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RENDERINGS Put Your House in Order 4 simple steps to organizational bliss Sometimes when we look at a pile we ask ourselves, “Where do I start?” We may have more than one pile in different locations. Whatever the case or the magnitude, please do not stress. If you can generate the desire and the consistency, you will be organized before you know it. 1 SORT Sort your things into three catego- ries: store, donate, and discard. Store: These are the things we keep. Be strong, “Do I really need this thing?” Separate often-used from seldom-used. Donate: There are others who have needs that could benefit from our things. Discard: Ask yourself, “How long have I had it?” “Do I have a use for it, now?” “How much is it worth?” “Is it worth taking up space?” 2 CONSOLIDATE Separate and consolidate all like things together. This process will reduce stress by making it easy to find your things. Place these things in piles, boxes, or other containers. If you purchase stor- 14 | EAST IDAHO HOME & GARDEN 2010 age containers, here are a few things to consider: • Get sizes that closely fit your storage sys- tem. For example, if you have cabinets you will want the doors to close, and use as much of the space as you can. • Get the right size for the things you place in the container. Avoid wasted space. • See-through containers make it easy to find your things. 3 ORGANIZE Put things in their place. To get the most out of your space you will find the following suggestions most helpful: Put up the “no-brainer” things first, so you are not re-arranging as you go. Here are some examples if you are organizing the garage: Yard and Garden tools go next to the exit door to the yard. House clean- ing tools go next to the door entering the house. Camping and sports equipment (golf clubs) go next to a vehicle for easy loading and unloading. Automobile maintenance tools go next to the “service bay.” Wall hanging racks or hooks are appropriate for these things. Store often-used items where they are accessible. Store things used less often out of the way, such as in the attic, rear of shed or on the highest shelf. 4 MAINTAIN When the piles are gone, every- thing has a space, the stress is relieved and we can then maintain a carefree lifestyle. SOURCES: HOME EMPORIUM AND GORGEOUS GARAGE IN IDAHO FALLS