Keeping Track of the End of TapeThis page contains tips for finding the end of tape. There are a few ways to keep track of where to start the tape.
Keeping Track of SocksThis is a page about keeping track of socks. Socks are notorious for seeming to constantly lose their mates. Many of us routinely empty the washer or dryer only to find one sock instead of a pair. Then the hunt begins.
Folding Plastic Grocery BagsThis is a page about folding plastic grocery bags. Storing plastic grocery bags for reuse can be a challenge. They seem to require a better solution than stuffing them in another grocery bag.
Organizing DrawersThis is a page about organizing drawers. Drawers are very useful storage areas and can really help you stay organized. However, if the drawers are a mess they won't help much at all.
Preventing Mold on Stored ClothingThis is a page about preventing mold on stored clothing. Whether they are being boxed up in the attic or hanging in the back or your closet, clothing that is stored for a while can get moldy. Ensure your clothes are ready to wear again, when you need them, by preventing mold infestation.
Storing Seasonal Vinyl Window Clings?Would like info as to how to store seasonal vinyl window clings. So far, I've found that they don't store well and tend to curl up.
Storing a Toilet BrushThis is a page about storing a toilet brush. The toilet brush is a handy often used tool, but not necessarily one you want to leave out in the open.
Storing Artificial FlowersThis page is about storing artificial flowers. It is important to keep these flowers dust free and protected from crushing when storing.
Storing EarringsMany of us are on the lookout for new earring storage ideas. This page offers several easy to implement suggestions.
Keeping Clothes on HangersThis is a page about keeping clothes on hangers. Having your clothing constantly sliding off the hanger is frustrating.
Moving Heavy Furniture on CarpetThis page is about moving heavy furniture on carpet. You can make or buy sliders to help you move heavy pieces over all kinds of floors.
Storing Canning JarsThis is a page about storing canning jars. When not in use canning jars need to be stored until next season.
Organizing a Lazy Susan CabinetA Lazy Susan cabinet can be a very efficient way to store things. This is a page about organizing a lazy susan cabinet.
Keeping Photos from Sticking Together?Moisture and acids from non archival paper can cause photos to stick to each other. One highly recommended solution is to place a piece of archival paper between the photos and then store them in an archival box, away from moisture. This is a page about keeping photos from sticking together.
Keeping Bedskirts in PlaceThis is a page about keeping bedskirts in place. Keeping dust ruffles straight and looking nice can be easy.
Organizing Cookie CuttersThis is a page about organizing cookie cutters. If you have a lot of cookie cutters it's easy to for them to take up a lot of space and get disorganized. Make sure you can find the right shape cookie cutter when you need by keeping them organized.
Use a Soda Can Box to Organize BagsRecycled solutions to organizational issues are often thrifty and creative. This is a page about use a soda can box to organize bags.
Organizing NecklacesThis page is about organizing necklaces. There are ways to keep your jewelry untangled and easy to find.
Storing 5 Gallon Plastic BucketsThis is a page about storing 5 gallon plastic buckets. Large plastic buckets can be tricky to store because they can stick inside of each other.
Organizing Unused Greeting CardsSave extra holiday cards and stock up on frequently used greeting cards when you see a good price and choice. Then by organizing them you can always find what you need for that special occasion. This is a page about organizing unused greeting cards.
Making Wooden Locker ShelvesThis is a page about making wooden locker shelves. Easy to make, wood shelves can add more room and organization to a child's school locker.
Storing Holiday DecorationsThis is a page about storing holiday decorations. Storing your holiday decorations in an organized manner not only will keep them from breaking but also allow you easy access to them when the holiday arrives.
Storing a PlungerThis is a page about storing a plunger. Keeping a toilet plunger in the bathroom may be efficient, but storing this somewhat unsightly tool may require some creativity.
Using a Shower Rod to Hang TowelsA tension shower curtain rod can provide additional space for hanging towels to dry in your tub or shower enclosure. This page suggests using a shower rod to hang towels.
Storing Bicycles on Your WallThis is a page about storing bicycles on your wall. Bicycles can take up a lot of space when not being used. Hanging them on your wall can free up space in your garage and keep them from getting tangled together.
Storing Clothes in a Damp Basement?How do I keep clothes dry in damp basement? I want to pack them away, but am not sure how to keep out mold and mildew smells and dampness. Every time I pull something out it smells and feels damp, or it's plain moldy, especially leather.
Organizing Clothing for the Color BlindThis page is about organizing clothing for someone who is color blind. When someone can not tell the difference between some colors and shades, they may need some help to be confident that their clothes are matched.
Organizing Sewing SuppliesThis is a page about organizing sewing supplies. Keeping all of your sewing supplies well organized makes working on each project easier.
Moving a Washing Machine Down Stairs?I am getting ready to move to another house. I have a washer upstairs and I would like to know if you have any good ideas on how to transport the washer downstairs.
Organizing Your FreezerThis is a page about organizing your freezer. Freezing food allows you to preserve food for a long time which can save you money. Having an organized freezer is key to avoid having the food go to waste.
Solutions for Storing Photos?I have loads of picture albums and pictures. I have to move to a smaller apartment. Do I have to bring all of them with me. I hope there is an easier solution. I don't want to lose any of these precious photos. Thank you.
Handy Storage for Post EarringsI used the empty plastic box my husband had bought assorted nails in for storage of my post earrings. Easy to see everything, snaps shut to avoid losing any items and FREE!
Where To Store Clothing Worn Once?I thought I should wash clothes after I wear them once, but I've read a few articles that say to not wash clothes so often. Besides, no matter how often I wash them, I'm still wearing the clothes, so no matter when I wash, I will wash a lot of clothing. Where do I put the "worn once's" if not in the hamper? Where do I air them out? Wouldn't using Febreze or something be just as costly as laundry soap? Putting them back into the closet seems like I would wear clothes a whole lot or mess up the clean clothes.
Using Extra Cloth Shopping Bags In The FreezerI've found a great use for extra cloth shopping bags! I'm so glad that I couldn't find another post about this so that I could share a tip with everyone and finally "pay everyone back" who has helped me on this website for a change!
Cheap and Practical Large Pin-up BoardWith post-it and memo notes all over my computer monitor and on my wall, my home office was rather cluttered looking. I needed a large board (cork?) but from Staples or an online vendor it would cost me $35 plus. Ingenuity came to the rescue.
Markers and Pens HolderHere is very inexpensive way to organize your markers and pens. This product is advertised showing just paint brushes and colored pencils for $1.25 at Dollar Tree. However, I found it to be great to hold up to 49 markers or pens too!
Storing Saran WrapKeeping saran wrap in the fridge keeps it from folding up on you as tearing off. Alleviates frustration.
Bin There Bin ThatWe use bins for everything! In the garage, the closets, the bathroom cupboards, craft supplies, electronics, the pantry etc. Then, we label them with the contents. Makes everything look so much better and it takes up less room because the bins are stackable.
Tension Rod Wall SupportsTension rod wall supports I put up my tension rod. Twice, I hung my bags on it and it fell to the ground. I wished I had bought those screw in wall supports and then I thought I' will just go look in my plastic cap recycling bag. I found two that fit snuggly onto the ends, great! Now let's place them!
Storing Assorted Food BagsYou can save and reuse assorted plastic food bags without any fuss or mess. Here is how I do it.
Money-Saving Moving TipsTo find the right moving company, start looking far in advance. Ask your friends and family about moving experiences they've had - they may be able to recommend some good companies! You should request quotes from multiple movers and accurately describe your total moving inventory to them - you may be able to save money if your haul isn't too big and you certainly don't want any invoice surprises after Moving Day.
Reuse Egg CartonsI use egg cartons to store my B&BW wallflower refills in the drawer. They are easy to look through and upright so they do not leak. I just cut the top off and set the bottom in it to reinforce it. You could also use it to organize other things (sewing, screws, etc.).
Storing and Caring for Face MasksAlthough mask mandates were stopped earlier this summer, the new variants of COVID-19 are bringing them back. Many areas require masks for any indoor public places and some places, like hospitals and courtrooms, have never stopped requiring them. Here are some tips and tricks that may help you keep your masks organized and at hand when you need them.
How Can I Make Permanent Lines on a Whiteboard?I am a hockey coach looking to make a fun way for my players to learn the game (positioning, rules, etc). I have made a to-scale Nok-hockey "rink" out of "thrifty whiteboard" from Home Depot and pre-primed 1x3 (looks pretty realistic, if I do say so myself!).
Keeping Track Of What Is In Your PantryThis weekend, I took time to organize some of my cabinets. I had over 6 items that were expired as far back as May 2020. I tend to lose track of the items in the cabinets because I would stack new items in front versus grabbing from the back because it's hard to reach without a step stool.
Reduce Trips Up and Down StairsGot frustrated forgetting to bring something UP or DOWN stairs when I changed floors and started leaving things on my stairs for the next trip until realizing that's unsafe for myself and others. I also juggled carrying multiple items (glass of water AND my cell phone for instance), NOT a good combination!
Keeping Bluetooth Earbuds From Getting LostI have found my bluetooth, the earbud style, on the ground and exposed to the elements, for the last time. I decided to make sure that didn't happen again with a simple paperclip.
Satin Hangers With ButtonsI love satin hangers for my lightweight sweaters, but it was always difficult to keep the sweaters on the hangers. To solve this problem, I simply sewed 2 pearl buttons a couple inches from the ends of the hangers.
Reflective Collar as Key LanyardHere is a way to have an adjustable and reflective key lanyard for your keys using a small cat/dog collar. I have always used them because I like that it can be adjusted and not just super long like most lanyards. In addition, using a reflective one is great for finding them in the dark and can be used as safety protection for being visible when walking in the dark ! :)
Changing HVAC FiltersEver wonder when the last time you changed your HVAC filters was? Using a bright colored index card, I write the years, with corresponding months, leaving room for my date I changed the filters for the next three years. I make one for each filter location. I attach it to the wall with two hook and latch dots. I also attach a pen this way, so it's always at the ready!
Organizing Your Spice CabinetMy spice cabinet was a mess! It had been ravaged during the holidays when we needed ingredients that aren't always used year round. Some baking supplies had been mixed in and some bulk spices were still in bags instead of bottles.
Clothespin to Store EarbudsThis is a great tip to keep earbuds from getting tangled in a drawer or your purse. Put the earbuds in the space where the clamp opens. Wind the wires around the prongs. Weave in the end so it doesn't unravel.
Identifying Which Earbud Goes WhereI got some pretty cool bluetooth earbuds last month. They come with these great ear guards. But, sometimes with my eyesight what it is, it's hard to tell which is left or right. I used to spend about 30 seconds a day trying to get it right.
Storing EarbudsEarbud style headphones are common for using with smartphones or computers. They can be wired or wireless, requiring different types of storage to keep them safe and accessible when you want them.
Can Organizer for Craft SuppliesMy daughter went another way with her pantry recently, and gave me three of these. I hoped they would have worked in my pantry but when one door closes...
Sock Storage from the Dollar TreeI am trying to organize my bedroom closet and socks are the bane of my existence. So today I thought of something that really helped.
Tool Box for Car StuffNow that we can travel a little more now, I hope this will help you stay organized on the cheap. I got a small tool box at a thrift store, and simply filled it with things I had in the house or in the car but could rarely find.
Organizing with Shoe Boxes and Storage TubsI needed to find a way to put away crafting items that are seasonal, and make it functional along with decorative. Because it is in my crafting space, a theme color is where I wanted to start. I found some great shoe/photo boxes and plastic tubs.
Storing Face MasksIf you have acquired a collection of face masks for virus protection, you will need a good way to store them so they are accessible when you need them. The easiest way is to hang them from the straps on a hook or hanger.
Daytimer is my BibleI have used a daytimer for years and would be lost without it. I keep it in an area where I frequent most of the day, on my computer desk. Once a week, I pencil in my schedule for each of the weekdays, adding appointments, goals, projects, routine tasks, phone calls to make, etc.
Seed DresserThis is an organized way to store seeds from the produce you buy, grow in your garden, or purchased seed packets. It is a hardware storage container which can be purchased at Harbor Freight for under $20.
Save a Trip With a Storage BasketThis tip is actually universal whether you live in a single story, two story apartment, etc. For me, I am always running up and down stairs for important essentials especially misplaced car keys and wallets. I bought this set of 2 drawer storage organizer mini bins, 10.3 x 6.5 x 2.4 inches at Walmart for only 96 cents!
Corralling Twine and Strapping Tape in One SpotI was tired of the roll of strapping tape and the twine falling out of the pantry every time I needed something next to them. So today, I saw and empty jar and went "Hey!".
Keep Smaller Papers Up Front on ClipboardI live by my little clipboard. But today, I had two pieces of paper that I didn't want hidden behind the main tablet. So I offset one so it shows in the back.
Note Box Using Recycled PaperI recently found this cutie at a thrift store for .25. I loved how it looked like a an office supply box, even down to the little label spot on the front! But it was an odd size and shape.
Major Shelf Over Desk Using CansRecently, I rearragned my bedroom/office/craft room. The scanner was a bone of contention as it was right next to the keyboard. I needed a shelf to keep things from being cluttered on the desk top.
DIY Lazy Susan OrganizerYou know when your intentions are pure and your start out with the best of them? I put a pretty basket on a lazy susan and put napkins, spices, and salt and pepper. Then, a cup for pens. Then paper. Then cards...
Uses For Old RefrigeratorsThere are many uses for old refrigerators, especially for extra storage. However, there are safety concerns with empty fridges and children so be sure the door can be easily opened from the inside. Many people remove the door as added protection.
Tidy Cord SaverThe cord to a small appliance placed inside a cord saver made from a hook and a cardboard toilet paper roll.You can purchase command cord bundle strips or make your own cord solution a lot cheaper. I purchased self adhesive hooks (16 @ dollar store). I placed one on the side of my smoothie blender. I took an empty cardboard TP roll and covered it with inexpensive contact paper (also @ dollar store). I punched a hole in the TP holder and put it on the hook attached to my blender. Then I tucked the cord inside.
Protecting Outdoor Toys with a Shower Curtain LinerIt was an endless battle keeping the outdoor toys clean. My friend suggested going to the dollar store and getting shower curtains. I got the liners because they are white. Perfect solution! I save water, detergent, and time.
Placemat OrganizerI used to store my placemats inside my hutch on a shelf. They were stacked on top of each other and soon they became a scrambled mess. I came up with this storage idea using a hanging file folder system for easier access and to keep them tidy. It is much easier to choose placemats when it is time to set the table!
Flatware Tray to Hold ToolsWe have this extra flatware tray from Ikea. It would cost more time/gas to go return it for $1.29, but I figured out what to use it for today. The perfect tool organizer for my husband's go to frequently used items - screwdrivers, box cutter, hammer, Sharpie, and tire pressure gauge. Everything fits nicely! This is an inexpensive option to help organize tools.
Hanging Up ClutterI have to use a glasses magnifyer for now, till my eyes are better. They clip on my glasses, and it helps me do reading, facebook on the phone, crafts, or Kindle work. Also, this is my charging station for the phone. But, they were always in the way or I left them somewhere they weren't needed. Or, the charger was on the floor.
Keeping Plastic Bags SortedToday I was trying to put out a bunch of little fires. It was raining, I was bored, you get it. So, in a big wooden drawer unit in the pantry, I had bags; all sorts of sizes and that meant I could never find the one I wanted. Which, is usually on the bottom, right?
Vinyl Record Rack for Organizing Plastic ContainersI am always battling with keeping my plastic containers and lids organized. While at the thrift store, I purchased an old 45 record holder with the idea of using it to organize the lids. This is the before and after pictures.
Sprucing Up a TV StandIt's easy to spruce up an old wicker TV stand with a few basic supplies. This adds a great deal of storage in an attractive way.
Fridge Spinner for StorageRepurposing a seldom used item is a fun and thrifty endeavor. Here a refrigerator spinning, lazy Susan style, storage container unit with missing lids moves out of the fridge and is used to store coffee or tea condiments.
Hanger, Clips, and Rings for Craft StorageFinding space to store craft supplies in a small house or apartment can be challenging. Here is an inexpensive solution.
Organizing Using Egg CartonsEgg cartons are often reused for craft projects, but they can also be used for organizing small craft supplies as well as other small items. Some suggestions for organizing using egg cartons can be seen below.
DIY Budget OrganizerSometimes a simple envelop and accordion folder system is the best tool for managing your budget. Learn how to make your own folder and set it up for bill management and savings growth.
Hanging Necklaces Using Re-purposed ItemsA careful search of your home or apartment might uncover a number of items that can be repurposed to hang jewelry crafts that are in process or complete and ready for sale. The tip on this page outlines one crafter's solution.
DIY Bead and Small Item StorageSmall containers, whether recycled coffee containers or lidded boxes from a craft or discount store, can be invaluable in organizing your small craft supplies. A description of one crafter's storage solution is offered below.
DIY Over the Counter Dish RackExpand the storage space in your kitchen with an over the sink dish rack. Buying one can be pricey, but here is a less expensive option.
Customizing a Cupboard ShelfSome times the configuration of your kitchen cupboards may not really work for you. One size or layout in this case does not fit all. There are simple, even temporary ways you can adjust the shelving to make it more suitable to your needs.
DIY Hot Cup Sleeve Tea OrganizerThe paper sleeves you get with your takeout coffee or other hot drinks can be used to create an organizer for your tea bags. Learn how here. It is easy and you're recycling.
Making a Meal Planning Pocket ChartPlanning meals is a great way to save money and time in the kitchen. This helpful pocket chart will keep all your favorite meals in rotation.
Making a Hidden Medicine CabinetBathroom medicine cabinets are often too small to hold all of your medical and first aid supplies. This hidden cabinet/shelf unit was constructed and hung on the back of a door. The design lends itself to other uses as well.
Reducing the Bulk of Craft RibbonCrafting ribbon on spools can take up a lot of space. Here is one way to reduce the bulk and make room for more supplies.
Creating a Work Club for Household ChoresGetting the much needed chores done around your home may be a never ending source of frustration. Try a family coordinated attack on them on a weekly basis. Another excellent idea is to organize a work club in your area. Read on for the club details.
Placing Rubber Bands Around Shampoo BottlesPlace rubber bands around your shampoo bottles to reduce their slipperiness and also to help differentiate between the shampoo and conditioner, especially when they are the same brand.
Hanging a Coat Rack on a DoorThere are a few ways to hang a coat rack on the back of a door. Some come with over the door hangers, they can be screwed into the door, or you can use Command Hooks to attach them.
Customizing a Wicker NightstandAdd a wicker basket to the top of a too small nightstand to create enough space for a bedside lamp, cell charger, and more. Learn how to customize a wicker nightstand below.
DIY Scrapbook Paper Key CoverRather than buy the key covers sold commercially, to help identify specific ones, try the simple solution outlined below. You will be able to personalize your keys using a bit of fun scrapbook paper and Mod Podge.
Storing Books on ShelvesShelving units are the perfect solution for storing books. They allow easy access and the titles are more visible. You don't need to buy expensive wooden shelves for this purpose, read on for some shelving tips.
Keeping Clutter Off Kitchen CountersKitchens are notorious for being a place that seems to be a clutter magnet. All of those horizontal countertops are really convenient places to drop keys, purses, mail, and more. Containers and baskets are one way to at least compartmentalize the mess. Daily pick up routines are also helpful. This page contains suggestions for keeping clutter off of the kitchen counters.
Use a Binder Clip to Hold Cords in PlaceBinder clips are the perfect solution to keeping cords from falling behind furniture. They are also a great way to manage the mess of multiple cords.
Making a Recipe Book for Online RecipesWith so many recipes now available online you might still want to consolidate your favorites into an old school recipe book. One example would be to print and add them to a photo album.
Dollar Tree Bead Storage Container SolutionFinding the right storage container for your craft beads may be a process, as you try and discard various options. Sometimes the solution can be found at a discount store such as the Dollar Tree.
Storing EyeglassesWhen you have an assortment of eyeglasses that you need to store, you can repurpose a letter rack. You will then be able to view your glasses, to quickly choose the pair you want.
Hanging Long Dresses in a Low ClosetUsing two clothes hangers, you can easily hang your dresses in a closet with a low rod setting. Simply drape the skirt portion over the second hanger and you are good to go.
Getting Your Priorities StraightWe always have important things that we need to accomplish. Prioritizing your tasks with a list and following it, will help you complete them in a timely manner.
Canning Jar Utensil HolderThis wall mounted utensil holder is great to use in small kitchens or if you need to free up some drawer space.
Storing Plastic Bags Using Football FoldKeeping plastic bags for later use can look disorganized but these folded bags are neat and easy to store. Learn how to easily fold them in this short video.
Magnetic Locker Pencil HolderThis handy organizer is good for inside a school locker or on the refrigerator. Learn how to make it with this short video
Organizing Spice TinsWatch the video to discover a simple way to organize your spice tins.
Dinner Menu Board and Meal BasketsNeed a way to help your family keep track of weekly meal plans? Check out this helpful and colorful menu board. Learn about it in this short video.
Making a Rubber Band BallThis video shows you the step by step process to making a rubber band ball.
Where To Store Clothing Worn Once?I thought I should wash clothes after I wear them once, but I've read a few articles that say to not wash clothes so often. Besides, no matter how often I wash them, I'm still wearing the clothes, so no matter when I wash, I will wash a lot of clothing. Where do I put the "worn once's" if not in the hamper? Where do I air them out? Wouldn't using Febreze or something be just as costly as laundry soap? Putting them back into the closet seems like I would wear clothes a whole lot or mess up the clean clothes.
Storing Pots and Pans in an Old Fridge?Can I use my 20 year old fridge for pots and pans? (It is still working; I just could not keep stuff frozen in the freezer.) I will unplug it. Can I keep the doors closed? Would it smell? Would baking soda help the with smell?
Hiding a Spare Key on Your Car?Does anyone know of a safe, yet accessible place to hide a spare car key under the hood, or any other place that can be gotten to while locked out? I don't like the idea of a magnetic box because all someone has to do is pull it off the car.
Organising a Chest Freezer?I am hoping for a bright idea! My chest freezer is quite large, and has 3 baskets on top. I know I'm disorganised, but I can never find what I want without loads of trouble! I do realise it's my own fault for just hurling things in after a shop! I once put cardboard boxes in the bottom to try and help. It did a bit, but not enough.
Computer Program For Organizing Photos?Please recommend a program that effectively deals with duplicate photos and documents; a program to use for the many photos , sort and ID, with facial recognition software. I am last of family and near 80 , I need to get this underway. Thanks so much. I have followed you for many years and appreciate all you do.
Tips for Downsizing to a Smaller Apartment?My mom and I live in a big rented house. We have to downsize to a smaller rented apartment. There is no storage in these places. I also have to share a washer and dryer the everyone uses. What did you do when you had to move to a smaller elderly apartment?