Spring Cleaning Your Attic

 
Spring is a wonderful time to attack the attic - it's still cool enough to be able to tackle this decluttering job! You certainly don't want to wait until summer. And the timing is perfect - you may find you have enough for a yard sale. Now that's motivating, isn't it?

Start by walking around your attic to take a mental inventory of what you have there. Designate corners for each category - Christmas, other seasonal decorations, keepsakes, off-season clothing, suitcases and traveling accessories, home repair supplies - whatever categories represent your life.

Now that you have designated certain corners for the categories you have stored in your attic, it's time to sort.

Start in one corner of your attic. You may want to surround yourself with several boxes - one for each category plus one for giveaways. As you sort each item, ask yourself:
- is it necessary?
- have you used it in the last year?
- is it important to you or someone else?
- could someone else use it?

If you absolutely must keep the item you're sorting, place it in the appropriate box. Have a trash bag nearby for those things that don't even qualify for giveaways.

Work your way around the attic. You may discover additional categories as you go. You may also find items in your attic which would be better used elsewhere in your home. Be creative - are there some keepsakes you want to keep that could serve as storage containers in your house? Your mother's tea cups could hold jewelry in your dresser drawer, for example. A trunk could hold toys or linens.

Place each box in the corner you have designated for that category.

Now that you've decluttered and sorted, you're ready to look at your storage needs for your attic.


Evaluate each category to see what would best house those items. Do you need large clear storage containers for linens? Do you need small boxes for books? Do you need a place to hang out-of-season clothes? Do you need shelves, drawers, hooks, etc?

Before you go out and purchase storage containers, look around your house, basement, garage, etc. to see if you already have such storage. You may have an unused dresser that would work for storage if it were moved up to the attic, for example.

Label each container with the contents so when you're hunting for something, you don't need to open every container. If you are using clear storage containers, write your list on a piece of paper and slide it down the side of the container so you can read it without opening the box.

When you have completed your attic cleaning, celebrate! Good job done!!

More on spring cleaning:
The Health and Mental Health Benefits of Spring Cleaning
Spring Comes to the Rescue of Winter Depression and Clutter
Spring Cleaning Relationships

Spring Cleaning Your Car

  
With all the snow we get over the winter, we are continually tracking muck into our cars. I'm so happy that spring is here, which means when we clean our cars they might stay that way for a while!

It's time to swap out that winterizing kit (blanket, ice scrapers, hand warmers, etc.) for spring and summer items: sunscreen, bug spray, outdoor toys, water, etc. If you carry a set of extra clothes for your child, you may want to exchange winter clothing for spring or summer clothing. It's best to keep such things containerized, as they can become missiles in a sudden stop.

Take a look throughout your car to see if you have outdated or unnecessary items - old maps, empty CD cases, nonworking pens, etc. Make a clean sweep of the car, removing such items.

Check your car registration and insurance card to make sure they are current.

Make sure your emergency kit is up-to-date: jumper cables, extra washer fluid, flashlight, flares. I keep mine in a plastic container in the back of my car. I also store my reusable grocery bags there, too, so they're not drifting all over the car.

But our biggest struggle is clutter. I read recently that women are more guilty than men when it comes to car clutter. Whatever the case, it's easy for that clutter to collect! Here are a few ideas to tame that trend:

- Ask each person in the car to look around them when leaving the car and throw away any trash they see. When we had foster daughters, they drew the line at other people's tissues, however! If you have a trash can in your garage, it makes it that much easier.

- Make a rule that if you bring it into the car, you must take it back out. Even if your kids are eating something on the way to school, they need to take it into the school when they go. Finding two yogurt containers upside down in the cup holder is not pleasant!

- I'm not a good waiter. So I try to remember to use the time while stopped at a light, waiting for someone, etc., to pick up trash and clutter. When we travel, I try to remove trash each time I get out of the car for a break.

- When we get snacks while traveling, I ask for a bag which we can use for trash.

- If you have children who like to bring toys along in the car, limit them as to number. Just make sure it's not a container with a jillion little toys inside! Consider getting a back-of-the-seat organizer to hold your child's snacks, drinks, toys, books, etc.

- If you allow eating in the car, opt for dry snacks rather than gummy ones. They are much easier to clean up with a vacuum and less likely to get enmeshed in the carpeting or upholstery.

- Make sure drinks have lids, especially when stored in cup holders on the door. Slamming the door and an open drink is not a good combination!

- Keep what you need readily available: sunglasses, phone charger, tissues, paper, pens, fingernail file (Yes, I file my fingernails while waiting at lights, too! I told you I was not a good waiter.)

- As you do your errands, consider using a basket or green shopping bag to carry your items from the car into the house - you can do it in one trip!

It's nice to start out fresh for the spring and summer months! And nice to be prepared for fun ahead with an organized, clean, and equipped car!

More on spring cleaning:
Statistics: The Health and Mental Health Benefits of Spring Cleaning
Green Spring Cleaning with Vinegar
Spring Cleaning Relationships

Statistics: The Health and Mental Health Benefits of Spring Cleaning

 

I thought that this bog post was worth repeating from the past. I really enjoyed the following article by Health Net, Inc. about the health and mental health benefits of spring cleaning.  It's quite motivating! I hope you enjoy it

"The month of March brings with it the official start of spring -- a season associated with renewal and romance, and, on a less lyrical level -- with dusting, scrubbing, and otherwise engaging in the roll-up-your-sleeves ritual known as spring cleaning. While heavy-duty housework hardly sounds inviting, Health Net, Inc. wants to spread the word that spring cleaning not only results in a tidy abode, but also brings with it mental health benefits.

Studies have shown that a dirty, disorganized home can harbor health threats in the form of mold, bacteria and clutter-caused injuries, but such an environment also can negatively impact mental health, explains Ian Shaffer, M.D., chief medical officer of MHN, Health Net's behavioral health subsidiary. 'A thorough spring cleaning definitely brings with it a feel-good sense of satisfaction,' he adds, 'and the physical exertion of dusting, vacuuming and scrubbing has been found to reduce stress and anxiety.'

Shaffer points out that, while the physical benefits of exercise are well known, there's mounting evidence that exercise -- even in the form of housework -- brings with it mental health benefits. In fact, one study -- conducted by University College London -- found that as little as 20 minutes of housework per week reduced feelings of psychological distress. It was further found that the risk of mental health problems was reduced by one-fifth among those engaging in just 20 minutes of housework weekly.

'Exercise is known to boost mental health,' says Shaffer, 'and house-cleaning activities are certainly a form of exercise. A bigger activity, like a top-to-bottom spring cleaning, helps you to feel organized and in control, and those feelings definitely result in reduced stress.' 

The chores-calories connection 

Doing housework not only lifts your spirits and lowers your stress level, but -- as an added bonus -- you also burn calories in the process. The American Heart Association categorizes housework as 'moderate exercise,' and says that a person weighing 150 pounds who engages in 30 minutes of household chores can expect to burn the following:

-- Cleaning a bathroom -- 200 calories

-- Doing laundry -- 133 calories

-- Making beds -- 130 calories

-- Washing windows -- 125 calories

-- Vacuuming -- 123 calories

-- Ironing --70 calories

-- Dusting -- 50 calories

Shaffer notes, 'Household chores alone are unlikely to keep you physically fit, but this, along with other daily tasks, provides a portion of the physical exercise we all need. If you combine these activities with a structured exercise program, the results can be very positive.' 

Stay organized after spring cleaning 

With the satisfaction of a successful spring cleaning behind you, Shaffer cautions against returning to one's previously disorganized ways. 'Staying organized,' he says, 'encourages the good kind of stress. In fact, studies have shown that a feeling of control -- a feeling that comes with being organized -- is key to whether stress will serve as a positive force that fuels creativity and optimism or if it will serve as a negative force accompanied by a sense of helplessness and pessimism.

Beyond optimism, being organized brings with it a bounty of other benefits.

Shaffer points to three:

-- Reduced time pressure -- Among the greatest sources of stress is time pressure, i.e., so much to do, so little time. While being organized doesn't add hours to the day, it does enable you to make the most of the 24 hours in each day. Organized individuals don't waste time wondering what work project is due when, or where a needed item -- from an unpaid bill to an uncashed check -- might be hiding. The time saved can be spent on any number of stress-busting activities, such as exercising or preparing a healthy meal.

-- Disorganization makes it hard to see things in their components. Failing to see the parts leads to a few of the whole that can be very overwhelming and at times will lead to immobilization and people failing to act and move forward.

-- No disorganization domino effect -- As a general rule, disorganization creates a ripple effect, impacting not only the offender, but also those around him or her. If you're disorganized, the fallout can extend to family, friends as well as co-workers, and a tension-filled environment can become the order of the day. Conversely, while organization doesn't guarantee harmony and happiness, it unquestionably helps."

More on the benefits of organization:
9 Ways to Enhance Your Health by Being Organized
Interesting Clutter and Organization Statistics
The "Do It Now" Mindset

Organizinge Your Garage Sale

    

It's getting to be garage sale time again! According to a recent Ebay, Inc. survey, the average household has $3000 worth of clutter! Now that the weather is turning nice, you may want to cash in on that clutter with a garage sale or selling on Ebay.

From personal experience, unless you have some furniture or large items, it may not be worth your time to have a garage sale. Take a tax deduction instead, and donate it to your local charity.

If you are up for a garage sale, start collecting clutter! Put an ad in the paper, listing any special items that may draw buyers. Make sure to register your garage sale if your local officials require it. Your local newspaper ad section usually has the info you need to register.

Put up signs on busy intersections near your house. You can find signs already on a stand at your local Home Depot. You just fill in the pertinent details. Make sure you take them down afterward.

If you have large items or lots of stuff, arrange with a local charity to stop by the afternoon of your sale to take your unsold items off your hands.

Make it easy for your potential buyers to see your stuff. If they can see it as they are driving by, they are more likely to stop. Use card tables and other raised surfaces for display rather than placing things on the ground.

Arrange items attractively to entice buyers. My mom even puts jewelry on the hanger with an outfit she's trying to sell, with shoes below.

Group like-priced items together. Have a $1 table, a $3 table, etc. This eliminates having to put stickers/prices on each item. Make a list for yourself of items on each table. Sadly, people will switch stickers or lie about the price. This will give you a reference point should this happen or should things get placed back on the wrong table.

Display jewelry on plastic mesh canvas you get at the craft store. It's easily seen and less likely to be stolen. For pierced earrings, attach the backs through the holes in the mesh. Use twist ties to attach bracelets or necklaces.

Have your garage sale items organized so all you have to do is set it up in the morning. Be prepared for diehard garage salers to arrive early. Be prepared to haggle. Make sure you have plenty of change and plastic bags.

After your sale, make a list of all the items that didn't sell and immediately load it into your car and take it to a charity if you didn't arrange for it to be picked up. Don't let it go back into your house!

More on disposing of clutter:
Where to Donate Business Clothing for Job Interviews
Three  Steps to Decluttering
Three  Steps to Downsizing to a Smaller Residence
 

Spring Cleaning Using Household Products

    
As you may recall, I'm in love with vinegar! I've started using it as my main cleaner for surfaces and glass. It's a natural disinfectant and very inexpensive. It also gets rid of mineral deposits, which is problem we have here in Montana.

I'm going to link to several past blog posts about using household cleaners to do spring cleaning - lemons, baking soda, vinegar, and dryer sheets. Lemons are also natural disinfectants, and create a great stain remover when combined with baking soda. Click the links above to find out how effective and economical these household products are when it comes to cleaning!


More on spring cleaning:

Three Steps to Clever Cleaning

Spring Cleaning Relationships

Spring Cleaning Your Mood

Spring Cleaning Your Career

Spring Cleaning the Noise

         

Three Areas to Swap Out This Spring

   
It's that time of year again to swap out seasonal items. I can think of at least three areas to address:

1. Clothing - swap out your winter clothes for spring and summer clothes. If you store your summer clothes elsewhere than your bedroom closet, it's time to switch. If all your clothes are in your closet, make your spring and summer clothing more accessible and winter clothing less accessible. Don't forget to keep out some transitional items for those cool days.
 
2. Garage - bring your summer gear nearer the garage door and put your winter gear in the back. You'll want your mower and gardening supplies available and hopefully we're done with snow and ice for a while. You may want to change the oil in your mower and top off your gas can.

3. Car - if you keep an extra change of clothes for your children in your car, you might want to change from winter clothes to summer ones. You can put away the ice scraper, and toss some frisbees and summer toys into the trunk.

While you're at it, you may want to clean out the freezer and make one last pot of soup. Make room for summer ices and sorbets!

Hopefully, we're not too premature on this swap. The whole country seems to be having an early spring. Here's hoping winter is over!

More on seasonal swaps:

It's that Time Again - Swapping Out Your Seasonal Tools

Get Organized Month - Clean out the Freezer

Spring Cleaning the Car

 

Three Steps to Organizing Your Closet - My New Book!

    
I'm happy to announce that I've written another small book for the organizationally overwhelmed: Three Steps to Organizing Your Closet - a step-by-step guide to a functional and efficient closet.  Included are hints for your linen closets and resources for maximizing closet storage.

It is available exclusively through Amazon's Kindle. If you're a member of Amazon Prime, you can read it for free. Otherwise it's $2.99. But ... on March 11, 18, 25 and April 1 and 22 non-Prime Kindle readers can get it for free as part of a Kindle promotion. 

As you may know, most of my other books in the 1-2-3 ... Get Organized series are available on Kindle as well. If you prefer print books, they are available at my website.

Spring is coming! Time to get organized. J 
       

Spring Cleaning the Noise

What is the noise in your life? Has it crept into your life gradually? Maybe it's time to evaluate! Here's a post I did a couple of years ago but worth a revisit. ...

Spring cleaning usually involves sorting through clutter, and cleaning areas that have been neglected over the winter months - windows, walls, and such. Once we are reasonably sure we can kiss snow and cold weather good-bye, we take the time to refresh our surroundings.

I'm proposing something a little different: spring cleaning the input we allow into our lives. Let's take a little time to clean out the clutter and noise, and provide a refreshing environment in which to flourish.

My goal is to create a peaceful environment, whether at home or at work. This means pleasant conversation, encouraging words, and a calm atmosphere. This not only involves what others are saying to me, but what I say to them. I try to set the standards by guiding appropriate types of conversation. My words must be positive, encouraging and building if I expect others to speak similarly.

Is the music I listen to uplifting and motivating? Are the shows and movies I watch inspiring and edifying? Are my computer habits those which build into my life? Do I read positive articles, books, etc.? Am I creating an atmosphere for success for myself and others? Or have I allowed inferior choices to creep in due to my passivity, laziness, or uncontrolled appetites? 

We can have beautifully decorated and sparkling clean homes, but if the environment is cluttered with noise and negative input, what is the point?

Similar blogs:

In a Winter Rut? Here's How to Climb Out! 

Reduce Your Stress - Say No

Rethink Your Life in 3 Weeks 

While Spring Cleaning, Update Insurance Photos

    
Happy Monday! Hope you had a nice weekend. I had some free time, so I worked on an iPhone app I'm writing called Upscale Express Dinners - upscale meals at fast food prices in 30 minutes or less. I'm almost finished, and I'll let you know more about it soon. On to our topic of the day ...

As we do spring cleaning (or not), it's an ideal time to update insurance photos - those photos that prove what you own should disaster strike, and you need to file an insurance claim.

I've found that the easiest way to document our possessions is to take pictures or a movie. Take them of the obvious - furniture, appliances, electronics, etc. But also open drawers, doors, and containers while you shoot. 

Can you imagine having to remember everything in your house in the  midst of a crisis? Make a copy of your photos/movie and store in your safe deposit box, fireproof safe or in the cloud, away from your house. Your information is protected and available should you need it.

Hopefully, we will never need this information, but it will give you peace of mind to have it.


More on security/safety:

National Preparedness Month - Are You Ready for an Emergency?

How Being Medically Organized Could Save Your Life

Getting Organized for Tornado Weather

Spring Cleaning Using Household Items - Vinegar

Here's an updated version of a previous post about using vinegar during spring cleaning:

- To remove coffee or tea stains from the inside of a cup, measure two tablespoons of vinegar into the cup and swish it around. Use a cloth, if necessary, to reach all the stains. Wash with soap.

- To get rid of salt stains on boots or shoes, dip a cloth into vinegar. Those white stains will wipe right off!

- To deodorize a garbage disposal, fill ice trays with vinegar. Freeze. Run the vinegar ice cubes through the disposal, followed by a blast of cold water.

- To clean a teakettle, boil a mixture of water and vinegar in the kettle. Wipe away any residue.

- To freshen a coffeemaker, fill the water reservoir with a mixture of vinegar and water. "Brew" this mixture, followed by several cycles of plain water.

- To clean a dishwasher, run an empty dishwasher through a cycle with a cup of vinegar. Do this once a month to reduce soap buildup on the inner mechanisms and glassware. 

- We use vinegar to clean our humidifier to keep the mold and mildew out.



More on spring cleaning with household products:

Spring Cleaning Using Household Items - Dryer Sheet

Spring Cleaning Using Household Items - Lemons

Spring Cleaning Using Household Items - Baking Soda

Three Steps to Clever Cleaning

DC Area - Donate Your Denim to Habitat

    
If you live in the DC area and need to declutter your jeans, help out Habitat for Humanity at the same time. Vastu Design Clique and professional organizer Scott Roewer have teamed up to collect at least 500 pairs of jeans.

The jeans will be turned into natural cotton fiber insulation for Habitat homes. 500 jeans will insulate one house. They have collected 300 pairs already.

You can drop off your jeans at Vastu Design Clique, 1829 14th St, NW Washington, DC 20009 from Tues - Sat 11 am to 7 pm, Sunday noon to 5 pm (closed Mondays) through Sunday May 23.

Spring Cleaning Walls and Windows

       
I'm running this blog from yesteryear, as spring cleaning is upon us. We cleaned our first floor windows last week while the girls were on spring break. It only took us about 20 minutes! 

We paired up - one inside and one outside, so one could see the other's streaks or missed spots. Even though the windows didn't seem all that dirty, it was amazing how it brightened the rooms!
      
Spring Cleaning the Walls and Windows
 
Not my favorite chore by a long shot!! Each week in the spring and summer that we have girls, we try to think of a cleaning or yard chore we can do for about an hour. It's nice to have help and it teaches them how to manage a home at the same time. So if you have kids, let them enjoy this home management instruction - I'm sure they will be forever grateful! :)

We're going to start a room at a time and clean the windows and walls. I use Mr. Clean Magic Sponges to clean the walls. All you need is a sponge and a container of water. I bought a bunch of dishpans which we use for this chore, spa day pedicures, and other various uses. We do clean them out between activities!

So everyone has their own sponge and dishpan. All you do is wipe down the walls and rinse out the sponge. You don't have to rinse the walls afterwards. I don't know what Mr. Clean did to his sponge, but it IS magic!

While we have the furniture moved out, we may as well wash the windows at the same time. I'm not a big proponent of newspapers and vinegar as so many are - don't like having my hands and other things turn black! Just window cleaner and paper towels.

While the furniture is moved out, my husband usually gets motivated to vacuum those spots we don't often see. Bless him!

As you know, cleaning is one of my least favorite chores, but I sure enjoy the rewards of a clean house! And I can stand anything for an hour - so can our girls. :)

How do you manage spring cleaning?

More on spring cleaning: 

Clutter Statistics - Motivation for Spring Cleaning

Spring Cleaning Using Household Items - Vinegar

Spring Cleaning Using Household Items - Baking Soda

 

2010 National Spring Cleaning Survey Findings

 

Want to know how you measure up with the rest of the country in regard to spring cleaning? Here are the results of a spring cleaning survey sponsored by the Soap and Detergent Association:

"The following question was asked of 1,008 American adults (500 men and 508 women). The independent consumer research study was completed February 25-28, on behalf of The Soap and Detergent Association (SDA), by Echo Research. The survey has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percent.

Do you regularly engage in spring cleaning?

Results:

• Yes (60%)
  
  • 54% of men reported regular spring cleaning (261)
  • 65% of women reported regular spring cleaning (334)
• No (40%)
  
  • 46% of men reported not regularly spring cleaning (222)
  • 35% of women reported not regularly cleaning (180)

Insights:

• Spring cleaning remains a popular activity with 60% of the population participating; however, numbers of reported annual spring cleaners dropping from 68% in 2009. Significantly more women (65%) are regular spring cleaners, as compared to just over half (54%) of men.

The following questions were asked of those who indicated they plan to spring clean this year (595 American adults – 261 men and 334 women).

How long does spring cleaning typically take you to complete?

Results:

• Within 1 week (65%)
  
  • 1 day (13%)
  • 1 weekend (31%)
  • 1 week (20%)
  Longer than 1 week (34%)
  
  • 2 weekends (12%)
  • 2 to 3 weeks (12%)
  • 1 month or more (11%)

Insights:

• Males’ spring cleaning rituals are generally completed in less time than females’ activities. 70% of men’s spring cleaning is complete within a week. Women, on the other hand, take more time, with only 60% of women finishing within a week. 16% of women take 2 to 3 weeks to spring clean.

Which of the following is your primary reason for spring cleaning?

Results:

• To remove clutter (36%)
• To give your house the thorough cleaning it needs (27%)
• To remove asthma or allergy triggers (21%)
• To prevent the spread of illness (6%)

Insights:

• Top reasons address the ABCs of spring cleaning: allergens, bacteria and clutter."

 More on spring cleaning: 

Statistics: The Health and Mental Health Benefits of Spring Cleaning

Spring Cleaning the Walls and Windows

Spring Cleaning Using Household Items - Salt, Newspaper, Coffee Filters, and Olive Oil

Statistics: The Health and Mental Health Benefits of Spring Cleaning

I really enjoyed the following  article by Health Net, Inc. about the health and mental health benefits of spring cleaning.  It's quite motivating! I hope you enjoy it.

"The month of March brings with it the official start of spring -- a season associated with renewal and romance, and, on a less lyrical level -- with dusting, scrubbing, and otherwise engaging in the roll-up-your-sleeves ritual known as spring cleaning. While heavy-duty housework hardly sounds inviting, Health Net, Inc. (HNT 24.16, -0.40, -1.63%) wants to spread the word that spring cleaning not only results in a tidy abode, but also brings with it mental health benefits. 

 

Studies have shown that a dirty, disorganized home can harbor health threats in the form of mold, bacteria and clutter-caused injuries, but such an environment also can negatively impact mental health, explains Ian Shaffer, M.D., chief medical officer of MHN, Health Net's behavioral health subsidiary. "A thorough spring cleaning definitely brings with it a feel-good sense of satisfaction," he adds, "and the physical exertion of dusting, vacuuming and scrubbing has been found to reduce stress and anxiety."

Shaffer points out that, while the physical benefits of exercise are well known, there's mounting evidence that exercise -- even in the form of housework -- brings with it mental health benefits. In fact, one study -- conducted by University College London -- found that as little as 20 minutes of housework per week reduced feelings of psychological distress. It was further found that the risk of mental health problems was reduced by one-fifth among those engaging in just 20 minutes of housework weekly. 

"Exercise is known to boost mental health," says Shaffer, "and house-cleaning activities are certainly a form of exercise. A bigger activity, like a top-to-bottom spring cleaning, helps you to feel organized and in control, and those feelings definitely result in reduced stress." 

The chores-calories connection

Doing housework not only lifts your spirits and lowers your stress level, but -- as an added bonus -- you also burn calories in the process. The American Heart Association categorizes housework as "moderate exercise," and says that a person weighing 150 pounds who engages in 30 minutes of household chores can expect to burn the following:

-- Cleaning a bathroom -- 200 calories

-- Doing laundry -- 133 calories

-- Making beds -- 130 calories

-- Washing windows -- 125 calories

-- Vacuuming -- 123 calories

-- Ironing --70 calories

-- Dusting -- 50 calories

Shaffer notes, "Household chores alone are unlikely to keep you physically fit, but this, along with other daily tasks, provides a portion of the physical exercise we all need. If you combine these activities with a structured exercise program, the results can be very positive." 

Stay organized after spring cleaning 

With the satisfaction of a successful spring cleaning behind you, Shaffer cautions against returning to one's previously disorganized ways. "Staying organized," he says, "encourages the good kind of stress." In fact, studies have shown that a feeling of control -- a feeling that comes with being organized -- is key to whether stress will serve as a positive force that fuels creativity and optimism or if it will serve as a negative force accompanied by a sense of helplessness and pessimism. 

Beyond optimism, being organized brings with it a bounty of other benefits. Shaffer points to three: 

-- Reduced time pressure -- Among the greatest sources of stress is time pressure, i.e., so much to do, so little time. While being organized doesn't add hours to the day, it does enable you to make the most of the 24 hours in each day. Organized individuals don't waste time wondering what work project is due when, or where a needed item -- from an unpaid bill to an uncashed check -- might be hiding. The time saved can be spent on any number of stress-busting activities, such as exercising or preparing a healthy meal. 

-- Disorganization makes it hard to see things in their components. Failing to see the parts leads to a few of the whole that can be very overwhelming and at times will lead to immobilization and people failing to act and move forward. 

-- No disorganization domino effect -- As a general rule, disorganization creates a ripple effect, impacting not only the offender, but also those around him or her. If you're disorganized, the fallout can extend to family, friends as well as co-workers, and a tension-filled environment can become the order of the day. Conversely, while organization doesn't guarantee harmony and happiness, it unquestionably helps." 

More on the benefits of organization: 

9 Ways to Enhance Your Health by Being Organized 

Interesting Clutter and Organization Statistics 

The "Do It Now" Mindset

Spring Cleaning the Attic

How can I be talking about spring cleaning when we still have snow on the ground?! It's gotten warm enough over the last couple of days, though, for some grass in our yard to peep out. But I realize the rest of the country may be experiencing spring-like weather. It's a great time to clean the attic whatever the case.

Spring is a wonderful time to attack the attic - it's still cool enough to be able to tackle this decluttering job! You certainly don't want to wait until summer. And the timing is perfect - you may find you have enough for a yard sale. Now that's motivating, isn't it?

Start by walking around your attic to take a mental inventory of what you have there. Designate corners for each category - Christmas, other seasonal decorations, keepsakes, off-season clothing, suitcases and traveling accessories, home repair supplies - whatever categories represent your life.

Now that you have designated certain corners for the categories you have stored in your attic, it's time to sort.

Start in one corner of your attic. You may want to surround yourself with several boxes - one for each category plus one for giveaways. As you sort each item, ask yourself:
- is it necessary?
- have you used it in the last year?
- is it important to you or someone else?
- could someone else use it?

If you absolutely must keep the item you're sorting, place it in the appropriate box. Have a trash bag nearby for those things that don't even qualify for giveaways.

Work your way around the attic. You may discover additional categories as you go. You may also find items in your attic which would be better used elsewhere in your home. Be creative - are there some keepsakes you want to keep that could serve as storage containers in your house? Your mother's tea cups could hold jewelry in your dresser drawer, for example. A trunk could hold toys or linens.

Place each box in the corner you have designated for that category.

Now that you've decluttered and sorted, you're ready to look at your storage needs for your attic.

Look at each category to see what would best house those items. Do you need large clear storage containers for linens? Do you need small boxes for books? Do you need a place to hang out-of-season clothes? Do you need shelves, drawers, hooks, etc?

Before you go out and purchase storage containers, look around your house, basement, garage, etc. to see if you already have such storage. You may have an unused dresser that would work for storage if it were moved up to the attic, for example.

Label each container with the contents so when you're hunting for something, you don't need to open every container. If you are using clear storage containers, write your list on a piece of paper and slide it down the side of the container so you can read it without opening the box.

Celebrate - good job done!!

Spring Cleaning Your Habits

Need some extra time? Who doesn't!?! A good place to look for extra scraps of time is those habits we do without thinking. Sometimes it's nice to take a step back and evaluate if certain habits are costing valuable time. Here are some potential time traps:

- Reading rather than skimming articles, blogs, emails to determine if they are of interest
- Stopping for coffee rather than making it at home for a fraction of the time
- Allowing others to hold you hostage with their meaningless conversation
- Watch too much news or TV
- Spending too much time on video games, Facebook, etc.
- Letting chores pile up rather than tackle them as they arise (dishes, cleaning, sorting mail, etc.)
- Napping rather than establishing good sleep patterns

Habits are a comfortable part of life, but they can also gobble up our time if we let them. Start paying attention to those habits you have in your life to determine if they are helping or hurting you.

More on habits:
Five causes to disorganization
Tools to Track Your Computer Time
New Sleep Study Shows Risks of Acute and Chronic Sleep Loss

An Unusual, Time-Saving Painting-Prep Tool

How was your weekend? We had some friends over for dinner on Friday night, did some house projects and gardening, and I helped a client organize her bedroom, which I'll tell you about later this week. One of the house projects we did:

On Saturday I decided to touch up the red railing on the steps up to our front door. But first I needed to protect the cement steps. There is still a red dot of paint on a step from the last time I painted the railing - hmph!.

It took FOREVER to cover the steps last time - taping down newspaper. But this time, I decided to try Glad Press and Seal. I use it on our craft table for easy clean up and to protect the table. Why not try it on the steps?

I cut off strips in appropriate sizes. It was flexible enough to wrap around the footings at the bottoms of the posts. It took a fraction of the time as it did last time! I placed rocks on top of the wrap to protect it from gusts. Fabulous! My husband volunteered to do the sanding, so we finished the job in no time!

We still need to do some additional coats, so we left the wrap on the steps and it has stayed in tact so far.

What are your painting tricks? Email subscribers, click here to comment on the original blog.

Similar topics:
Saving Time by Cutting Out Craft Clean Up
Scheduling in Clean-Up Time after Projects
A Dozen Helpful Hints to Simplify Your Life

Spring Cleaning the Noise

Good morning! I hope you had a nice weekend. We got outside and enjoyed some of our nice weather. It was a hard weekend, though, as we had some issues with one of our girls. So I may be going back to bed after I post this! :)

Spring Cleaning the Noise

Spring cleaning usually involves sorting through clutter, and cleaning areas that have been neglected over the winter months - windows, walls, and such. Once we are reasonably sure we can kiss snow and cold weather good-bye, we take the time to refresh our surroundings.

I'm proposing something a little different: spring cleaning the input we allow into our lives. Let's take a little time to clean out the clutter and noise, and provide a refreshing environment in which to flourish.

My goal is to create a peaceful environment, whether at home or at work. This means pleasant conversation, encouraging words, and a calm atmosphere. This not only involves what others are saying to me, but what I say to them. I try to set the standards by guiding appropriate types of conversation. My words must be positive, encouraging and building if I expect others to speak similarly.

Is the music I listen to uplifting and motivating? Are the shows and movies I watch inspiring and edifying? Are my computer habits those which build into my life? Do I read positive articles, books, etc.? Am I creating an atmosphere for success for myself and others? Or have I allowed inferior choices to creep in due to my passivity, laziness, or uncontrolled appetites?

We can have beautifully decorated and sparkling clean homes, but if the environment is cluttered with noise and negative input, what is the point?

Similar blogs:

In a Winter Rut? Here's How to Climb Out!

Reduce Your Stress - Say No

To Do List or Not To Do List - That is the Question!

Spring Cleaning the Garage - Storing Hazardous Materials

Today's forecast is abundant sunshine! After several days of rain, I'm so happy to have some sun come our way. Our flowers have flourished with the rain, though, so I shouldn't whine. They made it through last week's snow I'm happy to say.

Today we're meeting a new girl in our program who will be coming into our home tomorrow. I'll be making menus and stocking the house with food after our trip.

Today's a perfect day for spring cleaning the garage ...

Spring Cleaning the Garage - Storage Hazardous Materials

Spring is the time to clean out the garage, swapping out winter items for summer ones. As you attempt this task, here are a few pointers from Don Townson of the Vancouver Sun about storing hazardous materials:

"If you have to keep hazardous materials in the garage, follow these rules:

- Store products in their original containers with their labels

- Never mix products

- Keep gasoline in an approved container

- Do not store gasoline or volatile solvents near water heaters or other appliances with pilot lights

- Keep flammables away from outlets, electric tools and appliances

- Store all hazards out of reach of children and pets; use a locked cabinet

- Buy containers with child-resistant caps

- Dispose of hazardous materials appropriately."


More blogs on spring cleaning the garage:

Shadow Boarding the Tools in Your Garage

It's that Time Again - Swapping Out Your Seasonal Tools

Storage for Your Garage

Spring Cleaning Bedrooms

Good Morning! It's going to be a beautiful day here today - in the upper sixties. We haven't seen that kind of weather much yet this spring! I think we may take another hour to wash living room walls this afternoon - we might even get to the windows, as we have three girls in our house this week - lots of help!

But let's talk about spring cleaning the bedrooms now ...

Spring Cleaning Bedrooms

When the weather starts to warm up, it's a great time to spring clean the bedrooms. Spring is one of the times during the year I like to wash all the bed linens for each bedroom. When the girls clean their rooms this week, I will ask them to completely strip their beds down to the mattresses. If you have children and they are old enough, they can do this chore for you, too.

It's a logical time to clean all the linens, as it's time to remove blankets for spring and summer months anyway. And it will be nice to store a freshly washed blanket, ready to use when it gets cold again.

I'll take down the curtains since they are washable. If yours are not, send them to the dry cleaners or vacuum them, using the brush attachment.

While the linens are off, you may want to take the opportunity to recruit the family to sweep the ceiling, wash the walls, clean ceiling fans, vacuum, dust, and wash windows. While you're at it, flip the mattress, too.

Even little ones can dust or wash walls with Mr. Clean Magic Sponges. All you have to do is wash the walls and rinse the sponge - no rinsing of walls!

If it takes longer than an hour or so, you may want to break it up into hour-long segments so as not to overwhelm yourself or your family. Repeat for each bedroom until you're done. You'll be surprised at how quickly it goes!

It's a lot more fun if you all work together. Put on some fun music and enjoy! Tell jokes or funny stories. Then do something fun to celebrate everyone's hard work.

It's amazing how washing walls brightens the room! And freshly laundered comforters, sheets and curtains add a spring crispness to the room! It's a big job, but a clean fresh bedroom is worth the effort!

More blogs on spring cleaning:

Spring Cleaning the Walls and Windows

Spring Cleaning Using Household Items - Lemons

Spring Cleaning Using Household Items - Salt, Newspaper, Coffee Filters, and Olive Oil

If cleaning isn't your thing, and you need a little help, try Three Steps to Clever Cleaning - a short, colorful, glossy, fun little book.