If you watch one of the latest and greatest organizing shows on TV, browse through a home décor magazine, or spend any time on Pinterest, you may get the idea that you not only have to find storage solutions for the things you own, but that those solutions have to be gorgeous, colorful, expensive, and/or
require a ton of creativity.
The two main goals of effective storage solutions are:
a) They should "contain" items so those items are easily found: You want to store items in a way that they can be easily and quickly found when you need them, no searching required.
b) They should help an area look neat and presentable: You want to store items in a way that keeps like-items with like-items, and makes an area look neat and presentable.
That is it. No-fuss!
By the way, don't seek any storage solutions, or spend a penny on them, until you declutter. That's the most important first step. Then, group like-items together so you know how large (or small) of a storage solution you
need.
If you've decluttered, sorted like-with-like, and have determined that you need some storage options, here are some ideas:
1. "Shop" for storage in your own home. Mason jars that you're not using for canning vegetables or jams are awesome storage solutions for craft supplies, nails/washers/screws, hair ties, pens and markers...the possibilities are endless. Food containers such as margarine tubs, peanut butter jars, or coffee cans make wonderful, inexpensive storage. Cut-up cereal boxes can be used as magazine holders. An old ladder can serve as shelving. Do you have an extra basket that is either not being used, or being used for something unnecessarily? Use it for your new
storage needs.
2. Don't forget space that's "under" or "over." Use the space underneath a bed to store blankets or sheets. Under-the-bed organizers are awesome for this purpose. Have a lot of empty, unused space in a closet? Is there room to add an extra rod...or an additional
shelf?
3. Don't forget space that's "behind." There's often hidden space behind closet and cabinet doors. If this is the case in your home, you can gain extra storage space with over-the-door or behind-the-cabinet-door organizers.
4. Think outside of the "original purpose."
- In the kitchen, a dish drying rack can be used for cookie sheets and muffin tins
- An old canister can be used to hold utensils
- Suitcases not being used to travel can be wonderful storage "containers"
- A wine holder can hold rolled-up towels
- A wire desktop organizer can hold cookie sheets, frying pan lids, and muffin tins
- An old candy dish can be used to hold paperclips or push pins in an office space.
5. Finally, consider whether you're storing for "daily use" or "long-term memories." Remember, everyday items like kitchen utensils should be stored near the stove where you cook. Socks that you wear every day should be able to be accessed quickly and easily.
On the other hand, items like memorabilia, old year books, out-of-season clothing, and Christmas décor can be stowed away so that there is room for the items you need to access most days of the
year.
