Once you've cut the clutter, finding effective storage solutions for your 'keepers' is the next important step. First, take some time to think about the space you're organizing and then sketch out some possible storage ideas. While you're doing so, consider fitting some of these nifty tools into your final solutions.

1. Shoe racks or shoe cubbies. Shoes scattered on the floor in the closet or the mud room can look cluttered, plus there's also a good chance that a shoe is going to be separated from its mate. Get yourself a good shoe rack or shoe cubbies. I've never been a fan of the over-the-door shoe bags to store shoes --although they are wonderful for storing other items like office or craft supplies. For shoes, I find these clumsy, and not very sanitary. Instead, I recommend shoe racks. When you look for a shoe rack, avoid those that are slightly slanted. Shoes without heels will not stay put on these types of racks. Look for flat racks that have a minimum of 2 shelves. Or, you may opt for shoe caddies that contain 9 to 12 squares to place your shoes (i.e. 3 squares horizontal by 3 squares vertical.)

2. Lazy Susans. Lazy Susans are basically circular trays that can be manually revolved. They're often seen on dinner tables so that if someone needs the salt, that person can spin the Lazy Susan from his or her seat, so that item is close enough to be reached. Lazy Susans can be used in cabinets, on countertops, in refrigerators--the possibilities are endless. They're wonderful for holding canned goods, baking supplies, baby food and so much more. If you're going to store lighter items (like single- serve cereal boxes) or smaller items (like vanilla extract) on a Lazy Susan, it's usually best to first put those items in small baskets, and then put the basket on top of the Lazy Susan. This way, these types of items don't fall over every time you spin it.

3. Drawer organizers. Do you have a junk drawer? Is your hosiery and sock collection overtaking your bedroom dresser? Perhaps you have a desk drawer containing tons of office supplies? A drawer organizer can help you keep everything organized, so that the items inside can be retrieved in an instant. You don't have to be a carpenter to install a drawer organizer. Most are simple plastic organizers that can be slipped in a drawer, and used immediately--no tools needed.

4. Laundry sorters. If you, and your family members, take a moment or two each night to sort the clothes taken off when undressing, you won't have to spend an hour or more sorting clothes to put them in the washer when you're ready to do laundry. It will only take a few seconds for each family member to deliver his or her clothes to the laundry room each night, and sort it into the proper laundry bag. The laundry sorter I have is on wheels, and comes with three bags that are removable. We sort dark colored cloths in one, light colored clothes in the second one, and underwear and towels in the third.

8. Step-shelf organizers. If you purchase lots of canned and jar goods--soups, tomato sauce, baby food, tuna fish, etc., you may be experiencing difficulty finding these items in your cabinets when you need them. Step-shelf organizers are these little cabinet-helpers that have 3 or 4 steps. They basically have space for items on the first step, second step and so on, so that the items in the back are stacked high enough that you can see them just as well as the items on the front step. Sort of like stadium seating. The ones that expand are even better for making the most use of your available cabinet space.

Just a very quick shout out to let you know that my latest issue of Anything and Everything is now available. It's the DECEMBER 2021 issue, 12-pages and all in full color. I know you're going to love it. Check it out:

https://www.getorganizednow.com/rd-ae.html

If you don't already receive it, it's a great time to get your hands on a full year of Anything and Everything because, when you do, we're giving away 10 Bonuses, AND ALL of the back issues...complimentary!

Here are the topics in the DECEMBER Issue...

Positive Changes Require Action
Thinking about making changes is not the same as actually making them. Action is key for accomplishing change

I Can See Clearly Now
It's easy to take our eyes for granted and to put off measures to keep them healthy. Here are 13 ways to take care of our eyes and vision

The Beauty of Art Journaling
This form of self-expression allows your creative side to shine through

Organize Your Handbag
An organized purse makes life easier when you're on-the-go

Top 10 Winter Must-Dos
Do these for an organized, prepared, stress-free winter

Making Social Media a Positive Part of Your Life
5 ways to ensure you're using social media for positivity and connectedness

Quick, Creamy Tomato Soup
This recipe has only 5 ingredients and is on the table in less than 30 minutes

Spotting Fads
Fads can drain your wallet and add to your clutter

2022 Countdown
Put your best foot forward as you step into the new year

If you don't already subscribe to my 'Anything and Everything' resource, you can learn about how to do so here:

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We have thousands of readers who LOVE it...and I'm certain you will too!

Maria

P.S. BONUS SPECIAL...Only Until 11:59 p.m. on DECEMBER 3: When you sign up for your Anything and Everything Subscription, you will receive tons of bonuses, plus ALL the BACK ISSUES COMPLIMENTARY!

___ 1. Do today's task on my November Monthly Organizing Checklist. The November 29 TO DO focuses on Christmas decor you have in storage. Visit GetOrganizedNow.com to access my November Monthly Organizing Checklist.

___ 2. Purchase an organizing tool. What would be much better organized, in your home or place of work, if you only had the proper organizing tool to help you get it organized?

___ 3. Be careful about packing on the pounds this holiday season. Here's how I eat healthier when dining out, while still enjoying myself. Visit: GetOrganizedNow.com to access my Top 10 article on this topic.

'I love doing laundry! It's so satisfying. I love the way it smells. I love doing the sheets.' (Keri Russell)

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Warmly,

Maria Gracia
Get Organized Now!
getorganizednow.com

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