Corralling Clutter
Have you noticed how organized the natural world is? God is all about order. He specifically designed the universe and our little blue planet in six days. The sun rises each morning and sets each evening. There’s a rhythm to the tides. The seasons are preset; spring, summer, fall, and winter. Look closely at a nautilus, a beehive or a pinecone. The human body is amazing, intricately designed with many complex systems all working together. All are testaments to our loving Creator.
Order gives way to peace, calm, and neatness. Chaos, on the other hand, leaves one feeling anxious, unsure, and restless. We have little control over much of the chaos in the world. One area you and I can manage is in how we arrange our homes.
Examine your home. What are the main traffic areas? What rooms are used most frequently? Start the organization project in these spaces.
The mudroom is the “organization station” in my home. Situated between the garage and the kitchen, this room is where everyone transitions. As a result backpacks, sports equipment, groceries, and most everything else that enters or leaves the house does so through this little room. Here are a few time-tested ideas my family has found helpful to keep this heavily used room organized.
Wall Hooks
Opt for open hooks instead of cubbies so air can circulate, drying out wet clothes faster. Baskets are super for storing gear that is used daily. Smaller baskets control the clutter of toys and brushes for the dog. Backpacks can be loaded with necessary books and homework assignments, ready for the next day of school. This includes musical instruments and sports equipment. Add a lint roller on a hook for quick lint and dog hair removal.
Closet
Along with coats and snow gear, a small drawer unit provides personal space for each family member’s personal items. Additional drawers can be stocked with frequently used items such as tissues, lip balm, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer. Umbrellas and light weight jackets are stowed here too. Shelves above are a good place for less frequently used or seasonal items. Boots and shoes can go in the closet or under a chair or bench. A rubber mat is helpful for to control soggy items such as wet boots and shoes.
Table
A basket for keys and other must have items is helpful on the table. Magnetic boards on the wall keep track of coupons for local restaurants, receipts, and a Bible verse to encourage everyone as they leave for the day. Attach a magnetic clip to the door for outgoing mail. Add a large clock to keep everyone on time.
Message Center
A whiteboard, chalkboard or cork board makes for a message center in the mud room. Class schedules, phone numbers for coaches, teachers, and parent’s work is easily accessed here. List daily prayers for children as well as Mom and Dad here too. Messages can be left here for other family members. It’s nice to have a little note in familiar handwriting rather than just text messages to communicate with the ones we love. Have markers, a pencil or chalk near the board ready for messages.
If you don’t have space for a mudroom, think creatively in how you can use a hallway or small alcove to accommodate hooks, a thin table or a freestanding coatrack to achieve order in an entryway. Baskets really are a pretty and convenient way to corral clutter. A message board can be easily secured to a wall. Thick rugs will soak up melted snow and keep floors neater. Small spaces used well are often better than large spaces.
Getting organized provides a calm atmosphere for kids and adults. When children experience the benefits of being organized, they’ll hopefully become more organized themselves. (Not a promise!) Truly with a little organization, life will be less stressful for you and your family.
For God is not a God of disorder but of peace…
1 Corinthians 14:33a
© 2013 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.
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[ctt template=”4″ link=”3c2Fi” via=”yes” ]Is your entryway a MESS? Here’s how to control the clutter![/ctt]