{"id":19727,"date":"2012-01-02T21:36:23","date_gmt":"2012-01-03T02:36:23","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/?p=19727"},"modified":"2020-05-18T16:12:02","modified_gmt":"2020-05-18T20:12:02","slug":"organized-in-365","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/","title":{"rendered":"Organized in 365"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>I&#8217;m tired of hunting for school books around my house, having food expire in the back of my pantry, paying library fines, and lots of other things caused by a lack of organization and systems in my house. A while back I spent an entire year getting totally organized. I went through every nook and cranny, room, bin, and basket in an attempt to declutter and maximize space. You can find out what I did during my organized in 365 journey below.<\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;ve always been an organized person, but as our family has grown my ability to bring my children along side me and teach them to work within our household system has been severely lacking. One day I got tired of the stuff. Tired of the mess, tired of the clutter. I searched the internet for the best systems and tools to get my home in order.<\/p>\n<p>I found a ton of great ideas (many of which I share here) however, the best thing I learned wasn&#8217;t a container or system. It was simply to <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organize-with-less\/\">live with less<\/a>. My best friends became the garbage can, recycle bin and the box marked to donate.<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>Staying organized is so much easier, when you have less to keep organized<\/em><\/strong>. Remember that as you go through your home and declutter.<\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/\" rel=\"false\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-31585\" src=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2018\/08\/organized-in-365.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"250\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69e9485fb4bb3\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69e9485fb4bb3\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Organized_in_365\" >Organized in 365<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#General_Organization_Tips\" >General Organization Tips<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Stuff\" >Stuff<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Hoarders_It_didnt_happen_overnight\" >Hoarders: It didn&#8217;t happen overnight<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Give_Sell_Donate_Toss\" >Give, Sell, Donate, Toss<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Live_every_day_like_you_are_moving\" >Live every day like you are moving<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Around_the_Home\" >Around the Home<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Linen_Closet_Organization\" >Linen Closet Organization<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Hair_and_Makeup\" >Hair and Makeup<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Organizing_Photos\" >Organizing Photos<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Batteries\" >Batteries<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Work_Spaces\" >Work Spaces<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Magazines\" >Magazines<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Repurpose_Items_you_Already_Own\" >Repurpose Items you Already Own<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Organize_Using_Containers\" >Organize Using Containers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Cleaning\" >Cleaning<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#How_to_keep_up_with_daily_cleaning\" >How to keep up with daily cleaning.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Cleaning_Tips\" >Cleaning Tips<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Getting_to_maintenance_mode\" >Getting to maintenance mode<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Productivity\" >Productivity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Kids\" >Kids<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Toys\" >Toys<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Large_Toys\" >Large Toys<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Scooters\" >Scooters<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Balls\" >Balls\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Legos\" >Legos<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Puzzles\" >Puzzles<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Stuffed_Animals\" >Stuffed Animals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Dress-up_Clothes\" >Dress-up Clothes\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Finances_Shopping\" >Finances\/ Shopping<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Budgeting_Resources\" >Budgeting Resources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Money_Management_Resources\" >Money Management Resources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Weekly_Budget_Meetings\" >Weekly Budget Meetings<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Organize_Your_Kitchen\" >Organize Your Kitchen<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Refrigerator_Freezer\" >Refrigerator &amp; Freezer<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Pantry\" >Pantry<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Cabinets_Drawers\" >Cabinets &amp; Drawers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#ClothesLinens\" >Clothes\/Linens<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#Organizing_the_GarageWorkshopCar\" >Organizing the Garage\/Workshop\/Car<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#ChristmasHolidays\" >Christmas\/Holidays<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/#More_Holiday_Organizing_Tips\" >More Holiday Organizing Tips<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Organized_in_365\"><\/span>Organized in 365<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"General_Organization_Tips\"><\/span>General Organization Tips<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stuff\"><\/span>Stuff<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>I\u2019m guessing you have too much of it. I know I do.<\/p>\n<p>Find 5 things in your home, car, purse, pockets, backyard, etc\u2026 that you can toss.<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>Right now.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>It will take you less than 5 minutes. Promise.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Let\u2019s go!<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hoarders_It_didnt_happen_overnight\"><\/span>Hoarders: It didn&#8217;t happen overnight<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Have you seen the show Hoarders?<\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;ve seen it a few times and it makes me very sad. What I realized while watching it was that these homes didn&#8217;t get completely disorganized overnight.<\/p>\n<p><a title=\"Messy Dining Room by nstohlma, on Flickr\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/cavort\/149796024\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/farm1.staticflickr.com\/54\/149796024_acae4cfebe.jpg\" alt=\"Messy Dining Room\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>At some point in the person&#8217;s life they probably lived in a place that you could walk through without risking injury. However something changed and over time the amount of stuff in their home grew to an unmanageable amount.<\/p>\n<p>It wasn&#8217;t as if all of a sudden a dump truck pulled up to the back of their home and dropped off fourteen tons of junk.<\/p>\n<p>Slowly over the years they collected mountains of things they didn&#8217;t need, but couldn&#8217;t let go. Then at some point they became overwhelmed with the amount of stuff in their house and now cannot even begin to start reclaiming their lives from the mess.<\/p>\n<p>We all have areas of disorganization in our lives that are caused from a mild case of hoarding. It might not be to the degree we see on the show, but there are probably overwhelming areas of your life that you can&#8217;t seem to even begin to fix.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s something to think about if you are overwhelmed in your quest for organizing your life. It didn&#8217;t get that way overnight, so don&#8217;t try and fix it overnight.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Start small.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Tackle a small space that is overwhelming you. Set the timer and commit to spending fifteen minutes working on a problem area.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>It only takes fifteen minutes.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t answer the phone, check your email, Facebook, or Twitter. Just work on one project for fifteen minutes. I think you will be surprised at how much you can accomplish.<\/p>\n<p>If you just can&#8217;t get started ask a friend to help you. A few years ago I was totally overwhelmed with my sewing area. A friend came over and one night we worked together to get it organized. It was much more fun to work with my friend and she encouraged me when I wanted to give up!<\/p>\n<p>Oh and actually get rid of it. Don\u2019t put it in a pile for later, or you\u2019ll just have more stuff tomorrow.<\/p>\n<p>If you can do this every day for one month you&#8217;ll have tossed over 150 items! Think of how much progress you can make in 5 minutes a day!<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Give_Sell_Donate_Toss\"><\/span>Give, Sell, Donate, Toss<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>When organizing spaces in your home it is important to handle it once and make a decision. (Try the <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.simplelifeandhome.com\/2012\/06\/05\/clutter-buster-tip-of-the-week-touch-it-once\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">touch it once<\/a> technique)\u00a0 I often find myself stacking items in piles not wanting to make a decision on what to do with them right away.<\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/storage.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20020 alignleft\" title=\"storage\" src=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/storage.jpg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 247px) 100vw, 247px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/storage.jpg 247w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/storage-185x300.jpg 185w\" alt=\"\" width=\"247\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This does not work for me. I\u2019ve found \u201cI don\u2019t know\u201d boxes during moves that haven\u2019t been opened in two or three years! Obviously I didn\u2019t really need those items because I lived for years without them! I\u2019m not talking about keepsakes or hand-me-down clothes, just stuff!<\/p>\n<p>When organizing grab a few boxes or bags and label them\u00a0<strong><em>give, donate, sell, and toss<\/em><\/strong>. If you aren\u2019t going to keep an item put it in the labeled container immediately.<\/p>\n<p>I usually take a bag of items to church every Sunday with my give items. My donate items go straight to the car and I drop them off at our local Goodwill next time I\u2019m out. If it\u2019s something worth selling I\u2019ll usually list it on Craig\u2019s List that evening (or wait until the weekend) and the stuff that isn\u2019t worth selling, donating, or giving away is thrown out or recycled right away.<\/p>\n<p>I find that the satisfaction of getting the items out of my house quickly motivates me to keep organizing. If I just stack and pile I often find myself discouraged and end up with a bunch of half finished organizing projects.<\/p>\n<p>There is a site called\u00a0<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.freecycle.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">freecycle.org<\/a>\u00a0where according to your zip code, you can give away things you no longer use that would otherwise be thrown away or sit in a box until you had a yard sale or donated it. You join, post an ad, and choose who you would like to give it to.<\/p>\n<p>There are so many ways to get rid of unwanted stuff, there&#8217;s no excuse for keeping it in your home.<\/p>\n<p>I love this homemade tower for handling piles. Personally I\u2019d use plastic bins because I don\u2019t think the cardboard ones hold up as well, but you can find the tutorial for this project on\u00a0<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/bit.ly\/OaeuF\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">The Red Chair Blog<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Live_every_day_like_you_are_moving\"><\/span>Live every day like you are moving<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>After being a military spouse for 22 years and moving countless times I&#8217;ve adopted a &#8220;live every day like you are moving&#8221; philosophy about stuff.<\/p>\n<p>Once when getting read to move I cleaned out my desk that I realized hadn&#8217;t looked in many of the drawers since the previous move. Most of the stuff went into the trash. I started thinking&#8230; why do I only do this when I am moving, why do I hold on to things only to throw them away 6, 12 or 18 months later?<\/p>\n<p>One of the reasons I save items is because I am thrifty. I like to save things just in case I can reuse them for something else. I hate to fill the garbage with items that someone can use!<\/p>\n<p>Sometimes savings things causes me to spend more money. I have so much stuff in drawers and in my garage that I can&#8217;t find what I really need and buy things I already own.<\/p>\n<p>Now, I only keep what I&#8217;m sure I will use again. Having less stuff is so freeing! Not only is my house not filled with clutter, my mind isn&#8217;t filled with mental clutter (trying to remember where I put something) either!<\/p>\n<p>Need more help? Here are <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/what-to-do-with-all-that-clutter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">seven things you can do with clutter to organize your home<\/a>.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Around_the_Home\"><\/span>Around the Home<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Linen_Closet_Organization\"><\/span>Linen Closet Organization<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Keep your linen closet organized by folding sheet sets together. Fold the fitted sheet and pillow cases inside the flat sheet. Label your shelves by bedding sizes to keep your linens extra organized.<\/p>\n<p>In the bathroom get creative if you need to store multiple towels.<\/p>\n<p>Use a wine rack as a towel rack in a small bathroom.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-23676\" title=\"wine-rack-towel-rack\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/wine-rack-towel-rack.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"249\" height=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/wine-rack-towel-rack.jpg 249w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/wine-rack-towel-rack-117x300.jpg 117w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 249px) 100vw, 249px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>In a kid&#8217;s bathroom, use a coat rack to hang towels the kids are using. You can hang more towels with hooks than a traditional towel bar.<\/p>\n<p>An <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2Y6ojj9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">over-the-door shoe organizer<\/a> is great for storing first aid items in a small bathroom.\u00a0Keep in mind that young kids would be able to reach the lower pockets.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/First-Aid-Organization.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-23521\" title=\"First Aid Organization\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/First-Aid-Organization.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"305\" height=\"448\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/First-Aid-Organization.jpg 305w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/First-Aid-Organization-204x300.jpg 204w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 305px) 100vw, 305px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>A <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2TcyrTD\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">stackable letter tray<\/a> works well for medicine if you have space in a linen closet.<\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.organizinghomelife.com\/archives\/4056\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-24906\" title=\"Stackable-Letter-Tray\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/12\/Stackable-Letter-Tray.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"450\" height=\"338\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/12\/Stackable-Letter-Tray.jpg 500w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/12\/Stackable-Letter-Tray-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hair_and_Makeup\"><\/span>Hair and Makeup<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>With four girls we have no shortage of hair accessories. Oh wait, we do! This is because pins, bands, and ribbons get lost around here.<\/p>\n<p>This upcycled hair station is so cute and can be made with items you already have around your house. Get the<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/nefotlak.blogspot.com\/2011\/09\/goobs-room-upcycled-jar-hair-station.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> tutorial here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/06\/hair-station-1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-22213\" title=\"hair station 1\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/06\/hair-station-1-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"491\" height=\"369\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/06\/hair-station-1-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/06\/hair-station-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/06\/hair-station-1.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 491px) 100vw, 491px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This cute headband holder is made from an oatmeal container.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/08\/headband-holder.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-23267\" title=\"headband holder\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/08\/headband-holder.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"321\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/08\/headband-holder.jpeg 321w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/08\/headband-holder-214x300.jpeg 214w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 321px) 100vw, 321px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Amy shares a\u00a0great way to organize bobby pins or safety pins and discreetly hide them in the bathroom at <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/gabrielsgoodtidings.blogspot.com\/2011\/11\/bobby-pin-magnetic-strip.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Gabriel&#8217;s Good Tidings<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/DSC_0092-1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-19759\" title=\"magnetic bobby pin strip\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/DSC_0092-1-1024x685.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"430\" height=\"288\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/DSC_0092-1-1024x685.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/DSC_0092-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 430px) 100vw, 430px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This is a cheap and cute way to store your little girl&#8217;s hair bows!<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>Supplies<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>1 Nail<\/li>\n<li>1 Pants\/ Trouser Hanger<\/li>\n<li>2 Ribbons (equal length)<em><br \/>\n<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Take the hanger and hang it from a nail in the wall. Hang a ribbon from each clip.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/09\/IMG_3626.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13168\" title=\"hair bow storage\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/09\/IMG_3626.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"193\" height=\"350\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Attach the hair bows to the ribbon.\u00a0This is so cute and can be hung in a bathroom, closet, or even in the bedroom as decoration!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/09\/IMG_3624.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13169\" title=\"hair bow\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/09\/IMG_3624.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"311\" height=\"350\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Organize hair clips, ribbons, and headbands with items you already own: repurposed cardboard tubes, a clean aluminum can, cork board, ribbon, and push pins. Cost: $0. Time: 15 minutes tops. Problem: Solved.<\/p>\n<p>Visit <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.simplelifeandhome.com\/2012\/07\/25\/clutter-buster-tip-of-the-week-organize-hair-accessories\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Simple Life and Home<\/a> to see how it&#8217;s done.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Hair-clip-storage.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-22994\" title=\"Hair-clip-storage\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Hair-clip-storage.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"316\" height=\"473\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Hair-clip-storage.jpg 351w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Hair-clip-storage-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 316px) 100vw, 316px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Keep <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/makeup-brush-storage\/\">make-up brushes within reach<\/a> with this storage method.<\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/makeup-brush-storage\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-31462\" src=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/inexpensive-make-up-brush-storage-.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"601\" height=\"368\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/inexpensive-make-up-brush-storage-.png 800w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/inexpensive-make-up-brush-storage--300x184.png 300w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/inexpensive-make-up-brush-storage--768x470.png 768w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/inexpensive-make-up-brush-storage--600x368.png 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 601px) 100vw, 601px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>I love this idea for repurposing a silverware tray to hold cosmetic items!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/repurposed-silverware-tray.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-19999\" title=\"repurposed silverware tray\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/repurposed-silverware-tray.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"325\" height=\"325\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/repurposed-silverware-tray.jpg 325w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/repurposed-silverware-tray-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/repurposed-silverware-tray-300x300.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 325px) 100vw, 325px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Looking for a creative way to store jewelry? Tired of tangled chains? Then, forget the jewelry box! Whether you\u2019re storing heirlooms or a five-dollar find, BrightNestv has<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/blog.brightnest.com\/2012\/05\/19\/5-creative-ways-to-organize-your-jewelry\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> five creative \u00a0jewelry organization ideas<\/a>\u00a0that will keep your gold chains untangled and your pearl studs in one place.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/05\/J1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-21839\" title=\"J1\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/05\/J1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"384\" height=\"512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/05\/J1.jpg 480w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/05\/J1-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 384px) 100vw, 384px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Organizing_Photos\"><\/span>Organizing Photos<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>I love to take photos of my kids. So much so that I have amassed thousands of photos over the past 24 years. Read how I (try) to <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/photo-clutter\/\">organize my digital and print photos<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Digital photos have taken over my life, or at least my computer. I have over 40,000 pictures on my computer and my computer barely works because of all the images. I love this idea from <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/thecraftingchicks.com\/2011\/06\/organizing-your-photos-mandy-douglass.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">The Crafting Chicks to organize and store your digital photos<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/photo-organizing.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-22940\" title=\"photo organizing\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/photo-organizing.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"360\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/photo-organizing.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/photo-organizing-300x200.jpeg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Batteries\"><\/span>Batteries<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Energizer-Max-Alkaline-Battery-Pack\/dp\/B007YASGWS\/ref=as_li_ss_il?keywords=batteries&amp;qid=1552936862&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;psc=1&amp;linkCode=li3&amp;tag=thehaphou-20&amp;linkId=e0ae83062235e66ad69fb414383473e8&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B007YASGWS&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=thehaphou-20&amp;language=en_US\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;\" src=\"https:\/\/ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/e\/ir?t=thehaphou-20&amp;language=en_US&amp;l=li3&amp;o=1&amp;a=B007YASGWS\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Store batteries all facing up the same way as in their original wrapping. Batteries start discharging themselves if they come into contact end to top. Did you know that storing your batteries in the freezer so they last longer is an old wive&#8217;s tale? Duracell recommends you store batteries at room temperature.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Work_Spaces\"><\/span>Work Spaces<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Keep your junk drawers less junky by <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/sykestermom.blogspot.com\/2011\/05\/simple.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">repurposing packaging<\/a> to keep the drawer organized.<\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/sykestermom.blogspot.com\/2011\/05\/simple.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-20284\" title=\"organized junk drawer\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/projects-2011-021-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"491\" height=\"369\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/projects-2011-021-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/projects-2011-021-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 491px) 100vw, 491px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Do you have Altoids tins lying around your house? Use them to organize your desk! I found <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/matthew_moss\/4209399652\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">this clever idea on Flickr<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a title=\"Organizing with Altoids Tins by matthew_moss, on Flickr\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/matthew_moss\/4209399652\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/farm3.staticflickr.com\/2750\/4209399652_0eb3bd9ef3.jpg\" alt=\"Organizing with Altoids Tins\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Shop your house, thrift stores and antique stores for one-of-a-kind containers to hold office and craft supplies. Think beyond what the item was originally meant for to &#8220;go green&#8221; and reuse it to lift everyday items from mundane to inspiring. <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.anoregoncottage.com\/2012\/05\/13-ways-to-organize-workroom-with\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Check all the amazing repurposing ideas here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Silver-Tray-with-Pencils.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-22968\" title=\"Silver-Tray-with-Pencils\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Silver-Tray-with-Pencils.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"335\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Silver-Tray-with-Pencils.jpg 500w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Silver-Tray-with-Pencils-300x201.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Magazines\"><\/span>Magazines<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Do you struggle with magazine and\/ or newspaper clutter? For many years I hated to throw away any magazine or newspaper. Thankfully I didn&#8217;t subscribe to many of either, but I was just sure I would need the magazines for a homeschooling project or a decorating idea, and the newspapers for wrapping packages or Christmas ornaments.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/04\/IMG_0351.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-10991 alignleft\" title=\"magazines\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/04\/IMG_0351-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"magazines\" width=\"303\" height=\"228\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>I had stacks of magazines everywhere in my home, bookshelves, bathrooms, next to the bed, under the bed, coffee tables, end tables, baskets, bins, etc. Then we moved and all the magazines were packed up in boxes. I didn&#8217;t unpack the magazines and some time later we had a flood in our storage area. When I opened the boxes they were filled with soaked and ruined magazines. I threw the boxes away and was sad that many of my favorite magazines were gone forever.<\/p>\n<p>The interesting thing is that while the magazines sat in storage and after I threw them away I never missed them. Not once. This was a great lesson for me, because once I realized those magazines cost me more than I gained, I decided it wasn&#8217;t worth it for them to clutter up my home.<\/p>\n<p>Does clutter cost you time, peace of mind, or happiness? This weekend identify something that is robbing you of your joy. Throw it out, donate it, or sell it on Craig&#8217;s List. You&#8217;ll be glad you did.<\/p>\n<p>Organize and Decorate Everything also shares tips for <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/organizeyourstuffnow.com\/wordpress\/conquer-magazine-clutter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Conquering Magazine Clutter<\/a>.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Repurpose_Items_you_Already_Own\"><\/span>Repurpose Items you Already Own<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If you are going to keep items, make sure they can be repurposed to help you stay organized. There are so many awesome organizing ideas, there&#8217;s not excuse for not being able to repurpose something instead of buying new!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/stationary-organizer.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-20245\" title=\"stationary organizer\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/stationary-organizer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"360\" height=\"480\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/stationary-organizer.jpg 360w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/stationary-organizer-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Use a shower rack for stationary.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/dish-rack-organizer.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-20081\" title=\"dish rack organizer\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/dish-rack-organizer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"363\" height=\"483\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/dish-rack-organizer.jpg 484w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/dish-rack-organizer-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 363px) 100vw, 363px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Use a dish rack for organizing files.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" title=\"bread box charging station\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/gravity_forms\/2-82d62cbe7cc995ce5bd4a75b19365f5e\/2012\/01\/DSC_0050-1.JPG\" alt=\"bread box charging station\" width=\"502\" height=\"336\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This is a unique way to hide cords and power strip while you charge electronics. \u00a0Amy shows you how to convert a bread box into a charging station at <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/gabrielsgoodtidings.blogspot.com\/2011\/07\/charger-station-bread-box-repurposed.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Gabriel&#8217;s Good Tidings<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-24318\" title=\"ribbon organizer\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/ribbon-organizer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"448\" height=\"321\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/ribbon-organizer.jpg 448w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/ribbon-organizer-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 448px) 100vw, 448px\" \/><br \/>\nIf you use spools of ribbon for sewing, crafts, or gift wrapping, here is a creative and useful way to store them. \u00a0Get the instructions at <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/spunkyjunky.blogspot.com\/2011\/01\/tutorial-tuesday-5-dollar-ribbon.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Spunky Junky<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Ribbon-Storage.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-22879\" title=\"Ribbon-Storage\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Ribbon-Storage.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"293\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Ribbon-Storage.jpg 500w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Ribbon-Storage-300x175.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Use wire baskets from Ikea to organize ribbon. Wire shelves and baskets hang easily on the rim on the shelves. They could also be hung on the wall or a peg board. When a roll gets empty, take it out, throw it away and replace with new ribbon.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/New-Life-for-an-Old-Spice-Rack.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-23813\" title=\"New-Life-for-an-Old-Spice-Rack\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/New-Life-for-an-Old-Spice-Rack.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"324\" height=\"486\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/New-Life-for-an-Old-Spice-Rack.jpg 400w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/New-Life-for-an-Old-Spice-Rack-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 324px) 100vw, 324px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Give an old spice rack new life by using it to store beads, buttons, office supplies, or other small items. The clear containers of the spice rack make it easy to see your items at a glance. Find out more at <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.blessingsoverflowing.com\/2009\/03\/new-life-for-old-spice-rack\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Blessings Overflowing<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/ice-cube-tray-organizer.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-19917\" title=\"ice cube tray organizer\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/ice-cube-tray-organizer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"360\" height=\"360\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/ice-cube-tray-organizer.jpg 360w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/ice-cube-tray-organizer-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/ice-cube-tray-organizer-300x300.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>An ice cube tray makes a great storage container\/ organizer for nails, screws, and other small hardware.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Use-Egg-Cartons-to-store-household-items.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-22914\" title=\"Use-Egg-Cartons-to-store-household-items\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Use-Egg-Cartons-to-store-household-items.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"302\" height=\"225\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Use-Egg-Cartons-to-store-household-items.png 302w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Use-Egg-Cartons-to-store-household-items-300x223.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 302px) 100vw, 302px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The Greenbacks Gal shares ways you can <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/thegreenbacksgal.com\/how-to-repurpose-egg-cartons-top-10-ways\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">repurpose egg cartons<\/a>, including several ways they can be used for organization.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/business-card-holder.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-23435\" title=\"business card holder\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/business-card-holder.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"320\" height=\"240\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/business-card-holder.jpg 320w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/business-card-holder-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/sewmanyways.blogspot.com\/2012\/09\/tool-time-tuesdaybusiness-card-organizer.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Sew Many Ways<\/a> shares a variety of items that can be stored inside a dollar store <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2ubEUnS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">business card holder<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Before you spend big bucks on containers when you are organizing around your home think about reusing something you already have.\u00a0It saves you money and it keeps items you might have throw away out of the dump.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Organize_Using_Containers\"><\/span>Organize Using Containers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Shoeboxes<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Before you throw away an old shoebox, you might be able to use it to organize drawers and closets in your home.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-32177 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2019\/03\/organize-with-shoeboxes.jpg\" alt=\"Get organized with old shoeboxes\" width=\"460\" height=\"487\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2019\/03\/organize-with-shoeboxes.jpg 750w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2019\/03\/organize-with-shoeboxes-283x300.jpg 283w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 460px) 100vw, 460px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong><em>In the bedroom<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>bras<\/li>\n<li>underwear<\/li>\n<li>socks &#8211; one for blacks, one for browns, one for other colors, one for athletic socks<\/li>\n<li>tights and hose<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>In the bathroom closet<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>medicines by type<\/li>\n<li>nail polish &#8211; try a Velveeta box! These work great too.<\/li>\n<li>sunscreen\/bug spray\/summer ointments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>In the kitchen<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>spice\/soup\/mix packets<\/li>\n<li>some of my bigger jars of spices<\/li>\n<li>cookie sprinkles, food coloring and the like!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You can spray paint or cover the boxes in pretty paper, but I just fill them up and add them to a shelf. All is in order. So easy. So affordable!<\/p>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Diaper boxes<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t throw away your diaper boxes. Cover them with pretty contact or wrapping paper and use them for storage. They make great storage containers in laundry and kid&#8217;s rooms.\u00a0This diaper box storage solution works perfect and adds a little personality with the the contact paper to give it a more finished look. You can even take it a step further and make labels for each box as you see fit. The total cost was just a little bit of time in wrapping and organizing.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/03\/repurposed-diaper-boxes.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21078 alignnone\" title=\"repurposed-diaper-boxes\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/03\/repurposed-diaper-boxes.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"448\" height=\"336\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/03\/repurposed-diaper-boxes.jpg 448w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/03\/repurposed-diaper-boxes-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 448px) 100vw, 448px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Shoe Bags<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Over the door shoe bags are one of my favorite organizing hacks. See how it is used to organize a little girl&#8217;s room <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.joyfulhomemaking.com\/2011\/05\/organizing-for-my-daughter.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>On the back of the bedroom door organize hair accessories by color.<\/li>\n<li>On the back of the pantry door organize little things that can get easily lost in a pantry, like Koolaid or tea packets, snacks for the kids, little pudding boxes, straws, etc.<\/li>\n<li>On the back of the coat closet that holds hats and gloves. \u00a0Each member of the family has their own labeled pocket for both.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/3678.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-19770\" title=\"hanging shoe bin organizer\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/3678-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"553\" height=\"415\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/3678-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/3678-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 553px) 100vw, 553px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Baby Wipes Containers<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Use empty baby wipes containers to organize the following:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Nail polish<\/li>\n<li>Sample shampoo, conditioner, body wash and talc<\/li>\n<li>Small toys<\/li>\n<li>Bath toys<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><a title=\"Minifigs explore the pencil box, American Museum of Natural History. New York 11 April 2009 by sirexkat, on Flickr\" href=\"http:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/sirexkat\/3431901195\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/farm4.staticflickr.com\/3603\/3431901195_d4b2d6b2fe.jpg\" alt=\"Minifigs explore the pencil box, American Museum of Natural History. New York 11 April 2009\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Pencil Boxes<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>These small plastic boxes make great organizing containers and can be purchased for around a dollar, especially after school starts.Check out our tips for\u00a0<a title=\"Organizing with Pencil Boxes\" href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-with-pencil-boxes\/\">organizing with pencil boxes<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Remember, when using basic household items for storage, they don&#8217;t have to look basic. You can\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/making-storage-containers-attractive\/\">make storage containers attractive with a quick trip to the Dollar Store.\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cleaning\"><\/span>Cleaning<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Do you love to clean? I don&#8217;t. However I know it&#8217;s part of &#8220;adulting&#8221; and having a house that I want to live in.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_keep_up_with_daily_cleaning\"><\/span>How to keep up with daily cleaning.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>One way I stay on top of my daily chores is to commit to cleaning 15 minutes each day. If I spend 15 minutes every morning doing small jobs, I don&#8217;t have many big jobs waiting for me on cleaning day.<\/p>\n<p>I use <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.passionatepennypincher.com\/collections\/frontpage\/products\/the-ultimate-home-checklist-pdf-download?aff=4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">this checklist<\/a> to stay on top of my daily chores.<\/p>\n<p>Remember, <em><strong>everyone has the same 24 hours in every day, and seven days in their week.<\/strong><\/em> As much as my mind sometimes seems to think &#8220;later&#8221; will be less hectic than now, it never turns out that way.\u00a0 So, what does a busy mom who wants a clean home do? You have two choices.<\/p>\n<p>The first is to clean your home irregularly, in a big marathon session, when a crisis comes up and it just has to be done. That crisis can be external, such as friends or relatives coming to visit, or internal, such as when you&#8217;ve had it with your messy home and just cannot take it one more second. Then, you disrupt your normal schedule, clean your home from top to bottom, exhaust yourself thoroughly, and vow not to clean again for a good long time because you are so sick of it. Sure, right afterwards you enjoy that nice clean home, but it quickly starts to get dirty again. Sound familiar? I know it does to me because I have done marathon cleaning sessions more times in my own home than I can count.<\/p>\n<p>The other option, and the one I strive towards (but still struggle with sometimes) is to clean my home as part of my normal schedule. Instead of disrupting my normal schedule to clean I&#8217;ve found that if cleaning is actually part of the schedule I get all the cleaning done more quickly. Plus, the icing on the cake is that most of the time my house actually stays relatively clean, so I can enjoy the fruits of my labor most of the time, not just for a day or two after the marathon cleaning session.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Read more on <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/housecleaning-schedule\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">how to fit cleaning into your daily schedule<\/a>.\u00a0<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"google_ads_iframe_18190176\/AdThrive_Content_1\/550058be60ee0cc677a4425b_0__container__\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cleaning_Tips\"><\/span>Cleaning Tips<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Here are some of our best tips for cleaning items in your home.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/how-to-clean-baseboards\/\">How to Clean Baseboards<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/how-to-clean-window-tracks\/\">How to Clean Window Tracks<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/how-to-clean-a-ceiling-fan\/\">How to Clean a Ceiling Fan<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/how-to-clean-a-ceiling-fan\/\">Clean Your Intake Vents<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/how-to-clean-a-refrigerator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">How to Clean a Refrigerator<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Getting_to_maintenance_mode\"><\/span>Getting to maintenance mode<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Maybe you&#8217;ve let projects go for a while and need a big cleaning overhaul before you can start a regular cleaning schedule.<\/p>\n<p>If you have a lot of big cleaning and organizing projects around the house but can&#8217;t seem to find the time to get to them, commit to another 15 minutes each day to work on them. Several years ago I committed to spending 15 minutes a day tackling big projects. While 15 minutes might not seem like a lot of time, if you do it every day it adds up!<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>15 minutes x 27 days = 405 minutes<\/p>\n<p>405 minutes = 6.75 hours<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><em><strong>What could you get done in 7 hours?<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p>I often think of cleaning as as way to make money! I know that seems silly, but here&#8217;s how it works.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p>First, I typically find things when I clean out closets or rooms that I thought we had lost, thrown away, or donated. Finding these items keeps me from having to replace them! (saving money)<\/p>\n<p>Also, I end up with boxes of items to sell and donate.<\/p>\n<p>Here are a few ways you can get rid of your unwanted items and make a few extra dollars.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/frugal-living\/yard-sale-success\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Have a yard sale<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/thefrugalgirls.com\/2009\/12\/guest-post-craigs-list-tips-for-your-after-christmas-shopping.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Sell the items on Craigslist<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Take them to a consignment store (best option for nice clothes)<\/li>\n<li>Sell on Ebay<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You can also donate these items to a local thrift store or charity. Just don\u2019t forget to get a receipt. You can deduct thrift store donations so talk to your accountant for more information.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Productivity\"><\/span>Productivity<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a title=\"Make a List: Organized in 365\" href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/make-a-list-organized-in-365\/\">Make a List<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a title=\"Take Care of It Today: Organized in 365\" href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/take-care-of-it-today\/\">Take Care of It Today<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a title=\"Top Five: Organized in 365\" href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/top-five-organized-in-365\/\">Top Five<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/family-routine-checklist\/\">Family Routine Checklist<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/family-travel-checklist\/\">Family Travel Checklist<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/master-packing-list\/\">Master Packing List<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/sunday-basket\/\">Sunday Basket<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/get-organized-in-15-minutes-a-day\/\">Get Organized in 15 Minutes a Day<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/habits-of-organized-people\/\">Habits of Organized People<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/weekly-chore-chart\/\">Weekly Chore Chart<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/setting-goals-creating-a-home-management-binder\/\">Setting Goals &amp; Creating a Home Management Binder<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organize-your-life-with-binders\/\">Organize Your Life with Binders<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theunlikelyhomeschool.com\/2012\/05\/family-notebook.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Family Notebook<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/command-center\/\">Command Center<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/theorganizedwife.wordpress.com\/2012\/01\/31\/5-quick-ways-to-get-your-family-organized\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Family Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/weekly-schedule\/\">Weekly Schedule<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/color-coding-for-family-organization\/\">Color Coding for Family Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/household-chore-schedule\/\">Household Chore Schedule<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organize-important-papers\/\">Organize Important Papers<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/15-ways-to-get-organized-10-minute-tasks\/\">15 Ways to Get Organized: 10 Minute Tasks<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organize-your-quiet-time\/\">Organize Your Quiet Time<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organize-your-prayer-time\/\">Organize Your Prayer Time<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kids\"><\/span>Kids<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div>\n<ul>\n<li><a title=\"Children\u2019s Chore Lists\" href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/childrens-chore-lists\/\">Children&#8217;s Chore Lists<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/free-online-chore-chart\/\">Free Online Chore Chart<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-homeschool-supplies\/\">Organizing Homeschool Supplies<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/dish-rack-workbox-system\/\">Dish Rack Workbox System<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-chaos\/\">Organized Chaos<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/activities-that-encourage-thankfulness\/\">Activities that Encourage Thankfulness<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/homeschool-workboxes\/\">Homeschool Workboxes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/get-organized-with-wire-shelves\/\">Get Organized with Wire Shelves<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/get-your-homeschool-organized\/\">Get Your Homeschool Organized<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/morning-chores\/\">Morning Chores<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/chore-system-for-kids\/\">Chore System for Kids<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thepelsers.com\/school-room-spruce-up-ikea-magazine-file\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Curriculum Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/chore-bingo\/\">Chore Bingo<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/babysitter-checklist\/\">Babysitter Checklist<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/homework-box-2\/\">Homework Box<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/age-appropriate-chores-for-kids-printable\/\">Age Appropriate Chores for Kids<\/a> (printable)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/traveling-with-babies-and-toddlers\/\">Traveling with Babies and Toddlers<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-kids-paperwork\/\">Organizing Kids Paperwork<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-legos\/\">Organizing Legos<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organize-hair-accessories-2\/\">Organize Hair Accessories<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/coloring-book-orgaization\/\">Coloring Book Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/flexible-homeschool-lesson-plans\/\">Flexible Homeschool Lesson Plans<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/homeschool-task-cards\/\">Homeschool Task Cards<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/help-kids-keep-their-rooms-organized\/\">Help Kids Keep Their Rooms Organized<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/simple-chore-chart\/\">Simple Chore Chart<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-kids-artwork-and-schoolwork\/\">Organize Artwork and Schoolwork<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/on-the-go-kids-storage\/\">On the Go Kids Storage<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Toys\"><\/span>Toys<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>I can&#8217;t remember a time in my parenting life when I wasn&#8217;t trying to organize my kids&#8217; toys. After 24 years of trying, I&#8217;ve decided that different spaces and seasons call for different organizing techniques. My favorite space was the basement because at least I didn&#8217;t have to see the giant toy mess all the time.<\/p>\n<p>However the basement was also the place where toys got lost and were found months or years later only to end up in the donate bag. In fact, once I found an old back pack with<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-toys\/\"> an almost finished half gallon of ice cream<\/a> inside it hiding in a toy box in our basement.<\/p>\n<p>Here are some of my go-to organizing tips for toys.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Bins, Totes, Baskets<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I usually throw away the packaging and store toys in bins, totes, and baskets. Bins and totes stack nicely in the closet and baskets give the look that the toys are organized, even when they aren\u2019t!<\/p>\n<p>Use clear bins so the kids know what toys are in each bin and you aren\u2019t stuck pulling bin after bin down so the children can see what\u2019s inside.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/04\/organizing-toys.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21255\" title=\"organizing toys\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/04\/organizing-toys.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"360\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/04\/organizing-toys.jpg 360w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/04\/organizing-toys-240x300.jpg 240w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you don&#8217;t have clear bins you can always take a picture of the toys and tape it to the outside of a solid bin. This also helps with clean up if mom isn&#8217;t around to show everyone where the toys belong.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pack Them Up<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I try to get rid of toys my kids don\u2019t play with, but even then we still have too many toys.\u00a0Consider packing away half of your child\u2019s toys. In a month switch out the packed toys with the toys that were not packed away.<\/p>\n<p>Your child will have a fresh supply of toys every month!<\/p>\n<p><strong>One In One Out<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If your child wants a new toy ask them to pick one toy to get rid of first. This will help keep toy clutter more manageable.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Think Outside the Box<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I store toys where my kids play with them. The toy kitchen is usually located close to my kitchen. Puzzles are stored in the hutch next to the dining room table. Play-do is stored at the top of the pantry.<\/p>\n<p>This makes finding the toys and putting them away easier.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Declutter<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>As I mentioned last week, <a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-toys\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">most kids have too many toys<\/a> so don\u2019t be afraid to get rid of some of them. If you aren\u2019t sure what toys to get rid of have your child help you, or pack up several boxes and store for a few months. If your child doesn\u2019t notice they are gone you can probably safely deliver them to Goodwill.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Large_Toys\"><\/span>Large Toys<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Light sabers and nerf guns don&#8217;t fit into traditional organizational containers.<\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/coconutheadsurvivalguide.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Holly<\/a> repurposed an old plastic laundry hamper by spray painting it with a coat of primer, then spray painting it with green and brown paint to look like camouflage. Any color will do to match the style and interests of the child.<\/p>\n<p><em>It&#8217;s sturdy enough to hold the larger toys and keeps them off the floor.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/IMAG00591.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-20433 alignnone\" title=\"clothes hamper toy organizer\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/IMAG00591-613x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"386\" height=\"645\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/IMAG00591-613x1024.jpg 613w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/IMAG00591-179x300.jpg 179w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/IMAG00591.jpg 1552w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 386px) 100vw, 386px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Scooters\"><\/span>Scooters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This homemade scooter stand keeps scooters neatly organized. \u00a0Find out how to make it at <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/lesrondabatchelor.blogspot.com\/2012\/02\/scooter-stand-how-to-and-happy-birthday.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Batchelors Way<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/scooter-stand.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-24580\" title=\"scooter stand\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/scooter-stand.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"240\" height=\"320\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/scooter-stand.jpg 240w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/scooter-stand-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Balls\"><\/span><strong>Balls\u00a0<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>I love these wire baskets to store balls. These <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.landofnod.com\/flea-market-wire-ball-bins\/f838\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">wire baskets are Crate &amp; Kids<\/a>, but I&#8217;m pretty sure you could find a less expensive version at Target. And really, who has their own bowling pin set in their garage????<\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.landofnod.com\/flea-market-wire-ball-bins\/f838\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"\/\/images.landofnod.com\/is\/image\/LandOfNod\/Storage_FleaMarket_Ball_Group?$web_zoom$&amp;\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Legos\"><\/span>Legos<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you have a number of Lego sets in your house, and your children like to sometimes use the original instructions, here&#8217;s a great way to keep them organized a <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/meredithanderic.blogspot.com\/2011\/12\/more-lego-ocd.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">My 4 Boys<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/Lego-instruction-organization.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-23845\" title=\"Lego instruction organization\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/Lego-instruction-organization.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"448\" height=\"298\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/Lego-instruction-organization.jpg 448w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/Lego-instruction-organization-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 448px) 100vw, 448px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p>When organizing toys or anything else, it&#8217;s always helpful when you can quickly identify what is in a particular container. \u00a0Labels serve that purpose, but so do see through containers.<\/p>\n<p><em>Make it Perfect<\/em> has <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/tonicoward.blogspot.com\/2010\/06\/peek-boo-toy-sack-tutorial.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">peek-a-boo toy sack tutorial<\/a> that is a cute way to store toys and be able to see what&#8217;s inside the sack.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/toy-sack.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-23565\" title=\"toy sack\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/toy-sack.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"325\" height=\"448\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/toy-sack.jpg 325w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/toy-sack-217x300.jpg 217w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 325px) 100vw, 325px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Puzzles\"><\/span>Puzzles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If your children have a lot of puzzles, you might be interested in how one mom decided to <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/askannamoseley.com\/2012\/09\/how-to-organize-kids-puzzles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">organize kids puzzles<\/a>\u00a0at Ask Anna.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/12\/How-to-Organize-Puzzles2-600x399.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-24909\" title=\"How-to-Organize-Puzzles2-600x399\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/12\/How-to-Organize-Puzzles2-600x399.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"480\" height=\"319\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/12\/How-to-Organize-Puzzles2-600x399.jpg 600w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/12\/How-to-Organize-Puzzles2-600x399-300x199.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stuffed_Animals\"><\/span>Stuffed Animals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Here&#8217;s a way to store that pile of stuffed animals, keep the dust off of them, and make them useful. \u00a0Check it out at <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.cometogetherkids.com\/2012\/07\/stuffed-animal-storage-solution.html\">Come Together Kids<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/stuffed-animal-storage.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-23698\" title=\"stuffed animal storage\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/stuffed-animal-storage.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"413\" height=\"443\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/stuffed-animal-storage.jpg 459w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/stuffed-animal-storage-279x300.jpg 279w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 413px) 100vw, 413px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dress-up_Clothes\"><\/span><strong>Dress-up Clothes\u00a0<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you children love to play dress-up (like mine do!) this repurposed dresser is a great way to organize costumes.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/dress-up-headquarters.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-23460\" title=\"dress up headquarters\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/dress-up-headquarters.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"459\" height=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/dress-up-headquarters.jpg 459w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/dress-up-headquarters-215x300.jpg 215w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 459px) 100vw, 459px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>My comprehensive article on <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-toys\/\">organizing toys can be found here<\/a>.\u00a0<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Finances_Shopping\"><\/span>Finances\/ Shopping<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Get your bills delivered by email!\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>An easy way to reduce on mail, postage, and clutter is to have your bills delivered electronically. In order to stay organized, create a folder for \u201cbills\u201d in your email inbox. Some email programs allow you to filter emails before they even show up in your inbox to simplify things even further.<\/p>\n<p>Next time you receive a bill, check to see if that company offers online delivery. Most utilities, credit cards, insurance, cable and phone service have this option available. It will cut down on your mail (and waste) and keep all your bills organized and in one place!<\/p>\n<p>If electronic billing doesn&#8217;t doesn&#8217;t work for you, <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/queenbeecoupons.com\/2011\/10\/organizing-your-bills-household-paperwork-receipts-and-more\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Heather<\/a> has an idea for organizing paper bills and keeping your counters clutter free!<\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/queenbeecoupons.com\/2011\/10\/organizing-your-bills-household-paperwork-receipts-and-more\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-19962\" title=\"Organize-Bills-File-Folder-1\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/Organize-Bills-File-Folder-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/Organize-Bills-File-Folder-1.jpg 500w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/Organize-Bills-File-Folder-1-300x199.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Budgeting_Resources\"><\/span>Budgeting Resources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If your finances need an organizational makeover here are a few free (and not free) resources for you.<\/p>\n<p><strong><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/templates?category=14&amp;sort=hottest&amp;view=public\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Google Docs Budgets<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Did you know that Google has several free budget templates. There are family, personal, and household budget worksheets. What I like about Google Docs is that you can share them between members of your family so everyone is kept up to date on the budget.<\/p>\n<p><strong><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/cdn.ramseysolutions.net\/media\/pdf\/forms\/fpu-budgeting-forms.pdf?_ga=2.33666977.1239223643.1552927937-1771069232.1552927937\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Dave Ramsey Budget Worksheets<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>We used Dave&#8217;s budget worksheets when we were first starting to put our budgets on paper. He now has an online budget tool available too.<\/p>\n<p><strong><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.budgetsaresexy.com\/2009\/07\/free-budget-templates-sites\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Budgets are Sexy<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This is a link to over ten different budget spreadsheets. There is sure to be one that works for you!<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Money_Management_Resources\"><\/span>Money Management Resources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.passionatepennypincher.com\/collections\/frontpage\/products\/more-money-challenge-worksheets-pdf-download?aff=4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">More Money Challenge Worksheets<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The worksheets will\u00a0encourage you to challenge your\u00a0personal finances\u00a0and ensure\u00a0that you are saving, spending, giving, and living\u00a0well within\u00a0your budget.<\/p>\n<p><strong><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/mvelopes.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mvelopes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Based off the &#8220;Envelopes&#8221; method of budgeting, Mvelopes is another online program. I actually tried this one for a few months, but it wasn&#8217;t compatible with my bank so I stopped using it.<\/p>\n<p><strong><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2W7AQku\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Quicken <\/a><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;\" src=\"\/\/www.assoc-amazon.com\/e\/ir?t=thehaphou-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=B005FIWT74\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" border=\"0\" \/><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Quicken has been around forever and is probably the most popular money management software.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Weekly_Budget_Meetings\"><\/span>Weekly Budget Meetings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Disorganized finances can be costly. Lost bills, forgotten payments, and late fees can wreck a budget! One way to keep on top of the finances is to have weekly budget meetings.<\/p>\n<p>For years my husband and I had monthly budget meetings but I realized that monthly wasn\u2019t often enough. If there were glaring problems with the budget, unexpected bills, or over spending it could take almost a month before it was resolved.<\/p>\n<p>To keep your finances organized I recommend weekly budget meetings. They don\u2019t have to be marathon meetings, simply 15 to 20 minutes once a week to make sure everything is on track financially.<\/p>\n<p>One thing that is important to remember when budgeting is knowing the difference between needs and wants. Living a Frugal Life has a budgeting template to <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.livingafrugallife.com\/free-budgeting-printables-a-needs-and-wants-list\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">help you figure it out<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Organize_Your_Kitchen\"><\/span>Organize Your Kitchen<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Recycle a dresser to create a kitchen hutch.<br \/>\n<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/bit.ly\/zhzsUv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-20010\" title=\"dresser repurposed in the kitchen\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/KitchenReOrganized-682x1024.jpg\" alt=\"dresser repurposed in the kitchen\" width=\"477\" height=\"717\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/KitchenReOrganized-682x1024.jpg 682w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/KitchenReOrganized-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/KitchenReOrganized-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/KitchenReOrganized-600x900.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 477px) 100vw, 477px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you use kitchen towels you may find that they don&#8217;t fit in those small kitchen drawers. Years ago we started rolling the towels to fit more in each drawer. I can fit twice as many rolled towels as I can folded towels.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2011\/01\/IMG_6165.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-17493 size-full\" title=\"organize kitchen towels\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2011\/01\/IMG_6165.jpg\" alt=\"organize kitchen towels\" width=\"550\" height=\"366\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Mount magazine holders on the wall or inside of a door to hold produce.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/magazine-racks.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-20500\" title=\"magazine racks\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/magazine-racks.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"250\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/magazine-racks.jpg 250w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/02\/magazine-racks-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>I usually line my bathroom trashcans with plastic grocery bags. This is a clever idea from<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/DIY-Projects\/Home-Organization\/Kitchen-Storage\/kitchen-storage-solutions-pantry-storage-tips--cabinet-organization-tips\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Family Handyman<\/a>\u00a0for storing them that takes up very little space!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/plastic-bag-holder.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-23425\" title=\"plastic bag holder\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/plastic-bag-holder.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"285\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/plastic-bag-holder.jpeg 285w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/plastic-bag-holder-244x300.jpeg 244w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 285px) 100vw, 285px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you use Folgers coffee or can get a hold of some empty Folgers coffee cans, they are useful for storing all kinds of things. \u00a0Robin at <em>Heart of Wisdom<\/em> has an assortment of\u00a0<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/heartofwisdom.com\/blog\/free-printable-folgers-coffee-can-labels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> free printable labels<\/a> to fit those cans, making it easy to see what&#8217;s inside.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/folgerscanisters2.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-23570\" title=\"folgers canisters\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/folgerscanisters2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"450\" height=\"156\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/folgerscanisters2.jpg 450w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/folgerscanisters2-300x104.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a title=\"How to Organize Loose Recipes\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/how-to-organize-loose-recipes\/\">How to Organize Loose Recipes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lynnskitchenadventures.com\/organizing-cookbooks-and-recipes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Organize Recipes and Cookbooks<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/cooking\/meal-planning-resources\/\">How to Menu Plan\u00a0<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/controllingcraziness.blogspot.com\/2012\/03\/meal-planning.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Flexible Meal Planning<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehomesihavemade.com\/2012\/02\/magnetic-menu-board-part-1\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Magnetic Menu Board<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Refrigerator_Freezer\"><\/span>Refrigerator &amp; Freezer<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Having a clean and organized refrigerator and freezer is an excellent way to save money. You&#8217;ll know what food is available, and eat it before it goes bad and you have to throw it away.<\/p>\n<p>If you have a freezer in the garage or basement, you can create a freezer inventory list on the outside using a dry erase marker. Update the inventory by wiping off the marker with a damp rag.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/gravity_forms\/2-82d62cbe7cc995ce5bd4a75b19365f5e\/2012\/01\/FreezerInventory.jpg\" alt=\"dry erase freezer inventory\" width=\"700\" height=\"500\" \/><\/p>\n<p>If you don&#8217;t want to write on your freezer you can\u00a0uses a <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.mrshappyhomemaker.com\/2012\/01\/freezer-inventory\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">freezer inventory checklist. <\/a>Laminate it so you can reuse it over and over.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/freezer4-1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-20046\" title=\"freezer4-1\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/freezer4-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"448\" height=\"299\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/freezer4-1.jpg 640w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/freezer4-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 448px) 100vw, 448px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>A chalkboard is another fun and decorative way to keep track of what&#8217;s in the freezer.<\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.anoregoncottage.com\/2010\/02\/organizing-strategies-keeping-track-of\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-22966\" title=\"Chalkboard-Freezer\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Chalkboard-Freezer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Chalkboard-Freezer.jpg 300w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/07\/Chalkboard-Freezer-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>To keep items from getting smushed in the freezer before they are totally frozen try using metal locker shelves.<\/p>\n<p><em>One reader suggested&#8230;.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I was having trouble stacking things in my upright freezer, and at Target after school started I found some 12&#8243; locker shelves for $1.25. They worked great! I can keep the bread stacked without smushing it, and bags of vegetables don&#8217;t slide around. I did this in August, and since I have shifted them around a bit to fit whatever I put in (whatever was on sale!).&#8221;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/06\/upright-freezer.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-22262\" title=\"upright-freezer\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/06\/upright-freezer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"375\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/06\/upright-freezer.jpg 375w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/06\/upright-freezer-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Inexpensive plastic bins are another great way to keep a freezer organized.<\/p>\n<p>Find out how to organize your side by side freezer on <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/cdm-arewethereyet.blogspot.com\/2011\/11\/organized-freezer.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Are We There Yet.\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/Melissa-026.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-20144\" title=\"organized freezer\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/Melissa-026-682x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"327\" height=\"491\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/Melissa-026-682x1024.jpg 682w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/Melissa-026-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 327px) 100vw, 327px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Milk crates are another simple and cheap way to organize a deep freeze.<\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.blessingsoverflowing.com\/organizing-deep-freezer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-23815\" title=\"Organizing-a-Deep-Freezer-with-Milk-Crates\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/Organizing-a-Deep-Freezer-with-Milk-Crates.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"434\" height=\"290\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/Organizing-a-Deep-Freezer-with-Milk-Crates.jpg 620w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/Organizing-a-Deep-Freezer-with-Milk-Crates-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 434px) 100vw, 434px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Remember having an organized fridge and freezer is the first step in being a good steward of the food you buy. How you store food in the fridge also matters. Check out this <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/ourhealthathome.blogspot.com\/2012\/05\/before-they-rot.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">handy chart<\/a> that will help you use produce before it rots.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pantry\"><\/span>Pantry<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/cooking\/pantry-labels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Pantry Labels<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-the-pantry\/\">Organizing the Pantry<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/pantry-essentials\/\">Pantry Essentials<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-a-pantry-stockpile\/\">Organizing \u00a0Pantry Stockpile<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/dry-food-storage-2\/\">Dry Food Storage<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/pantry-purge-tip\/\">Pantry Purge Tip<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/labeling-food-jars\/\">Labeling Food Jars<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/build-your-own-pantry\/\">Build Your Own Pantry<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/reusing-jars-for-bulk-food-storage\/\">Reusing Jars for Bulk Food Storage<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organize-food-container-lids\/\">Food Container Lids<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/kitchen-pantry-organization\/\">Kitchen Pantry Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cabinets_Drawers\"><\/span>Cabinets &amp; Drawers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/using-cabinet-doors-for-extra-storage-space\/\">Using Cabinet Doors for Extra Storage Space<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/silverware-drawer-clean-out-and-organization\/\">Silverware Drawer Clean Out and Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/cleaning-cabinet-doors-spring-cleaning\/\">Cleaning Cabinet Doors<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-baking-dishes\/\">Organizing Baking Dishes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/inspirationformoms.porch.com\/21-days-to-a-clean-organized-home-day-10-customized-kitchen-utensils-drawer\/n-utensil-drawer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">DIY Customized Utensil Drawer<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/kitchen-cabinet-organization\/\">Cabinet Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-kids-dishes-2\/\">Organizing Kids Dishes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/spice-organization\/\">Spice Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/spice-organization-2\/\">Spice Organization<\/a>\u00a02<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/under-the-sink-organization\/\">Under the Sink Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/cutting-board-organization\/\">Cutting Board Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/tea-organization\/\">Tea Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-spices\/\">Organizing Spices<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/tea-organization\/\">Tea Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/kitchen-sink-storage\/\">Kitchen Sink Storage<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organize-spices-and-baking-ingredients\/\">Organize Spices and Baking Ingredients<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-kitchen-cupboards\/\">Organizing Kitchen Cupboards<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/lunch-box-storage\/\">Lunch Box Storage<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/soup-can-storage\/\">Soup Can Storage<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organize-spices-and-seasonings\/\">Organize Spices and Seasonings<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/under-sink-organization\/\">Under Sink Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/under-the-sink-organization-2\/\">Under Sink Organization 2<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/ribbon-organizer\/\">Organizing Kids Dishes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/spice-cabinet-organization\/\">Spice Cabinet Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ClothesLinens\"><\/span>Clothes\/Linens<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div>\n<ul>\n<li><a title=\"Mitten and Glove Organization\" href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/mitten-and-glove-organization\/\">Mitten, Hat, and Glove Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/clothing-storage-and-organization\/\">Clothing Storage and Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-and-laundering-your-linens\/\">Organizing and Laundering Linens<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organize-your-clothes\/\">Organize Your Clothes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/spring-cleaning-organized-in-365\/\">Spring Cleaning<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/spring-cleaning-storing-seasonal-items\/\">Spring Cleaning: Storing Seasonal Items<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/basic-organizing-rules\/\">Basic Organizing Rules: Spring Cleaning<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/winter-summer-clothing-swap\/\">Winter\/Summer Clothing Swap<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/unmentionables-spring-cleaning\/\">Unmentionables<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/labeled-laundry-bins\/\">Labeled Laundry Bins<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-suits-and-ties\/\">Organizing Suits and Ties<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/home-and-travel-clothing-organizer\/\">Home and Travel Clothing Organizer<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/laundry-routine\/\">Laundry Routine<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organize-kids-school-outfits\/\">Organize School Outfits<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/getting-your-laundry-pile-under-control\/\">Getting Your Laundry Pile Under Control<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/containers-for-organizing-clothes\/\">Containers for Organizing Clothes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/traveling-with-young-children\/\">Traveling with Young Children<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/family-closet\/\">Family Closet<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/laundry-basket-dresser\/\">Laundry Basket Dresser<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/storing-seasonal-clothing\/\">Storing Seasonal Clothing<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/how-to-fold-sheets\/\">How to Fold Sheets<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/how-to-fold-a-fitted-sheet\/\">How to Fold a Fitted Sheet<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/laundry-room-storage\/\">Laundry Room Storage<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organizing-the-linen-closet\/\">Organizing the Linen Closet<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/extra-sheet-organization\/\">Extra Sheet Organization<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Organizing_the_GarageWorkshopCar\"><\/span>Organizing the Garage\/Workshop\/Car<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Have you noticed that stuff has a way of relocating to the car. One way to keep the garbage out of the car is to have a &#8220;grab your stuff&#8217; rule.<\/p>\n<p>Before everyone jumps out of the car and into the house they have to <strong><em>grab all their stuff<\/em><\/strong>.\u00a0 If you are sick of finding cups, juice boxes or the missing glove in the car this will help. At least when you&#8217;re rushing off to the next activity you are getting into a clean car!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/trunk-organization.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-23702\" title=\"trunk organization\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/trunk-organization.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"448\" height=\"284\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/trunk-organization.jpg 448w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/trunk-organization-300x190.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 448px) 100vw, 448px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you have a minivan or SUV is it possible to keep the trunk clean! Check out this organized trunk from\u00a0<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/emcx3.blogspot.com\/2012\/06\/junk-in-trunk-per-request.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Junk in the Trunk<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Do you have a problem with coats all over your minivan? \u00a0<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/madamedeals.com\/van-organization\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Madame Deals<\/a> created a closet to hang them in the back of her mini van.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/mini-van-organization.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-24684 size-full\" title=\"mini van organization\" src=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/mini-van-organization.png\" alt=\"mini van trunk organization\" width=\"300\" height=\"177\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you live up north check out this tip to hang coats in your trunk from\u00a0<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/madamedeals.com\/van-organization\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Madame Deals.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you would like to park your clean car into a clean garage, you need space. In our house, the garage is a catch-all for everything that is too big to cram into the laundry room.<\/p>\n<p>Cleaning out the garage can be a huge task. \u00a0Find a few ideas for creating and organizing zones at<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/kosheronabudget.com\/how-our-garage-went-from-disaster-to-drive-in\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> Kosher on a Budget<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/holiday-zones-1024x764.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-24688\" title=\"holiday-zones-1024x764\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/holiday-zones-1024x764.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"403\" height=\"301\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/holiday-zones-1024x764.jpg 448w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/holiday-zones-1024x764-300x223.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 403px) 100vw, 403px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/kosheronabudget.com\/how-our-garage-went-from-disaster-to-drive-in\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> Kosher on a Budget <\/a>shares here best tips for organizing the garage in zones.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-23467\" title=\"FinishedToyShelf\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/FinishedToyShelf.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/FinishedToyShelf.jpg 300w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/09\/FinishedToyShelf-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>If your garage is full of toys plastic bins are a great kid friendly way to organize. Jen at <em>I Heart Organizing<\/em> uses labeled bins to organize kids&#8217; outdoor toys. <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/iheartorganizing.blogspot.com\/2010\/05\/may-featured-space-outdoors-tubs-of.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Read her post<\/a> to find out where she purchased the bins and how she made the labels.<\/p>\n<p>Karen at <em>Saving the Family Money<\/em> tell you how to easily make a<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/savingthefamilymoney.com\/simply-organized-garage-organization\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> pegboard wall unit for your garage<\/a> to organize your tools, gloves gardening tools, and more.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-24301\" title=\"PegBoardToolOrganization\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/PegBoard-Tool-Organization.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"431\" height=\"448\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/PegBoard-Tool-Organization.jpeg 615w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/PegBoard-Tool-Organization-288x300.jpeg 288w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 431px) 100vw, 431px\" \/><\/p>\n<div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ChristmasHolidays\"><\/span>Christmas\/Holidays<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>This free printable worksheet will help keep your gift giving organized and under budget. \u00a0Download it at <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.theprojectgirl.com\/2009\/11\/29\/gift-worksheet-free-download\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">The Project Girl<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/gift-worksheet.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-24661\" title=\"gift worksheet\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/gift-worksheet.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"336\" height=\"434\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/gift-worksheet.jpg 336w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/gift-worksheet-232x300.jpg 232w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 336px) 100vw, 336px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Cards, baking, gifts, parties, and decorating&#8211;learn how to keep all the different aspects of Christmas organized in one binder at <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.controllingmychaos.com\/2008\/11\/christmas-organized.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Controlling My Chaos<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/Christmas-Organized.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-24655\" title=\"Christmas Organized\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/Christmas-Organized.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/Christmas-Organized.jpg 300w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/Christmas-Organized-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This weekly holiday checklist includes the categories Do, Make, and Shop. \u00a0It&#8217;s sure to help keep you organized and focused this month. \u00a0Find the holiday checklist at <a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.giverslog.com\/?p=2922\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Giver&#8217;s Log<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/ultimate-holiday-checklist-free-printable.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-24658\" title=\"ultimate-holiday-checklist-free-printable\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/ultimate-holiday-checklist-free-printable.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"430\" height=\"286\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/ultimate-holiday-checklist-free-printable.jpg 430w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/ultimate-holiday-checklist-free-printable-300x199.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 430px) 100vw, 430px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Under the Sycamore shares a great<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/ashleyannphotography.com\/blog\/2011\/12\/19\/the-creative-lighting-struck\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> use for Christmas cards<\/a>, and it&#8217;s not a craft project!\u00a0 I love the concept as it <a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/what-to-do-with-all-that-clutter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">eliminates clutter which is my new favorite thing<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/Under-the-Sycamore.gif\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-23836\" title=\"Under-the-Sycamore\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/Under-the-Sycamore.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"402\" height=\"599\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/Under-the-Sycamore.gif 447w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/10\/Under-the-Sycamore-201x300.gif 201w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 402px) 100vw, 402px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Rather than throwing away (or recycling) fruit packaging, why not use it to store Christmas ornaments. \u00a0<a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/organizingmadefun.blogspot.com\/2010\/11\/apples-for-organizing.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Organizing Made Fun<\/a> shows you how she used an apple package to store Christmas ball ornaments. Start saving your packaging now!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/Apples-and-giveaway-shades-001.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-24664\" title=\"Apples and giveaway shades 001\" src=\"\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/Apples-and-giveaway-shades-001.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/Apples-and-giveaway-shades-001.jpg 400w, https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/11\/Apples-and-giveaway-shades-001-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"More_Holiday_Organizing_Tips\"><\/span>More Holiday Organizing Tips<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/storing-christmas-lights\/\">How to Store Christmas Lights<\/a> (so they don&#8217;t get tangled)<\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/monkeyseemonkeydo-jennifer.blogspot.com\/2012\/02\/displaying-organizing-greeting-cards.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Displaying and Organizing Greeting Cards<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2Tj18ye\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Christmas Planning<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target = \"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.justorganized.com\/organizing-christmas-decorations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Putting Away Christmas<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>I&#8217;m tired of hunting for school books around my house, having food expire in the back of my pantry, paying library fines, and lots of other things caused by a lack of organization and systems in my house. A while back I spent an entire year getting totally organized. I went through every nook and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":19744,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[2541],"class_list":{"0":"post-19727","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-organization","8":"tag-organized-in-365","9":"entry"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v15.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Organized in 365 - The Happy Housewife\u2122 :: Home Management<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you tired of a life of chaos? I&#039;m sharing a year of organizing tips. How I decluttered, got rid of stuff, and got organized in 365.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Organized in 365\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Are you tired of a life of chaos? I&#039;m sharing a year of organizing tips. How I decluttered, got rid of stuff, and got organized in 365.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/organized-in-365\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"The Happy Housewife\u2122 :: Home Management\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/TheHappyHousewife\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2012-01-03T02:36:23+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2020-05-18T20:12:02+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/files\/2012\/01\/organized-in-365.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"300\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"250\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@tonihanderson\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@tonihanderson\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\">\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Toni Herrbach\">\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\">\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"24 minutes\">\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19727","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19727"}],"version-history":[{"count":88,"href":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19727\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":33149,"href":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19727\/revisions\/33149"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19744"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19727"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=19727"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thehappyhousewife.com\/home-management\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=19727"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}