Have you ever found yourself staring into a closet wondering what's in it? Do you have a "junk" drawer in your kitchen (maybe 2 or 3)? I think we've all had a space in our home that gets out of control. We have a lot going on in our lives so keeping things orderly is high on my priority list. Every time we move there are several bins of bins. I've accumulated various sizes and shapes depending on the house we are in. Some of it was trial and error, but over the years I've narrowed it down to a handful of favorites.
Labels were a clearance item at Michaels... they have lots of good options!
A long time ago I found that using bins and labeling them was my ideal way to keep things organized long term. My theory is that you get to have a disaster inside the bin if you want, just so long as it matches the label. For example, if you have a bin in your bathroom labeled "Hair Products" you can be in a rush and just toss your hairspray in before you leave the house.
I don't find that many people enjoy living disorganized, they just don't know where to begin. Maybe you've read books, watched shows on hoarding, etc. and you're still stumped! Here are a few tips that have helped me along the way.
Start Small & w/what you use most. Don't let your mind wander and think that your entire house needs to be overhauled in a weekend. That'll probably leave you with nothing organized and behind on everything else. Pick a small space that is your most frequently used stuff (maybe it's your bathroom products, or the kid's dish ware cabinet, etc.)
Purge. I have a couple of minimalist friends, but the vast majority of us has too much! Add to that disorganization and lots of us are paralyzed mentally.
Label. You can get fancy with a label maker or just use some tape and a permanent marker. Whatever you do, you want to know what belongs on a shelf or in a container to lessen the chance of getting frustrated after a trip to the store and shoving everything in a space.
You can pick up organization items nearly everywhere, but my favorite place is the Dollar Tree. You can order some items online, or just frequent a couple of local stores to get what you need. The selection can sometimes be limited, but you can't beat the price! I've had many of the items for years and they're still holding up. Other places like the Container Store or Bed Bath & Beyond are going to have even more amazing items, but you'll end up spending a lot more money. I recommend using places like that for food storage containers and specialty things. I've also found a lot of good options at Menards... somewhere you don't always think of! You can't go wrong checking out Target and Walmart too. There are many different price points and options.
Metal Labels from Michaels
Shown here as busy boxes, but I also use these to store my shoes
One thing to remember is that you're going to occasionally need to refresh a space you organize, so don't get discouraged if something gets messy again! My goal with how I organize is that my family can easily function within the system. They don't need to know anything special to know that they'll find granola bars in the basket marked as such!
The white baskets are 3 of my favorite styles from Dollar Tree
OXO containers from Bed, Bath, & Beyond or Amazon
I love hearing about other people's methods and ideas. Comment below with a tip you've learned that helps keep your household running smoothly!
Here are links to some of my favorite styles... some of the colors vary, my preference is always white!
Label Maker (similar to what I have and love)
Favorite all-purpose shallow basket
Another bin I frequently use
Shoe Boxes, Busy Boxes, etc... I have SO many of these!
These are the totes we are using in our garage and LOVING (We'll share the garage later!)