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Declutter on a Dime

Budget-Friendly Hacks to Organize Your Home

Article by Susan Brewer

Photography by Susan Brewer

Feeling overwhelmed by clutter? Longing for a calm, organized space but worried about breaking the bank? Fear not, fellow budget warriors! Here’s your guide to transforming your home into a haven of tranquility without spending a fortune:

1. Embrace the Power of Upcycling:

  • Shoebox Chic: Repurpose sturdy shoeboxes for storing scarves, toys, or office supplies. Decorate with paint or fabric for a personalized touch.
  • DIY Drawer Dividers: Craft drawer dividers from cardboard boxes, cereal containers, or even old wine corks. Keep your belongings neatly categorized and easily accessible.
  • Mason Jar Magic: Transform mason jars into storage containers for spices, bathroom essentials, or crafting supplies. Add labels for a polished look.

2. Unleash the Thrifty Shopper Within:

  • Dollar Store Delights: Dollar stores are treasure troves for organizing tools. Find baskets, bins, organizers, and even furniture paint for a fraction of the price.
  • Secondhand Scores: Thrift stores and garage sales offer hidden gems. Look for furniture, decorative boxes, and organizers at a fraction of their retail price.
  • Freecycle Frenzy: Check out Freecycle groups or online marketplaces for free or heavily discounted furniture and organizational items.

3. Maximize Vertical Space:

  • Wall-Mounted Magic: Utilize wall space with shelves, hanging organizers, or pegboards. Store books, toys, or even cleaning supplies off the floor, creating a more spacious feel.
  • Under-Bed Bliss: Invest in under-bed storage containers to utilize this often-neglected space. Store seasonal clothes, blankets, or out-of-season décor.
  • Door Pockets for the Win: Hang over-the-door organizers in pantries, bathrooms, or even behind bedroom doors for additional storage without sacrificing floor space.

4. Embrace the Labeling Love:

  • Label Mania: Invest in clear labels or use painter’s tape and a marker to label shelves, drawers, and containers. This makes finding what you need a breeze and reduces clutter-inducing searching.
  • Color Coordination: Use different label colors for different categories, making it visually appealing and easier to remember where everything goes.
  • Printable Power: Find free printable labels online or create your own with fun fonts and colors. Personalize your organization system and add a touch of style.

5. Remember, Decluttering is Key:

  • Start with a ruthless declutter: Before organizing, sort through your belongings and discard anything broken, unused, or no longer brings you joy. Less stuff means less to organize!
  • Donate or sell: Give unwanted items a second life by donating to charity or selling them online or at a garage sale. This declutters your space and puts some extra cash in your pocket.
  • Maintain the momentum: Schedule regular decluttering sessions to prevent clutter from creeping back in. Remember, organization is an ongoing process, not a one-time event.

By implementing these budget-friendly tips, you can transform your home into an organized oasis, proving that a clutter-free haven is achievable without breaking the bank. So, grab your DIY spirit, unleash your inner bargain hunter, and get ready to experience the joy of an organized space!

Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate (636)936-8600

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