For many of us, virtual interaction has made it easier to let small messes pile up. But even if it seems overwhelming, there's no need for hours of organization! Here are some simple tips on how to keep you home organized.
These ideas will have your home looking spotless.
We dream of a home like those saved in our ideabooks, but let's face it: Unless your name is Carol Brady and you have a live-in Alice, these standards can be impossible to live up to. What if I told you that you could have a home where everything appeared organized and pulled together at a moment's notice — and that maintaining it wouldn't require a dedicated support staff or feel like a second job? Here are home design tips to help you master the art of creative camouflage.
1. Add stylish storage in the entry.
The foyer is your welcome home — and your opportunity to create a pleasing entry for visitors. Make this area work for you by outfitting it with pieces that function as storage while adding to the overall aesthetic.
A chest of drawers is an excellent place to temporarily stash loose items when you want to declutter quickly. Socks, Fido's chew toys and Power Rangers can all be quickly dumped here in a beautiful piece that holds your secrets with grace.
This commode is a statement piece that sets the tone for the rest of the home. Whether an antique-style cabinet or a flea market find, a piece that reflects your personality is always a good fit for the foyer. The furniture can serve double duty by bringing the beauty while hiding the beast!
2. Consider the well-placed basket.
If you have kids, pets, a messy spouse or roommate — or you're not so tidy yourself — baskets can be good friends. Place them strategically around your home for quick places to dump anything covering the floor, sofa or tabletop. Your pass through any clutter zone can be quick with a well-placed basket.
Important note: OK, so it's bound to happen — your secret weapon, whether it's a basket or a cabinet, is overflowing, and your powers as the clutter master are crippled. Before this happens, be sure to keep your tools sharpened and ready for war. Take two minutes a day to purge your dumped items and keep your clutter contained. A basket is only as good as the available space inside, so keep it clear, and you'll always be ready to mask life's little messes.
3. Bring in an armoire for larger items.
An armoire stationed in your family room, kitchen or even foyer can house more than books and china. Use that massive cabinet you inherited for larger items that may require a quick disappearing act. You know, things like the 36 rolls of paper towels you purchased in bulk, the bulky blankets or the neon-orange toys larger than the child they're designed for.
4. Choose an ottoman with storage.
Available in just about any style imaginable, storage ottomans are masters of camouflage that make cleanup in a clutch a breeze.
A cluster of smaller storage ottomans used as a coffee table organizes your chaos. Designate an ottoman for toys, blankets, magazines and anything else currently living on the floor. When it comes to cleanup, you can tackle one ottoman at a time or, better yet, assign an ottoman to each of your clutter contributors to clear out weekly.
5. Pack it up.
In the game of creative camouflage, all areas should offer a quick solution for concealing clutter. Put a couple of vintage suitcases beside a chair as an end table to store your collection of board games or whatever unsightly things attempt to take over your space.
6. Unfold a screen.
This decorative, free-standing folding panel can be utilized in any space large or small to offer artistic camouflage for treadmills, sports equipment or simply storage overflow.
How do you deal with the bike or double-wide stroller that clutters your entryway? Without outdoor storage, these bulky items often linger by the door. Create a comfortable home by hiding them with a stylish screen that doubles as art.
Stored in a closet, this quick fix can pop into any space when needed. Like magic, the mountain of unfolded laundry, kids' toys or your latest work in progress will disappear.
Written by J. Allen for Houzz for Working Mother and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@getmatcha.com.
Happy designing, and if you need any help with a home project don't hesitate to reach out to us. from HVAC maintenance, plumbing, water heater installations and electrical services, here's no job too big or small for Shumate expert!
