challenging or most frequently used. Once you complete one room, take time to celebrate your accomplishment before moving on to the next area.

3. Assign Everything a Place

Give each item in your home a permanent spot. If you take an item out, make sure it goes back to its assigned home.

4. Divide Your Drawers

Boost your storage capacity and organization by installing drawer dividers. Because dividers create separate categories instantly, everything in the drawers will have a place. You can use them in every room of your home.

5. Consider Clear Storage Containers

Whether it’s canisters for your pantry or large plastic bins in your garage, clear storage containers will help you stay organized. Using clear containers saves time because you can see what you need and access it quickly.

6. Create a Portable Cleaning Station

The Spruce suggests organizing all of your cleaning supplies in a caddy to create a “grab-and-go” cleaning station. Not only will you have everything needed to clean your home in one place, but it's also easy to maneuver to different areas.

7. Install Wall Hooks Everywhere

Hooks are ideal for taking advantage of vertical space throughout your home. Inexpensive and easy-to-install, hooks come in various sizes and colors to fit all of your storage needs. Mount hooks to walls, doors, cabinets, or any vertical surfaces in your home.

Use hooks behind the bathroom doors to hold a robe or towel or in your closet to hold handbags or other accessories. In the kitchen, hang pots and pans on hooks near the stove, and in the entryway, use hooks on the wall to hold coats, keys, and dog leashes.

8. Be Seasonal

Stop wasting valuable closet space with off-season clothing and accessories. Sort your clothing by season and only keep current season items in your closet. Remove the off-season clothing and store them under your bed or in a trunk in your room.

9. Make the Most of Your Closets

Closet space is usually at a premium in most homes, but there is a way to open up more room. Custom closet systems can help maximize space and solve your storage challenges, especially in smaller-sized homes . You can install custom closet systems in any size closet in your home, including bathrooms, bedrooms, and pantries, and even small hallway closets.

10. Utilize Furniture as Storage

Add more space by using living room furniture such as trunks, benches, coffee tables, and ottomans as storage. Use this extra storage space for blankets, electronics, etc.

11. Employ Towels as Bathroom Decor

Your towels can do double duty as your bathroom decor. The Budget Decorator recommends adding a little style to your bathroom by “rolling towels” and placing them in baskets.

12. Keep Kitchen Counters Clutter-Free

The kitchen counter is often the catchall space. Appliances, food, mail, gadgets, and other items are usually placed on the counter, giving your kitchen a messy, disorganized look. If you do need to use the counter as storage, only keep frequently-used items nearby.

13. Optimize Floor Space

Floors are typically a default spot for larger items you aren’t sure where to store. Instead of adding more clutter, avoid using the floors for storage, except for furniture and rugs. Open floor space makes rooms feel bigger and less crowded. If you must use the floor, put items in decorative baskets or bins.

14. Clear Out Bathroom Cabinets

Open up storage space in your bathroom cabinets and drawers by sifting through toiletries, cosmetics, and other personal care products at least once a month. Throw away any expired, ineffective or unused items.

Conclusion

Clutter and chaos don’t have to rule your home. While organizing feels like a monumental task, it doesn’t need to be. Use the ideas in this article to restore order and efficiency to your living space.

Sources

Six Effective Tips for Preventing Mold in Your Closets

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 15:54:22 GMT

Your wardrobe is an investment, and custom closets are designed to hold and organize this collection that means something to you. What if this special space and all within it became compromised by toxic mold and mildew? Prevention is key to avoiding this odorous nightmare.

Fortunately, there are six helpful tips you can implement to ensure that mold won’t pollute the location where you store some of your most precious things:

Use a Dehumidifier
Promote Airflow
Keep a Light On
Don’t Store Damp Clothing
Disinfect Your Closet Walls
Clean Outdoor Gear After Every Use

Keep reading to learn how to halt stinky mold in its tracks!

Use a Dehumidifier

One of the most effective ways you can prevent mold from developing in your closet is to reduce the amount of humidity present in the air. This can easily be done by placing a small dehumidifier within the area. There are several options available, so think about which type will work best for your situation.

If you have a large closet, a plug-in electric mini dehumidifier may be right for you. Depending on the model, it can remove around 9 ounces of water from the air every day. Completely safe to use around children and pets, an electric dehumidifier is one of the most effective ways to prevent mold from showing its ugly face.

If your closet is on the smaller side and you don’t have an outlet available, you can choose a wireless, mini rechargeable version that uses silica to remove moisture from the air. It is a non-toxic option, so no worries about it being a danger to your family.

If you would prefer to use a disposable alternative, many people find fragrance-free drying crystals to be just as effective. All you do is remove the seal from the plastic, no-spill bucket and place it within your closet. Simply dump out the water when the cup becomes full.

Promote Airflow

Most people make it a habit of keeping their closet doors closed at all times. Unfortunately, this traps odors and moisture within, promoting mold and mildew growth.

Now, you may feel better about leaving your closet doors open from time to time. When you do, there is something else that you can do to help fresh air circulate throughout your custom closets. HomeStratosphere.com recommends positioning a fan in the back corner of your closet for a few hours each day, to remove any stale odors that may be lingering there.

Is your closet unorganized or stuffed completely full? If this is the case, it may be time to give your wardrobe some breathing room. Affordable Custom Closets & Garages notes that donating items you no longer wear will allow more space to exist between your hanging clothes and will bring you good Karma at the same time. To learn more about how to organize your closets, check out Four Steps for Organizing Your Custom Closets .

Keep a Light On

Another tip is to utilize the heat generated by a 60–100-watt bulb to help dry out the air inside of your closet, according to HomeStratosphere.com . Simply install the bulb and keep it turned on for about six hours every day. If you do this, just be sure to keep it at a safe distance from clothing or other flammable items.

Don’t Store Damp Clothing

When you get out of the shower, where do you put your wet towels? Many people have a hook inside of their closets where they hang their wet towels or damp bathrobes to dry. While this may be convenient, it is not ideal for keeping excess moisture at bay.

Others may even decide to use their closets as a drying station of sorts, where they hang their clothes that aren’t dryer-friendly. A better idea would be to hang your clothes to dry in the fresh air and sunshine to ensure that they are completely free of moisture.

Disinfect Your Closet Walls

Are your closet walls showing any signs of existing mold? Whether they are or not, it is a good idea to clean and disinfect them on a regular basis. Should you happen to notice that telltale odor or see signs of mold on your closet walls, here is how to handle it, according to Bob Vila .

Take a spray bottle and mix “one part bleach to three parts water.” Now, before getting started, you will want to make sure that you have emptied your closet so that you won’t accidentally ruin any of your clothing. Spray the bleach solution on the walls of your closet and let it soak in. Scrub the area if necessary, and wipe it off with a clean cloth.

Clean Outdoor Gear After Use

It's easy to think about taking good care of clothing, but what about all of the other items that often get put into your hallway closets, for example? What about sporting goods? Homeyguy.com notes to make sure that all of your outdoor gear is maintained as well, including umbrellas and rain boots. Give them a good cleaning and drying after each use.

In addition to this, if you decide to store them away, be sure that it isn’t in a sealed container, as this will just hold in moisture. A better choice is a storage basket with holes so that the contents will remain dry.

Conclusion

There is no reason that mold should ever have to make a home in your closet. If you clean your closet walls regularly, place a dehumidifier in there, and allow air to circulate freely within it, your closet and the contents within it should stay safe and sound from excess moisture and musty odors.

Sources

Six Big Home Organization Ideas for Small Spaces

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 21:48:00 GMT

You loved the idea of moving into a small home, as downgrading made you feel more unencumbered. As the months and years have gone on though, your small space has become an organizational challenge. How do you keep your home neat and tidy when there’s not a lot of it?

The following home organization ideas for small spaces should come in handy:

Organize your kitchen pantry with accessories such as wine bottle racks, spice racks, and storage baskets
Add overhead storage to your garage for more floor space
Get custom closet systems such as a master closet
Install hanging baskets and hooks on your doors and walls
Use hidden storage around the house
Make creative use of all spaces, including those neglected nooks and crannies

Organizing your home might seem like a gargantuan task, but with the tips and tactics recommended above, you’ll soon realize how easy it is to tidy up. What’s nice is that since your space is so small, you can get it looking clean and neat again quickly!

Here’s how.

Organize Your Kitchen Pantry with Useful Accessories

Do you just kind of shovel a lot of food into your kitchen pantry because you have nowhere else to put it? Sure, this works in that you clear more counter space, but from an organizational standpoint, you’re only creating a headache for yourself later.

You can still use your pantry for the same purposes, but make sure it’s organized. When you create an ordered system for what goes into your pantry, you won’t have to rip it apart each time you want to prep a meal or dessert from scratch. Much more importantly, you’ll waste less money since foods won’t disappear into the abyss only to come out on the other side expired.

If you use your pantry for storing those expensive bottles of vino, a wine bottle rack will be your best friend. Each rack can accommodate up to three bottles of your most priceless wine so it doesn’t roll, shift, or otherwise risk falling and shattering.

Perhaps you have a sizable collection of spices. The problem is your pantry is so deep and dark that the small bottles sometimes vanish, never to be seen again. Keep all of your most-used spices close at hand with a wire spice rack. No more will your small spice bottles frustrate you.

For every other area of kitchen pantry storage, wired chrome baskets can store all your odds and ends, including cans, containers, and canisters. The wiring of these baskets allows you to see what’s in each one easily.

Use Overhead Storage in Your Garage

When you ran out of room in your small home, you began grabbing items and putting them in your garage. This worked well enough for a while until your garage too began filling up with stuff.

It’s not like you can take your lawnmower, beach chairs, or Christmas decorations and store them inside. They need to stay in the garage, but what do you do when space is more than sparse? Stop thinking about storage space as that which is only on the floor!

Overhead garage storage like a metal storage rack will declutter your garage in a jiffy. Whether you need a shorter storage rack that’s 24 inches or one that expands all the way to 42 inches, you can take advantage of this great solution for garage storage.

Gather those old holiday decorations, put them in plastic buckets, then stow them away until next Christmas. You can even add scooters, mini-vehicles, and bicycles on these storage racks so they’re up and out of the way during the off-season.

It’ll feel like having a new garage since you’ll now have much more floor space.

Get Custom Closet Systems Throughout the House

What about the rest of your small home outside of the kitchen and garage? It could use some love too. Well, more than likely, if space is limited, you’ve probably shoved what you could fit into the closets of your home, right? You’re even scared to open any of the closet doors in case a mountain of toys, clothes, or blankets comes tumbling out.

Custom closet systems that are designed to your organizational needs are a great option. No matter the room in your home that needs a revamp, you can get a closet to match.

Bedroom closets with shelves, drawers, and hanging rods will let you separate your business clothes from your everyday clothes as noted by Innovative Home Storage in Six Effortless Steps to Organizing Your Custom Closets . By adding a shoe fence or a tie rack, you can add more to your closet in an efficient way. You can even get divided drawers for underwear, socks, bras, or whatever you wish.

Don’t worry about your hall closets, as you can organize those as well. The above storage solutions will make it easy to keep the kids’ toys and games in a neat, yet accessible place. Even reach-in closets that you otherwise don’t get much use out of can be reinvigorated so they’re spots you can utilize all the time.

Install Hanging Baskets and Hooks on Available Doors and Walls

The mentality you took to organizing your garage can apply to the rest of your small spaces as well. Instead of thinking of storage as only that which is on the floors, look to those empty walls or even your doors.

Hanging hooks and baskets can be mounted to many walls, especially those in your laundry room or mudroom. You can use the hooks for attaching those items that take up too much space in your closets, such as your step ladder, your broom, and the accompanying dustpan.

Hanging baskets can clear more surfaces, letting you stow whatever items you usually keep in that room. For instance, in the laundry room, you might add small bottles of laundry detergent, clothes fresheners or softeners, and stain removers to the baskets.

Take Advantage of Hidden Storage

Your storage solutions don’t necessarily have to be so overt. If you want to maintain the appeal of your home as well as its neatness, then use hidden storage. As an example, you can get storage drawers added under your bed, suggests HGTV .

Almost no one is going to bother looking under here except for you and your family. Yet if someone ever did take a peek, they would see a series of tidy drawers. What you put in those drawers is your choice. You could stash off-season clothing, bulky garments that don’t fit in your dresser drawers, spare sheets, or other bedding.

Does your small home have a staircase? If so, then you have another awesome hidden storage opportunity at your fingertips. Bob Vila has a series of impressive under-stairs storage ideas that will get your creative juices flowing.

Some homeowners with deep staircases use the space as a tiny yet ultra-cozy spare room and others have gotten their washing machine and dryer installed there. This could work for you too considering these machines are so bulky but also necessary.

At the very least, an under-stairs storage space with drawers can be used to tidy up your living room, entertainment room, kitchen, or even a little bit of everything. Your stairs are already such a space-hog, so you might as well make them useful!

Don’t Ignore Those Nooks and Crannies

As you go through your small home to organize it, view it with creative eyes. Look at any and every space from the perspective of how it can be used to organize your home. For example, an extended windowsill can store some small items. You might be able to fit a bookshelf into that odd-shaped corner you haven’t found a purpose for. It just takes a bit of imagination to make the most of your home!

Conclusion

Having only small spaces to work with is great because you don’t have as much to clean, but the downside is you run out of storage room so much quicker. With the tips and solutions you now have, whether it’s a tiny kitchen, garage, living room, bedroom, or your whole home is small, you can organize it!

Sources

Six Methods for Preventing Pests in Your Kitchen Pantry

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 14:06:23 GMT

There is little worse than finding pests in your kitchen pantry . It is disgusting to see bugs and rodents running free and eating the food you have purchased for yourself and your family. While you may think that pests are a part of life, there are ways to prevent them from getting into your home.

So, how do you keep pests out of your pantry? It takes time and careful observation to cut them off at the pass. Start by knowing what pests typically live in your area. Inspect your groceries, pantry, and food regularly. Use proper storage to keep pests out and keep your kitchen pantry clean.

In this article, you will learn more about each of these steps to keep pests from invading your kitchen pantry.

Know Who’s Invading

To protect against kitchen pantry pests, you must know who will most likely make a meal out of your food. Cockroaches are at the top of everyone’s watch list, according to WebMD.com . Not only do these infiltrators damage packages and eat your food, but they also carry diseases that can cause you and your family to become ill.

While mice and cockroaches are the first ones you may think of, they are hardly the only ones to watch out for. Other problem pests include:

Beetles
Indian Meal Moths
Fruit flies
Ants

These pests are attracted most often to dry cereals, candies, spices, and flour. Ants are often attracted by any crumb left lying around, but they particularly like sweet treats. Moths enjoy dried items such as seeds and grains. Beetles enjoy cake mixes, chocolates, and cookies. Fruit flies, as the name implies, are attracted to the yeast produced by fermenting fruit.

Inspect Groceries

One of the ways pests can invade your kitchen pantry is through the groceries you buy. When you buy a contaminated bag, you bring those bugs into your home without knowing. They can then quickly invade your pantry before you realize they were there in the first place.

When you are shopping at the store, Chowhound recommends taking a couple extra minutes to inspect packages before putting them in your buggy. Any that look like they may have damage could have pests, so don’t buy them.

When you are adding recent purchases to your pantry, check other items for signs of damage. This could be one of your first indications that pests are roaming free in your kitchen.

Proper Storage

Keeping pantry staples in their original packaging may not protect the contents from invading pests. To mitigate this, you might consider decanting the contents into containers. Plastic and glass containers offer additional protection against pests that may have chewed through boxes and bags. They also help trap the smell better, therefore not attracting the vermin that like to help themselves.

When possible, buy food already in plastic or glass containers. Items already packaged like this means you don’t have to change the packaging when you get home.

Foods like cereals, rice, grains, and chips can be transferred into containers when you get them home. Invest in good quality clear containers so you can easily see what is inside. The higher quality containers will keep you from having to replace them often.

Whatever food storage method you choose, make sure the containers are airtight. Even the slightest gap can alert pests to the stores in your home. They can then use this gap to infiltrate your supplies and lead to a potential infestation.

Do a Pantry Inspection and Toss Expired Food

Go through your kitchen pantry regularly to inspect the contents. Inspecting your pantry periodically throughout the year will allow you to see what you have and check for any potential pest problems. The sooner you spot a problem, the sooner you can get it under control.

If you haven’t already invested in storage containers, this might be the time to assess what you need and gather the necessary supplies. If you do already have containers, take the opportunity to check for weaknesses in the seals. Containers that do not form an airtight seal or are beginning to show wear signs should be replaced.

During your inspection, Food52.com suggests gathering all expired food and throwing them out. While most pantry items are ‘non-perishable,’ they can lose their flavor or go bad over time. Expired items could make you sick if you ingest them. The longer they are in your pantry, the more likely they are to attract pests.

Watch Your Fresh Fruits

Fresh fruit doesn’t necessarily need to be stored in the fridge. Having a bowl for your fruits sitting out or in the pantry is a great way to remind the family to make healthy options. It doesn’t hurt that a bowl of fresh fruits adds to the décor.

While it’s nice to have fresh fruit within reach, you must check it regularly. As fruit breaks down, it begins to ferment. This process attracts pests, mainly fruit flies, into your home. Fruit flies reproduce at a fast rate. It won’t take long for your house to become overwhelmed with flies.

When at all possible, keep your fresh fruit in the refrigerator. Not only does the cooler temperature help keep your food fresh a little longer, but it also prevents flies from getting to them.

Keep it Clean

The most important way to keep pests out of your kitchen pantry is to keep it clean. Make wiping down the shelves and outside of the containers part of your daily and weekly routine. Sweep the floors regularly to keep crumbs from attracting ants, mice, and other pests. If you have drawers or bins in your pantry, make sure to wipe them out and dispose of any crumbs. Always wash empty containers before next use.

Cleaning your pantry and kitchen goes a long way to keep the pests out and your food untainted. Grit.com explains that during cleaning, you have the perfect opportunity to check containers for damage and to collect all expired packages.

While in your kitchen pantry, it is also an excellent time to check for entry points that pests may find. Mice can squeeze through surprisingly small holes to get to a food source. Ants and fruit flies don’t need a large opening either to make their way inside. Patch any gaps you may find and glue or caulk any cracks to prevent an infestation.

Conclusion

Pests don’t have the run of your kitchen pantry. With proper inspection, storage, and cleaning, you can mitigate the infiltration. Don’t forget to toss any expired food. Overripe fruits should also be tossed before fruit flies become a problem. When possible, store items like fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator. Knowing how pests come into your home and what attracts them can help you make the right prevention choices.

Sources

15 Secrets to Keeping Your Custom Closets Smelling Fresh

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 21:40:47 GMT

Have you noticed a musty smell coming from your clothes? The culprit is likely coming from inside your closets. Because closets are small, compact spaces with no air circulation, bad odors build up over time and permeate everything inside.

The good news is there are steps you can take to eliminate the bad odors and keep your closets (and your clothes) smelling fresh.

Keep reading to learn more about 15 super secret tips to keeping smelly odors out of your custom closets for good!

1. Find the Source of the Musty Smell

You can’t eliminate the bad odor if you don’t know what’s causing it. While dirty clothes, pest droppings, dust and sweaty shoes can make the bad odor smell worse, mold or mildew may be the cause. Mold forms when moisture is trapped in your closets and has no place to go due to lack of ventilation. To find where moisture may be coming from, search for water leaks in the walls or ceiling. If your closet attracts humidity because it’s next to a bathroom or in the basement, consider getting a dehumidifier.

2. Remove Mold and Mildew

Getting rid of mold and mildew will also get rid of the musty smells they caused. Mold could be green, black, red or blue while mildew is usually white or gray. Fill a spray bottle with two capfuls of bleach and hot water. Spray the mold or mildew and let sit until gone. To prevent mold from reappearing, keep moisture away from your closets. Custom Closets of Houston discusses some additional ways to prevent mold from growing in your custom closets in Super Simple Tips for Avoiding Mold Growth in Your Custom Closets

3. Regularly Clean Your Custom Closets

To keep your closets smelling fresh, you should regularly give them a thorough cleaning. Remove everything from your closets. Vacuum your closet floors to remove dirt and dust. Using an all-purpose cleaner or soap and water, clean all the surfaces in your closet including drawers, cabinets, shelves, walls and closet rods. If you have a carpeted floor, consider steam cleaning. Before returning your clothes and other items, make sure all surfaces are completely dry. Air out your closet and use a fan to speed up the drying process.

4. Clean and Dry Items Before Storing

Even if you only wore an item once, wash it with scented detergent to remove any odors on your clothes. Ensure clothing is completely dry before putting back in the closet. If clothes are not fully dry, the dampness will lead to other problems. If you keep a hamper in your closet, make sure not to put wet towels or damp clothing inside.

5. Reorganize Your Closets

Cramming clothing too close together prevents air from circulating in the closet. When you remove everything from your closet to clean it, go through the items and purge anything you no longer need or want. Then, arrange the clothing so air can flow more easily. Do not store anything on the floor to keep it clear.

6. Hang Garments on Wooden Hangers

Trade wire hangers for wooden hangers, as wood is better at protecting your clothes and preventing bad odors. The wood absorbs any moisture in the air to prevent dampness. While wood is a natural deodorizer, you can give your clothes a pleasant fragrance by purchasing wooden hangers with cedar or lavender scents. Cedar also prevents moths from destroying your clothing.

7. Reuse Dryer Sheets

Used dryer sheets retain their fragrance after one wash and can absorb bad odors. Place a few used dryer sheets in closet drawers and cabinets. You can also put a couple of sheets in the pockets of your clothes.

8. Freshen with Baking Soda

Baking soda is a well-known tool used to absorb nasty odors and moisture odors. For a quick fix, fill a bowl with baking soda and leave in your closet for one day. For longer odor-fighting power, TheSpruce.com recommends storing an open box of baking soda inside your custom closet and leave it for up to a year. Make sure you put it in an area it is unlikely to be knocked over.

9. Store Container of Coffee Grounds

Coffee is not just for drinking. Coffee grounds also absorb bad odors in closets. Fill a container with coffee grounds and poke several holes in the lid. Store the container in your closet and replace the grounds every month.

10. Spray Vinegar

Vinegar is a naturally effective deodorizer and can be used to refresh a number of spaces, including your closets. Vinegartips.com suggests taking equal parts of white vinegar and equal parts of water and pouring them into a spray bottle. Use the mixture on your clothing (turn items inside out before using). You can also spray the vinegar solution in your closet to knock out odors. Another way to eliminate odors is to place a bowl of white vinegar in your closet.

11. Use Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal both absorbs odors and purifies the air in all spaces, including your custom closets. Place a block of activated charcoal in a breathable container and store in your closet. To reuse activated charcoal, put the block in sunlight for a few hours, and then return to your closet.

12. Try Chalk

Chalk absorbs moisture. Put a few pieces of chalk in a sachet, tie it and poke a few holes in the fabric. Place in a few spots in your custom closet.

13. Apply Your Favorite Fragrance

Spray your favorite perfume or essential oil on cotton balls or tissue paper and let them dry. You can place the cotton balls directly in the closet or place in a glass jar covered with a piece of cloth.

14. Use Scented Soap

Scented soaps can help your closets smell wonderful. Wrap a strongly-scented bar of soap in a piece of thin fabric and place in your closet.

15. Keep Potpourri in Your Closets

Buy or make your own potpourri. You can also reuse potpourri, which may no longer be effective in a large room but still has enough fragrance for a small closet. You can put the potpourri in a basket or make sachets to hang in your closet.

Conclusion

If you have bad odors in your custom closets, you need to find the source so you can address it.

This article outlined simple, effective methods you can use to eliminate unwanted smells and keep your closets smelling fragrant and fresh all year long.

Sources

10 Ways to Conquer Clutter in Your Kitchen Pantry

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 21:02:17 GMT

Organizing and getting your kitchen pantry in order is no small feat. Yet, conquering the clutter in your pantry will help to make meal prepping and grocery shopping a breeze.

If your kitchen pantry has run amok, here are 10 ways to conquer the clutter and obtain complete pantry peace, including:

Starting with a Clean Slate
Taking Inventory
Categorizing
Using Racks and Baskets
Utilizing Containers
Making Labels
Putting Everyday Essentials at Eye Level
Making a Kid-Friendly Area
Optimizing Wall Space
Keeping It Organized

Let’s dive right into these 10 essential organizational tips to help you make the most out of every inch of your kitchen pantry.

1. Begin with a Clean Slate

The first thing that you need to do before you can begin reorganizing your pantry is to clean it out. This means emptying it out entirely, cleaning every nook and cranny thoroughly, and tossing items that aren’t frequently used or have expired.

2. Take a Thorough Inventory

After doing away with the old and unused items, you can now clearly see what’s left to organize. This will also help you from purchasing containers or racks that you may not need. Make a list of the staples in your pantry and regularly update it. When it’s time to go to the supermarket, bring your list with you.

3. Categorize

Group like items together. For example, keep all of your baking items in one area and all of your spices together on another shelf or rack. This will help you find exactly what you need quickly and easily.

4. Use Racks and Baskets

Once you have all of your items categorized, use chrome baskets and shelf racks to keep them together. Not only do these baskets and rack add functionality to your pantry, but they also add some much-needed aesthetics to any kitchen pantry.

5. Utilize Containers

For smaller or looser items, use clear glass or plastic containers and canisters with sealed lids. These make ideal storage vessels for decanted dry food, including cereal, rice, grains, and nuts. With these neatly organized clear containers, gone are the days of having four partially open bags of chips.

6. Label

It’s not just you that needs to know where everything is in the pantry. Your family should be informed as well. Label your containers, baskets, and racks to allow everyone in your household to know where every item’s home is. You can use a Bluetooth label maker for quick and easy labeling or chalkboard labels so you can effortlessly change the writing as needed.

7. Put Everyday Essentials at Eye Level

When you finally begin putting your labeled baskets, bins, and containers back in your kitchen pantry, keep the items that you use for everyday cooking at eye level for easy accessibility.

8. Make a Kid-Friendly Space

If you have young children, use the bottom shelves for their groceries so that they can easily and safely grab their own snacks. The labels will come in handy to help your kids know exactly where all of their favorite treats are stored.

9. Use Extra Wall Space

If you have extra wall space in your pantry, install hooks to house non-essential items such as reusable shopping bags, brooms, and aprons. Consider using a bag dispenser to hold grocery bags so they won’t take up space.

10. Keeping It Organized

It’s important to keep up with your panty’s organization. Always put items back in their appropriate areas, and get your entire household on board with keeping food visible and accessible. Clean and take inventory of your pantry bi-weekly so you’ll never have to spend hours reorganizing it again.

Organizing and de-cluttering your pantry may seem like a challenge, but once it’s done and everything is in its proper place, it will make your life so much easier.

14 Tips to Maximize Space in Your Small Home Office

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 15:54:53 GMT

Having a dedicated home office increases your efficiency and productivity by keeping you organized and focused on work. However, finding room for a workspace can be challenging if you live in a small house.

If you have limited space in your home, you might not think you have room for a home office. You may be surprised to find out you can do a lot with whatever space you have.

While you can’t expand your physical space, there are steps you can take to optimize your existing small space.

A home office needs to be a place conducive to getting your work done as well as a place that enables you to feel inspired, motivated and productive. With the right organizers and storage solutions, you can create a comfortable and efficient home office. Here are some ideas to build a stylish yet functional home office:

1. Select the Right Space

Not everyone has the luxury of an extra room to turn into a home office but with a desk, simple storage and a little creativity, you can turn an area of your living room, bedroom or hallway into a small home office. Other unique spaces include under stairs, in the attic or in an unused closet. Even a small unused corner can be an ideal spot for a home office. No matter how small the space is, you won’t have a problem furnishing it. You can get desks in any size and custom cabinets can be built for any space.

Whatever space you choose, make sure that the area is not heavily trafficked by others in your household. You may want to speak to your family before deciding on the spot to ensure they can avoid the area during working hours.

2. Plan your Workspace

Once you select the space, it’s time to plan. To ensure that your home office is efficient, functional and visually-appealing, take the time to figure out the best layout for your home office. Decide what items you need to have and how to ensure that everything fits comfortably in your small space.

3. Hire a Designer

If you are struggling, you may want to consider consulting a home office design expert to help you decide the best way to fit everything you need into your desired space. A designer can work with you one-on-one and give you personalized advice on the best way to achieve the perfect home office.

4. Clear Out Distractions

Once you select a space, remove all items that might be distracting such as a television or a treadmill. You want to be able to keep your focus on your work. Remove any unwanted furniture as well.

5. Use Vertical Storage

Instead of wasting precious floor space by building horizontally, use the full height of your wall to instal cabinets for storage. With the right cabinets, you’ll have plenty of room for your books, files and other necessities. You can also make use of the space under your desk with full extension file drawers to hold your important files. Memphis Garage & Closets discusses more about how to best utilize vertical storage in Five Tips to Makeover Your Home Office .

6. Install Dividers for Your Drawers

Organization is especially important in a small home office because of your space limitations. One way to keep your drawers organized is by using drawer dividers. Dividers save space and enable you to easily store office supplies and other items in your desk drawers. Dividers also keep your drawers organized and efficient. Instead of rifling through your drawers to find what you need, dividers help you find the item quickly so you can get back to your task.

7. Keep Your Wires and Cords Under Control

Nothing slows down your productivity more than getting wrapped up in a tangle of electrical cords and wires. Everything has a cord- your computer, the printer, your phone charger, etc. In today’s digital world, it’s impossible to get rid of all cords though you can minimize the number by going as wireless as possible with a wireless mouse, wireless keyboard, wireless or bluetooth-enabled printer, bluetooth speakers, etc.

8. Rely Less on Paper

By reducing the amount of paper you use, you decrease the amount of storage you need. Digitize everything you can and store documents on your computer or on a shared drive. Make purchases and pay all bills online. You can utilize electronic signatures to sign important documents. Use online calendars such as Google or Outlook instead of using a paper calendar.

9. Don’t Take Up Too Much Space With Your Desk

Most people work on laptops or tablets these days so you don’t need a desk that takes up too much real estate. Purchase a desk that will maximize your home office space. A compact desk or modular office system can help save space. Other options include console desks, writing desks, folding desks or an L-shaped desk that fits into a corner. You may even want to consider a standing desk.

10. Keep Clutter Away

Don’t let your workspace get cluttered. Make use of your storage. In addition to drawer dividers, use baskets and bins to tidy up your desk and keep office supplies close by when you need them.

11. Light Up Your Workspace

Do not use floor lamps as they tend to take up too much space. Instead, use recessed LED lighting and put an LED desk lamp on your desk. If possible, take advantage of natural light by placing your desk near a window.

12. Add Color

Some colors stimulate productivity more than others. Avoid black or tan as they tend to take away your energy. You should avoid dark colors because they can make an area look small. You want colors that will give your home office an open feeling. White is a very stable neutral color and isn’t too hard on the eyes. It also makes it easier to match your desk and storage.

If you don’t like white, consider blue, gray or dark green as they can be calming colors. Yellow and orange stimulate energy but don’t go too bright. While bright colors might perk you up, they can be very hard on the eyes if you look at them too much. Cabinets come in many different colors, so you can find one that will fit with the color scheme you choose.

13. Separate Your Workspace

If your home office is in an area other members of the household frequent, you may want to use a room divider to section off your workspace. Having a barrier will help keep others from invading your privacy and will prevent you from getting distracted. Sheer curtains or bamboo screens make great room dividers. You also might consider using a filing cabinet or bookcase to act as a divider.

14. Install Wall-Mounted Furniture

One way to give yourself more space is to install a floating desk and use wall mounted storage such as cabinets. You will have more space below your desk for filing cabinets or other storage solutions. You may also want to consider mounting your monitor to the wall so it doesn’t hog space on your desk.

Final Thoughts

Having a home office makes a huge difference in keeping you focused and productive. While some people are lucky enough to have an extra room to use, many don’t have the luxury of unused space especially if you live in a small home. However, there are some strategies you can use to create the perfect home office without taking up too much space.

After reading this article, you will be armed with ideas to help you maximize the space in your small home office so you can continue working from home in a comfortable workspace.

Sources

https://www.garageandclosets.com/five-home-office-makeover-tips

What Is the Best Material to Use for a Custom Closet?

Tue, 26 May 2020 14:13:46 GMT

It started as just a dream of owning a custom closet , but as time has gone on, that dream has become more of a reality. Now you’re at the stage where you’re planning the material for your ideal closet. You’ve looked into some options, but you’re just not sure. Which is the best material to use for a custom closet?

When choosing a material for a custom closet , you can’t go wrong with Melamine, which is durable and customizable. If you’re looking for an alternative, wood also contributes to the timeless look of a closet, especially when you can choose from a variety of wood tones and colors.

Keep reading further to explore your custom closet material options. You’ll learn more about both materials and what you can expect so you can make the most informed decision for your closet remodel.

Which Materials Are Custom Closets Made of?

Melamine

Above all, Melamine is one of your best bets for beautifully decorating your custom closet . This organic compound includes some 1,3,5-triazine with a cyanamide trimer, a multi-molecule. To make Melamine into a resin-like material, it’s blended with agents such as formaldehyde.

Decorative laminates like Formica use Melamine, as do commercially-produced dry erase boards, laminate flooring, and of course Melamine dinnerware. Melamine can even be manufactured as foam, interestingly enough.

For your custom closet , you’d most like Melamine resin. Despite the name, this is more like a thermosetting plastic. To cure it, the Melamine gets heated via crosslinking and dehydration processes.

You can find Melamine in a variety of thicknesses as well as all sorts of sizes that will suit closets big and small. Even if you go for a thinner, smaller piece of Melamine, since it’s made of resin, the sheets do have some weight to them. That adds to their durability, so you can safely pile clothes in your closet.

You may be able to find patterned Melamine as well as many colors. If your old closet was white, you can go for an eggshell hue to match if you want to stick within the same color family. You may also wish to do something completely different, like a darker hue that draws the eye to your sizable wardrobe of clothes, shoes, and baubles.

You also get plenty of finish options to choose from, so here’s a rundown of those options.

Wood

If you’re not quite sure if melamine is the right material for your custom closet , that’s not your only option. Wood is simple, attractive, and sure to lend your closet a sense of refinement.

How to Choose Your Custom Closet Material

You thought for sure you wanted to accent your custom closets with a wood finish, but now you’re leaning more towards Melamine. They both sound so great, so how do you choose?

Here are some important factors to keep in mind as you make this all-important decision for your custom closet material.

Appeal

Both Melamine and wood can be customized to your liking, creating the kind of appeal you want. If you choose melamine, know that besides being attractive, it’s often made at least partly from particleboard. This particleboard may come from recycled trees and other wood. When you get a Melamine custom closet , you’re reducing your carbon footprint and doing something good for the environment. That’s a great feeling!

Durability and Longevity

You’ve already invested money into your custom closet , so you want to ensure it will look as good as it does on day one several years from now. Part of that will be through your continued cleaning and maintenance, but choosing a durable material also plays a big role in custom closet durability.

When the resin sheets used to produce Melamine custom closets are heat-treated and hardened, the outer layer becomes incredibly resistant to damage. It’s very, very difficult to dent, scratch, or chip Melamine.

Even if you’re in your closets every day taking out clothes to wear and then putting in clean ones, your Melamine surfaces can handle it. When you do have to clean the closet, with a soft cloth and some soap and water, you can quickly and easily wipe up all Melamine surfaces.

Also lending itself well to longevity is Melamine’s ability to withstand cracking, fading, and even minor heat damage.

Cost

You’ve budgeted for a custom closet and you have a good idea of what you’ll spend, but if you can save money in any way, you’re of course going to. On that note, Melamine tends to be less expensive than wood. You should be able to stick to your budget with a Melamine closet remodel, making this a choice that’s as cost-effective as it is appealing.

Conclusion

If you’re torn between materials for your custom closet , Melamine may be a better choice than wood. It’s completely customizable, durable, and affordable. Wood is a good alternative , but it may not have the same lifespan as Melamine.

The Top 10 Wall Accessories That Will Make Your Custom Garage More Organized and Functional

Fri, 08 May 2020 19:51:21 GMT

A custom garage with wall accessories will help you stay more organized, streamline your workflow, and increase the space within your home’s garage. From Steel Gridwalls and custom PVC Slatwalls, there are endless garage wall accessories that can be installed into your space to maximize functionality and appearance. Wall accessories include hooks, double hooks, bike storage, sports equipment holders, wire shelving, cabinets, baskets, and more; the options for organizing your garage space are endless when you are able to customize your space, with the perfect storage solutions that are customized for your lifestyle.

The average home has a two-car garage and may come with a few cabinets or shelves. Making the decision to invest in a custom garage storage system , no matter the size of your garage is a surefire way to increase space, productivity, and the aesthetic look of your home’s garage. If you’re wondering how custom storage will maximize the space in your garage, check out the 10 garage wall accessories below to make your custom garage more organized and functional.

Choose Your Vertical Storage System First and Then Choose Your Wall Accessories!

Depending on what type of wall system you choose to install within your garage, there are several types of options when it comes to accessories that will maximize your storage space. Your first step is choosing which type of system you need to get organized and streamline the functionality of your garage workspace.

PVC Slatwall systems are a number one choice for homeowners looking to customize and organize their garages. These Slatwall systems come in a variety of custom colors including maple, white, grey, taupe, and black. PVC Slatwall systems allow you to get your tools and equipment out of the cabinets and off the floors. One great reason to install a Slatwall system in your garage is that it allows you to see your items clearly, rather than digging through a cabinet to get to what you need. This vertical wall storage system is easily customizable with garage wall accessories and can be organized and reorganized as you see fit. Slatwall can hold a substantial amount of weight, so it is the perfect organization system for anyone with a lot of heavy tools, bikes, or sporting equipment that they would like within easy reach.

Another popular option for garage wall organization systems is Steel Gridwall. These systems are composed of steel and attach directly to the wall for a clean, modern look in your garage. Steel Gridwall allows you to maximize your space by implementing vertical storage. Gridwalls are made in a crisscrossing rectangular grid-like fashion, that can hold an array of items from light to heavy. Gridwall comes in a variety of sizes and can be placed through your garage, so you can access your items quickly and easily.

Ten Wall Accessories to Expand the Organization and Functionality of Your Slatwall and Gridwall Garage Systems

If you choose to invest in and install a PVC Slatwall or Gridwall system within your home’s garage, you will find that you have endless options for accessories and storage solutions. The sky's the limit when it comes to unique accessories for your wall system. You can customize your Slatwall and Gridwall systems with the accessories that will best fit your lifestyle; whether you are an avid fisherman, golfer or sports enthusiast or a dedicated cycler with all the gear to keep you rolling- the highly functional wall systems offer options galore for you to choose from and customize your garage space.

1. Wall Hooks

Garage wall hooks come in various sizes and shapes including 4” double hooks, 8” double hooks, 5” bike hooks, 6” J Hooks, 8” Loop Hooks, S Hooks and Snap Hooks. The various hooks are great wall accessories for hanging everything from ladders and bikes to hammers, shovels, and extension cords.

2. Horizontal Bike Racks

Get your bike off the floor and open up your space with a horizontal bike rack that easily attaches to your Slatwall system.

3. Baskets

Numerous size baskets can help you organize all the odds and ends you may have. Pair like with like in different size baskets to know exactly where your equipment is stored.

4. Tilt Bins

The perfect solution that attaches to your Slatwall system for storing nuts, bolts, screws, and nails. Any small loose item will be easily organized and kept straight with a tilt bin.

5. Rod Holders

Fishing rods can get tangled, messy, fall over, and break if not properly stored. Mount rod holders to your Slatwall or Gridwall systems, to keep your prized winning fish hooks safe and secure.

6. Magnetic Tool Holders

Similar to a magnetic strip that you would use in your kitchen for knives, a magnetic tool holder is a great garage wall accessory that allows you to easily store your tools in sight and within reach.

7. Tool Racks

A tool rack allows you to securely fasten your tools to the wall, so you never are left wondering where you misplaced your monkey wrench. Durable and perfect for the home project guru, tool racks keep your tools in one place and out of a messy drawer.

8. Storage Bins

Storage bins are a great solution for cleaning products, car accessories, and other various items that are recently used and need to be readily available for your use.

9. Hose Holder

Is there anything more annoying than a tangled hose? A hose holder implemented into your Slatwall system will keep your hose wrapped up, neat and kink free for when you need to use it.

10. Tool Bars

Great for long-handled items such as rakes, shovels, and brooms - a tool bar keeps your gear off the ground and easily accessible.

Final Thoughts

These ten garage wall accessories are a great start for maximizing the storage space and functionality of your garage. Each item allows you to get your tools within view, off the ground, and out of a cluttered drawer. Customizing your garage with wall storage and all the accessories that fit your lifestyle for a more streamlined, cohesive space that is functional and aesthetically pleasing!

Get Your Master Bedroom Closet Organized for the New Year

Thu, 26 Dec 2019 19:33:00 GMT

If getting organized is your new year’s resolution, you’re in good company. This is one of the most common promises we make ourselves at the start of a new year. In fact, Dave Kushner from Closet Decor & More has written an article about it. Check out How to Get Organized in 2020 for some tips that you can apply to every area of your home.

One area that many people struggle with is the master bedroom. If you decide that’s where you’d like to start, we have some good tips for moving out the clutter, finding room for all of your belongings, and learning to love this storage space.

Clean Out the Clutter

Before you can organize your walk-in closet , you need to clear out the clutter. What counts as clutter in the closet? If a particular item isn’t something that you use and love, then it’s probably clutter. Exceptions can be made for sentimental items (such as a sweater that your aunt knitted for you years ago or the outfit that your child wore home from the hospital as a newborn), but for the most part, limit what goes into your valuable closet space by sticking to some sort of criteria.

Rather than pulling everything out at once, try grabbing a handful of hangers at a time and sorting as you go. Have boxes ready to go to the thrift store once they’re filled. If you have someone to pass items onto, then put them aside for that person--but only if they’ve agreed to take your items.

Once you have everything sorted and the boxes for the thrift store are taped up and in your car, it’s time to look at what you have and separate it by type. Put together a pile of your tops, a pile of your belts, a pile of your partner’s pants, and so on.

Make Room to Hang Everything

You will undoubtedly have more room than you started with when you go to put your clothes away because you’ve purged some unneeded items. If you can fit it all nicely on your existing clothing rods, then that’s great!

If not, however, you’ll need to add more rods for hanging. The easiest and most space-saving way is often to put in a rod a few feet under the first rod (you might need to raise the first rod a bit). This way, you can hang tops on the top rod and bottoms on the bottom rod. Or if another system makes more sense to you, that’s fine, too. On the other side of the closet, keep a single rod so you can hang coats, dresses, suits, and other longer items.

Put in Drawers for Folded Items

You might not have considered having drawers in the master bedroom closet, but hear us out: If you can store your foldables in the closet, you might be able to eliminate a dresser in the main part of your master bedroom. This will open up room that you could use for just about anything else, such as seating, an antique piece, bookshelves, and so on.

Your custom closet designer can install drawers for you. These are available in various finishes and open and close smoothly. If you want to go the DIY route, you could slide a short chest of drawers right into the closet. This won’t be as sturdy an option as professionally designed drawers, but it will still work to give you a place to store your folded items neatly in the closet.

Maximize Your Shelf Space

The typical standard walk-in closet has one shelf running along the top of the closet. It might be on three sides or just two. Most of the time, this shelving is made of wire. Sometimes, there’s a lower shelf, as well, on one side. This is a good place to start, but it probably isn’t enough shelving for all of your needs.

One action you can take to make your shelves more usable is to add bins of some sort. These are especially useful if you have wire shelves, because they will prevent items from falling through. Adding additional shelving gives you more options. You might choose to use them to store purses, shoes, hats, or various other outfit accessories. This is also a good place for boxes of items that you’re keeping in the closet for nostalgic purposes.

Talk to your custom closet organizer about adding shelving to your master bedroom closet to increase space and maximize the efficiency of the closet.

Think About Closet Accessories

Finally, you’ll want to be sure you have a place to store all of the smaller items you keep in your closet. For example, if you wear belts or neckties, getting a belt or tie rack will keep them in good condition and from sliding onto the floor. A shoe rack is good for keeping your footwear from getting stepped on. And a jewelry tray keeps your valuables in one place where they aren’t getting tangled up. A valet rod makes it simple to hang an entire outfit in one place so you know exactly what you’re wearing the next day, from the clothing itself to your accessories, shoes, and even undergarments.

Life Uncluttered can help you with your Kansas City walk-in closet or any other closet or storage space in your home. Please contact us to schedule a free in-home consultation and design appointment. We can help you get your master bedroom closet on track for better home organization in 2020 and beyond.

Can Custom Closets Help You Sell Your Home?

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 16:01:34 GMT

As a homeowner, you likely put a good deal of thought into your home upgrades. Sometimes, it is a balancing act between what will most positively impact your daily life and what will most positively impact your resale value. Even if you have no intention of selling your home within the past decade, it’s often wise to consider whether the updates you are making will help or hinder you in selling your home later.

When it comes to custom closets , you might not realize that while their primary benefit is, of course, to make your daily life simpler, they also can help you sell your home later. Skeptical? Here are some ways that custom closet organizers can help you make your home appeal to buyers, possibly shortening the amount of time your house sits on the market and even raising your final selling price.

Storage Space Is Highly Desired

If you think back to when you were purchasing your home, what did you look for? Your wishlist might have included a big backyard, an extra bathroom, perhaps a den or home office. Many buyers also look for ample storage on the main floors of the home. While basement and attic storage is useful and desired, nobody wants to store their clothing and accessories in a basement. So you likely opened closets and cabinets, trying to determine whether your items would fit in the storage space available.

The people who will eventually buy your home will be doing the same thing. Most houses have at least some small closets in addition to larger closets, and custom closet organizer s can make your small reach-in closets look larger because they optimize all of the available space. Walk-in closets look even more luxurious when they are lined with drawers, shelves, shoe racks, and all of the other closet accessories you choose. The kitchen pantry will also look more impressive when it is outfitted with the organizers needed to maximize the space. All of these features will stick in the minds of potential buyers as a big “plus” when the time comes for them to narrow down their list of homes that they fell in love with.

Stage Your Home With the Help of Custom Closet

Have you ever sold a home before? During your pre-sale consultation, your real estate agent will point to various items in the home that need to be stashed away. You might need to pack up your family portraits, unique pieces of art, and other items that really showcase your personality. Why? Because the goal is for buyers to picture themselves in your home, and that can be difficult when you have family pictures adorning every wall.

Having well-organized custom closets gives you a place to store all of that stuff. Pack it into boxes, tape them shut, and neatly stack them in your closets during showings. Your potential buyers will be impressed with how much the closets can hold, and they won’t be distracted by your personal belongings left out while they are trying to decide whether their own family photos and furnishings will look amazing on your walls and filling your rooms.

If you are currently preparing your home for sale and need some pointers on getting your closets cleaned quickly, Impeccable Closets in North Carolina recently published a piece called What’s the Fastest Way to Clean a Closet?

Optional Upgrades Often Indicate Good Maintenance

Nobody wants to buy a house that will turn out to be a money pit, and when buyers are looking at pre-owned houses, they generally want to know whether the current owners have kept up with regular maintenance. Some of that will be obvious; if there has been a new roof put on recently or if the water heater is new, those are good clues that maintenance has been done. But what about the unseen components of the house like the electrical systems and the septic system or plumbing? Have those been kept up with?

Without doing a full inspection, which comes after an offer has been made, buyers need to rely on their instincts. A well-kept home is more likely to have been maintained. Also, if you have invested in organization systems , that is a clue that you probably were not struggling to maintain the well or the roof. Most people will handle necessary maintenance before investing in optional upgrades, so having custom closets in your home can indicate that you have also kept up with routine maintenance over the years.

Closets Can Be the Tipping Point

All things considered, choosing a house to purchase relies on instinct, what a person likes and dislikes, and meeting various criteria that an individual or family has decided are important. It is unlikely that custom closets alone would be the reason for someone to decide to purchase a home that otherwise does not meet their needs. However, if your home is on someone’s shortlist of homes they’d like to see a second time, it is possible that an excellent organization system will be the tipping point required for them to decide that your house is the one they’d like to bid on. Also, all things considered, it is possible that your real estate agent will suggest setting a higher asking price on your home based on the organization systems you have in place.

A qualified real estate agent is the type of professional you need to help you determine whether a custom closet system will be likely to help you sell your home.

If you are ready to learn more about custom closets or if you would like to schedule a free in-home design consultation, please contact Life Uncluttered today!

Are Custom Closets Worth It?

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 16:54:17 GMT

Many Kansas City-area homeowners struggle with home organization and might be considering having custom closets designed and installed. You already know that custom closets by Life Uncluttered can help you take control of the chaos in your home, but you might not be convinced that this type of home upgrade is worth the expense involved. After all, you might think that following an organization program (such as Flylady or Kon Mari) is really the only thing you need to get organized. Read on to find out why investing in your home by installing custom closets can really pay off in the end.

Custom Closets Don’t Force You To Throw Items Away

When you follow an organization system, one of the main tenets is often throwing items away or donating them if you don’t use them frequently or if you don’t love them. We agree that purging unwanted items is a good way to pare down clutter and we recommend it. With that being said, if you want to store outgrown children’s clothing or books saved from your college years, custom closets can allow you to do just that. Adding shelves, drawers, cabinets, and other closet components increases your space and allows you to store whatever you want.

This can save you money if you are saving items that you might have to purchase again. For example, if you are currently losing weight, you might have some clothing saved that is a size or two too small at the moment. Getting rid of it due to a lack of space could end up costing you money if you do lose the weight and need to replace it a few months later. Having plenty of storage space allows you to keep the clothing in your closet to serve as an inspiration and also to keep it fresh and ready to use as soon as you can.

Custom Closets Keep Your Items in Good Shape

Consider your linen closet: If it is disorganized and you have items falling off of the shelves, there are a few effects. First, you feel embarrassed if you have a guest who opens the closet looking for another roll of toilet paper or a clean hand towel. Secondly, it is demoralizing to see a mess every time you reach for a washcloth or a new bottle of shampoo. And finally, it’s easy to end up doing extra laundry thanks to items falling on the floor and getting stepped on. You also might be purchasing a lot of duplicate toiletries because you can’t see what you already have.

Custom closet organizers open up space, which allows you to store items more neatly. This is not, of course, only limited to one particular type of closet. Whether it’s the pantry , the children’s closets, the linen closets, your walk-in closet, or the garage, your items will get less wear and tear if they are stored well. Shoes won’t get stepped on if they are in racks, your child’s school uniforms won’t get snagged on other items, and you won’t knock a glass bottle of pasta sauce onto the floor if it is neatly stored in the back of the pantry shelf. All of these examples can save you money, time, and frustration.

Custom Closets Can Make It Easier to Sell Your Home

Whenever you do any type of home improvement project or upgrade, the potential exists for it to impact the future sale of your house. Custom closets can make the home-staging process easier, attract attention to your home, and show potential buyers that you’ve taken pride in the ownership of the home, which can facilitate a faster sale.

When you put your house on the market, your real estate agent will walk through and make suggestions as to what to put away in order to allow would-be buyers to imagine themselves in the home. A custom closet storage system gives you the space to place these items, as well as items that you pack up in order to prepare for the move. Rather than filling every corner with boxes, you can stack many of them in the closet in each room.

As people come to the home for showings, there are several things that many will look for. Everyone has their own non-negotiables -- some might crave a backyard pool, some might want a double garage, and still others will require a master bedroom with room for a large furniture set. Something that almost everyone wants, however, is a large amount of closet space. Custom closets increase space in the storage areas of the home, making it likely that potential buyers will appreciate the large, well-organized closets. They will be able to picture their own items in your home, which can enhance the odds of making the sale.

Finally, when you invest in luxury items such as custom closets , buyers will understand that you’ve probably also kept up with the less glamorous aspects of owning and maintaining a home. Most people who neglect their roofs or ignore plumbing issues don’t then go and put in luxury upgrades. Your custom closets can give the person who buys your home next the peace of mind that you’ve probably exhibited the pride of ownership when it came to other matters as well. (And keeping track of maintenance records and making them available doesn’t hurt!)

If you are ready to take the plunge and find out more about custom closets in Kansas City, contact Life Uncluttered . We will come to your home to create a custom design for free so you can see the difference a customized storage space can make.

Top Tips for Organizing Children's Closets

Thu, 30 May 2019 19:03:52 GMT

Thinking about the messiest areas of your home, do your children’s bedrooms spring to mind immediately? Children are adorable, sweet, spirited, and have many wonderful qualities... for many of them, however, a natural affinity for neatness is not one of them. If you are nodding your head, we understand! Designing an organization system for young children (or even teenagers) can be a challenge. Your Life Uncluttered closet design specialist can help you come up with a strategy to teach your little ones how to stay organized. Here are some ideas that might work for you.

Lower the Hanging Rod

Imagine being under four feet tall and being told to hang up your jacket on a clothing rod that was far over your head. Many times, children cannot physically reach to hang up their items properly. Even worse, when they go to remove the hung items, they often need to pull on them, stretching out clothing, bending hangers, and knocking other items onto the floor. By the end of a week, your child very well may have a heap of clothing on the closet floor or even creeping out into the main area of the bedroom.

Having hanging rods installed that your child can reach easily just might be the key to your child being self-sufficient when it comes to hanging and taking down clothing. We can lower the rod to a more child-friendly height. The best part is that because children’s closets are adjustable, the rod can be pushed up as your child grows.

Think Past Hangers in Children’s Closets

It could be that hangers just aren’t a good option for your child at all. If he or she wears mostly t-shirts, sweaters, and jeans or if they just aren’t interested in taking the time to put something on a hanger properly, giving them other options for putting their items away might be the best option. Shelves with dividers to resemble cubbies are one option; they can put a stack of folded jeans or sweaters in each cubby and voila, the job is done. The dividers will help prevent the stacks from toppling over.

Another option is to consider hooks on the wall for certain items. Jackets, hoodie sweatshirts, and similar items can be hung on hooks rather than on hangers or folded in drawers or on shelves. Hooks are also a good option for backpacks, tote bags, and purses.

Reconsider How You Group Clothing in Drawers

Most people put away clothing in drawers like this: The top drawer is for underwear, the second drawer is for socks, the third drawer is for tops, and the fourth drawer is for pants. While this might make the most sense in terms of separating by type, to a child, it can result in lots of rummaging around and creating a mess in the closet or on the bedroom floor.

Instead, what if you put together full outfits with your child’s help at the start of the week? In a drawer that is easy for him or her to reach, put out seven full outfits. Each little pile should include the appropriate undergarments, a top, a bottom, and a pair of socks or stockings. Place each stack of neatly folded items in the drawer and watch your child’s independence blossom. This will not only reduce rummaging but it will also help them simply get dressed in the morning without having to make last-minute decisions or complaining that they can’t find the shirt they had wanted to wear that day.

Make the Closet Fun to Use

No matter the age of your child, making the closet appealing will go a long way toward encouraging them to use it. Consider child-friendly finishes that might inspire neatness and tidiness. Providing a place for the special treasures of childhood can help, too. For example, if your child loves hair ornaments, be sure that there is a special drawer where she can store the clips, barrettes, and ribbons. If your sports-minded child has a baseball cap collection, a shelf or hooks where they can be stored might be just the fun touch that is needed.

Another way to make the closet fun to use as well as create extra storage space is to include bins, baskets, or boxes that the child can use to store whatever items are desired. Whether it is filled with the cards that arrived for a birthday, colorful leaves collected on a walk home from school, or memorabilia from movie theaters and amusement parks, these items will go a long way toward personalizing the space.

Be Patient and Consistent

While it can be annoying and frustrating when you encounter messes and mayhem in your child’s clutter, remember that the overall goal is to teach them the organization skills that will last a lifetime. Be patient and kind as you explain (more than once) how to put items away. Check your child’s bedroom and closet on a daily basis and encourage them to pick up items that are haphazardly thrown on the floor or otherwise not being stored properly. As time goes by, you will see improvements in how neat your child can keep his or her closet.

If you are looking for storage solutions in your child’s closet and you live in the Kansas City area, contact Life Uncluttered. One of our professional closet designers can go to your house for a free consultation to take a look at the space and make suggestions as to what we can do to help your kids stay more organized in this area.

How Custom Closet Systems Can Change Your Life

Wed, 01 May 2019 15:30:35 GMT

You probably don’t usually think of closets, pantries, and cabinetry as life-changing parts of your home, but they really can be – if they’re custom-made to suit your unique needs. You may not spend much time thinking about how your home’s storage space impacts your life, but when that storage space changes, you will really notice the difference. Take a look at some of the ways that custom closet systems can make a life-changing difference for you.

Custom Closet Systems Let You Keep More of the Things You Like

It’s good to go through your clothes and items in storage every so often and get rid of things that you no longer want or need. But it’s no fun when you find yourself getting rid of things that you’d really rather hang on to just because you don’t have room for them anymore.

It may seem like you don’t have a choice – if you don’t have the room, then you have to make hard decisions about what stays and what goes. But is it really a question of not having enough room? Or is it a matter of not using your space as optimally as you could be using it?

With custom closet systems , you get to maximize the space that you do have, allowing you to store more items than you previously would have thought possible. You may still have to do regular spring cleaning and get rid of things that you no longer want, but you’ll have an easier time making decisions. You’ll have the space that you need to allow you to hold onto items that you’re not ready to get rid of yet.

Custom Closets Can Help You Save Money

One of the problems with limited storage space is that it’s very easy for things to get lost or broken when they’re crammed into a space where they don’t fit.

For example, have you ever picked up pancake mix or bread crumbs at the grocery store because you thought you were out, then found the same item in your pantry later when you went to put the new one away? Ingredients and pantry staples can seem to just disappear in an overcrowded kitchen pantry, only to be unearthed after you’ve spent money replacing them. With a custom pantry, you can organize your food in a way that makes it easy to find what you’re looking for and prevents you from spending money on food that you already have.

You may also have experienced pulling out a shirt or sweater from your closet only to find that it has a hole in it or it is missing buttons. You don’t remember the clothes being in that condition when you put them away, but now you need to replace them. That can happen in overcrowded closets when items rub together and get pulled and tugged around as you look through the closet for whatever you’re going to wear that day. Zippers catch on delicate fabrics, causing runs and tears. Buttons fall off. Clothes can get stretched or develop wrinkles that are difficult to smooth out. Eventually, the clothing needs to be replaced and the more damage it sustains, the sooner you’ll need to replace it.

How much extra money would you have if you didn’t have to replace lost or damaged items? You could use those funds for any number of things that your family wants or needs or just save it for a rainy day. Over time, your custom closet systems can not only pay for themselves but they can also add up to big savings.

Custom Storage Areas Give You More Time

Have you ever wished that you had more time in the day? More time to wake up in the morning, more time to relax after dinner, or more time to spend with your kids, your partner, or your friends? Most people do. Also, most people are doing their best to fit everything they need to do into their day. It can be hard to see where exactly the time is going – you’re certainly not deliberately wasting time.

How much time, though, do you spend looking through your closets for the perfect blouse to match your jacket? How much time do you spend hunting for lost shoes? How much time re-hanging clothes that your kids have pulled down because they can’t reach the hanging rods properly? How much time hunting through the kitchen pantry for ingredients or the bathroom closet for hand towels? And how much time do you spend shopping to replace lost or damaged items? Taken individually, none of those things seems very time consuming, but added together, they become one big time crunch.

You have a lot of demands on your time, and many of them are difficult or impossible to eliminate. But these small unnecessary tasks can be minimized or eliminated when you have a custom closet designed to maximize your space and keep your belongings organized. Arrange your clothes so that they’re safe and easy to see, mix, and match. Keep all your shoes in one place separated into pairs. Hang children’s clothes at kid-friendly heights to increase their independence and reduce their need for your help getting dressed. Find kitchen and household items easily and cut out shopping trips to replace items that should still be in good shape.

Custom closet systems can help in all of these areas, and you may find it surprising how much easier things are once you have more storage space and a better organization system in place. You’ll also be amazed by how much extra time you have on your hands – time that you’ll be able to spend in ways that improve your life.

You don’t always have to make a drastic change to change your life. Compared to some life-changing decisions, the decision to have custom storage spaces added to your home seems relatively minor. However, the cumulative effect of organized and optimized storage spaces is undeniable. This small change to your home can lead to a number of positive and welcome changes in your life.

6 Reasons to Choose Life Uncluttered

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:43 GMT

You already know that certain areas in your home could you some professional and undivided attention. But you may be thinking that you don’t have the time or money to do whatever needs to be done. That’s where Life Uncluttered comes in. Why should you trust us?

We have plenty of experience with transforming closets , laundry rooms , garages , pantries and home offices .
We are more than happy to work around your schedule. This includes evenings and weekends.
All it takes is one visit for us to come up with a customized plan just for you.
Some closet companies still produce hand drawn blue prints. But at Life Uncluttered, we use cutting edge technology. Once we become familiar with your space, we can show you a digital computer image of what your new space will look like.
We always welcome your input and suggestions in order to make your new organized space work for YOU!
We can work within any budget and we also offer financing.

What are you waiting for? Get your cluttered mess in order once and for all by calling Life Uncluttered today!

The Life Uncluttered Process

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:42 GMT

Our three step process is so easy, you won’t know why you didn't call us sooner!

In-home consultation

Call us to set aside just two hours for us to meet with you in your space that needs to be organized.
We’ll bring all of our options that you can choose from.
You’ll get to see a 3D version of what your organized space will look like when we’re done.

Set Installation Date

It’s as simple as that!

Installation

Depending on the size and scope of your project, this may take anywhere from one day to two weeks. Most residential installations take three days or less.

How easy is that?

So what do you need organized? Your master closet, garage, pantry, home office and other spaces are all within our capabilities! Click here for more reasons why you need our help! Call us at 913-491-0900 to get started on our simple three step process today!

The Problem with Deep Shelves

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:37 GMT

Many people assume that buying deep shelves is the best way to store as much of their stuff as possible. And many times, it can work. But more often than not, it ends up hurting more then helping.

Why?

Because when the depth of a shelf is too deep, it’ll cause your items to get pushed back, buried and hidden, making things harder to find. Isn’t that the opposite result you were going for? One way to avoid this is to store smaller items in bins or containers to keep them from getting lost in the shuffle. Another solution is to have shelves made just for you!

Life Uncluttered can help to create custom shelving solutions if you don’t know your closet depth needs. Contact us if you are in or near Kansas City or Overland Park.

Fall Closet Cleaning

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:35 GMT

Fall is about the right time to start making some major closet changes. The weather is cooling down, which means it’s time to break out the sweaters and boots! After all, there’s no need for tank tops, shorts and sandals to take up precious space when they won’t be needed for at least six months. But how do you go about making such a major closet transition? It’s all about preparation.

Make sure you have enough storage for items you won’t be wearing for a while. Many people opt for large black garbage bags, but plastic bins and totes are a better way to go.
Use this time to get rid of things you can’t fit or won’t wear. Either donate your items or sell them for some extra cash.
Try grouping like items together. For examples, sweaters shouldn’t be mixed with holiday formal wear. Separating items not only looks neater, but it’ll make your items easier to find.
You’ll also feel better if you take the time to truly clean your closet. Vacuum the floors. Wipe down the walls. Dust off your shelves. Add a plug in or some other type of air freshner.

If you’re serious about getting your closet in order this fall, call Life Uncluttered today. We can help with custom closet solutions that’ll make your life so much easier. Who wants to worry about a disorganized closet during the holidays? Call us and we’ll make your closet pains go away!

In Pictures: Shelving Ideas

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:32 GMT

Utilizing bare wall space with shelves is an excellent way to keep clutter from other surfaces in the home. Tables and drawers get a break when wall units are put in place to store everything from books to office supplies to arts and crafts. Here are some examples from Re-Nest on how wall shelving units can keep your home from becoming too cluttered.

It's time to get your home in order before the holiday season officially rolls around. Guests don't want to see a cluttered house! Call Life Uncluttered to find out how we can help to get your home organized once and for all. We serve areas in and around Kansas City and Overland Park.

Mess in the Bed/Bath: What's Does it Mean?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:31 GMT

Have you ever thought about the psychological implications behind why certain rooms in your home are always so messy? Psychologist Sally Augustine, PhD has already given us reasons why our entryways, living rooms and kitchens can’t seem to stay organized. But if the bedroom or bathroom is your problem, there’s a reason why.

Mess location: The bedroom...or bathroom

Chances are you are: Feeling insecure

"Bedrooms and bathrooms are the inner sanctums of our lives, the spaces where, to the extent they are private, we are most free to express who we really are. Therefore, messes composed of personalizing items here indicate a need by the people who control the space to remind themselves of who they are as a person."

What to do about it: It's hard to feel secure when the last place you see before going to sleep (and the first thing you see in the morning) is a mess of magazines, books and clothes. Conversely, if grooming products and extra bathroom supplies are stumbling blocks in the morning, you won't leave the house feeling ready to tackle the world. For the bedroom, make use of under-bed storage with sliding storage containers or boxes. Limit books or magazines to one per person, then relocate the rest to a bookshelf in another area in your home. Or better yet, donate them. For the bathroom, throw out all the old cosmetics you never use and consider storing surplus supplies in a bathroom étagère that is sized to fit right where the toilet is.

Creative Bathroom Storage Ideas

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:30 GMT

You have to employ a bit of creativity when it comes to bathroom organization. Otherwise, it will constantly be a cluttered mess. Besides a linen closet or standard cabinet, what other ways to you make the most of your bath space? Here are some ideas you may not have tried yet:

If you have open space underneath the sink(s), use stylish wicker baskets to store extra towels. If they’re neatly rolled, towels can give a spa-like aura to an otherwise ordinary bath space.
Don’t ignore vertical space. Often times, there is plenty of unutilized space between the countertop and the ceiling. Use that space for custom vertical shelving.
Do you have unused furniture elsewhere in the home? If it can fit in the bathroom, it may solve some of your storage problems. Think armoires, chests and side tables.
Empty wall space is perfect for installing floating shelves. If cluttered countertops are an issue, these shelves will help to keep bathroom items separated.
Another way to avoid countertop clutter is to use small wicker or bamboo baskets to keep items from getting jumbled together.

Life Uncluttered can help to solve your bathroom woes. For a customized bathroom storage plan, contact us today!

Clean Your Media Room in October

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:26 GMT

Did you get a chance to clean your master closet in September? We sure hope so because October is a whole new ball game. If you’ve got a media room at home, it’s time to tackle it once and for all this month! These tips will especially come in handy if you'll have a lot of guests for the upcoming holiday season.

OCTOBER FOCUS – MEDIA ROOM

Control the Cords. Label both ends of every cord behind your entertainment center with a tag or sticker. Bundle up excess cord length with a rubber band or hook-and-loop ties.

Easy-access Discs. Set an attractive bowl (cereal-size works fine) on top of a DVD player and stereo. Place your CD and DVD favorites in the bowl.

Hide the Gaming System. Drill holes in the bottom of a storage ottoman and house a gaming system and all accessories inside. Run cords through the bottom of the ottoman and leave a few holes empty to allow for ventilation.

Label Chargers. Use permanent marker or stickers to label every charger you own. Store all chargers in one bath caddy with a handle.

Does your media center need more serious help? Let Life Uncluttered come up with a customized storage plan for you.

Clean the Closet Before Your Fall Shopping Spree

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:23 GMT

For many women, the onset of fall is also the onset of a new shopping season. If a new and warmer wardrobe is on the horizon for you, it’s best to do some housekeeping before bringing new threads to fill your closet with. Here are some tips for cleaning out your closet before you head to the mall.

Choose a charity to donate unwanted clothes to. Be sure to dedicate a set day and time to transport your unwanted stuff, otherwise procrastination may set in.
Do all of your laundry. Having everything clean and in place will give you a clearer picture of what you have vs. what you need.
Sort your pieces into categories like keep, repair, trash and donate.

Once you edit your closet down to what’s important enough to keep, you’ll be much more confident in your shopping venture. And you’ll even save money since you now have a clear vision of everything that’s in your closet!

Life Uncluttered in Kansas is here to make your closet woes disappear. For more information about our custom closet and organizing solutions, call us today. We serve areas in and around Kansas City and Overland Park.

Information from Apartment Therapy

Getting Rid of Random Clutter

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:21 GMT

Is your home constantly cluttered and you aren’t quite sure how to handle it. One of the hardest things to do is take the time to clean the house only for it to become disorganized a day or two later. But how can this be avoided? Maybe these tips will help.

Have a dedicated space for your odds and ends. Much of the clutter at home is due to small items that you aren’t quite sure where to place. Keys, sunglasses, wallets, umbrellas, receipts, coins, etc. Using a bin or tray for these items will prevent them from showing up elsewhere.
Another common culprit is random and unsorted mail. The coffee table, kitchen island and front entry area are all notorious for mail piles. A mail sorter with slots and labels will allow you to organize incoming mail like bills, catalogs, coupons, greeting cards, etc.
Don’t be afraid to throw things out. If you don’t use it, what’s the point in keeping it and taking up unnecessary space? For every new thing you buy, get rid of something else. For example, don’t keep your old laundry basket if you buy a new one. If throwing things out doesn’t sit well with you, try donating or recycling instead.

If you live near Kansas City or Overland Park, Life Uncluttered can help you to become organized once and for all with a customized plan just for you! Contact us today for more information!

Mess at the Front Door: What Does it Mean?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:19 GMT

So far, psychologist Sally Augustin, PhD has shared her expert opinion on what our untidiness in the living room and in the kitchen really mean. But what if your problem is a messy and disorganized entryway?

Mess location: The entryway

Chances are you are: Extroverted

"A mess in an entryway that contains personalizing items [think knick-knacks, gallery, art, etc.] communicates a need to clearly and immediately establish information about themselves to their visitor," Augustin says. "People with this sort of mess are also apt to be extroverted and interested in establishing a bond with visitors. Personalizing items also establish territory."
What to do about it: Extroversion isn't a bad trait! But have you been welcoming so many people in your home that you don't have time to tend to your own needs? Then it's time to put "you" on your calendar. Make it a habit to clear up clothes, jackets, and other "drop off" items that you leave by the door when you get home and for when you are leaving. As much as you enjoy welcoming guests into your own home, your entryway should be equally welcoming upon visitor arrivals.

What issues do you have with keeping your front entryway neat and tidy?

Tackle That Garage This Fall

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:15 GMT

Anything that doesn’t have a dedicated space inside the house usually ends up in one place – the garage. From bikes and sporting equipment to old clothes and dusty boxes, it’s easy to toss everything in the garage and forget about it. Adding certain design elements to a garage helps to make it a more useful space for everyone at home. And honestly, nothing will make you feel better than tackling this cluttered space just before the holiday season arrives. Here are some helpful tips from the experts at Houzz :

Don’t underestimate vertical wall space. If you park your car in the garage, you’ll need to free up as much space aspossible. Tall bins and shelves are the perfect solutions for this.
If you don’t like the look of open shelving, then drawer solutions are also an option. With open shelving, it’s easy for them to become another random place to stash everything. But with drawers, everything will be neatly concealed.
For the best results, start with a completely empty garage. Looking at a blank canvas will make it so much easier to see what you’re working with, what fits where, and what you want the garage to look like in the end.
Ask yourself questions about what to keep and what to toss. Do you love it? Need it? When was the last time you used it? Be honest and get rid of everything you don’t need, want or use regularly.

Are you ready to come home to an organized garage? For professional assistance in getting your garage cleaned and organized, call Life Uncluttered today. We serve Kansas City, Overland Park and other surrounding areas.

Fabulous Shoes Deserve Fabulous Closets

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:14 GMT

There probably isn’t a single woman in all of Kansas City who doesn’t know what DSW is. The famously fabulous shoe warehouse is a one-stop shop for all things shoes, handbags and accessories. So it’s only fitting that the fashionistas at DSW asked their Facebook fans this very important question:

Fill in the blank: “People would say my closet is ___________________.”

Here are some of the responses that caught our attention:

Too crowded
Too small
Crammed with random stuff
Filled to the max with shoes
A complete disaster
Outrageous
Not big enough

Whoa! It’s painfully obvious that there are way too many women out there who don’t realize that Life Uncluttered can help! Our custom closet solutions are perfect for establishing a personalized plan to neatly fit all of your shoes, clothes and accessories. Why let closet that’s too small or too messy continue to frustrate you day after day? We’re here to help! Call us in Kansas.

Clean Your Master Closet in September

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:12 GMT

The kids are finally back in school, which means you have a little bit more time to yourself at home. And as much as you’d love to plop down with a bowl of ice cream and watch the Lifetime Movie Network all day long, there’s a ton of things to do around the house. Do you need to tackle your master closet? If so, here’s a quick, easy get to get your house in shape for the fall season. Ready, set go!

SEPTEMBER FOCUS - MASTER CLOSET

Spot Unused Items. Arrange all clothes hangers with hooks facing out. Whenever you put away newly laundered items, arrange so the hangers point in. At the end of the season, give away everything on facing-out hangers because you didn't wear it.

Stacking Storage. Turn milk crates on their sides, stack, and fill with folded items divided by style or garment type. Rearrange crate placement based on season.

Workout Gear. Dangle two canvas bags from hooks on the back of your closet door. Fill one with clean, rolled up work-out clothes and other with paired athletic socks.

Organize Accessories. Stash scarves, hats, and other lesser-worn accessories in a stack of clear shoebox-size containers. Look for containers that click together and feature handles for easy transport.

Does your master closet need more TLC than you can provide? Call Life Uncluttered in Kansas today for professional help with your closet organizing!

Information from BHG

Mess in the Living Room: What Does it Mean?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:11 GMT

A couple weeks ago we told you all about what it means when your kitchen is constantly messy and what you can do to stop it. Today, we’re focusing on the living room. What does psychologist Sally Augustin, PhD have to say about untidiness in the busiest room of the house?

Mess location: The living room

Chances are you are: Tense

"Cluttered spaces...generate tension for humans because our eyes continually review our environment. With lots of stuff around, that process becomes more arduous. In addition, since our possessions are extensions of us, lack of care for them could also indicate, potentially, a lack of self-respect-but it may also indicate a toddler is present, money is in short supply, or other similar things."

What to do about it: Since the living room area tends to be the cluster zone for your family, it's all a matter of finding space to hide the clutter. Utilize decorative storage bins and storage ottomans. Seeing a messy area will induce more stress and tension, so take that extra minute to keep things in allotted places. Then, recover from the visual tension by closing your eyes and listening to music.

Do you think Life Uncluttered in Kansas might be able to help with your living room clutter? Call us at today for help!

Information from Shelterpop

Tidy Up That Linen Closet!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:09 GMT

Linen closets can be very frustrating and intimidating spaces. Even if they start out looking neat and organized, it doesn’t take long for towels, sheets and toiletries to take on a life of their own. Its one space that never seems to stay in order. But these simple tips may help to keep your linen closet organized 24/7!

Install tap lights – Cleaning your linen closet may be a little less daunting once you can actually see what you’re doing.
Fluff, fold and press - It may not be a lot of fun, but ironing bed linens right after they come out of the dryer helps to fold and store them just like when you see them on store shelves.
Condense – How many sheet sets do you have? How many do you really need? Donate or recycle sheet sets that you don’t use often. Use that extra shelf space for other items.
Remove ratty towels – It’s quite common to tear damaged towels into smaller rags used for cleaning. But they don’t deserve to be kept in a nice linen closet. Transport damaged cleaning rags and towels an under-sink area.
Make labels – When other family members participate in cleaning and organizing, the often put items in the wrong place. Use labels or a color coding system so that everyone knows where everything goes.

At Life Uncluttered, we are the ultimate closet experts in Kansas City and Overland Park. We’d love to discuss your custom closet needs with you, so contact us today!

Mess in the Kitchen: What Does it Mean?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:05 GMT

When sections of your house are cluttered and unorganized, you may attribute the mess to a number of things. You’re too busy, too tired or maybe just plain old lazy. But there’s actually a method to the madness. Author and environmental psychologist Sally Augustin, PhD believes that there are reasons why our clutter seems to inhabit certain areas of the home. And each one says something about you!

Mess location: The kitchen

Chances are you are: Adventurous

"Messes in this space that are due to things like unusual items...think rarely-used spices...or a cookbook for varying cuisines indicates openness to new experiences."

What to do about it: Capitalizing on your interest in all things new and exciting is as simple as making sure spices and cookbooks are easily accessible. For the latter, use a step-style spice rack, which ensures that everything you need is in sight and in reach. And why not bring in a small bookshelf to store your culinary guides?

How Do You Organize Your Closet?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:04 GMT

Here are three popular ways to organize your closet:

By style: This method organizes clothes by type, separating short sleeves from long sleeves, jeans from pants and skirts from shorts.
By color: True fashionistas love to organize their closets this way. It’s super easy to choose an outfit for the day based on what color you feel like wearing.
By purpose: For the most efficient people, organizing based on clothing usage is ideal. Here, you separate clothes into categories for work, casual, sports, pajamas, night life, etc.

How do you organize your closet?

3 Tips for a Fabulous Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:02 GMT

Many people are guilty of holding onto items that they know they don’t need. A professional organizer can help to cut the umbilical cord and help you to get rid of all the useless items that are taking up precious space.
Try to define what style or image you are trying to portray with your wardrobe. Are you a casual jeans-and-t-shirt kind of person? Or do you want your closet to exude professional chic? Figuring out your style personality will help to eliminate everything from your closet that doesn’t fit what you are trying to portray. Think about celebrity closets you may have seen on TV or in magazines. Notice how their closets are a perfectly accurate representation of their individual style.
Follow the dressing room trend. Closets of the 21st century are spaces where you can get completely dressed and ready. Don’t just think about storage for clothes. Think shoes, accessories, jewelry, handbags – everything. You can even put an island in your closet!

For a personalized closet plan that’s just right for you, contact Life Uncluttered today in Kansas City/Overland Park, KS.

Ditch Magazine Clutter by Scrapbooking

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:10:00 GMT

Good Housekeeping
Vogue
Better Homes & Gardens
Real Simple
Elle
O
Glamour
Martha Stewart Living
Redbook

These are just some of the most popular magazines you’ll find in any grocery store or newsstand. And the list could go on and on. If you’re an avid magazine reader, you might also be an avid magazine collector. It’s not uncommon for magazines to collect over the months and years. Those useful articles, inspirational photos and fun quizzes are much too special to throw away, right?

Now is the time to get rid of your magazine clutter once and for all. But that doesn’t exactly mean you need to dump all your glossies and forget all about them. Here’s a simple and fun solution: try scrapbooking!

All you need is a scrap book and glue or tape. Simple cut out the articles, photos and recipes that you refuse to throw away. Arrange them in your scrapbook however you’d like – one page each for recipes, financial advice and shopping tips. You can throw out each magazine as soon as you’ve out all the content you want to hold on to!

Have you tried scrapbooking your old magazines?

What Do You Store Under the Bed?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:59 GMT

The design experts at House Beautiful asked a very simple question on their Facebook page recently. They asked, “Do you store anything underneath your bed?” Not surprisingly, the responses came in droves. So, what do people store underneath their beds?

Shoes
Luggage
Bins, containers and other organizing shoes
Seasonal clothes
Bed linens

While storing things underneath your bed might be a logical way to save space, it’s not the most plausible storage method by any stretch of the imagination. That’s exactly why you need customized storage solutions that’ll dedicate convenient space for all your under-bed belongings!

What do you store under your bed? Let us know by posting on our Facebook wall !

To find out how Life Uncluttered can help clear out the mess from underneath your bed, call us today. We serve neighborhoods around Kansas City and Overland Park in Missouri.

Elements of an Organized Garage

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:56 GMT

Garages are the perfect place to store outdoor equipment, sporting goods, crafts and gardening tools. But if there’s not a place for everything – including your vehicle(s), the garage can be a bit of a nightmare. But there’s hope! Here are a few elements that’ll take your garage from drab to fab!

Adjustable shelving – The longer you live in your home, the more items you’ll be storing in your garage. Shelves that adjust in height help to make sure you have enough room to store accommodate all your short and tall items.
Workstation – For any crafts that must be performed or prepared outside the home like painting, flower potting, or fixing things, a workstation provides the perfect foundation for making sure you have an organized area to perform your duties.
Hanging hardware – Hooks and pegs are ideal for hanging tools like hammers, screwdrivers, paint brushes, scissors, and spools of twine. This will keep them from getting cluttered on your workstation or on the floor.
Bins – Another way to incorporate storage for small items like tape, plant seeds and screws is to install bins that’ll easily separate those items for you.

Not sure how to get the most use out of your garage? Life Uncluttered can come up with a customized garage storage layout and design for you! Call to speak with us today!

Playroom Organizing Solutions

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:55 GMT

Summer time often means that kids are spending more time at home. And when kids spend more time at home, there’s more junk that needs to be cleaned up.

But it doesn’t have to be that way! Life Uncluttered offers a number of storage and organizing solutions to help you regain your sanity before school is back in session. We can design and install custom shelves, cubby holes, and even desks to keep all of the kids’ random stuff in order. No more tripping over toy fire trucks and headless Barbie dolls. There will be a designated space for every book, crayon, teddy bear and puzzle piece. Playtime clean up will be so much easier!

Contact Life Uncluttered today to find out how we can transform and organize your kids’ play room today!

Put an Island in Your Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:52 GMT

Islands aren’t just for the kitchen. Over the years, they spacious structures have made their way into walk-in closets everywhere. The benefits of having an island in the closet are endless.

Efficient use of what would otherwise be empty floor space.
Extra compartments and drawers to store everything from t-shirts to accessories.
The flat surface is perfect for lying out and matching up the day’s wardrobe.
The top of the island is also ideal for packing. This will save you from making multiple trips into and out of the closet.

Is your closet big enough to accommodate an island? Let Life Uncluttered figure that out for you! We serve both Kansas City and Overland Park, so call us today to speak about our closet services.

Which Celebs Have the Most Desirable Closets?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:51 GMT

While cruising Facebook earlier this week, we stumbled upon an intriguing question posed by the fashionable experts at FabSugar. They asked fans to complete the following sentence:

“I wish I had this celebrity’s closet: _______________.”

As you can imagine, the responses were quite varied. Still, some answers were expected. They included:

Mariah Carey
Kimora Lee Simmons
Beyonce
The Kardashian sisters
Jennifer Aniston
Victoria Beckham
Kate Middleton
Sarah Jessica Parker (Carrie, Sex and the City)

Sure, these are all fabulous closet spaces to have chosen. But these celebrities surely invested six figures or more to get what the storage they wanted for their designer wardrobes. But at Life Uncluttered, there’s no need to take out a second mortgage just for a custom closet design. We can come up with a personalized plan that’ll fit both your needs and your budget. Call us today to learn more.

Are You Wasting Precious Square Footage?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:50 GMT

It doesn’t take long for spacious closets to become crammed with clothes, shoes and other stuff after moving into a new home. Some people simple underestimate how much they really have. The National Association of Home Builders has one tip we especially like on how to find the extra storage space you desperately need.

Make Use of Wasted Square Footage

In closets and in the kitchen, use all of the space that is available to you. Often home owners are giving up valuable square footage if they don’t install cabinets or shelves that go up to the ceiling. Store items that are either out of season or that are rarely accessed — such as holiday decorations — on the higher shelves where they are out of the way. This will free up the lower shelves to allow you to get to the things that you use on a regular basis.

Luckily, Life Uncluttered can help in this area. Our custom closet solutions can help you to achieve maximum storage space by extending the height of your closet. Call us today to find out more about our custom closets and storage solutions.

Bright Idea: Weekday Cleaning Schedules

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:47 GMT

Earlier this week, we gave you a simple wardrobe trick that we hope will make life a little bit easier. Another way that some people lessen their daily load is by creating a cleaning schedule – and actually following it. It’s a good way to coordinate each day’s tasks, leaving the weekends untouched because let’s face it: Saturday mornings were not meant for cleaning!

Here’s a sample weekday cleaning schedule:

Mondays: Grocery Shopping Day (just in time to use all of Sunday’s coupons!)
Tuesdays: Vacuuming Day
Wednesdays: Bathroom Cleaning Day
Thursdays: Change Bed Linens Day
Fridays: Laundry day

Of course, you can customize your weekday schedule any way you see fit. And don’t forget to create one for the kiddos!

If you had a weekday cleaning schedule, how would it be organized? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below!

A Time Saving Wardrobe Tip

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:46 GMT

Life is extremely busy, to say the least. Between work, kids, activities and home life, there just are not enough hours in the day. Anyone pressed for time can appreciate the little things that save even a few minutes each day. Here’s a simple tip that’ll shave time off your morning routine.

Designate a spot in your closet for tomorrow's outfit. Choose it the night before and save some time in the morning.

Not only doesn’t this work great for adults, but it can be a lifesaver when it comes to choosy kids who can’t decide on the perfect outfit each morning. Picking the next day’s outfit the night before can make the morning routine so much easier. And if you have time to iron it before bed, that’s a major plus. It’ll save precious minutes, which all of us can appreciate.

Are you having closet problems? Is there no room in your closet (or your child’s closet) to set aside the next day’s outfit? You may need a custom closet design to help get organized once and for all. Don’t fret; just call Life Uncluttered today if you’re in the Kansas City or Overland Park areas. We can help!

Organized Closets Can Sell Homes

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:43 GMT

If you’re in the market to sell your Kansas City area home, you might be surprised to know that being organized can actually make or break a sale.

It makes a great deal of sense when you think about it. If you tour a home with messy, disorganized closets, you probably wouldn’t be too inclined to submit an offer. This is true even if you know you would keep the space neat and tidy.

But if you toured a home with custom designed closets, tons of storage space, and everything was in it’s rightful place, it would be easier for you to imagine yourself and your family in that particular home. And it’s certainly a plus for women to see closets with shoes neatly lined up and clothes and accessories in their own spaces.

So what are you waiting for? If your home is on the market, custom closets and professional organizing may be the missing link that’ll get your home sold. Contact Life Uncluttered today to discuss how our personalized services can help!

Let Us Solve Your Closet Quandaries

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:42 GMT

Closet storage is nothing but a nightmare in many homes. But it doesn’t have to be! With the help of a professional organizer like Life Uncluttered, your closets can be clean, orderly spaces that no longer cause confusion and headaches. Are you having any of these common closet problems?

Finding ample space for his and hers closets or even closets shared by children.
Multipurpose closets that get used for everything from coat hanging to storing cleaning supplies.
One room with two cluttered and disorganized closets.
Small closets that are difficult to reach into.
Problems finding efficient use of closets filled with items that are only occasionally used.
Closets near the front or back doors that get filled with random and miscellaneous clutter.
Stuffed linen closets that no longer hold large comforters, sheets and pillows.

We can help you to solve all of these closet quandaries and more! Just call us today to find out more about our custom closet solutions and services!

Come Home to an Organized Garage

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:41 GMT

What do you see when you come home from a long, hard day of work? After a hectic day at the office, parking your car in a garage that is disorganized and full of unsightly piles of junk isn't exactly what you need to de-stress. Fortunately, Life Uncluttered can create order from chaos, making your garage a pleasant place to come home to at the end of the day.

Many of the items that end up in the garage are problematic for the amateur organizer. What is the most space efficient way to store bicycles, sports equipment, holiday decorations, ladders, and other awkwardly shaped tools and equipment? Life Uncluttered can solve these and more organizational conundrums, maximizing the space in your garage so that everything has its own place. Whether you want everything covered up behind cabinets or out in the open and easily accessible, we have the solution for you.

Don't live with that cluttered garage in your Kansas City area home a moment longer; call Life Uncluttered today!

See more images in our Gallery.

The Importance of Closet Organization

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:39 GMT

Custom closet organization is not just a luxury. For those who invest in fine clothing, accessories and shoes, an organized closet is a way to protect those investments. At Life Uncluttered, we help people in the Kansas City area make the most of their storage.

We can take your master closet from cluttered and inefficient to streamlined and easy to use. In fact, with our professional organizing expertise, we are often able to add 50% capacity to a closet. Say goodbye to hunting through disorganized piles of clothes and shoes, never being able to find the item you're looking for, and experiencing the occasional sweater avalanche. We will make sure that there is appropriate storage for all of your items, which will not only make life easier and less stressful for you, but will also help to keep your belongings in good condition.

Call Life Uncluttered today and get ready to love your closet!

My Husband Is Now a Believer!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:37 GMT

"My husband is now a believer! When I saw my neighbor’s closet, I just knew I had to have that too. Not only did it look neat, it was so well organized and efficient. After I accepted the bid from Life Uncluttered, my husband said “You are spending how much for this????” Once it was completed, I ordered an additional section of shelves to be placed above the door for even more room. But that night, when I completed moving all my things back into my closet, I had so much room left over that I didn’t need the additional shelves. I cancelled the additional order and generously gave my husband the left over space in the closet. He put in what he wanted of his things and still, it was not crowded! His comment to me … “Wow, this is definitely worth the investment!” YAY!"

Sue N.

6-23-11

Elements of a Custom Walk-in Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:35 GMT

Walk-in closets are often a huge draw for anyone looking for a new home. The larger the closet, the better. But a large closet doesn’t seem so big once all of your stuff has been pack inside. This is exactly where custom closets come in handy. Regardless of the closet size, a well-planned custom closet can efficiently keep all your things in place, with all the right elements of course.

Drawer organizers - Modular organizers sort socks and belts in this pullout tray. Each item has its own compartment, creating a clean look.
Shoe Storage - Shoes on slanted shelves -- held in place by a metal bar -- are easily accessible. It simplifies each morning's shoe selection.
Double Hanging Rods - Stacked closet rods double storage space by maximizing the height of the closet. Shirts hang from the upper bar while skirts and longer blouses are hung below. Canvas storage boxes can also squeeze right in to small, deep shelves nearby.
Rotating Tie Rack - Ties stay neat and wrinkle-free with a battery-operated tie rack. With the touch of a button, the rack rotates, making it easy to find a favorite.
Pants Organization and Storage - A pullout trouser rack can hold about 10 pairs of freshly pressed pants.

Are you ready for your custom closet? If so, then contact Life Uncluttered today. We serve the Overland Park and Kansas City areas.

7 Ways to Store Your Spices

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:34 GMT

Whether you’re a serious kitchen cook or you if only occasionally dabble in the fine art of cooking, there are tons of ways to store your spices until the next feast. It all depends on how many spices you own, how often you use them and whether or not you have enough countertop space. BHG offers a few ideas on how to store your savory herbs and spices.

Canisters are perfect for frequently used ingredients; corked lids help to protect against light and moisture.
An organized spice cabinet is a great solution if extra countertop space is not available. Pantries work well too. The key is to keep the cabinet organized.
Baking boxes make it easy to group spices together in one compact location. Box can be store on the counter, in a cabinet, drawer or pantry.
A spice tray is great because you can gather up only the spices you need at the moment, avoiding multiple trips all over the kitchen.
Wall spice racks are notorious for their space-saving yet stylish ability. These are easy to blend in with your appliances and other kitchen décor because they come in various finishes like chrome, wood, and stainless steel.
You might also opt for open shelving that keeps spices neatly lined up and easily viewable. There are also many other benefits to open shelving in the kitchen.
Drawers are the ultimate storage space for spices because they can be kept close enough for comfort, but they’re easily tucked out of sight.

Life Uncluttered wants to know: How do you store your spices?

This is one reason why I love what I do!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:33 GMT

Thanks to Sue N. for the great response to her new closet.

Upon completion of her new master, Sue & I talked about a small unused space above her closet door that she wanted to add some shelving. I quoted her a price, which she approved. Sue called me the next day to cancel the order. The best news I had gotten recently.....really.

After she got her finished putting her clothes back in her closet she discovered she hadn't even filled the space she had! She even let her husband Tom put some clothes in the closet.

It also convinced Tom that she wasn't crazy for buying the new closet system (his initial comment went something like "you spent HOW MUCH on WHAT!")

Hearing a report like this makes my day.

Get Dad a Custom Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:30 GMT

Let’s face it: beautiful and organized closets are often associated with women. Because of their obsession with shoes and fashion in general, closets are the spaces where women essentially get to play dress up. You know, the Carrie Bradshaw effect .

In honor of Father’s Day, we’d like to take a moment to shed light on the fact that nice closets aren't just for the ladies. With all the neckties that dad receive every June, he needs a good place to store them, doesn't he?

At Life Uncluttered, we specialize in custom closets for any and every need. If the dad in your life needs his own closet storage space, we can make it happen. Dad can have his own personalized space for:

Business suits, jackets and dress shirts
Jeans and slacks
Shoes
Neckties and belts
Hats and scarves
Golf gear and other sporting accessories

Call us at today to discuss designing a custom closet for the dad in your life. Father’s Day will come and go quickly, but a custom closet for dad is forever!

Closets for Crafts

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:29 GMT

Creative minds that are into sewing, knitting, painting, drawing, scrapbooking and other crafts know one thing: you must have sufficient storage space in order to keep every tiny knick knack in place. The best way to keep your crafts in place is with a dedicated closet.

The benefits of having a craft closet include:

Having a single dedicated and organized space for arts and crafts supplies.
It can double as a holiday storage center for gift wrap, ribbon, bows, stocking stuffers, etc.
Supplies from school projects can easily be stored away with other crafts.
Closets are easier to organize than a single plastic bin where supplies are dumped, mixed and disorganized.
Shelves and be adjusted to fit different sized supplies.
Hazardous or messy items like glue and glitter can be stored safely away from children.

As you can see, craft closets are a great idea. Follow Life Uncluttered on Twitter or “Like” us on Facebook to find out more about our custom closets and personal organizing solutions. We serve the Kansas City and Overland Park areas.

Dealing with Kid Clutter This Summer

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:26 GMT

Besides a messy laundry room, the onset of summer will also bring an onslaught of extra kid clutter. Let’s face it, the youngsters will probably be spending more time at home over the next few months which means there will be more to clean up after them.

But don’t fret. There are some easy solutions that you can put into place right now that’ll help ease the pain of kid clutter. And of course if you’ve already go too much on your plate, you can let Life Uncluttered handle the de-cluttering for you!

Destroy any and all fears regarding monsters under the bed by utilizing that space wisely. Storing bed linens, comforters and toy boxes under the bed takes create advantage of the space below, not to mention that kids will be less frightened because they won’t see a void empty space at night.
Storage bins with clearly written or typed labels are great for toys, clothes and shoes, particularly for younger children who are learning how to read.
Add a bit of adult style to your common areas by investing in a nice ottoman with a removable top. Not only do these provide last minute storage space for random toys and knick knacks, the tops also double as cocktail trays.
An entryway, hallway or mudroom with bins especially for shoes, bags, jackets and other essentials will keep these items from being strewn elsewhere in the house.
Toy hammocks are a timeless and classic way to keep collections of small toys and stuffed animals up and out of the way.

Life Uncluttered wants to know: What part of your house is the most unorganized over the summer? Leave a comment below!

An Easy and Efficient Laundry Room

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:25 GMT

It’s just a fact of life that with the summer almost in full swing, laundry duties at home won’t be slowing down any time soon. Even though kids are out of school and taking it easy, it’s quite possible that their daily clothes will take a beating the more time they spend outdoors. So if laundry is a chore that you’ll be enduring all summer long, why not set up an efficient laundry space to make the task a bit easier?

Place a laundry receptacle in each family member’s bedroom or bathroom. This will make it easier to gather up all clothing items when it’s time to wash them.
At least two bins should be placed in the laundry room dedicated to darks and whites.
Arrange products from left to right in the same order that you use them. For example, your stain remover might be on the far left followed by detergent, fabric softener and dryer sheets. Also, these items may be best stored in transparent bins or baskets to prevent them from toppling over.
Always remember that the laundry room should never be an after-thought. It should be a priority just like other parts of the house.
Other extras in the laundry might include a radio, a small trash can for lint and pocket trash, and an area rug that’s more comfortable to stand on for long periods of time.

Did you know that Life Uncluttered has professional organizing solutions for your laundry room? Call us at today to find out more!

Easy Organization Tips

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:24 GMT

When trying to organize your home and life, it's important to remember that these things take time. Fortunately, there are professionals like the ones at Life Uncluttered to help you find the storage and organizational systems that work for you.

Here are a few ideas from Real Simple to help you take a few organizational baby steps.

Many of us struggle with it, but the paper demons can be tamed! A wall-mounted memo holder is a great way to keep important papers close at hand and easy to find, and since it is so visible, you'll be forced to clean it out on a regular basis to hold the next round of notes, bills, etc.
Go up, not out in the garage. Most homes vastly under-use the vertical space available. You can free up valuable floor space in your garage by utilizing plenty of hooks for everything from garden implements to sporting gear.
Clean up outdoor toys quickly by investing in a laundry trolley or other attractive, easy-to-push cart. You can easily zoom around the yard tossing toys in your trolley, and you'll have the space looking great again in no time!

If you want to eliminate the clutter and get your Kansas City area home under control, call Life Uncluttered today!

Organizing Your Linen Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:18 GMT

What’s in your linen closet? Lots of stuff probably. Linen closets are spaces commonly used for bed sheets, comforters, towels, toiletries and plenty of other bed and bath essentials. Because they’re often filled with so many different things, linen closets can be a pain to keep organized. This is especially true for extra-large and extra thick bed coverings. Do you need a few smart storage solutions? Keep reading!

Use wicket baskets to bundle folded bed sheets. This will prevent them from toppling over, and it just looks better. If necessary, label each basket if your bed linens differ in size.
If you’re particularly talented at folding flat and fitted sheets, show off your ability by tying a pretty ribbon around the finished product. It’ll keep all the pieces of the sheet set together and will look very elegant.
As for towels, don’t settle for the traditional fold. Try rolling them like they do at the spa. It’ll take up less space and is a bit nicer to look at.

Life Uncluttered wants to know: What other solutions do you have for keeping your linen closet in order? Share your tips by leaving a comment below!

Take Action by Organizing Your Home Office

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:15 GMT

Even though tax season has thankfully come and gone, the remnants are probably still very apparent in your home office space. So how do you tackle the piling paperwork once and for all? Take these tips from Yahoo! Green :

Immediate Actions: Take a step to deal with any paperwork that requires immediate attention. That doesn’t mean you always have to drop everything to pay a bill or schedule an appointment, but you should take one of these steps:

If it takes less than two minutes, do it. You’ll spend more than two minutes on the project if you just leave it in the pile and keep glancing at it.
If it takes more than two minutes, put it in a “next actions” folder, and review the next actions folder daily. This should also include specific, small steps in ongoing projects. For example, “do taxes” is not a next action, but “contact bank for 1099 interest documents” might be a next action.
Schedule it for action on a specific date, and put it in a dedicated folder for that date

Delayed actions: Other items may not require quick action, but aren’t worth throwing away. For example, as a freelance writer, I get plenty of press releases that aren’t going to immediately become part of an article, but provide interesting story ideas. These “someday” stories can go in a separate file.

Get your office organized once and for all by calling Life Uncluttered.

The Pesky Hallway Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:14 GMT

The entryway closet that’s located just beyond your front door can be a nightmare. That’s because this is one place that random things get thrown when there’s nowhere else for it to go, or if you just want it out of sight and out of mind quickly. But how much better would you feel if that closet was neatly organized and clutter free? Here’s how you can get it to that point!

Install shelves at the bottom of the closet for shoes. Each family member, particularly children, can have their own cubby holes to place their footwear as soon as they walk through the door.
Other cubby holes and/or drawers can hold dog toys, umbrellas, sporting accessories and other items you’re likely to grab right before leaving home.
Hooks for handbags and purses are a must.
Smaller areas for sunglasses, wallets and keys makes the closet an efficient storage space.

Of course, Life Uncluttered is here to help you make sense of your hallway closet space. Call us at today so we can help you get your closet back in order once and for all!

The Problem with De-Cluttering

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:11 GMT

Do you remember a couple of blog posts we shared with you that discussed the psychological choke hold that clutter creates? We came across this excerpt from Build Direct and just had to share it. Many people embark on their own de-cluttering solutions, even spending money on storage mechanisms that mostly hide clutter when really you should be getting rid of it. Does your de-cluttering method go anything like this?

Where many of us go wrong when dealing with clutter is, we do cosmetic work but don’t get rid of things. We clean up, disguise the chaos, but open that closet, or those boxes, or that drawer, and nothing but a jumble of stuff waits you.

To get started with clutter, look past the chaos that’s there already, accept that things are gonna get a whole lot uglier before they get prettier, and start — get a plan, and do it.

De-cluttering is a powerful way to take charge of your life, but it’s a difficult and deeply personal process for some, hence why it makes compelling TV. Just look at shows like Hoarders, Clean Sweep, and Enough Already! with Peter Walsh.

We couldn’t agree more. And at Life Uncluttered, we offer more than just organizational solutions. We offer solutions that improve your quality of life at home. Isn’t that important to you? If so, then call us today to find out how we can help you to cut the clutter.

Donating Your Clutter

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:10 GMT

Donating is one of the best ways to get rid of your clutter because even though you have no more use for it, someone else may. Donating is beneficial in a number of ways:

It reduces the amount of trash that ends up in landfills
Donations are often tax deductible
Used items like clothing, shoes, books, appliances and more come in handy for other people in need

And did you know that many organizations that accept donated goods will also come to your front door to pick up those items? Contact your local Goodwill, Salvation Army and Red Cross to find out more about how you can donate your goods. Life Uncluttered can also help you to get your closets, garage, office space and other rooms in order once you have de-cluttered. Give us a call today to find out more about our services.

Using Your Garage the Right Way

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:07 GMT

It's hard when you can't even use your garage to park your car because it is taken over by clutter. Sometimes the clutter can just take over before we even know it and then the garage is used as extra storage space rather than a place for the car. But don't fret because you can use the space for both if you organize it correctly.

Organization is key. People that take the time to organize their garages have the space to fit cars and other stuff as well. Follow these few tips from the experts at Do It Yourself to get you started.

First assess what you want to stay in the garage and what you want to go.
After you have have everything that is staying, start to separate the items into categories. ie. toys, tools, cleaning supplies.
Look at the walls of your garage as additional flooring. With the right accessories like shelving and hooks you can easily multiply the amount of storage space.
Use things that you already have at home in order to organize instead of rushing out to the store and buying new bins and containers.

With things out of your way and on the wall, it creates the perfect amount of space to park that car of yours. If cleaning the garage seems to daunting of a task, don't worry because Life Uncluttered is the perfect place to come to get the job done. They can get your garage looking brand spanking new. Come out and visit them if you are in the Kansas City/Overland Park area or call today for more information.

Expert Closet Organization Tips

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:06 GMT

People who use their closets the right way don’t have to worry about enough storage. But when professionally installed closet systems are in the mix, storage space can be doubled in many cases. To get the most out of your closet space, take these expert tips from The Association of Closet and Storage Professionals :

Take everything out of the closet and evaluate what should be kept.
Get rid of clothes that do not fit or are out of style.
Find other storage areas for things like sports gear and other items that don’t belong in a clothes closet
Weed out unused hangers to create more space.

Now you are ready to plan the space for the remaining clothes and accessories:

Measure the length of hanging clothes; shirts, skirts and other short items can be hung on double rods.
Count sweaters and shoes in order to provide adequate cubbies and shelving.
Use hooks to store robes, night gown, and “around the house” clothing.

Let Life Uncluttered create a custom closet that works for you. Call us today for more information about our services.

The Benefits of an Organized Home Office

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:04 GMT

These days, it’s hard to find a corporate or office-based job that does not offer the opportunity to work from home. It’s one of the best perks ever, isn’t it? But many workers don’t take advantage of this incentive because their home office isn’t organized and primed for working from home regularly. If you have the ability to work from home and need your office tidied up, it’s time to face the music. Why?

Have you seen gas prices lately? You’ll save a good chunk of money by working from home, especially if you have a long commute to the office.
Working from home can boost your productivity because of the time saved. You can wake up and get to work right away!
An office, particularly one with a door, provides a calm place for you to focus on your work when other things are going on at home.

Call Life Uncluttered today to discuss getting your home office in shape so you can finally take advantage of working from home!

Purging and Organizing Kitchen Cabinets

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:03 GMT

Life Uncluttered does not specialize in kitchen cabinet organization, but that doesn’t mean we can’t arm you with all the right tips to do it yourself! A quick peek inside your cabinets might reveal a lot of random odds and ends. Open boxes of pasta, expired cans of chick peas and creamed corn, stale crackers, old cereal and who knows what else. It’s time to be proactive and make your life easier with a completely purged and organized kitchen space!

Completely empty out your cabinets. Separate all items into three categories: items you use all the time, items you use occasionally, and expired or suspicious items to trash. Anything else that’s still good but you don’t need or want can be donated to a local food bank.
Clean all cabinet shelves, getting rid of all crumbs and sticky substances. Now would be a good time to incorporate any new containers, bins, jars or other organizing mechanisms.
Be smart about how you now organize your food items. Keep spices and other food items you use frequently on lower shelves. Heavy items like bottles of olive oil should also be kept low. Snacks should be in an area that children can easily access. Group categorized items, like breakfast foods, all in one spot.

For all your other home organizing needs, specifically for closets, garages, pantries and offices, call Life Uncluttered in Kansas City/Overland Park today.

Our Views on Custom Closets

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:09:02 GMT

These days, it’s all too common for new houses to be constructed with inefficient and insufficient closet space. Isn’t it odd that closets aren't designed to meet the needs of the modern family?

That’s exactly why Life Uncluttered is here. To make your life easier by creating efficient storage spaces tailored to you and your needs. We know that you have more important things to worry about and clutter in your home shouldn’t be one of them.

At Life Uncluttered, one size fits all closets are not what we do. Instead, we prefer to design your closet around your clothes. A customized closet designed for one person may not work at all for someone else. It’s all about personalization and customization. Your closet should fit your needs.

Most of all, we listen. We find out your needs, wants and what you hope to achieve with a new closet. In the end, our job isn’t complete until your closet problems no longer exist.

Life Uncluttered provides custom closet and organizing services to the Overland Park and Kansas City areas. Call us today to request an in-home consultation.

5 Ways to Organize Your Recycling

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:59 GMT

Whether you’re new to recycling or even if you’ve been doing it for years, there’s always ways to make the process easier and more streamlined. Have you tried any of these techniques?

It might make sense to have a small recycling area in each applicable room. But having to track and organize in the kitchen, bathroom, garage and elsewhere can become more hassle than it’s worth. Choose one single area like the garage or a utility room to house all of your recyclables.
In your dedicated recycling area, use wall hooks to hang bags for cans and bottles. Simply take the bag with you when it’s time to deposit, and then bring the empty bags back home to start again.
Recycling items like electronics, batteries, light bulbs, leftover paint and chemicals involves some safety precautions. Incorrect disposal and lead to serious health and safety hazards. Always check with your local waste management provider to find out the proper ways to dispose of or recycle items that you are not sure of.
For recycling multiple types of goods, stackable bins are a good way to keep them separated. Many bins can also be easily lifted and transported for depositing.
Although you love recycling, you may not want everyone to see your newspapers, bottles and cans piling up. A simple solution is to use a nice wicker backs or another decorative storage mechanism to discreetly place recyclables.

Life Uncluttered wants to know: How do you keep your recyclables organized? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

5 Things You Don't Need

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:58 GMT

Keeping your home clutter-free and organized is an on-going process. Even if you have custom closets installed or other storage solutions built to your needs, it’s up to you to keep your rooms and spaces from getting out of control. Take a look around. What are you holding onto that you truly don’t need anymore? Is there anything on this list you kiss goodbye?

CDs and DVDs – If you haven’t made the digital transition yet, it’s time. Using online music libraries like iTunes and Rhapsody make it easier than ever to store your music and movies right on your computer. Just make sure you back everything up in case you ever have technical difficulties and lose your downloads.

Old paperwork – There’s really no need to keep old bills and invoices, especially once they’ve been paid in full. If you’re comfortable with it, go paperless and view/pay everything online to avoid massive heaps of paper all over your office and elsewhere.

Tupperware – Nothing is more annoying than having tons of Tupperware bowls and containers, but not nearly enough lids to match all of them. Do the lids disappear into thin air? We’ll probably never know. Toss any containers that you don’t use as well as those that do not have a proper lid or cover.

Old clothes – Most people get rid of clothes that haven’t been worn anywhere between six months to a year. Go through your closets and drawers and weed out the items you know you won’t be wearing again. And be honest with yourself. Donate your unwanted belongings to a local charity.

Multiple cleaning products – How many cleaning products do you have under your kitchen and bathroom sinks? There’s really no need to have that many. They pretty much all do the trick, don’t they? Once you use up all your current cleansers, try sticking to just one product in the kitchen and one in the bathroom to get things done.

Life Uncluttered wants to know: What else in your home do you think you could get rid of right now? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

Make Life Easier with Labels

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:55 GMT

Once your home is completely organized the way you’d like, it’s still hard work just to keep it that way. One solution is to use labels. But don’t head to the store and buy a ton of sticky notes. There’s a lot of creative ways to label areas throughout your home. What do you think about these labeling ideas?

Type Chic

Make sure labels are readable from afar by choosing a large, bold type that will make cleanup a breeze.

Simple Storage

Alphabetizing the CD boxes make it easy to find your next musical selection. A shoe storage stacker hung on the wall makes this storage solution super simple and achievable.

Stash and Give

Make spring cleaning a breeze by labeling large bags with garage sale prices and creating a charity bag. This will make it very easy to prep for a big sale.

Picture Perfect

Picture labels in this playroom make cleanup super easy for the little tots who can't read yet.

Outfit of the Day

Every Sunday help your little one choose clothes for each day of the week then store the outfits in the appropriate drawer. You'll save yourself time and effort during the week and allow your kids to quickly dress themselves in the morning.

For professional organizing services in Kansas City or Overland Park, call Life Uncluttered today!

Let Floating Shelves Maximize Your Space

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:54 GMT

Are you getting to work on organizing your home? One thing you might notice is that there are a lot of spaces in your home that you could be getting more use from. One way that you can maximize your possible storage space is to use floating shelves. They are easy to install and they create a more open looking area.

Check out some of these uses for floating shelves—do they make you think of any spaces you could organize more effectively this way?

Putting floating shelves in the corner next to the vanity is a great way to take advantage of the small space that might otherwise be lost. They also make the area feel larger due to their openness.

The narrow space between windows is ideal for floating shelves, which provide the same storage capacity without the bulk of a cabinet or bookshelf.

When you have a blank space on the wall, floating shelves can create an asymmetrical balance that adds visual excitement to the room while also providing practical display space.

Using floating shelves instead of a bookcase can help you create eye-popping aesthetics by drawing a strong contrast between the shelving and the wall, which completely surrounds each shelf.

If you don't know where to start or you simple don't have the time, let Life Uncluttered help you organize your home. Call us at 913-491-0900 to discuss organizational projects in the Kansas City area today!

In Pictures: White, Clutter-free Rooms

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:53 GMT

We found a pretty interesting thread on the My Home Ideas Facebook fan page. They asked readers, “What are some good ways you've found to make a small room feel bigger?” Two answers seemed to dominate the message board:

1. Get rid of clutter
2. Use soft and light paint colors on walls and ceilings, especially shades of white

That got us thinking that we should do another post full of pictures! What do you think about these light, bright and organized rooms?

For a professional organizer in Overland Park or Kansas City, call Life Uncluttered today. Don’t forget to “Like” us on Facebook!

In Pictures: Creative Organizing Solutions

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:49 GMT

For those of you who are visual creatures, this blog post is for you. While we feature tons of cleaning and organizing tips each week, some people need a little more vivid examples as opposed to lists of tips and tricks. So without further ado, check out these creatively organized rooms!

Plenty of drawer space keeps this bathroom immaculate without having to pile toiletries onto the counter top. It keeps the bathroom organized and peaceful, which is exactly how it should be!

Clear containers are a superb way to organize in the kitchen. It can even save you money because you can easily see you need vs. what you already have plenty of!

There are plenty of options available when it comes to keeping your desk uncluttered. Using wall mounted cork boards, shelves and other tools are perfect for keeping your home office tidy.

Custom closets allow you to get the most out of your storage place and to find everything you need easily and quickly!

For book enthusiasts, this is an exceptionally creative way to color code and organize books.

The Organized Nightstand

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:48 GMT

One of the most annoying areas of the bedroom is the nightstand that never ceases to collect the most random clutter. And after spending the majority of time cleaning other rooms like the kitchen, bathroom and main living areas, it’s easy to forget that bedrooms need a little TLC as well. Do you need to start fresh with your nightstand?

Clear everything thing off the table and give it a good wipe down with a damp towel and a multipurpose household cleaner.
Have a garbage bag handy. Immediately throw out everything you know you won’t ever need again. This may include old magazines, newspapers, sticky notes, empty snack packages, etc.
Every single item should be relocated to its rightful place. Things like bills or other documents, loads of writing utensils, empty cups and random pieces of candy do not belong in the bedroom.
Look at what’s remaining and decide what you absolutely need on your beside table. A lamp, alarm clock, book, scented candle and a framed family photo are all tolerable. A small notepad and pencil might even be okay for brilliant ideas that may pop up before right you drift off to sleep.

Life Uncluttered wants to know: What’s on your bedside table right now? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

The Psychology Behind Junk Drawers

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:46 GMT

It's still National Cleaning Week! How have you been doing so far lately? Have you cleaned any of your junk drawers yet?

Let’s face it: We’d rather do anything else than to sit down and organize a messy drawer. According to psychology professor Sam Gosling, we continue adding more stuff, thus creating another pocket of clutter in the home. (Who knew that being disorganized had so many psychological implications?)

So, what does this clutter do for us? Gossling says that, psychologically, it does three things:

We have become one with many of our old and unused items. Regardless of their uselessness, these things make us feel comfortable and more like ourselves.
We feel connected and relaxed as old clutter brings a feeling of nostalgia, reminding us of happy times.
Therefore, stuffed drawers aren’t seen as clutter, but as expected outcome of accumulating stuff throughout our lives.

To combat junk drawers:

Keep often used items nearby, storing other item in an attic or basement.
Use drawer dividers to separate socks and under garments. These are also great for those kitchen drawers filled with random pens, pencils, paper clips and bottles of super glue.
Always store like items together. For example, hair accessory shouldn't go with toothpaste and mouth wash. Group items by category to make life a little easier.

If drawer organizing is too much work for you, leave it to Life Uncluttered! Call us tiday to discuss your organizing needs today!

Get Organized During National Cleaning Week

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:45 GMT

It’s National Cleaning Week!

This weeklong “holiday” was set aside years ago to encourage people to finally attack home cleaning for the spring, a task that is often overlooked during the busy winter. So to celebrate, here’s a list of some of our best cleaning and organizing tips by category. Enjoy!

6 Ways to maximize small spaces

Make home organizing a family affair

Laundry room organization simplified

De-clutter your medicine cabinet

Tackling a messy closet

De-clutter your electrical cord mess

Don’t go postal: Organize your mail today

De-cluttering the kid’s room is not child’s play

6 Steps to kitchen cabinet organization

4 Steps to bedroom organization

Spring cleaning for the garage

Simple ways to organize tax documents

Easy bathroom cabinet organization

Put an end to hoarding

For help in any of these areas (except kitchen cabinet organization) call Life Uncluttered today. We’re located in the Overland Park/Kansas City area.

Put an End to Hoarding

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:44 GMT

Do you ever find yourself holding on to mail, letters, childhood keepsakes and other things that you know you won’t ever use or even need again? If so, then Psychology Today has a few suggestions on how you can get over your hoarding tendencies. Read on!

Trash any item you haven’t used in six months. Use your judgment when throwing things out. Your first instinct is usually pretty accurate.
The most important documents you’ll always need to keep include birth and marriage certificate, social security cards, driver’s licenses, passports, deeds and titles related to your home ownership, and proof of homeowner’s insurance. Such documents should be secured in a safety deposit box and possibly kept with an attorney or financial advisor.
Make an appointment with yourself to open mail daily or at least weekly. Throw junk mail out as soon as you lay eyes on it. If a particular bill or letter requires immediate attention, tackle it right away rather than vowing to get around to it later.
Create a meal plan and a shopping list before going grocery shopping to avoid unnecessary quick trips to the store during the week.
Avoid excess paper by keeping as many files on your computer as possible. Only print documents that you’ll need to take outside your home.
Create to do lists on your mobile device if possible to avoid pointless Post Its and sticky notes all over the place.

For a professional organizer in the Overland Park and Kansas City area, call Life Uncluttered today.

Easy Bathroom Cabinet Organization

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:42 GMT

Have you gotten started with your spring cleaning yet? We recently gave you a few tips on how to get your garage clutter under control. But have you taken a look your bathroom cabinets? They can get pretty out of control.

It’s common to organize your all your bottled products for hair, beauty and cleaning by lining them up and shutting the cabinet doors. But you’ve probably found that it’s only a matter of days before the bottles begin to look cluttered again.

Try using bins and baskets to keep items under the sink organized. It’s also one of the best ways to keep cleaning products from comingling with things like toothpaste and mouthwash. Organizing bins by product type is an easy way to make sure everything goes back into its rightful place!

Do you need more than bins and baskets to get your bathroom under control? Call Life Uncluttered today for professional organization services in the Overland Park and Kansas City areas.

Multipurpose Storage Solutions

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:40 GMT

With spring just a few days away, it’s quite possible that you may be entertaining guests at home more frequently over the next few months. Parties always come with a jumble of clutter, particularly in the kitchen. Counter tops littered with random food items is one headache that a party host does not need. The solution? Try a portable rolling cart in which you can store dishes, silverware, glassware and condiments for guests. This will free up tons of kitchen space.

If you choose to invest in a rolling cart, you can now employ it for other uses. If you’re into arts, crafts, cooking or almost any other hobby, a portable rolling cart is one of the easiest ways to store all of your utensils, instruments, tools and supplies.

A tall shelving unit in a bathroom is a sure way to avoid clutter around the sink. Simple organize bath essentials on each shelf. Designating spots for toiletries, reading materials and beauty supplies makes for the ultimate organized bath space.

That same tall shelving unit, when turned sideways, can be used for your home’s entryway storage. Shoes, jackets, handbags and pet supplies can all be stored in sizable nooks right near the front door.

Life Uncluttered wants to know: What creative storage solutions do you practice at home? Let us know by leaving a comment!

Simple Ways to Organize Tax Documents

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:38 GMT

Filing taxes is a burden for most, to say the least. It can be frustrating and downright maddening trying to organize all of your documents and attempt to figure out what you need and what you can toss. There’s a simple way to start feeling a little better about tax season though: start organizing your documents now! Take these file organizing hints from the Housekeeping section of About.com:

Medical - File receipts for medical expenses, and health insurance out-of-pocket expenses.

Donations -Include receipts for both cash and non-cash donations.

Real Estate - File interest statements from mortgage, tax assesments.

Child Care - This file is for child care payment receipts.

Tax Correspondences -Include any important letters from the IRS or your state revenue service.

Student Loans - File statements of loan interest paid.

Misc. Receipts -Add any receipts that might be needed for deductions.

Payments - Include any records of advance payments.

Old Tax Papers - File by year your old tax returns.

Keeping your records in an organized fashion like this will ensure that you can locate what you need far before April 15th.

Life Uncluttered wants to know: How do you organize your tax (and other important) documents? Let us know by leaving a comment!

Spring Cleaning for the Garage

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:37 GMT

What do you store in your garage? We’re willing to bet it’s a whole lot more than just your car. With spring cleaning on the

rise in the next few weeks, cleaning out the garage is a task that many will brave. But be sure not to go about it the wrong way. Buying a ton of shelving and storage bins’, emptying out your garage and then reorganizing all the same stuff is not the way to go. The trick is to first determine how you’d like to utilize your garage space, beside for car parking.

Think about your options for storage solutions before you buy anything. Consider the types of things you need to store. Will plastic bins do, or will your belongings require more heavy-duty (and more expensive) materials?
Organize your garage stuff into three piles: things to keep, things to give away and things to trash.
Thoroughly clean the walls and floors.
Store items like gardening tools and sports equipment in groups so they are easier to find.
Finally, take into consideration how time-consuming and demanding it can be to clean and organize a garage. If you can’t do it on your own, there are professionals who can do it for you !

Life Uncluttered is experienced in finding creative and efficient ways to utilize and maximize your garage space. If you’re in the Overland Park or Kansas City area, call us today to discuss your options today!

It's National Organize Your Home Office Day!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:35 GMT

The second Tuesday in March is National Organize Your Home Office Day. What better way to celebrate than by sharing some office organization tips!

The top of your desk should be reserved for things you work on daily. Weekly items can be placed inside a deskdrawer. Consider storing all other items elsewhere. Don’t be afraid to shred old paperwork that you know you won’t need in the future.
Use a wall cork board to organize schedules, reminders, tasks, messages and to-do lists.
Store writing utensils in one area so they’re easy to find when you need to write something down.
Keep bills separated into two piles: paid and need to pay.
When used correctly, clipboards, clips, trays and rolodexes can be excellent ways to organize your most important paperwork and contact information.
Use color coding and labels to keep track of file folders.

Getting your office in order can truly work wonders by boosting your productivity. Need help? Call Life Uncluttered today!

It's International Scrapbooking Day!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:33 GMT

Each year on March 4th, International Scrapbooking Day celebrates the popular hobby of scrapbooking. Local scrapbooking clubs across the world host their own festivities, seminars, fairs, contests and demonstrations in celebration of the annual occasion. More importantly, this day provides the perfect opportunity for you to get organized!

Take a look around your home. Do you seem to collect any of the following?

Loose family photos of babies, birthday parties, weddings and other personal events
Ticket stubs from concerts, theatre shows, plays or movies
Clippings from newspapers or magazines

If so, scrapbooking may be a hobby you’d like to pursue. The true essence of scrapbooking is the idea of preserving pieces of personal history. Such memories shouldn’t be forgotten in boxes and piles of clutter. There’s always value in organizing important pieces of your past. So consider celebrating International Scrapbooking Day by organizing your memorabilia!

Need professional help getting your office files and paperwork in order? Call Life Uncluttered today.

4 Steps to Bedroom Organization

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:32 GMT

Bedrooms should be peaceful spaces in which you’re allowed to de-stress and relax. But that’s probably not possible if the room is full of clutter. Here are a few tips from Real Simple to get your bedroom back in shape.

Display the essentials – Take inventory of your bedroom, particularly the tops of dressers and nightstands. Do you see anything that really doesn’t need to be there. Try keeping these open areas limited to only what’s needed – an alarm clock, reading glasses, a book, and a framed photo or two. The trick is to not feel crowded.
Use drawers to store common items even if you use them every night. This includes a night mask, earplugs, hand and foot cream, etc.
Use drawer dividers to make it easier to sort through and organize undergarments and socks. Be careful with wood dividers though – they are known to snag clothing.
Don’t underestimate the value of under-bed space. It’s a great spot for out of season clothes and extra blankets stored in large plastic bins.

For professional organizing services in the Overland Park or Kansas City areas, call Life Uncluttered today!

Keep Up With Us on Facebook and Twitter!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:30 GMT

Did you know that there are three ways to stay abreast of news, updates and blog posts from Life Uncluttered?

1. Subscribe to our blog and get posts sent straight to your inbox! You’ll be alerted as soon as we post new content about home organization, cleaning up clutter and so much more! You’ll find the subscription box located on the right side of our blog’s homepage.

Simply enter your e-mail address to register. A subscription e-mail confirmation will be sent directly to you. After activating your subscription, you’ll get blog posts sent to you as soon as they're published!

2. Are you on Twitter? So are we! You can find links to our blog posts and see who we’re connected to by visiting our Twitter page. Got questions or comments? Feel free to connect with us on Twitter. Our Twitter alias is @lifeuncluttered. Follow us today!

3. If you like Life Uncluttered, then “Like” us on Facebook. Our Facebook fan page is a great way to keep in touch with us! Find links to our blog and website, and see examples of our work. Don’t forget to suggest our page to the rest of your Facebook friends!

No More Wire Hangers - Check Out Panton Coatstands

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:29 GMT

The Panton Coatstand appears to be Europe’s solution to the wire and plastic hangers we’ve become so accustomed to.

Featured over at the Daily Icon , this simple creation of welded, powder-coated wire offers a number of hanging solutions for coats and other garments. Even without articles of clothing hanging from it, it looks like an abstract piece of art for any entryway. And it saves you from having to stuff guest's coats into small, tight closets. The coatstand comes in white, neon orange, yellow and light blue.

What do you think of the Panton Coatstand? Would you put one in your home?

6 Ways to Maximize Small Spaces

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:27 GMT

If you have a small rooms within your home, it’s easy for those spaces to very quickly become cluttered with all kinds of stuff. But there are tons of ways to work with the rooms you have and maximize the space you’ve been given. Here are six ways to do just that, courtesy of The Nest !

Forgo window treatments
Letting windows bare themselves gives the illusion that a room has more depth than it really does. It’s also a good way to showcase a beautiful garden or patio area.

Adjustable tables

Dining room tables often come with adjustable, removable or drop-leaf tops that let you decide how much space you need for family and guests.

Get multi-use furniture

Couches, chairs and other furnishings with integrated storage units help to avoid building clutter out in the open.

Stick with light paint

Brighter shads make small spaces seem bigger and more open.

Need help de-cluttering your home to maximize space? Call Life Uncluttered today.

6 Steps to Kitchen Cabinet Organization

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:23 GMT

We’ve mentioned at least once before that, as fun and exciting as it may be, Life Uncluttered does not typically handle kitchen cabinet organization. But that doesn’t mean we can’t pass on a few tips to help out with your kitchen cabinet woes. Here are some organization tips courtesy of Real Simple :

Arrange your kitchenware by frequency of use, with everyday dishes on an easy-to-reach lower shelf and special-occasion pieces up above.
Group objects by purpose and assign them to specific cabinets, as with the bake ware centralized here.
Create a cooking zone around the stove, storing pots and pans as close to the range as possible.
“File” plastic containers and their tops in orderly zones within the same drawer to keep them readily locatable.
Lid racks neatly collect the tops to various pots and pans.
Organize your pantry shelves as you would a library, with food items grouped by category.

Life Uncluttered wants to know: How do you stay organized in your kitchen?

Why You Need Custom Closets

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:21 GMT

Unless your home was custom built with every little detail requested and approved by you, it’s likely that your home’s closet space isn’t nearly as efficient as you’d like it to be. Most homes are built without giving much thought to closet design and how people actually use them. That’s where Life Uncluttered comes in! Here are a few reasons why you need customized closets:

Personalization – No two people use their closets the same way. Some people use their closet for clothes and shoes only. Others like to store bed linens, belts, purses and other accessories. Your closet needs to be designed to fit your specific needs.
Functionality – Have you ever found yourself trying to cram something into a small space in your closet and it barely fit? Or do you just toss items on the floor because you know there’s no where else to fit it? A customized closet will have storage features set however you need them, making it work just for you and your own needs.
Organization – Needless to say, a customized closet will allow you to become more organized, then life will be easier and all will be right with the world.
Value – Homebuyers usually say they want “large” closets. But imagined how wowed they’ll be when they see organized cubby holes, shelving, a designated spot for shoes, etc. Buyers will definitely see more value in your home with customized closets.

Are you ready for a new custom closet? Call Life Uncluttered today to get started!

De-Cluttering the Kid's Room is Not Child's Play

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:19 GMT

We talk a whole lot on this blog about ways to de-clutter, straighten up closets and organize certain rooms of your home. But what about the room that’s probably the messiest of all – the kid’s room! It’s normal for a child’s room to have toys strewn about, clothes scattered and shoes everywhere. But that doesn’t make it right. Here are a few simple tips we can help you with to get your kid’s room straightened up:

Add a second bar inside the closet that your child can reach, then encourage him or her to hang their own clothes.
Make sure your child has smaller hangers to fit their clothes. It can be frustrating to fit all their stuff on adult sized hangers.
Like we suggested for your own closet, group like garments and colors together. This make it easier to organize and easier to find what you’re looking for.
Add custom shelving, cabinets and drawers to easily store and separate seasonal clothes and shoes.

Call Life Uncluttered today for professional assistance in getting customized storage and organization solutions for your child’s room.

Don't Go Postal: Organize Your Mail Today

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:18 GMT

How many piles of mail do you have at home? Do you lump every envelope together? Or do you separate piece into a specific pile? No matter what your mail routine is, it’s time to get better organized now. Few things are more unattractive than a tidy home with scattered and random piles of junk mail.

Instead of separate piles all over the house, designate one mail area in a central location. This may be a hall table, an office desk or a drawer in the kitchen.
File holders, baskets, and trays are all tools meant to help you. Create a system and stick to it. Maybe one tray for bills that are due now and another for bills that can wait.
Start sorting mail while standing over a trash can, recycling bin or paper shredder. Immediately throw out, recycle or shred junk mail that you know you’ll have no use for.
No room for mail on your table, desk or counter? No worries! There are plenty of clip boards and other magnetic gadgets that you can stick to the refrigerator door or a wall.

If you a professional organizer in the Overland Park/Kansas City area to help get your office and files in order, call Life Uncluttered today!

6 Ways to Create Clutter

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:16 GMT

This blog and many others are dedicated to sharing simple tips and tricks to de-cluttering your home and your life. But has anyone ever told you how to create clutter? This insightful list describes more than 20 ways to become a pack rat and create the clutter your home doesn’t need. Here’s six ways to guarantee your home will become a cluttered mess:

Collect travel sized shampoos and soaps (that you’ll never use) from hotels. (Don’t they usually end up under the sink or in a junk drawer anyway?)
Practice hoarder tendencies like holding on to school projects and A+ essays from years ago.
Cram new clothes in the closet with clothes you haven’t worn in years.
Constantly feeling like your home is “missing something”, and then go shopping to fill that need.
Buy items you don’t need just because they’re on sale.
Hold onto old magazines and newspapers until you read them entirely.

Are you guilty of any of these? Read the rest of the list by clicking here . Don’t forget to call Life Uncluttered if your home’s clutter has become too much to handle.

We're in the Spotlight: Her Life Magazine

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:13 GMT

Life Uncluttered was featured in the February issue of Kansas City’s Her Life Magazine . Mike McMahon spoke about improving clients’ lives by creating customized spaces for them to live more efficiently. Here are a few highlights of the article:

The aim of ever makeover Mike performs to take a space that is cluttered and inefficient and transform it into an efficient, organized space that works for the homeowner.
Surprisingly, the size of a disorganized space is never a problem. Mike can work with the smallest of spaces.
Mike asks a lot of questions to make sure the new space will fit every need and desire.
The closet provided by the typical builder does not work for the modern family in most cases.
Work by Life Uncluttered is seamless because Mike is involved in every step from start to finish.
Converting unused rooms into closets is a trend that Mike has been noticing.
Life Uncluttered also specializes in other rooms: garages, playrooms, bathrooms and bedrooms.
One thing Life Uncluttered doesn’t offer is kitchen cabinet organization.

Click here to view the current online issue of Her Life Magazine. Life Uncluttered is featured on pages 62 and 63. Leave a comment and let us know what you think after you've read it!

De-Clutter Your Electrical Cord Mess

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:12 GMT

Wireless innovation has become a mainstay in recent years, but we still use plenty of everyday essentials that require plugging in. Here are a few tips you may have come across with electrical cords and how you can help reduce the confusion.

Problem : Your kitchen appliances – toaster, blender, coffee maker, Crock-Pot™, etc. form a confusing jumble of cordless mess on your counter tops.

Solution : A multiple-outlet adapter will quickly solve this common kitchen problem. While standard power strips still take up precious counter top space, a multiple-outlet adapter usually provides a few outlets on each side. The best feature is that cords and wires can be reeled in.

Problem : Disorganized wires and cords all over your office or home entertainment area.

Solution : A cord control kit comes with a long tube that allows you to insert about ten cords and wires for a more organized, streamlined look.

Problem : Inability to decipher what’s plugged in where

Solution : Use colored strips of duct tape or labels to differentiate cords and wires that you deal with regularly.

If you need a professional organizer to help de-clutter your office or other areas where wires and cords are a problem, call Life Uncluttered today!

Find Extra Storage Space in Your Home

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:10 GMT

After you’ve been living in the same humble abode for a while, it’s easy to miss opportunities to make your space more efficient. Below are just a few ways to find extra storage space you never knew you had!

If you have a closet that barely gets used, consider transforming it into a mini office. Use the space to do your work, and then close the closet door(s) when your work is done.
Do you have room underneath a staircase in your home? If so, this is a great place to shelve books, linens, or anything you want!
Most new model televisions can be mounted to a wall, eliminating the need for a bulky, space swallowing entertainment stand.
Take inventory of your kitchen cabinets. Be honest about which items you need and which ones you haven’t touched in months or even years. Those untouched items can be donated or sold, leaving you with plenty of extra space.

If you need help identifying hidden storage areas in your Kansas City area home, call Life Uncluttered today!

Tackling a Messy Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:09 GMT

Closet organization can be tricky to conquer, especially when you have a lot of stuff. But tackling it just once and maintaining it from that point on can make closets easier to manage. Here are just a few tips to help you get your closet recognizable again:

Organize all of your tops (shirts, sweaters, blouses) by color. This can also help you save money when you go shopping. You probably didn’t realize you already own 9 blue shirts!
Whether your jeans are folded or hung, keep them all organized in one area rather than scattered all over your closet.
Separate slacks by color – black, khaki, gray and brown.
Hang all items on only one type of hanger. A combination of wire and plastic hangers can look messy and confusing.

If confronting your messy closet is just too much for you to bear, call Life Uncluttered today. We’ll handle the mess for you!

De-Clutter Your Medicine Cabinet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:07 GMT

Bathrooms are one of the quickest rooms in the house to become disarrayed. The explanation is simple: we use our bathrooms more than any other room. And many of our smallest items – prescription bottles, dental floss, tweezers and hair clips – are very easy to become a jumbled mess in no time. Here are a few tips to keep your medicine cabinet and your bathroom countertop in check.

Utilize your medicine cabinet only for items you use regularly. Everything else should be stored elsewhere.
Clear jars and glasses are simple ways to separate and organize smaller items like Q-tips, cotton balls, hair accessories, razors and more.
If you’re really methodical, try lining your most used items longer your sink countertop. The item you use the most would be positioned closest to you while the item you use the least (but still regularly) is farther away.
Plastic pumps and bottles are a great way to color coordinate and organize lotions, shampoos, conditioners, rubbing alcohol, etc. Be sure to label them before you forget!

If the confusion and untidiness of your Kansas City area home calls for more formal attention, call Life Uncluttered today!

Laundry Room Organization Simplified

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:03 GMT

Most laundry rooms offer much extra space one a washer and dryer are in place. But even a small laundry room doesn’t have to be cramped and cluttered.

If you use powder detergents, store them in clear glass containers to create a streamlined look.
Utilize space in between the washer and dryer to store long and/or flat items like ironing boards, plastic bins, etc.
Instead of storing laundry detergent, bleach and other commonly used items on top of your washer and/or dryer, don’t underestimate the convenience of shelving and wall racks. Install more if you need to.
Use wicker basket or laundry storage solutions to separate your colors from the whites. When laundry day comes, you won’t have to worry about separating them – it’s already done!
Don’t forget the door! Use storage racks that hang over the top edge of the door – like a shoe rack – to store smaller items so they won’t clutter your laundry room’s counter space.

Doing laundry is a nightmare for many people, let alone organizing the laundry room. Need help? Call Life Uncluttered for help getting your laundry room nice and neat like it should be!

Make Home Organizing a Family Affair

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:02 GMT

It’s no secret that household chores often fall on the shoulders of a single person. As we told you earlier this week, January is Get Organized Month. It’s time to get everyone in your household involved with tidying up. After all, they helped to make the mess! Here are three ways to get the entire family in the cleaning mood.

1. Make it a family affair – Living rooms, where families spend the bulk of their time, have a tendency to get out of order quite quickly. But a family of four can make the mess disappear in no time. Get everyone involved – just for 15 or 20 minutes – picking up and organizing around the house a few nights each week. To make it fun, play some energetic music to keep the mood positive. Young children will enjoy this, and it’ll be a plus for you since they probably love to do everything you do.

2. Clutter baskets – Place extra boxes or laundry baskets in rooms that seem to get the most disorganized. Anything that’s in the wrong spot or doesn’t belong in the room at all should be placed in the basket. But in order for the concept of clutter baskets to work, they must be emptied often. A clean, tidy room with a random basket of junk in the corner will defeat the purpose.

3. Create zones – Whether each room is a zone or each room has multiple zones, decide what sections each of your children will be responsible for. You can even let them choose their own zone(s). This is a great way to create some friendly competition and encourage kids to keep things neat and tidy.

If getting your family to help out with organizing your home is impossible, that’s what we’re here for! Call Life Uncluttered for help in getting your house neat and tidy today!

January is Get Organized Month

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:08:01 GMT

Did you know that this January marks the 7th annual Get Organized (GO) Month? Each year, GO Month, sponsored by The National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO), focuses on the benefits of being organized and productive in our homes and offices. It is well know that the New Year represents a new beginning, so it only makes sense that GO Month is recognized every January.

According to a recent NAPO study:
* 65 percent of survey respondants consider their home at least moderately organized.
* 96 percent of survey respondants felt they’d save time if they were more organized.
* Workers spend nearly half of their time looking for information because it isn’t organized properly.

The New Year is still young and it’s not too late to get organized for 2011! Life Uncluttered can help organized many different parts of your home including:

Closets
Garage
Pantry
Office
… and more

Call Life Uncluttered today so we can start getting you organized today!

3 Benefits to Open Kitchen Shelving

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:58 GMT

Kitchen storage space is a must no matter how big or small the room is. From bowls, plates, pots and pans to herbs, spices and tons of canned goods – they all need a home. Here are a few benefits to open shelving in the kitchen:

1. More room – If you have large dinner plates or over sized salad bowls, you’ve probably found that they don’t fit into standard cabinets very well. That’s because most cabinets are rather narrow, leaving you to sometimes store large items out in the open, which then takes up extra counter space. With open shelving, there’s room for all of your larger kitchenware.

2. Easy access – Have you ever had to open two or three cabinets before finding what you’re looking for? It’s bound to happen at some point no matter how familiar you think you are with your kitchen layout. Open shelving saves time by allowing you to see everything without having to go on a massive hunt.

3. Flaunt your stuff – Open shelving is the perfect opportunity to show off amazing collections of china and glassware. Decorative kitchen items that rarely get any attention have the chance to shine – all the time – with open kitchen shelving.

What do you think about open shelving? Would you incorporate this look into your kitchen? Leave a comment and let us know!

If you’re in the Kansas City area and need help organizing your home for the New Year, call Life Uncluttered today!

5 Home Organization Tips for 2011

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:57 GMT

The New Year is always a time for people to start fresh with new goals, aspirations and wishes for the next 12 months. If organizing your home is one of your feats for 2011, here are a few tips to get started, courtesy of Houzz .

Instead of massive piles of paper all over your desk, use decorative contact paper to adorn clip boards and hang them to your office or kitchen wall.

on’t fall into the trap of the junk drawer. Keep odds and ends organized in unused cups, mugs and containers.

Think outside the box. A hanging shoe rack can be used to store a lot more than just shoes. Bathroom toiletries or pantry items are a great fit as well.

Cubby holes near the front door help to keep winter essentials like damp coats and muddy boots from damaging the rest of the house.

Another way to keep desks uncluttered is by using giant bulletin boards to pin to-do lists, calendars, handouts and other important documents and reminders.

If you’re in the Kansas City area and are interested in getting your home organized for 2011, call Life Uncluttered today!

The Gift of Organization

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:53 GMT

Are you still looking for that perfect gift this holiday season? At Life Uncluttered we can offer you the best gift of all—the gift of organization. Have your loved one start 2011 off the right way with a more organized closet or home office.

Give Life Uncluttered a call today to schedule an appointment and begin your year without all the clutter!

Garage Solutions for Your Home

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:52 GMT

Are you tired of scrapping the ice off of your car windshield every morning? If you are like many homeowners whose garage is too full to store their cars, then you are probably in need of assistance from Life Uncluttered. We can offer you storage solutions so that your car can once again claim its rightful place inside the garage.

From overhead storage units that hold your bikes and lawn equipment to cabinets and shelving for your holiday decorations, let us help you organize your garage once and for all.

Take a look at some of storage solutions for the garage.

Give Life Uncluttered a call today if you are in the Kansas City area and are looking for ways to organize your home.

Inspirational Desks

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:50 GMT

Do you need some design inspiration for your home office? If so then take a look below at some of our favorite celebrities' creative spaces courtesy of Vanity Fair . Their "My Desk" article features the desks of some today's most famous visionaries. From Oprah to Lorne Michaels of Saturday Night Live this is where their creative juices flow.

To get a glimpse of more desks from Vanity Fair check out My Desk .

Next Time Try the Stairs

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:48 GMT

When you are working with limited space in your home it is important to utilize every square inch. There is a lot of dead space in homes and at Life Uncluttered we can help you maximize your homes spatial potential. A great option is to use the space under your stairs. We can install a bookcase, home office or even an extra closet right under your stairs. Take a look at some of these clever uses of space from Freshome.com .

Give Life Uncluttered a call today if you are in the Kansas City area and need help creating more space in your home.

Closet Lighting

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:47 GMT

We mentioned in a previous post that lighting is a very important factor in your closets. Improper lighting can not only make it more difficult to differentiate between a dark blue pair of slacks and a black pair, but can also be a fire hazard. We mentioned some of our favorite lighting choices for closets, but we wanted to talk a little about compact fluorescent lights (CFLs).

Compact fluorescent lighting has become very popular within the last several years. As an energy efficient way to light your home, CFLs can save you in money and energy bills. We however don’t recommend using them in your closets. Compact fluorescent lights work best the longer they are left on and their life is reduced with the frequency in which they are turned off and on. If you don't plan on leaving your closet light on for more than 15 minutes each time than we suggest you use another lighting option.

We'd love to hear what you think about using CFLs in closets.

How to transform your small closet into a functional space

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:44 GMT

At Life Uncluttered we can transform your small, narrow closet into a well-organized space complete with drawers, shelves and double rods for your hanging clothes. Small closets are extremely hard to organize on your own. Sometimes it is hard to see the big picture and that is why you should contact a professional. We specialize in maximizing your closet space so you don’t have to deal with a crammed, over stuffed mess.

We can custom build you shelves which are great for sweaters, jeans and tee shirts. Add deep, wide drawers at the bottom of your closet for your socks, jewelry and other personal items. Add help save you space by installing a double rod for your hanging clothes.

Give Life Uncluttered a call or visit us online at Lifeuncluttered.com if you'd like to transform your small closet into a more functional space.

Wall Closets

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:43 GMT

We wanted to thank Cococozy for posting this well-organized wall closet on their blog. When bringing order to your closet it is very important to find a permanent place for each item. Arranging your closet by color, height and items can save you time in the mornings when you are trying to locate that purple sweater.

As you can see this wall closet is divided into several sections. The top shelf houses the sweaters and pursers, the middle section is for hanging clothes (pants, shirts, skirts) and the bottom part of the closet are drawers, which is perfect for your personal belongings.

What do you think of this wall closet? We hope it makes you want to have a more organized closet.

Telecommuting

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:42 GMT

The home office is becoming one of the biggest trends in home design . Homeowners are starting to set up satellite offices from home so they don’t have to commute to work everyday. To work efficiently from home though you need to have an organized space devoid of clutter. At Life Uncluttered we can help set up your home office complete with a workstation, storage for your printer and office supplies and even a filing system for all your paperwork.

If you are finding that your productivity has decreased due to your disorganization then give us a call at 913-488-1963 and we can help make telecommuting easy for you.

Inspiring Closet Designs

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:40 GMT

We are in love with this closet designed by French-born, New York City based designer, Robert Couturier . First things first, let's discuss the storage for all the shoes. Front row center, the shelving for the shoes are customized to showcase all the selections available. You can't tell from the photo, but the bottom row is higher than the other shelves, just the right size for your winter boots.

As you can see below, a perfectly designed closet allows one the luxury of being able to find what you are looking for at a moment's notice. If you are in need of assistance in organizing your home then give Life Uncluttered a call at 913-488-1963 or visit our website at Lifeuncluttered.com.

Project Warmth's Coat & Blanket Drive November 6th!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:38 GMT

Mark your calendars and save the date, Saturday, November 6th is Project Warmth’s Coat & Blanket Drive from 9 am to 3 pm. For one day only, you can make use of all the old coats and blankets that you have stored in your closets.

Drop-off sites are located throughout the Kansas City area, there is even one here in Overland Park. Please do not donate clothes, this is for coats and blankets only.

Project Warmth’s goal is the make the extreme winter months more bearable for thousands of Kansas City area residents in need. All items collected are sorted and distributed FREE to 75 agencies and shelters within the Kansas City metropolitan area.

How to Organize Your Basement

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:34 GMT

Creating an organized and functional basement is the best way to add living space to your home. At Life Uncluttered we want to help you create a safe and uncluttered storage system in your basement. First you’ll need to decide what to give away, what to keep and what needs to be thrown out. Follow these simple steps and your basement will once again be an added value.

Tips on Organizing Your Basement

Create three piles: keep, donate and toss. If you plan on donating toys and such make sure you schedule a pickup right away, otherwise it can stay in the pile forever.
Design a storage system for the room complete with drawers, bins, shelves and cubbies. Everything should have its proper place.
Assign all your objects into categories and place them in their corresponding bins. For example books, sporting equipment, toys and board games are all categories.
Make sure everything is labeled so it is easily identified.

A look inside Andy Cohen's closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:33 GMT

The latest Bluefly’s Closet Confessor might be one of my favorites, Bravo’s Andy Cohen (the Real Housewives' referee). Andy takes Bluefly into his Manhattan closet for a tour of nostalgia. From Grateful Dead tees to a sweater that was surely from the 1980s, Andy has us entertained with his trips down memory lane.

We could do wonders for his closet here at Life Uncluttered. First thing we’d do is separate all his items into three piles: things to keep, things to toss and things to donate. Andy, we recommend that you toss that sweater along with the Diana Ross tee shirt. Next on the agenda would be the wire hangers. Take a page from the Joan Crawford book, "No Wire Hangers!" These hangers are fine for dry cleaners, but you should really invest in better hangers. Even though the closet is small in Andy’s apartment there are definite ways to utilize the space . We recommend lots of shelves and pull out drawers . We are here to help you, Andy. If you need us, we’ll even fly up to New York from Kansas City . And by the way, Sue Sylvester from Glee wants her Adidas jumpsuits back!

Choosing the Right Hanger

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:32 GMT

You already have the closet of your dreams thanks to Life Uncluttered, all you need now are the perfect hangers to keep your clothes looking their best on and off the rack. To keep your wardrobe in tip top shape you need to invest in the right hangers. Below we have mixed up certain clothing items with their hanger counterpart.

Shirts – Tubular Hangers. The tubular hanger is perfect for those lightweight items.

Delicate knits or evening wear- Padded Hangers. A padded hanger works well with your more delicate clothes.

Seasonal clothes- Cedar Hangers. If you are one to store your clothes each season and need something to keep your items fresh, then try using cedar hangers.

Skirts and pants- Clamp Hangers. The clamp hanger will securely hang your skirts or pants without wrinkling them in the process.

Suits and tailored items - Suit Hangers. These hangers are typically a little thicker in size to provide added protection for your suits and jackets.

* When hanging clothes in your child’s closet make sure you use hangers especially made for children’s clothes.

For more tips and information for your closet sign up to receive our posts in your email to the right of this blog.

Time to Organize Your Shoes

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:28 GMT

One of the most requested areas that we get asked to organize are our clients’ shoes. With shoes numbering in the hundreds for some of our clients it is easy to lose track of a pair or two. We recommend a installing a shelving system, preferably at varying heights, for maximum storage and visibility. You need to be able to see your shoes, if you can’t, then chances are you won’t wear them. We also recommend adding glass cabinets to the shelving system to keep your shoes in tip top shape.

At Life Uncluttered we can come up with a storage solution for your abundance of footwear. We can help design a custom storage system that will hold all your pumps, stilettos, flats, boots and more. Give us a call at 913.491.0900 to get you on the right footpath.

A Functional Closet Design

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:27 GMT

The closet is one of the most multi-functional rooms in your home. Today’s closet has become an extension of the master bedroom suite. A closet can be your own personal sitting area with a place to lounge and read a book or a dressing room where you can catch up on the morning news while you get ready for work. Whatever type of closet design you are looking for let Life Uncluttered build you a closet to suit your every need.

What are you looking for in a closet?

Pre-Holiday Organization: Part Two

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:23 GMT

Earlier in the week we discussed organization tips to getting your child's room ready for their holiday gifts. Today we want to help you tackle a much larger problem, the master closet. You might want to give yourself a weekend or a full day to fully organize your master closet.

You are going to begin with the task of separating your things into 3 piles- things to keep, donate and throw away. When donating your items make sure you ask for a receipt or an itemized list of things you donated for tax purposes.

Once you have made more space go ahead and organize your shelves and drawers for all your new purchases. If you need some professional assistance and are located in or around the Kansas City area give Life Uncluttered a call today.

Pre-Holiday Organization

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:22 GMT

The holidays are upon us and that means gift giving season is right around the corner. This holiday season get a jump start on organization and purge your closets to make some room for all the new clothes, shoes and accessories you’ll be receiving this year. Today we are going to discuss getting your child's closet and playroom ready for all their new toys and clothes.

First you'll need to go through their clothes and toys and donate or throw away any items that they have outgrown or no longer need. I like to donate these items early so someone less fortunate can have a happier holiday and it is also a tax write-off.

Once the closets and drawers have been purged, you can organize the remaining items into sections. For toys, we recommend purchasing some bins so you can sort by type, such as puzzles, books or stuffed animals. When organizing the clothes in the closets try and keep pants, dresses, sweaters, jackets and shirts separated. It will help you when it comes time to picking out an outfit in the morning.

Stayed tuned later in the week as we tackle your master closet.

Support Project Warmth This Holiday Season

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:19 GMT

This Thanksgiving take a chapter out of history and help your neighbor prepare for the upcoming winter season. From now until December 10th you can drop off your coats and blankets for Project Warmth at KCTV 5 from Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm. KCTV 5 is located at 4500 Shawnee Mission Parkway in Fairway, Kansas.

You can also participate in the Project Warmth fundraiser and purchase a $50 ticket for a chance to win several incredible prizes such as a 2010 Chevrolet Malibu demo car from Cable Dahmer Chevrolet or a $500 card from Arvest Bank. Tickets can be purchased online at The Kansas City Store, KCTV 5 studio or at Cable Dahmer Chevrolet. Once you purchase your tickets stay tuned to the Project Warmth Special on KCTV 5 on Friday, December 10th from 6:30 pm to 7 pm where winners will be randomly selected.

For more information please visit Projectwarmthkc.com.

Happy Thanksgiving from Life Uncluttered

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:17 GMT

With Thanksgiving just two days away it is probably time that you started to prepare your kitchen and pantry for the full day of cooking. An organized and uncluttered kitchen and pantry will make it easier when it comes time to prepare the meal. Spend some time tomorrow prepping the space and cleaning out your pantry and refrigerator by discarding any items that have expired. If you are planning on leaving town over the holidays make sure you throw out any items that might spoil in your absence.

We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving from Life Uncluttered and safe travels.

High-Style Closet Design

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:15 GMT

Today’s closet design has moved away from the utilitarian look and has become an extension of the master bedroom suite. With beautiful, high gloss cabinetry finishes and elegant lighting the modern day closet has become more than a place to store your clothes. We came across this Hollywood Regency style closet on Decorati and had to share it with you.

At Life Uncluttered we can create a master closet that can house your jewelry, designer shoes and more. For more information please give us a call at 913.491.0900.

Organize your Playroom with Life Uncluttered

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:12 GMT

Attention parents! Are you tired of stepping on legos and tripping over toy cars every time you enter your children’s playroom? If the answer is yes, than let Life Uncluttered help you control the clutter and organize the playroom.

We can custom build shelves for your child’s books and add much needed storage space for Barbie and all her accessories. We can even build your child a custom-made desk so that they have a place of their own to do homework and to study. Give Life Uncluttered a call today if you are interested in storage solutions for your home.

How to Organize your Laundry Room

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:11 GMT

The laundry room can get pretty messy as the work week progresses. Often cloths from the week pile up in a heap on floor. We wanted to share some tips on how to keep the laundry room organized and clutter free.

1. Arrange the dirty clothes in piles according to color. We suggest getting at least three hampers for your dirty clothes. One for whites, one for darks and another for your dry cleaning.

2. Remove all laundry detergent supplies from the top of your washer and dryer. You can store these items in cabinets over the machines or shelves. We can install a storage system in your laundry room to better equip the laundry supplies and cleaners.

3. Put things back in its rightful place. Whether they be clothes that have been washed and cleaned or small items left in the pockets.

4. Discard unnecessary items such as empty containers or lint from the dryer.

5. Create a proper storage space for your ironing board and iron. At Life Uncluttered we can install an ironing board that can be easily folded away when not in use.

Follow these steps and you will be on your way to living a uncluttered life.

Murphy Beds Revisited

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:09 GMT

With families choosing to stay in their homes instead of moving due to the economy, any spare rooms you have need to become more functional. That is why we love the Murphy bed. Perfect for your guest room, home office or even a play room, the Murphy bed can be quickly put away to offer the room more space.

We love how this Murphy bed has all the extra features. Plenty of drawers and shelves to help keep you organized. The desk is also a great way to save on space.

To have this Murphy bed installed in your home give us a call or visit our website at Lifeuncluttered.com.

Time to Organize Your Pantry

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:07 GMT

This fall season we want to help you get your pantry organized and help you utilize the space. Who has time to search the pantry when looking for a key ingredient needed in a recipe? An organized, uncluttered pantry will help you locate your kitchen items in a pinch.

With Life Uncluttered, we can help you come up with a storage system solution for your cans of soup, boxes of cereal, pasta and paper goods. We will custom design your pantry with shelves in different heights to accommodate the varying sizes of containers. We can also add pull out drawers, can racks, roll out baskets and much more to help make keeping an organized pantry easy.

Tips on Controlling the Clutter

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:05 GMT

If you are looking to lead a more uncluttered life than check out Kansas City Homes and Gardens’ recent article Spatial Awareness . In the article KCH&G asks our very own Mike McMahon for advice on how to “get your clutter under control.” Mike suggested to “Go through your items once a year and decide what to keep, what to throw out and what to give away.”

Mike also tells KCH&G to try and seek the expertise of a professional. “With a custom closet, it is not uncommon to get 50- to 100-percent more storage room in the same space,” McMahon says. Kansas City Home and Gardens writes “Once considered a luxury item, a custom closet or storage solution is now becoming more common as people acquire more belongings.”

To read more on " Spatial Awareness" please visit kchandg.com.

Laundry Rooms by Life Uncluttered

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:03 GMT

If you are like the most people, you probably spend more time in the laundry room than you care to. Typically, the laundry room in most homes has a washer, dryer and possibly a couple of cabinets depending on the size. We’d like to create a space for you that helps make the task of laundry an easy one.

Just imagine a laundry room with a countertop for folding, plenty of cabinets for your supplies, a sink for hand washing and a built in hamper for your dirty clothes. Sounds pretty perfect, right? If you have a smaller area to work with we can help you reconfigure the room to maximize the space.

Call Life Uncluttered today or visit our website at Lifeuncluttered.com to help you get the laundry room of your dreams.

You can check out some of our other posts about laundry rooms below.
How to Dress Up Your Laundry Room
Wash, Fold and Store

Home Office by Life Uncluttered

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:07:01 GMT

At Life Uncluttered, we offer cost effective storage solutions for your home office. Whether you work from home or need an place for you kids to do their homework we can create a work flow that works for everyone. We can build you a custom made desk with plenty of cabinet and drawer space for each member of the family. By adding built-in shelving we can help you eliminate clutter on the desktop and keep the tabletop organized. We can even hide all of your cables for the computer, telephone and printers.

If you need help organizing your home office please give us a call or visit us online at Lifeuncluttered.com.

Life Uncluttered

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:59 GMT

Since 2003 we have been uncluttering our clients’ homes and helping them organize their closets, garages, pantries, offices and more. We just published our 75th post on our blog and we wanted to get some feedback from you, our readers, on what types of problems you face with storage and space in your closet.

Below are some questions that we ask our clients to help them create a design idea. Please leave a comment below and we’ll try and address some of your questions.

"How do you use the space?"
"What is the biggest problem you want to solve?"
"If you could wave a magic wand, what would you want it to look like?"

Let us help you solve your storage solutions.

A look inside Rachel Zoe's closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:57 GMT

For many celebrities Rachel Zoe , stylist and fashion designer, is the last line of defense between fashion do and fashion don’t. Her clients include A-listers Demi Moore, Cameron Diaz, Anne Hathaway and Eva Mendes to name a few. The Zoe Report is read by many fashionistas who take her word about fashion as gospel. You can find her on the front row of New York and Paris Fashion Week or watch her on her own show, The Rachel Zoe Project. I know, we are digressing, what we really want you to see is inside of Rachel Zoe’s closet in hope of inspiring you to makeover your closet.

Rachel recently guest blogged on Fabsugar where she said “Cleanliness is next to godliness, especially in terms of your closet if you consider yourself a devoted follower of fashion.” Well said Rachel!

We love this accessories wall featured on Welcome Home: a guide to modern living.

In Rachel's own words...we die!

Uncluttering the Master Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:56 GMT

At Life Uncluttered, we want to help you lead an “uncluttered” lifestyle. We can create a closet for you that has all the space you need for your sweaters, pants, shoes, accessories and more. We can also add an additional 50% more storage space to your closet.

Start your day out right by letting us help you maximize your closet space. Life Uncluttered has the solution for you!

Bluefly Closet Confessions now airing on Bravo TV

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:52 GMT

Bravo TV and Bluefly , an online designer shopping site, is bringing Closet Confessions to the masses. We have been posting about Bluefly.com Closet Confessions since they launched earlier this year and we are excited to see Bravo, my favorite channel for reality television, featuring a 45 second look inside celebrities’ closets.

The first installment of Closet Confessions on Bravo TV aired Monday night, September 6th on the Real Housewives of New Jersey reunion show.

"It really is a piece of entertainment in an ad slot," said Bluefly Chief Marketing Officer Bradford Matson. "We resisted saying, 'You can get all this at Bluefly,' because that's not the point."

This isn’t the first partnership between Bravo and Bluefly, the two joined together on “Project Runway” for the show’s Bluefly accessories wall.

Time to change out the wardrobe

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:51 GMT

With the arrival of Labor Day I usually start the task of cleaning out my closets in preparation for changing out my wardrobe. I am one of those individuals who pack up the summer clothes, swimsuits and all, in exchange for my fall/winter wardrobe.

When packing make sure you leave a couple of key items in your closet, such as sleeveless tops and dresses, so that you'll be prepared for any warm weather that we may experience in autumn. These items can also be great transition pieces, just add a sweater, blaze or tights/leggings and you have yourself a whole new outfit.

Label, and label well. You never know if you'll need those swimsuits for a last minute getaway in December! Now get busy packing!

Life Uncluttered's Mike McMahon speaks to the Kansas City Star

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:50 GMT

Our very own Mike McMahon was recently quoted in the Kansas City Star in their article titled “Shuffle the floor plan by giving old spaces new purposes.” The article talks about the benefits of repurposing an existing room into a dressing room. Stacy Downs with the Kansas City Star says that “Bedrooms-morphed-into-dressing-rooms are especially desirable in older homes, which can be storage-challenged.”

We couldn’t agree more! Dressing rooms are becoming quite popular, especially with movies such as Sex and the City where the lead character Carrie Bradshaw's main buying point for a home is the closet. By changing a spare bedroom or a bonus room into a dressing room we are offering clients a way take advantage of underutilized space.

Mike was quoted as saying “Dressing rooms can be more practical than luxurious. Electricity doesn’t have to be upgraded, and walls don’t have to be knocked down. The equipment doesn’t have to be expensive. And it can be taken down and moved if the homeowner decides to relocate in the future.”

To read more on how to repurpose your existing rooms please go to Kansascity.com .

Straighten up that pantry!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:48 GMT

Keeping your pantry organized is a must. With an organized, tidy pantry you won’t have to settle for searching for that last ingredient through endless shelves that always end up in a cluttered mess a few days after reorganizing them. Everything will have its own space. With a Life Uncluttered custom pantry, you will have a home for all those cans of soup, paper goods, cereal boxes, snacks for the kids, and specialty kitchen items. Contact us to see how a Life Uncluttered custom pantry can make your life easier!

A special thank you to our readers

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:47 GMT

We have been sharing our tips for organization throughout the blogosphere for some time now. We are getting ready to celebrate our 9th month of blogging and we wanted to remind you that besides entering your email address to the right of this post to receive our posts in your email, you can also “ Like Us” on Facebook and “Follow Us” on Twitter .

We also want to take the time to thank all of our subscribers and existing followers. We have enjoyed bringing you the latest news and tips for keeping your Life Uncluttered.

Lighting Your Closets

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:39 GMT

We talk a lot about the importance of having your closets well organized, but another key factor is the lighting. Proper lighting of a closet allows homeowners to view their articles more clearly or simply adds a little more beauty to the space.

For those of you with large walk-in closets or dressing rooms a well lit closet can be a bit of a challenge. Below are some different ways to light your closet.

Accent Lighting- Creates a mood and can be used to highlight certain areas in your closet.
Chandeliers- Offers a more ornate and visually stunning way to light your space.
Track or Monorail Lighting-A bit more modern, these lighting fixtures can be used to spotlight a hard-to-see area of the closet.
Wall Scones- When space is available, this type of fixture offers a more finished look to your closet.
Recessed Lighting- Available in a broad range of styles, these fixtures are perfect for lighting the entire area of the closet. You can also add recessed lights under cabinets and shelves for more direct lighting.

Whatever lighting you choose to use make sure you are in compliance with the strict electrical and safety codes. Twelve percent of house fires start in the closet.

Study shows that Women will try on 21,000 articles of clothes in her lifetime

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:37 GMT

Did you know that in your lifetime you will try on more than 21,000 articles of clothing? Pretty mind-blowing isn’t it? A recent study has found that the average woman will make at least four trips to the store a month and end up purchasing 240 new pieces of clothing or accessories each year. And that is the average woman, we aren’t talking about those of us who rack up major debt each time we head to the mall.

With all these added pieces to your wardrobe you’ll need a place to store them so give Life Uncluttered a call and we’ll help you organize all those new purchases!

Three Easy Steps to Organizing Your Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:36 GMT

We love Glamour.com , they have some very useful organizational tips to help the modern day woman save time and space. For example this great clip shows Executive Fashion Editor at Large for Glamour Magazine Suze Yalof Schwartz helping Amanda organize her small closet. With limited space it is very important to keep your closet as organized as possible at all times.

Click here to watch the video.

10 Ways to Preserve Your Wardrobe

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:33 GMT

How would you like to extend the life of your clothes and accessories? Real Simple can help with their “20 Tips to Make Your Wardrobe Last”. We are sharing our top ten and you can visit Realsimple.com for the learn about the rest.

Tips to Make Your Wardrobe Last

1. Hand wash cashmere. Repeated poor-quality dry cleanings can lead to fiber breakage. Plus, an old-fashioned hand washing leaves the cashmere considerably softer. Use lukewarm water and a mild soap, and lay flat to dry. Remove excess water by rolling the garment in a towel―never wring it.

2. Don’t drive in good heels. “The floorboard scuffs the heel, and the pedal scratches the toe,” warns Elena R. Aronson, a San Francisco–based stylist and personal shopper. Drive in simple flats.

3. Launder whites after every wear. It’s tempting to put a white blouse back into the closet after a spill-free wearing. After all, it looks spotless. But "body oils and perspiration, along with other time-released stains (like perfume, white wine, and oil splatters), will start to give a once-bright white a yellowish tint," says Steve Boorstein, developer of the DVD Clothing Care.

4. But don’t overwash darks. Boorstein blames frequent washings for faded clothing. Black pants, in particular, can be worn several times before laundering. For best results when you wash, run darks on a short cycle in cold water and let them air-dry. Blot any stains, since rubbing will create a lighter spot.

5. Beware the dryer. "Excessive heat makes fibers brittle, causing the fabric to break down," says Boorstein. Combat this by removing lightweight garments, like T-shirts and camisoles, and anything containing spandex (which can lose elasticity over time when exposed to too much heat) 10 minutes earlier than heavy garments, such as jeans and sweatshirts. “Most of the damage is done in the last 10 minutes of drying,” says Boorstein.

6. Iron clothing inside out. "Ironing can fade dark colors as well as create shine marks on fabrics with sheen, like gabardine, acetate, and polished cottons," says Chris Allsbrooks, a textile analyst with the Dry Cleaning & Laundry Institute, in Laurel, Maryland. Avoid damage by using the appropriate heat setting and pressing the item on the reverse side. Or use a cloth between garment and iron. And, adds Boorstein, “never iron a crease on a black garment―it can leave a permanent line.”

7. Zip up to avert snags. Your clothing goes into the wash perfectly intact. Later you notice a mysterious pull. "The teeth of zippers (especially those made of metal, as on jeans) or any kind of hook closure is typically the culprit," says Boorstein. Next time close all zippers and clasps before tossing clothes into the washing machine (or, better yet, the hamper).

8. Store handbags on shelves. It may sound counterintuitive, but “hanging a bag by the handles lessens the life span of the bag,” says Chris Moore, owner of Artbag, a New York City handbag boutique and repair shop. Hanging puts stress on the strap seams, and “it can leave unsightly marks on the handles,” says Moore.

9. Never leave sneakers in the car. Extreme temperatures―hot or cold―will wear down the rubber, and heat especially can warp EVA (the material in the midsole). "That will mean less shock absorption for your feet when you’re working out," says Sharon Barbano, a spokesperson for Saucony. For the same reason, don’t dry running shoes on a radiator or in a hot dryer. Let the shoes air-dry.

10. Dry-clean all the separates of an outfit together. Otherwise one piece will fade at a faster rate than the others. "And when it comes to dry-cleaning suits," says John Mahdessian, president of Madame Paulette, a dry cleaner in New York City, don’t overdo it. Three or four times a year is sufficient, as the finishing and pressing process can damage fabric over time.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own (or paste your own from a different source).
To control the color or size of this text, please change the global colors or text size under the Design section from the left menu of the editor.

Back-To-School Wardrobe

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:32 GMT

With school starting back in a couple of weeks, we thought we’d share some tips on how to properly shop for that back-to-school wardrobe. According to the National Retail Federation , the average family spends around $600 on clothes, shoes, school supplies and electronics. We want to help you cut your back-to-school costs in half.

First thing you should do is take inventory of your child’s closet. To get a clear idea what you are working with as far as clothes and shoes go, we recommend purging all the items that no longer fit your child. Once you have taken stock of what you already have you can head to the mall and pick out 6 to 7 basic pieces that will serve as the foundation of your child’s wardrobe.

An easy way to save money on clothes for your child is to extend the child’s wardrobe into fall by adding leggings and a sweater to those cute summer dresses. You can also change the look of an outfit by adding accessories such as a scarf, belt, or jacket.

Good luck and Happy Back-To-School Shopping!

Control the Clutter

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:30 GMT

Usually by this time of the week my house was overflowing with clutter. Shoes were left out, toys were in every room of the house, and my house looked completely and utterly lived in.

A tip that I found useful for controlling the clutter was to take a photo of every room in the house when it is at its messiest, study the photos and see where the problem areas are, mine were usually the master bedroom, my closet and the family room. Now that you have identified the problem areas you can tackle the mess.

Lately I have gotten into the habit of taking a few extra minutes and hanging up the clothes that are left all over the closet from the morning’s “I don’t know what to wear” rampage. My jewelry is securely in its place in a drawer rather than laying out on my nightstand. My children’s toys, which used to be in every room of the house, are now placed neatly in bins and baskets that I have in each room.

Life is so much better with a little organization.

Taking Back the Closets

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:29 GMT

We know some of you parents are becoming empty nesters for the first time this fall and although you are sad to see your child go off to college, you are probably already thinking of what to do with the extra closet space.

You might want to have your child to go through some of their things while they are home for the summer so you have an idea of what they’d like to save and what can be thrown out or donated. Box up anything that needs to be saved and label the box well so it can be easily identified at a later date.

What are the stars of Mad Men wearing for Season Four?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:27 GMT

Season Four has begun for AMC’s hit television series Mad Men and we thought we celebrate Sunday’s premiere with a behind the scenes look at the wardrobe closet. Mad Men’s Costume Designer, Janie Bryant, likes to add pieces to the character's closet without changing their basic style with every new trend.

Click here to see the clothes for Betty, Don, Joan and Peggy.

Tips on How to Organize the Mudroom

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:25 GMT

A mudroom, if organized properly can be more than a place to keep your muddy shoes. By simply adding storage, shelving and hooks to your mudroom you can turn the messiest room in the house into the cleanest.

Having proper storage in your mudroom is very important to maintaining a well organized room. To make the most out of the space allotted try and stick to vertical built-ins. Install shelves for footwear and any recreational equipment. If there is room you might want to add a bench for a place to put your shoes on. I recommend adding doors to some of the built-ins to easily disguise the clutter inside.

Add some wall hooks to your mudroom to store your coats, scarves, wet clothes or bags you may have. If you have kids you might want to place a couple within their reach as well.

Bluefly Closet Confessions Contest Ending Soon!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:24 GMT

Time is running out for Bluefly’s Closet Confessions Contest so go ahead and enter your closet confession for a chance to win $1000 in Bluefly hook-ups. The second place prize is $500 Bluefly dollars and it can all be yours!

We’d love to hear your closet confessions!

Say Goodbye to the Wardrobe Blues!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:21 GMT

Attention all you fashionistas out there, My Fashion Plate has come up with a way to help a girl out with the wardrobe blues. You know what I’m talking about, the “I have nothing to wear” problem that hits us when we are getting dressed everyday! Sign up on myfashionplate.com and get the best ways to “Maximize your Wardrobe.”

Organizational Tip: Islands

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:20 GMT

Islands, which are typically found in kitchens, are making their way into master suite closets. Adding compartmentalized drawers on either side of the island gives the homeowner space for their jewelry and other accessories.

The top of the island can be used for laying out clothes or for displaying some of your items. It also serves as the perfect place to lay your suitcase when packing for that big trip!

Testimonial

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:19 GMT

At Life Uncluttered we feel that our clients are our greatest form of endorsement! Take a look below at a testimonial from one of our clients.

"Your company is truly upstanding and is behind its product 100%. Thanks guys, keep up the good work! It really save me time and effort." - Fred Green

We'd love to hear your Life Uncluttered experience!

Garage Uncluttered

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:18 GMT

Did you know the garage is one of the most underutilized spaces in the entire house. Whether you are looking to organize your lawn equipment or a place to store your bike, we can help you make the most of your garage storage.

We want you to be able to come home after a busy day of driving to an uncluttered garage.

Tips on Organizing Your Clothes

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:16 GMT

We love Instyle.com , not only is it a wealth of information when it comes to the latest celebrity news, but it occasionally helps an everyday girl or guy become more fashion forward. Take a look below at their guide to the "Ultimate Wardrobe".

Ansel Adams Photos Found at Garage Sale

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:12 GMT

Although we highly recommend removing clutter from your home either by donating items or selling them in a garage sale, we do suggest that you pay close attention to the objects you are discarding. Take for example the small boxes containing 65 glass negatives of Ansel Adams photos that recently surfaced in Los Angeles, California. Rick Norsigian picked up these boxes at a garage sale ten years ago for $45, the items are now worth around $200 million. One man’s junk is another man’s treasure!

How to Dress Up Your Laundry Room

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:11 GMT

We showed you a couple of laundry room designs earlier in the week and today we wanted to share some ways on how to dress up the room a little with some art. I know, who puts art in the laundry room, but these framed photos below make doing laundry less of a chore. Take a look below and see for yourself.

The photo on the wall of this laundry room covers the control panels while adding a touch of color.

I love how they used framed baby tees for the artwork in this lime green laundry room. Pure genius! The bright blue backsplash works as art as well.

What do you think of these laundry rooms?

Wash, Fold and Store

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:09 GMT

Laundry rooms have moved up in the world, both literally and figuratively. Once tucked in the basement of a home, the laundry room was just a place to store the washer and dryer. Today laundry rooms are getting a much needed makeover, complete with more space and counters for folding and sorting.

At Life Uncluttered we can custom build a laundry room for you with a built-in hamper and ironing board. Storage areas for your cleaning supplies and a drying station to hang your hand wash items.

Life Uncluttered: Murphy Beds

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:08 GMT

At Life Uncluttered we offer great solutions to help you not only get organized, but to conserve space in your already cluttered home. We can install a Murphy bed in a guest room or office to allow you twice as much space in your room.

Take a look at the Murphy beds below and see why these beds are not your typical sleepers.

Organizing the Front Hall Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:06 GMT

The front hall closet is usually everyone’s favorite place to store things you want to keep hidden. From winter coats to vacuum cleaners it seems that once you open the closet door, you are struggling again to close it. We know that cleaning out your closets is probably one of your least favorite things to do, but if you want to erase unnecessary clutter from your home it is time to tackle the front hall closet.

Tip Number One: Try to store only what is used on a weekly basis, this includes coats. Since it is summer, you should go ahead and move your heavy winter coats elsewhere.

Tip Number Two: Place the hanging rod as high as possible (but not higher than your reach) so you can use the bottom half for baskets and shelves.

Tip Number Three: If possible, try and store bulky items, like vacuum cleaners, somewhere else.

Tip Number Four: Utilize the back of the door by installing hooks.

The Art of Sharing a Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:02 GMT

At a young age we are taught the importance of sharing. But, it really depends on what people are sharing. Dividing up space in a closet can cause an all out war. Sometimes the men are designated to using a small closet in a spare room while the female gets the entire master bedroom walk-in. We can hopefully end the battle and find an alternative to make everyone happy. We can custom design a closet for you and your significant other so that your clothes and accessories can coexist peacefully.

A tip on how to outfit a “her side” of the closet is to make sure there is plenty of space to hang dresses and proper storage for your shoes. For the “his side” you can use double-rods to accommodate suits.

Storing Your Children's Art and Schoolwork

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:01 GMT

As Alice Cooper once said, "School's out for summer." And if you are like me, you have a whole school year of your child's art and school work to sort through. I know it can be a little daunting, but we are here to help you find some creative ways to store or archive your child’s work.

Let’s start with the school work. It seems that every day your child is coming home with their school folders filled with tests, quizzes or projects. I recommended going through the folder and discarding what you don’t want to save right away. The rest can be kept in a storage container labeled to coincide with the school year or age of the child along with the child’s name.

You can get a little more creative with your child’s artwork. I often let my youngest reuse her artwork as birthday cards for her classmates or family members. Another idea is to laminate a few of your favorite pieces and turn them into placemats. A new way to store your child’s work is to digitize it. Scan each piece onto your computer and make a disk. Disks take up less storage and you can easily label each disk with the child’s age and name. You can also upload your child’s artwork to Blurb and have a bound book made. Take a look at the book below.

Good luck and let us know if you have any other ideas to make our reader's life a little less cluttered!

July 4th in Overland Park, Kansas

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:06:00 GMT

Don’t miss The Star Spangled Spectacular this Sunday, July 4th, honoring the United States Armed Forces Veterans! The Star Spangled Spectacular is an old fashioned July 4th celebration so make sure you bring the entire family. Q104 Country will be providing the musical entertainment at 4pm, followed by some live music at 5:30pm.

The evening concludes with one of the biggest fireworks displays in the Kansas City Metropolitan Area. Fireworks starts at approximately 9:30pm.

The Many Closets of Carrie Bradshaw

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:59 GMT

By now you have probably seen the Sex and the City 2 movie, if not time is running out! The best part of the movie for me is the clothes and the shoes!! I love watching to see what the fabulous foursome are wearing both on screen in the movie and off at the press junkets. Another bonus for me is getting a peek inside the closets of Carrie Bradshaw, yes, I said closets. In the second installment of SATC, Carrie has two closets, one in her new Upper East Side apartment with Big and the other is her apartment that is seen in the original tv series.

Below are photos of Carrie’s transformation from a cramped closet of a struggling writer to her new custom built closet shared with her husband Big.

Carrie's old apartment closet get revisited in the new SATC 2 movie.

Carrie's new closet, that she shares with her husband Big in the second SATC movie, has a his and hers side.

Those shoes should be under lock and key!

My favorite though, of all of Carrie's closets, is the one that made a brief showing at the end of the first Sex and the City movie. We found this YouTube video of the closet, see for yourself why it is my favorite!

Tips on How to Get Rid of Moisture in your Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:57 GMT

Your closet can be a great source for excess moisture, which can lead to mold. It is very important to remember to aerate your closet. Below are some tips on how to keep mold out of your closet and off your clothes.

Install an exhaust fan in the ceiling of your closet.
Leave some baking soda on the shelf of your closet, the baking soda lifts the moisture as well as help to eliminate any musty smells.
Ventilate the closet by leaving the door open whenever you can.
Never hang wet clothes or leave wet shoes in the closet.

Another tip we recently read in the Kansas City Star is to tie 8 to 10 sticks of plain white chalk together and hang on a hook in the closet.

Good Organization and Storage Key to Selling Your Home

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:54 GMT

Century 21 , a leader in the real estate market, has listed adding storage and organization on their list of Top 10: Tips to Add Value to Your Home . Number one on their list was "Clean, Organize, and Neutralize Your Space. Century 21 stresses that organizing and uncluttering your home will make it more appealing to potential home buyers. Number 5 on the list was "Store and Organize". Century 21 wrote that "Ample storage space is a plus, especially when it comes to garages and closets. Efficient closet structures can help keep your clothes organized and can save space."

We couldn't agree more, at Life Uncluttered we can help you get your house in tip top shape for that sale.

A Well-Organized Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:53 GMT

Efficiency is key to a well-organized closet. And one way to keep your closet looking its best is by color coordinating your clothes.

Your clothes should go from light to dark, that way if you want to wear something perfect for that beautiful spring day you know exactly where to go. Blouses should go towards the front of the closet, followed by pants (short to long), skirts (short to long) and then dresses. Formal attire can go towards the back of the closet since you tend not to wear them as frequently.

Follow these simple steps and you’ll be on your way to a more organized closet.

Swap For Good

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:52 GMT

At Life Uncluttered we strive to make your space as organized as possible. Whether it is your garage, closet, home office or pantry we will find the best ways to store all your clutter.

A key to organization is knowing when to toss items you no longer use. If you haven't used an item in 2 years than it is time to let it go.

Something to help make your decision a little easier is a grassroots non-profit project hitting communities across the country called Swap for Good. You might have already heard of clothing swaps, which have gained popularity during our current recession. Swap for Good adds a spin to this concept turning your swap into a fundraiser to help those in need.

Host a Swap for Good in your community and invite your friends and neighbors to bring items from their home that they would like to swap. Raise donations at the door for a local shelter you’d like to support.

Visit Swap for Good and find out how you can make a difference in your local community. Swap for Good is hoping to reach 100 swaps around the country by the end of May. Sign up now!

Bluefly's Closet Confessions: Nicky Hilton

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:50 GMT

Recently we showed you a photo of Nicky Hilton's closet in our post Celebrity Closets. Now we are getting a glimpse inside Hilton's closet to see her extensive shoe collection and vintage designer clothes. Click here to see a clip from Bluefly's Closet Confessions.

Bluefly's Closet Confessions encourages it readers to enter their monthly contests for a chance to win a $500 hook-up on Bluefly.com. Right in time for Mother's Day this Sunday, Bluefly's next contest asks readers to "Show us (The Best, Worst, Scariest Thing) Your Mama Gave You."

We'd love to hear your closet confessions?

What's in your closet?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:49 GMT

Bluefly.com wants to know what is in your closet with Closet Confessions. They feel that a closet is the window into your soul and at Life Uncluttered we couldn’t agree more. Each month is a new challenge where the winner is awarded a $500 Bluefly hook-up. This month Bluefly wants to see the "Fly-est thing in your closet. From a vintage prom dress to brand new kicks".

Check out their website here to also get a sneak peek inside the closets of celebrity New Yorkers, PR Maven, Kelly Cutrone from MTV’s The Hills and winner of Project Runway, designer Christian Siriano.

Follow Closet Confessions on Twitter using the Hashtag #bfclosets. You can also follow Life Uncluttered on Twitter at http://twitter.com/lifeuncluttered .

Past closet makeover may inspire you

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:46 GMT

Sometimes it’s good to look at the challenges other homeowners have faced in their closet space to see what changes you may need to make in your home.

Small closets in an Atlanta home caused the designers to focus on creating this essential space in the addition and renovation, which lead to two closets in the master bedrooms.

Atlanta Homes & Lifestyle magazine says: “But of course the entire reason for this renovation was to increase closet space, and they did. Chad Holman designed the suite to have two closets connected by a hallway. Both spaces have ample drawers, shelves and hanging space to accommodate everything, right down to their shoes, handkerchiefs and tie tacks."

Holman tells the magazine: “I have been a neat freak my entire life. I’m very organized, and this new space is completely functional. Everything now has its place and we love it.”

Whether you’re a neat freak or not, let us know the closet challenges you’re facing and we’ll be able to help.

Closets Go Chic

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:45 GMT

Dividers, jewelry drawers and plenty of built-ins are things you’ll find in the chic closets spotlighted on Habitually Chic , a fun design blog.

It spotlights great examples of dream closets from the March 2010 issue of Canadian House & Home magazine. One of the closets featured is the dressing room of interior designer Kelly Wearstler , whose vibrant residential projects could be another source of inspiration.

These closets prove that you can have room for everything – and it can be displayed in a neat and fashionable way, too.

And for more tips, check out the advice from the editors of Canadian House & Home . The latest issue talks about closet flooring and hardware such as knobs and handles.

‘Hoarders’ Show Shines Light on Problems

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:42 GMT

The TV series “Hoarders” has a lot of people talking about the snapshot inside the lives of people who can’t part with their belongings. You may not be in the crisis mode that they are in, but it’s interesting to see how out of control clutter can become, and how it can be part of a much greater problem.

Here’s what some people say about the show, which has new episodes on A&E on Monday nights.

Dr. Elizabeth Moore, a staff psychologist at Hartford Hospital’s Anxiety Disorders Center and a regular on “Hoarders,’’ tells The Boston Globe : “I think at one point or another we’ve all struggled with getting organized, but hoarding takes it to a new extreme. I hear a lot of people say, ‘After I watched the show, I cleaned out my garage.’ ’’

Mike Nelson, who has written several books on the subject, tells the San Jose Mercury News : "To a hoarder, a crumpled hamburger wrapper is no different than a box of diamonds. To them, everything has value, or potential for future use, even if it's broken or trash. So they keep everything."

If you think you’re drowning in clutter, don’t be afraid to ask for help. We can help you come out from the mounds of items that may be overwhelming your life and your home or office .

Tackling a Home Renovation with Closets in Mind

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:40 GMT

A home renovation project is the perfect time to think about your storage needs , no matter the style and size of the home.

Take a look at this modern revival of an 1872 Colonial in Kansas City’s Westside community. Kansas City Homes & Gardens spotlights the whole-story renovation of the three-story home.

The closets and storage areas fit into the look of the home, adding crucial space without taking away from the design.

We can help you with a variety of solutions to your space and closet problems that are much higher quality than those found in stores.

Home Sellers Focus on Closets

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:39 GMT

We recently helped a client re-do the closets in their home to help sell their house. Their only disappointment, they told us, is that they wish they had made the changes to their closets 20 years ago when they moved in.

If you’ve waited to update your closets but are trying to sell your home, definitely seek our expertise about how to invest in redoing your closets to stand out among other homes on the market.

Real estate agents and designers tell the publications like the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel that closets are definitely in and that buyers pay close attention to the closet space.

And if you aren’t planning on selling your home, don’t put off changes to your closets. We want to you to enjoy our work for as long as possible.

Celebrity Closets

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:34 GMT

We recently did a post on “What’s in your closet” that featured reality stars Christian Siriano and Kelly Cutrone’s closets , but today we are delving in to the closets of Hollywood’s biggest stars.

Take the closets of Christina Aguilera (I wish I could), that's right I said closets, she has two. Aguilera’s closet, according to Instyle.com , is separated into zones. A zone for jeans, jackets, coats, skirts, sweaters and jewelry help keep this pop star uber-organized.

Next on the list of celebrity closets is Eva Longoria Parker. This Desperate Housewife’s closet is full of designer gowns, shoes and my favorite a HERMÈS hot-pink crocodile Birkin bag. In the photo below you can also see her impressive shoe collection that ranges from the ever popular amongst A-listers Christian Louboutin to Uggs .

When you are a Hilton heiress as well as a fashion designer your closet houses some of the most beautiful collections of couture fashion imaginable. Just to be clear we are talking about Nicky Hilton, not Paris Hilton. Nicky tells Instyle.com that her most prized possession in her closet is a Roberto Cavalli beaded butterfly minidress.

The most prized possession in my closet are my Jimmy Choos , what’s yours?

Be Organized At Any Age

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:33 GMT

At Life Uncluttered we realize that organization is healthy at any age. That is why we offer storage and space solutions to parents who are tired of telling their kids to “Clean your room!”.

It would seem with every birthday or holiday your child’s room gets more inundated with new toys and clothes. It’s enough to overwhelm any parent.

Life Uncluttered wants to help you take back control of your child’s room. Remember it’s never to early to teach your child good organizational habits.

Below are some closet solutions we offered parents.

To schedule an appointment please call or visit us online at lifeuncluttered.com.

Fold Your Shirt in 2 Seconds!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:32 GMT

The hardest part about keeping your closets and drawers organized are folding and putting away your clothes. How many times do you just shove those shirts in your drawers without folding them first? Watch this short clip from fold-your-shirt.com and take the hassle out of folding.

Fold your shirt in 2 seconds

Your Welcome!

Working it Out

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:30 GMT

If you are like many, the idea of working from home has probably appealed to you. Saving on child-care costs, cutting down on commuting expenses and my personal favorite, saying goodbye to rush hour traffic are many reasons to consider tele-commuting. But, before you make the leap, make sure you have weighed all of your options. Working from home is for the disciplined. You can’t run off to the mall whenever there is a sale on shoes. You’ll have to set a daily routine and try your hardest to stick to it. If you are freelancing, make sure you have enough business lined up before you quit your day job.

Now that you made the decision, there are a lot of viable resources out there to make it easier on you. To learn about any legal aspects involving self-employment check out nolo.com . For health-care options by state visit ehealthinsurance.com .

You have taken care of all the legalities of working from home, now it’s time to focus on your home office. You’ll need a space that is both functional and inviting since you’ll be spending the majority of your day there. Let Life Uncluttered help you design the perfect home office so you can make the most of the space allotted. We can turn any space into a work space to fit all your needs.

A frequently repeated motto is that "work is something you do, not something you travel to".

Organizing that Mud Room

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:29 GMT

If you can’t stand to spend time in your family’s mud room because of the collection of shoes, sports gear and other items, check out these tips from Family Fun magazine.

It’s just one part of a huge story on organization, which also looks at dealing with the mound of laundry that you may face daily.

As you think about your summer plans, consider using the downtime in your kids’ schedules to bring us in to look at your closets and storage spaces over the summer.

Tackling the Linen Closet

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:26 GMT

Spring is officially here, well ok it’s been here for a couple of weeks now, but it’s now time to do something about it. Spring to many means organizing and cleaning and at Life Uncluttered, we feel wouldn’t be doing our part if we didn’t give you a few pointers on organization.

The next couple of weeks we are going to highlight a new part of your house to get “Spring Ready”. Let’s start with something a little easy, the Linen Closet . It should take a couple of hours so make sure you have the proper amount of time allotted, you don’t want to start something you can’t finish.

Are you ready to begin?

The first step is always to empty the entire closet. You should take the time now to separate the items into categories: towels, sheets, blankets, pillows, table linens, toiletries, etc. Make sure during this time you make a separate pile of items you’d like to donate. Once you got your piles, wipe the shelves with a damp cloth or sponge, wait until they are dry and line the shelves, preferably with acid-free paper. I love these liners from Crabtree and Evelyn and William Sonoma.

Now you should have a clean slate to work with. Make sure you keep the items that you use the most up front. The beach towels can probably be more towards the back of the closet. Bulky items like comforters and quilts can be vacuum sealed and stored higher up in the closet. HGTV goes into more detail about making the most of your space and proper folding techniques for your towels and linens, click here to read more.

If you are going to have toiletries in your linen closet you should use a basket for storage. For those of you with small children, make sure you place these items on a higher shelf away from small hands.

Label and place items seasonally for easy use. To keep everything smelling fresh you can place a box of baking soda or sachet in the closet. Another tip is to buy a couple of cedar blocks to keep moths away.

No more procrastinating, time to clean out those closets!!

Mark Your Calendars for the 41st Symphony Designers’ Showhouse

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:25 GMT

The 41st Symphony Designers’ Showhouse will be finished and open to the public soon.

For an ongoing sneak peek of the showhouse (at 5833 Ward Parkway) check on the blog at Kansas City Homes & Gardens, with all the exclusive scoop.

And of course cabinets and storage solutions are going to be among the details the home will boast. You’ll get a ton of ideas at the showhouse!

Your Shoes and Your Personality

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:24 GMT

Here’s a fun story we found about what your shoes say about your personality. It looks at everything from flats to stilettos.

So enjoy reading it, and of course, if you find you have too many shoes to keep organized, let us help find ways to display your shoes and your own personal style in your closets.

Award-Winning Homes Spotlighted in Kansas City Homes & Gardens

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:22 GMT

The latest issue of Kansas City Homes & Gardens showcases its 2010 Home of the Year award winners, which are definitely worth checking out.

You can find the homes spotlighted here and in the March/April print issue, starting with a 9,000-square-foot home that took the top spot. That’s followed by Gold and Silver winners.

You'll find that the homes are immaculate and have plenty of organizational space.

Four Tips for Getting Organized

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:21 GMT

Repair-Home.com shares some good tips that can help you get started with redoing your closets .

1. Open your closet and think about your first impression.

Is there too much stuff inside? Is everything strewn about? Do you have troubles finding items because there is no system to your storing?

2. Purge any items that you have not used for at least a year.

If you want to give an item a second chance, hold onto it for another six months, then let it go.

3. Make a checklist of all the items that should be stored, such as if you’re creating a tool closet or gift closet.

Then find a new home for those items.

4. Sort into three categories.

We’ve said it before and it doesn’t hurt to repeat: items you would like to keep, items that have been "gently used" and can be donated and a trash pile for those items that are either broken or too worn out to be used again.

Design Trends Could Help You Determine Storage Needs

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:09 GMT

The tough market for selling a home means that homeowners are spending money on upgrading their baths and kitchens , according to an interesting survey released this week by the American Institute of Architects.

The architecture firms survey points out popular features in kitchens, and it can reflect what type of storage space you may need, too.

Kitchen

Recycling center
Larger pantry space
Computer area/recharging stations
Integration with family space

We can help you determine what type of closet systems and storage space you need, if those are features you desire too.

And click here to read more of the findings from the American Institute of Architects Home Design Trends Survey for fourth quarter 2009, which focused on bathrooms and kitchens.

Set Your DVR for De-Cluttering Tips

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:08 GMT

Organization expert Peter Walsh, often seen on Oprah, is scheduled to be on the Rachael Ray show tomorrow – Wednesday, Feb. 24 – to help a messy mom get her house in order.

His Web site offers some good tips for organizing shoes, which we often hear is a challenge for our clients. His advice starts with gathering them, sorting them into groups by how frequently you wear them, only keeping those you love and wear, then finding the storage solution for them.

So let us handle finding the perfect storage set-up to you keep them organized from now on. We will help you tackle your shoe challenges that you and your family members face, which we know can be frustrating.

Watch Your Depth!

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:06 GMT

When organizing a space try to match the depth of the shelf to the depth of your product. Resist the temptation to get the deepest shelf possible. You want to easily get to what you're looking for. With a deep shelf, too often, what you want gets buried and you have to dig for it.

When you can't match the depth properly, place smaller items in a tub or basket. Make sure to group similar items together. If you want to make it easy as possible, label the tub.

Testimonial from David & Louann

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:05 GMT

"You met with us when it was convenient for us -- and made us feel like it was the right time for you. You took time to find out why we wanted a closet, and you actually asked questions to find out if we really needed a closet. After we committed to having you do the work, we appreciated your professional approach. For example, your computer aided 3D design allowed us to give you a few suggestions that you incorporated into the design and installation. You installed when you said you would, in the time you said you would, and in a very professional manner. Thanks for the great job!!!"

- David & Louann

Johnson County Home and Garden Show Coming Soon

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:04 GMT

At the Johnson County Home and Garden Show later this month, some of the things you see and hear could get you thinking about making changes to your residence from a clutter-free standpoint.

You may be thinking of staying in your home for a while or maybe your home needs some storage systems that hide your clutter as you're preparing it to sell.

Look for these tips and more at the Feb. 26-28 event at the Overland Park Convention Center, with more than 250 home and garden exhibitors expected.

Speakers include HGTV's Sabrina Soto, host of "Get It Sold," who also has appeared on "HGTV's Green Home," "Bang for Your Buck," and "House Hunters."

It's affordable, with $8.50 for adults at the box office, and free for kids 12 and under.

Let us know if you're planning on going to the show and what you hope to see there!

Color Your Home Office

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:05:01 GMT

If your home office is giving you the blahs, the February issue of At Home Arkansas points out a smart thing to consider - how color can make a difference in your office.

It's something to think about as you're making plans to create or update a home office and looking at the desks, bookcases, storage systems and of course, accessories. By having a color scheme in mind, from the paint on the walls to the window treatments, you could have a more clear idea of what you want in terms of the look of the products we offer.

Maybe a red vibe will give you the energy to be your creative best at work. Or green and orange hues can add to a modern look.

So consider your colors and then you'll put together a home office that you will want to be free of clutter.

Happy Valentine's Day

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:04:59 GMT

Karen S of Shawnee, KS is giving the gift of an organized closet to her hubby Jerry for Valentines this year.

Jerry's closet is a common challenge of a reach-in closet. His closet is almost 7' wide with an effective area less than 4'. How do you make this usable?

He complained about not being able to reach all the clothes easily, he can only get to about half of his hanging easily. Also, he wanted better way to store his sweaters than in an enclosed box.

Our solution is to turn this reach-in closet into a walk-in . We are going to accomplish this by turning the hanging to run front to back in the outside corners and add a shelf tower with drawers in the center. He will end up with 8' of hanging, 4 drawers and 8' of shelving for sweaters and folded clothes. The top drawer will give him space to store his check book and other personal items. The bottom three drawers give him space for socks, underwear and t-shirts.

Get Your Garage in Shape

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:04:58 GMT

Some of you may be working on getting your bodies in shape, but what about an aspect of your home that some people may be the first to see - your garage?

Now that the NFL season is over, maybe it's time to use those weekends to focus on organizing your garage . The folks at HGTV have some great tips for getting started, and once you have an idea of the items you need to store in your garage, come to us for the cabinets and systems to keep it organized throughout the year.

Here's an HGTV video to inspire you as well, if you've recently moved into a home or are finally getting around to organizing it.

Real-Life Examples of Organized Spaces

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:04:57 GMT

Our storage solutions can transform your walk-in closets, kitchen pantries, offices and other areas of your home and office.

What pulls it all together, though, is having a mindset of organization, and Real Simple's latest issue features the secrets of four organized women .

We're sure you'll find useful tips in their systems for keeping their pantry, shoes, gift wrap and other items nice and neat. What an inspiration!

Expert Tips for De-Cluttering Can Help You, Too

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:04:55 GMT

If you're needing to make changes to the piles of clothes, papers, toys and other items that make your home seem chaotic, check out these tips for clearing the clutter in Kansas City Homes and Gardens.

LIfe Uncluttered's Mike McMahon shares this:

“Purging is good, and de-cluttering should be an ongoing process. By over-packing a closet , you end up wrinkling everything more. Develop a system to keep your closet organized and determine what you can eliminate. The right tools make the job easier, and a custom closet optimizes the use of space. What people need most is good shelving, and you’ll get 40- to 100-percent more storage space with a well-organized closet system. And if you use all the same hangers or group by [clothing] colors, it will look less messy.”

That's what we all want, right?

January is Get Organized Month

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:04:53 GMT

January is the perfect time to think about your cluttered home or office - in fact, the National Association of Professional Organizers has proclaimed it as: Get Organized Month.

The organization also passes along some great tips for organizing all areas of your home, and it's also holding de-cluttering events and seminars around the country.

Do you know that the organization found that 96 percent of 400 adults polled said they would save time every day by becoming more organized. Have you seen that happen in your home or office? If not, let us know how you need help.

Organizing Your Office Can Save Time

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:04:51 GMT

Today we're turning our attention to your office , at home or in the workplace.

A recent Office Depot survey found what you may already know. Of those surveyed, 32 percent admit that they have a disorganized workspace and 45 percent confessed to clearing up their clutter once a month, or even less than that.

So what's the impact?

47 percent say they've lost time
16 percent say they have been tardy for a meeting
14 percent say they have missed dealines

And have you ever waded through piles of papers in a frantic search for something that you need? The survey found that 30% have lost an important document due to a messy desk.

What are the most likely items causing a messy workspace?

Food: 32 percent
Old newspapers: 32 percent
Coffee cups: 31 percent
Spare shoes: 12 percent

Don't let an unorganized office get you down but set out to put things in their place and find the storage systems you need to keep them there throughout the year.

Celebrities and Experts Share Their Organizing Tips

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:04:50 GMT

Are you a fan of NASCAR? If so, Tony Stewart , who drives the No. 14 Office Depot/Old Spice Chevy Impala in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, has shared his tips on the types of Office Depot products he uses.

If you're not, then look at this good advice in House Beautiful about how to organize closets, which can be helpful if you're considering how one of our products could fit into your walk-in or other closets. One hint: Think about the function for each area of the closet and how it relates to how you look at your wardrobe.

Getting Organized Can Improve Your Life

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:04:48 GMT

With just a few days left in Get Organized Month, here's a couple of great statistics we've found that can attest to the power of living a life uncluttered. They're from the National Association of Professional Organizers .

71 percent said their quality of life would improve if they were better organized.
65 percent described their home as at least moderately disorganized.
27 percent said the disorder keeps them from being effective at work.

Have you seen those types of improvements in your own life, or do you hope to have these types of results?

One Month, No Clutter?

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 14:59:31 GMT

It may seem like a tough task but the folks at Myhomeideas.com share how it's possible to clear clutter within one month. And they have a 31-day plan for doing so.

Got kids?

Here's a tip from Myhomeideas.com that may speak to you: Take photos of your child's toys and print them out to serve as labels for storage containers. That way, the little ones will know exactly where things go when it's time for the to pick up.

Got a packed pantry?

Here's another tip: Store pasta, rice, beans and other dry goods into plastic or glass containers. You'll get a ton of benefits including being able to see immediately what's in your pantry and getting rid of the big packaging to save space.

These tips also can be used with our affordable storage systems - just think, you could get all this done before most people start with their spring cleaning.

8 Top Designer Tricks for Maximizing Space In Small Closets

Fri, 29 Jul 2016 20:46:00 GMT

If you live in a small home or apartment you will understand how challenging storage can be, particularly if you don’t have the right organizer systems in place. Even if you are fortunate to have some closets in place you may still find yourself at a loss as to how to fit all your things into a small closet space.

Why Organized People Are Smarter Than The Average in Kansas City

Mon, 27 Jun 2016 14:10:00 GMT

Truth is, some of us are just smarter than others. But is it because of nature or nurture? Numerous studies have been conducted to try and better understand how high IQs and success is created, and even though a lot of it may come down to genetics, there are many exceptions to this rule - particularly for those that apply themselves beyond genetic conditioning.

5 Simple Ways To Remove Clutter In Your Life

Thu, 16 Jun 2016 13:32:00 GMT

Are you feeling a little cluttered in your life? Do you find yourself wishing for some practical advice for creating more time, space and even money in your world? There is no argument that a life with less clutter makes it easier to live a stress-free life and find inner peace. Clutter often creates a lot of distraction. It can be a catalyst and cause stress and confusion that many are not aware it is creating.

The Art Of Good Closet Organization and a Life Uncluttered

Tue, 19 Apr 2016 13:56:00 GMT

Closets are are not just about storage in general, nor are they only a place to hide all your stuff. Having a good closet system is integral to the way we function and keep ourselves organized on a daily basis. It can be a direct reflection on how we manage and navigate through the other areas of our lives. This is not to say that if your closet system is untidy due to a lack of sufficient storage that it reflects on your character, but more to say that clutter and chaos will make it somewhat more difficult for you to navigate through your day. Disorganization creates unnecessary stress and frustration, particularly if you cannot find an item you need within a designated time frame.The art of good organization and living a life uncluttered lies in cleverly designed custom closets and storage organizers. Creative Closets from Kent shares a great article on the 4 essentials of creating a great custom closet here. These are game changers when it comes to getting on top of your closet clutter and taking back the power of organization in your life.

Closets are are not just about storage in general, nor are they only a place to hide all your stuff. Having a good closet system is integral to the way we function and keep ourselves organized on a daily basis. It can be a direct reflection on how we manage and navigate through the other areas of our lives.

This is not to say that if your closet system is untidy due to a lack of sufficient storage that it reflects on your character, but more to say that clutter and chaos will make it somewhat more difficult for you to navigate through your day. Disorganization creates unnecessary stress and frustration, particularly if you cannot find an item you need within a designated time frame.

The art of good organization and living a life uncluttered lies in cleverly designed custom closets and storage organizers. Creative Closets shares a great article on the 4 essentials of creating a great custom closet here . These are game changers when it comes to getting on top of your closet clutter and taking back the power of organization in your life.

3 Clever Closet Organizer Tips To Reduce Stress & Clutter

Mon, 21 Mar 2016 12:57:00 GMT

If you find yourself challenged by size when it comes to your closet space, do not despair; there are some fantastic ways you can utilize your closet and your storage needs. One of the best ways to maximize your organizers is to install a custom closet system. Whether you have a small walk-in closet space or a tiny reach-in, a qualified closet designer can design you a custom closet system to address your personal needs.

Murphy Beds: An Answer for Overnight Guests

Mon, 25 Jan 2016 20:11:00 GMT

Do you ever balk at the idea of hosting overnight guests in your home? If you do not have a dedicated guest room, having people in your home for more than a day can be a cumbersome inconvenience. Not to mention, many guests won’t be comfortable on a pull-out sofa or an air mattress. If you’re tired of skirting the issue and recommending local hotels, consider having a Murphy bed, also called a wall bed, installed in your home.

5 Intelligent Reasons People Are Using Closet Designers in Kansas City

Fri, 08 Jan 2016 20:55:00 GMT

Any home, from a bungalow to a Mansion, can benefit from an encounter with a professional closet organizer and designer. Getting organized is one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions, and lack of storage space is an almost universal complaint.

7 Hacks To Keep Your Closets Organization Uncluttered All Year Long

Tue, 22 Dec 2015 18:56:00 GMT

For some lucky people the closet is an oasis of organization. However for others, it may look like a place where your clothing, shoes, gym equipment, old books, broken lamps and some shady unmentionable items, have all got together and partied the night away in a sea of drunken mayhem, only to leave you with the clean up hangover. Without good habits and the proper setup to enable your organization to run smoothly, it’s easy to lose control of the closet.

For some lucky people the closet is an oasis of organization . However for others, it may look like a place where your clothing, shoes, gym equipment, old books, broken lamps and some shady unmentionable items, have all got together and partied the night away in a sea of drunken mayhem, only to leave you with the clean up hangover. Without good habits and the proper setup to enable your organization to run smoothly, it’s easy to lose control of the closet.

5 Super Simple Steps for Clutter Free Closets in Kansas City

Thu, 10 Dec 2015 17:22:00 GMT

The idea of living a simplified, uncluttered life with less stuff sounds attractive to many. They have considered the benefits of owning fewer possessions: less to clean, less debt, less to organize, less stress, more money and energy for their greatest passions. They are ready to get their closet organization in order but some get quickly tripped up by the very next question… where in the world do I begin?

Hall Closet Organization for a Happy Home | Kansas City

Mon, 16 Nov 2015 20:43:00 GMT

Is your hall closet looking a little sad? Overrun with clutter? Do you feel a sinking feeling when you go to open it? Could you use a more efficient way of organizing your wild jungle of stuff so that you don’t have to be Tarzan swinging from the shelves every time you need to find something in there? Without delving into any psychobabble here, it’s safe to say that a messy closet doesn’t contribute to anyone’s happiness. Conversely, an organized closet can bring forth euphoric joy, or, at the very least, a sense of relief at finally finding that long lost sweater, tennis racket or other missing treasures.

Without delving into any psychobabble here, it’s safe to say that a messy closet doesn’t contribute to anyone’s happiness. Conversely, an organized closet can bring forth euphoric joy , or, at the very least, a sense of relief at finally finding that long lost sweater, tennis racket or other missing treasures.

4 Custom Pantry Ideas to Make Your Mouth Water | Kansa City

Tue, 10 Nov 2015 20:25:00 GMT

Have you ever looked in your kitchen pantry and been completely dismayed, unsatisfied and uninspired to cook? Is your pantry unappealing, cluttered, or just not adequately functional? Pantries are integral to the functionality of your kitchen design.

Best Closet Organizer Accessories for Ladies!

Wed, 14 Oct 2015 19:33:00 GMT

When it’s time for your custom closet, you want one that will suit all of your needs. For tons of us, this means sharing a closet with your significant other and fitting everything you both own in there- not a simple task. The women tend to have more to store in their wardrobe, so creating a closet that will fit it all calls for some serious planning! In this article we’re going to take a look at some of our favorite accessories for the ladies to keep their clothes neat in the closet!

When it’s time for your custom closet , you want one that will suit all of your needs. For tons of us, this means sharing a closet with your significant other and fitting everything you both own in there- not a simple task. The women tend to have more to store in their wardrobe, so creating a closet that will fit it all calls for some serious planning! In this article we’re going to take a look at some of our favorite accessories for the ladies to keep their clothes neat in the closet!

Using Overhead Storage to Maximize Your Garage Space!

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 16:11:00 GMT

A favorite tool here at Life Uncluttered to free up space in your garage is the Overhead Storage Racks . The benefit of using these is that they enable you to take stuff you don’t reach for as often and store them in a spot in the garage that most people don’t take advantage, so the walls are free to hold other items. We’re going to go over some of the best things to store with these overhead racks to keep your garage organized and to help you maximize the space.

A favorite tool here at Life Uncluttered to free up space in your garage is the Overhead Storage Racks. The benefit of using these is that they enable you to take stuff you don’t reach for as often and store them in a spot in the garage that most people don’t take advantage, so the walls are free to hold other items. We’re going to go over some of the best things to store with these overhead racks to keep your garage organized and to help you maximize the space.

Best Organizers to Keep Your Garage Clutter-Free

Thu, 10 Sep 2015 13:54:00 GMT

Let’s face it, the garage is one of the toughest areas of your house to keep clean. You store tools, sports equipment, extra supplies, towels, and the list goes on. Many people don’t even have the room to park their car in their garage because there’s too much stuff in the garage! At Life Uncluttered, our job is to help you keep these areas of your house organized, so we came up with the best garage organizers that will help you reclaim all of the space and keep it organized!

Ways Custom Closets Increase Your Closet Storage Space

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 21:20:00 GMT

You already know that custom closets give you a way to store more of your clothing, accessories and more. But how exactly does it work? After all, your closet will still be the same size as it is right not, in terms of square footage. Here are some of the ways that custom closets increase your storage space.

Why Custom Closets Are So Important to Your Home Value

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 20:48:00 GMT

Can home improvements raise the value of your home? The answer is obvious: Of course! A home that you own is an investment, and most homeowners put a lot of time, energy and money into keeping their homes well-maintained and updated.This effort pays off later when the time comes to put the house on the market.

Organizing Your Office Can Save Time

Thu, 02 Jul 2015 14:20:00 GMT

Today we're turning our attention to your office , at home or in the workplace.

Donating Your Clutter

Sat, 16 May 2015 19:03:00 GMT

Hopefully you’ve already completed all your spring cleaning and your abode is neat and tidy for the summer months ahead. But the million dollar question is: What did you do with all your clutter? Did you trash it? Or did you stash it all in the garage, basement or attic. If the latter sounds familiar, it’s time to get rid of all those things you just don’t want, need or use anymore. Instead of trashing it all, try donating items that are still in good, usable or working condition.

Life Uncluttered | Parkville, Mo | Ultimate Garage

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 13:17:00 GMT

House Still in Disarray? It's Time to Hire a Professional Organizer

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:16:00 GMT

Did you make a New Year's resolution to get organized in 2012? How's that going so far? If it hasn't been great, it's time to consider hiring a professional organizer.

Did you make a New Year's resolution to get organized in 2012? How's that going so far? If it hasn't been great, it's time to consider hiring a professional organizer .

Moving? 4 Ways to Organize Your New Space

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:15:00 GMT

Moving into a new house is an exciting experience. Your new space appears huge at first. But once you start moving in your belongings, it seems to get smaller and smaller.

Need a Custom Entry Closet?

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:14:00 GMT

The closet near your front door can quickly become a messy, disorganized storage space. This is especially true during the winter. That's because coats, jackets, hats, boots, scarves, gloves and umbrellas get thrown into the closet without a second thought. And just the thought of cleaning it is too much to bear.

The closet near your front door can quickly become a messy, disorganized storage space . This is especially true during the winter. That's because coats, jackets, hats, boots, scarves, gloves and umbrellas get thrown into the closet without a second thought. And just the thought of cleaning it is too much to bear.

Come See Us at the Kansas City Remodeling Show!

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:11:00 GMT

It's time for the Kansas City Remodeling Show ! And Life Uncluttered will be there!

Inspiration for an Organized Laundry Room

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:12:00 GMT

Your laundry room probably falls into one of two categories. Either it's a neat, organized space or it's chaotic and never as tidy as you'd like it to be. If your laundry room falls into the latter category, it's time to take control. We've provided tons of tips in our previous blog posts:

Yes, Professional Organizing Can Be Affordable

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:10:00 GMT

Custom organizing solutions for master closets, laundry rooms, garages, pantries and home offices doesn't have to be as expensive as you may think. Sure, Carrie Bradshaw's closet cost a pretty penny. But there are solutions out there that'll fit into your budget.

Custom organizing solutions for master closets , laundry rooms , garages , pantries and home offices doesn't have to be as expensive as you may think. Sure, Carrie Bradshaw's closet cost a pretty penny. But there are solutions out there that'll fit into your budget.

What's So Great About Custom Closets?

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:09:00 GMT

It'll be designed especially for you. Some people own an insane amount of shoes. Others have handbag fetishes. And fashionistas own all the latest fashions. So depending on your closet needs, it can be customized just for you and your stuff. The measurements of everything will be tailored to your specific needs.
It'll make the most of your space . Have you ever seen a closet with closet on hangers and not much else? All that space on the floor, against bare walls and up near the ceiling will be used, making your closet fit more of your stuff than you ever dreamed it could.
It'll add value. If you plan on selling your home soon or even in the future, a custom designed closet could be a pretty hot selling point. Instead of boring rods, your closet will be equipped with custom shelves, drawers and other features that basic closets in other homes just can't compete with.

Are you ready for a custom closet of your own? Visit LifeUncluttered.com to learn more about our capabilities in and around Kansas City!

Get More Out of Your Closet

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:08:00 GMT

Walking into a cluttered closet every day is frustrating. You might know that your closet needs a fix, but you might not know just how to go about it. We have you covered with our custom closet systems !

Make Recycling Easy with HandiSolutions

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:06:00 GMT

Recycling and going green at home have become hugely popular in recent years. But how do you handle yet another area at home that needs to be organized?

Recycling and going green at home have become hugely popular in recent years. But how do you handle yet another area at home that needs to be organized ?

4 Steps to an Organized Garage

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:05:00 GMT

It's very easy to turn your garage into a dumping ground. No one really sees it, so the "out of sight, out of mind" theory works pretty well here. But if you don't use your garage strategically, you could be missing out on precious storage space. It's amazing what a neat, organized garage can achieve! But how do you get to that point?

The Benefits of a Murphy Bed

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:04:00 GMT

Have you even seen one of those beds that flip down from the wall? That's known as a Murphy bed .

The Organized Kitchen and Pantry

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:03:00 GMT

Every time the new year arrives, the blogosphere is always abuzz with home design trends to look out for over the next 12 months. It's totally expected that new ideas and innovations will come about when it comes to colors, furniture, window treatments and flooring. But who ever thought that storage would be a trend in 2012?

Organizing the Craft Room

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:01:00 GMT

With the advent of bookmarking sites like Pinterest, people everywhere are trying their hand at creative crafts and DIY projects. It doesn't matter if you're into scrapbooking, jewelry making, crocheting or DIY decor. Whatever your creative hobby is, you'll need an organized space to keep your supplies in order. So how can you get your craft area looking good just in time for Get Organized Month?

With the advent of bookmarking sites like Pinterest , people everywhere are trying their hand at creative crafts and DIY projects. It doesn't matter if you're into scrapbooking, jewelry making, crocheting or DIY decor. Whatever your creative hobby is, you'll need an organized space to keep your supplies in order. So how can you get your craft area looking good just in time for Get Organized Month ?

New Year, New Closet!

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Are you ready for a fresh start in 2012? Why not give your closet a makeover? The closet is one of the most confusing spaces in the home. So much stuff, so little space, right? We can help with our custom designed and built custom closet systems !

January is Get Organized Month!

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 13:59:00 GMT

The New Year always marks a fresh start. We want our homes and spaces to be clutter free in an effort to start the year off right. And the room that always gets the most attention in the beginning of the year is the home office .

6 Ways to Maximize Small Spaces

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:33:00 GMT

Storage Tips for the New Year

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 13:58:00 GMT

The New Year always marks a new beginning at home. People want to become more organized, and now is the perfect time to do just that! But how on earth do you get started? The National Association of Home Builders suggests the following:

Expert Tips on Last Minute Cleaning

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 13:52:00 GMT

The following are valuable last minute clean up tips from an Apartment Therapy article entitled ' How to Clean up Quickly: Before Company Arrives ’ written by Adrienne Breaux.

A Clever Way to Organize Gift Wrapping Supplies

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:48:00 GMT

Wrapping paper, tape, scissors and gift tags are probably spread all over the place in your home.

5 Questions to Ask Your Closet Professional

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:45:00 GMT

Making the decision to have a custom closet installed in your home is just one of many steps. You need to find a professional that can create the type of closet system that will help to improve your quality of life at home. And of course, Life Uncluttered can help with that. Here are some questions that any qualified and respectable closet company should be able to answer, according to Association of Closet and Storage Professionals:

Celebrating 200 Blog Posts!

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 13:44:00 GMT

The Life Uncluttered blog has reached a very exciting milestone.

Clear the Entryway in December

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 13:43:00 GMT

Last month, the focus was the dining room, for obvious reasons. Now that guests will be dropping in throughout the entire holiday season, it is a must that your entryway be organized and ready. But how? With our custom storage solutions !

Easy Cleaning Tips for the Holidays

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 13:42:00 GMT

Thanksgiving is over, but the holiday guests will probably still be coming and going over the next few weeks. With the hustle and bustle of shopping and entertaining, sometimes we run out of time to clean before the guests arrive. Listed below are some easy and quick tips to make your home or apartment look like the maid just left!

Last Minute Organizing for Thanksgiving

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 13:41:00 GMT

All of us at Life Uncluttered would like to wish you and yours a very happy Thanksgiving!

Laminate Solutions by Closet Maid

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 13:40:00 GMT

Custom closets , once completed and installed, are always a beautiful addition inside the home. But have you ever considered what materials those closets are made of?

Celebrity Closet Design Ideas

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 13:39:00 GMT

Celebrity closets have been the subject of reality shows for quite some time. But even with all of the glammed up features they show off, don't think that your closet can't be just as fabulous. But how?

Garage Storage Accessories by HyLoft®

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 13:38:00 GMT

Our friends at HyLoft® offer a number of efficient ways to maximize storage in your garage. Now that the weather has drastically changed, many items like bikes, sporting goods and outdoor furniture must be stored for the next few months. But how can you do so without cluttering up the garage? Accessories by HyLoft® are the answer!

Get a Custom Closet for the Entryway

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 13:37:00 GMT

The entryway or mudroom in your home can be a very chaotic area. From shoots and coats to umbrellas and book bags, it's

the place where everything gets dumped as soon as you get home. As the holidays approach, now is a good time to get your entryway or mudroom organized for guests. You can't have everyone's mess piling up at the front door on Thanksgiving

morning! What kinds of solutions can you implement to get your entryway in order?

A custom closet is the number one thing you should consider. This is the perfect place to gather coats, hats, scarves, umbrellas and wet shoes as soon as guests walk into your home. With our custom closet solutions, the hanging space in your closet could actually double!

To find out how we can maximize space in your entryway or mudroom, all you have to do is call Life Uncluttered today. We'll come take a look at your space and share ideas on how to get the most out of it!

Avoiding Closet Moisture and Odor

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 12:35:00 GMT

Few things are worse than a damp or smelly closet. Between sweaty clothes and dirty shoes, closets can turn into very unpleasant spaces. But it doesn't have to be this way! There are very simple steps you can take to keep your closet as fresh as possible.

Prepare the Dining Room in November

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 19:41:00 GMT

Did you get your media room cleaned and organized in October? We sure hope so because this month, it's time to focus on getting ready for Thanksgiving guests!

Do You Need a Walk-In Closet?

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 19:39:00 GMT

Walk-in closets are alluring for many reasons. First of all, they're totally cool and stylish. And with the right mix of shelves, hanging space and drawers, it's the perfect place to store all of your clothes, shoes and accessories. But chances are that your home didn't come with a very efficient closet. Don't fret though because Life Uncluttered can help! How can you make the most of your walk-in closet space ?