Organize Cords, Cables and Wires like a Pro

No matter how clean you keep your home, if there are jumbled cords and cables dripping from behind desks and entertainment centers, or pushed into big balls in the corner, it will make the entire area look messy and unkept. There is also the added concerns of trips and falls, not to mention a potential fire hazard when dealing with an overrun of wires and cables. Here we'll discuss the subject cable management and how to organize cords, cables and wires like a pro.

Cord management - Get rid of what you don't use

Oftentimes, when we get something new we simply add the power cord to the bundle we already have. This can result in an abundance of cords that aren't even being used. To solve this problem easily, get down and look at each cord and track what it's connected to. If you find a few wires that don't have a 'Ëœhost', remove them and store them all in one central location. Then, if you come across a something that's missing a cord, you'll know where to look for it.

Cord management - Rethink what you have

You can organize cords and cables by simplifying what you use. For example, if you have several family members who all charge their cell phones individually, you can minimize cord confusion by investing in a Powermat. This one mat can power several devices at once and keep everything in one convenient spot, without cluttering the area with cords and wires.

Reconsider some of the electronics you have hooked up in an extremely crowded area and ditch what you don't use. How long has it been since you watched a VHS tape? One year? Maybe two? Then you may want to consider removing the VCR and relocating it to another area of the home where there's more space.

Cord management - Utilize space

The entertainment center can be quickly taken over by cords, cables and wires. From the television, to the DVD player, the cable box, and the stereo system -- everything you use in this area requires some type of power connection. To organize this space, try these tips:

- Keep media devices as close together as possible and use the shortest cords available.

- Bind cords tightly together and use an inexpensive cord manager to form one central cable.

- Keep loose cords out of sight by stapling them to the backside of (or underneath) furniture. Use a staple gun specifically designed for wires and cords, such as the Arrow T-25.

- Use a surge protector to eliminate power surges and spikes from damaging electronics.

- Prevent tripping hazards by covering floor cords with cable covers.

More from Jennifer Wagner:

6 Ways to Glam Up Your Home Office

Eco-Friendly Office Tips

Keep Elderly Parents Safe at Home

SOURCE:

Personal knowledge and experience

Jennifer Wagner - Yahoo! Contributor Network

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/life/6-ways-to-glam-up-your-home-office-2480326