Want to declutter a bedroom or study space? Build in tidiness with cube organizers, which come in a variety of colors. $49, at closetmaid.com.
Before kids head back to class, school yourself on ways to stay on top of everything when life gets busy.
Cathy Adams, a professional organizer and founder of Cardinal Organizing in Newark, advises families not to take on too much in a small window of time.
“It’s easy to get overwhelmed if you think you have to organize the whole house,” she says. “Instead, focus on key areas, such as bedroom closets, a drop-off spot for backpacks, and the kitchen and pantry.”
Clear out clothes that don’t fit to make room for new school clothes, including sports uniforms. Designate a spot in the fridge for grab-and-go lunches and snacks. And to keep everyone on schedule, establish a calendar. That could be an erasable whiteboard or chalkboard, or an organization app, such as Google Keep, or Cozi, a web-based family organizer.
Need more help staying on top of clutter? Here are some products to try in order to stay organized this school year.
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Keep textbooks, folders and binders in order with connecting bins. To stay super organized, let kids choose their own designated color.
$2.79 each at The Container Store, 2200 Fashion Center Blvd., Newark, 317-5980.
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Make your own custom labels for bins and boxes with label makers by Brother.
$25 to $130, at Staples, Office Depot, Best Buy, The Container Store and other retailers throughout Delaware.
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IKEA’s Skadis pegboard helps students and parents keep notes and notices close at hand. Start with the basic pegboard, and add such upgrades as attachable clips, shelves and containers.
$9.99, at IKEA, King of Prussia.
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Reusable silicone bags from Lotsa Style are leakproof, see-through, and hold 33 fluid ounces, ideal for packing snacks for the soccer team.
Set includes two bags, plus eco-friendly beeswax food wrap. $29.99, at amazon.com.