Organizing a new home can be daunting - you never seem to be able to find things. Try these tips to put things in the right place the first time:
Like with like
Don’t miss this opportunity to reorder your things when you move into the new home. Group things together that have similar functions, even if they came out of different boxes. For example, you may have blankets, sheets, bath or beach towels that ended up in different boxes because of their locations in your old home. Take the time to put them all together in your new home in a designated spot for linens. Another fantastic idea is to group kitchen staples together according to function - you can use a plastic storage container to hold an ice cream sundae kit (containing toppings like sprinkles, nuts, dried fruit, coconut, etc.), a salad kit (croutons, salad dressing mix, sunflower seeds, beans, etc.) or make one to suit any other meal your family loves to have. It will be super simple to grab a kit and lay out a fantastic salad bar or ice cream party for any occasion.
Place things as close to the place that you’ll use them as possible
That linen closet should be as close to your bed and bathrooms as you can get them. Alternatively, look for a spot as close to your laundry area as possible. This will reduce the amount of trips you need to take when doing the wash or making the beds, and you’ll always find what you need. Other practical examples are: silverware, plates, cups near the dishwasher, spices near the stove, breakfast items grouped together and placed nearest to the spot where you eat breakfast. I also like to keep kids plates, cups and utensils at child height so that they can help set the table (even three year olds can do this!)
Continue to prune
You’ll inevitably find things you don’t need, don’t like, that don’t fit the climate or that didn’t survive transit in your unpacking. Keep a box handy for give away or donation items and find a drop off spot in your new town.
Assess the storage situation
There’s no time like the present to figure out your organizational needs. If you are struggling with closet organization, or lack of storage, there are a ton of affordable solutions out there. I love Ikea for storage solutions - inexpensive and colorful plastic containers, sturdy, modern bookshelves and more.
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Do you have great storage tips for moving families? Please share them in the comments.
Tags: donate, move, organizing, unpacking