Handy Organisation Tips & Tricks!
If you’re reading this, you probably know the daily struggle of keeping a tidy home with kids around. Toys scattered everywhere, crumbs in every corner, and endless piles of washing can make us feel like we’re losing a never-ending battle. But fear not! I’ve gathered some practical tips and tricks that have helped me maintain a semblance of order amidst the chaos. Let’s dive in and hopefully, you’ll find some of these tips as helpful as I have.
1. Toy Rotation
Let’s face it; kids have more toys than they could possibly play with in a day. Try this: rotate their toys. Keep a selection of toys out and put the rest away. Every couple of weeks, swap them around. This not only keeps the clutter down but also makes the toys feel new and exciting again. It’s a win-win!
2. The Basket Trick
Ah, the humble basket. Get a few of these beauties and place them strategically around the house. One in the living room, one in the hallway, one in the kitchen. These are your ‘clutter catchers’. Throughout the day, toss stray items into the baskets. At the end of the day, do a quick round to put things back in their rightful places. It’s a quick way to keep surfaces clear without constantly running back and forth.
3. Washing System
Washing, the bane of our existence. To keep it manageable, create a system. Use separate hampers for whites, colours, and delicates. Encourage older kids to sort their own clothes (a game of ‘laundry basketball’ can work wonders). Also, try to do a load a day. It might seem like a lot, but it’s easier to manage small loads regularly than a mountain of clothes at the weekend.
4. Declutter Regularly
Kids grow out of things quickly. Regularly go through toys, clothes, and books to see what can be donated or passed down. Less stuff means less mess, and it teaches kids about sharing and letting go of things they no longer need.
5. Create a Daily Routine
Incorporate tidying into your daily routine. A quick 10-minute tidy-up before dinner or bedtime can make a huge difference. Get the kids involved – make it a race or a game. You’d be surprised how quickly things get done when there’s a bit of fun involved.
6. Assign Responsibilities
Give each family member a small daily chore. Even the littlest ones can help with something simple, like putting their shoes away or feeding the pet. It teaches responsibility and takes some of the load off you.
7. Designated Zones
Create designated zones for different activities – a reading nook, a play area, a homework station. This helps contain the mess to specific areas and makes tidying up easier, as everything has a place.
8. Kitchen Clutter Control
The kitchen is often the heart of the home and can quickly become cluttered. Clear counter spaces by storing appliances you don’t use daily. Use drawer organisers for utensils and invest in a spice rack. A tidy kitchen makes meal prep less stressful and more enjoyable.
9. The One In, One Out Rule
For every new item that comes into the home, one old item must go. This rule can be particularly useful for managing the influx of new toys around birthdays and Christmas. It helps keep the clutter in check and teaches kids about mindful consumption.
10. Embrace Imperfection
Finally, remember that a perfectly tidy home is a myth, especially with kids. Embrace the mess, within reason. It’s a sign of a lived-in, loved home. The goal is to manage the chaos, not eliminate it completely. Sometimes, it’s okay to let the mess be and spend that time playing with your kids instead.
Keeping a home tidy with kids is no small feat, but with a bit of creativity and organisation, it’s definitely achievable. Hopefully, these tips will help you find some balance between the chaos and calm. Good luck!