Julie Andrews enjoyed, “raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens…” (keep singing if you like, it’s pretty catchy). But in my world organizing products bring joy, The Container Store has been called my mecca, and the smile on a client’s face after a space is organized is pure bliss.
Over the years I’ve discovered a few products that are either crucial for organizing success or simply unique and worth sharing. And although fancy and functional products will not suddenly make you organized, they are an important part of the process.
Hanging Folders – Allow easy access to your file folders and papers. Have plenty of tabs and inserts on hand so you can create natural dividers for your files. If your hanging folders seem to fill quickly, keep a supply of box bottom hanging folders on hand as well.
File Folders – For extra durability use file folders with reinforced tabs.
Label Maker – Use it in all areas of your home and office. Always keep extra label tape on hand so you don’t run out. (I use the Brother P-Touch)
Permanent Marker – A thick black marker to label food containers, kids’ jackets and clothing, boxes and baskets you store in the garage, etc.
Drawer Organizers – They keep your drawers from becoming junk drawers. A variety of shapes and sizes can be used in your kitchen, bathroom, and office. You can find a great selection at your local hardware store, Ikea, Bed, Bath, and Beyond, or many organizing websites.
Inbox – Any items you collect, but cannot look at or process right away should go into your inbox to act on or process at another time. Use it for mail, magazines, memos, notes, phone slips, expense receipts, completed homework, business cards you need to enter in your contacts, etc. Make an appointment with yourself to process your inbox AT LEAST once per week.
Bins and Baskets – It’s not always practical or convenient to install roll-out shelving. Bins and baskets can act as slide-outs on shelves and allow you to easily reach items in the back as well as the front. They also keep like items together and prevent items from spreading and getting lost and buried under other things. Be sure to label your containers as needed.
Hecht of an Organizer® – Great for storing supplies for portable tasks (scrap booking, kids’ homework, home repair projects), or keep one in your car to hold snacks and supplies you need on the go.
Grid-It Organizer™ (Pictured) – Available in a variety of styles for storing your electronic gadgets and accessories as well as other small items in your car or on the go.
Plastic Envelopes – Allow you to transport and protect important papers and easily see what is inside. Smaller sized envelopes can hold coupons and gift cards in your car so that they are always with you when you need them.
This is just a sampling of some of my favorite things (“Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes, snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes…” just in case your still on Ms. Andrews version). Some may work for you and some may not. In order to ensure success, be sure to sort and purge first. Any tool you buy to help you get organized will not suddenly make you organized simply because you have that tool. However, by having tools that you fit your style, you are more likely to use them and thus remain on the path to a more organized life.
*If you have a favorite tool or gadget that has helped you to be or feel more organized, please send an e-mail or add a comment on the More Time For You Facebook Fan Page. I’d love to hear your insight!