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Revitalize your space with fresh spring cleaning ideas
As the seasons change, so does the need to refresh your living spaces. Spring cleaning is not just about dusting off the shelves; it’s an opportunity to create a more organized and enjoyable environment. If you’re feeling stuck in a cycle of clutter, or perhaps experiencing what many call “junk blindness,” it’s time to break free with some innovative strategies from professional organizers.
Daily habits to maintain organization
Diane Lowy, a professional organizer based in New York, emphasizes the power of small, consistent actions. Her method, affectionately termed ‘Farm Chores,’ involves dedicating just 15 minutes twice a day to tackle household tasks. This could include loading the dishwasher, folding laundry, or simply returning items to their designated spaces. “Think of it as a gift to yourself,” Lowy suggests. By investing this brief time in your home, you set the stage for a more pleasant living environment that greets you each morning.
The key here is to transform mundane tasks into moments of joy. For instance, upgrading everyday items can significantly enhance your experience. Lowy shares her recent find: the Evermill spice rack, which not only adds aesthetic appeal to her kitchen but also makes cooking more enjoyable. By surrounding yourself with beautiful and functional items, you can elevate the ordinary into something special, making your home a place you love.
Tools that make a difference
Faith Roberson, founder of Organize With Faith, has a simple yet effective tool that she can’t live without: the lazy Susan. This versatile product helps to keep often-overlooked items organized, whether in your pantry or bathroom. “I use it for my vitamins now, so I don’t forget them each day,” she explains. By keeping essentials visible and accessible, you can streamline your daily routine and reduce clutter.
When it comes to closet organization, Roberson suggests seasonal swapping. This method allows you to rotate your wardrobe according to the seasons, creating a sense of novelty and excitement. Storing out-of-season clothing in labeled bins helps maintain a tidy space and makes it easier to find what you need. Incorporating these small changes can lead to a more organized and enjoyable home life.
Creating a system for unwanted items
One of the biggest challenges in maintaining an organized home is dealing with unwanted items. Both Lowy and Roberson stress the importance of having a designated area for items that need to leave your home. Whether it’s donations, repairs, or simply items that no longer serve you, keeping a visible spot near the exit can help prevent clutter from accumulating.
Lowy suggests using a bench or a basket by the door as a staging area. “Make it habitual to place items there as soon as you decide they no longer belong in your space. This way, it doesn’t become a daunting task later on,” she advises. By forming the habit of regularly clearing out your home, you can enjoy a clutter-free environment and a more peaceful mindset.
Involving the family in organization
Jen Martin, founder of Reset Your Nest, shares her experience of running a busy household with four kids. She highlights the importance of involving children in the organization process. Using labels to clearly indicate where items belong empowers kids to take ownership of their spaces. Additionally, she engages her kids in food storage by letting them help decant grocery items into clear containers. This not only makes the pantry look appealing but also encourages responsibility among the younger members of the household.
Martin also leverages the simplicity of hooks for organization. From hanging swimsuits in the shower to creating designated spots for hats and backpacks, hooks provide a versatile solution to maintaining order in various spaces. These small adjustments can significantly enhance the overall organization of your home.
Fun ways to stay organized
Ryan Eisland, co-founder of Home Sort, believes that organization can be enjoyable. She encourages creativity in labeling, using humor to make the process more engaging for her family. Unique and quirky labels not only help keep things organized but also create a light-hearted atmosphere at home. This approach can transform the perception of tidying up from a chore into a fun family activity.
For those with children who tend to collect an abundance of toys and gifts, Beth Penn of Bneato Bar suggests regularly purging items without their permission. Keeping an empty cabinet for incoming clutter allows her to manage excess effectively. Once full, she can swiftly determine what goes to donation or recycling, preventing unwanted items from overtaking the home.
Embracing simplicity and flexibility
Penn also reminds us that maintaining an organized home doesn’t require perfection. “Sometimes, you have to lower your expectations and accept that life is busy,” she says. It’s okay if not every toy is in the right bin or if the laundry piles up occasionally. Being adaptable and allowing for life’s messiness is key to enjoying your home without feeling overwhelmed by the need for constant tidiness.
Incorporating these strategies into your spring cleaning routine can revolutionize the way you approach organization in your home. By focusing on small, manageable habits, involving the whole family, and embracing creativity, you can transform your space into a sanctuary of calm and order.