The New Homeowner's Guide to Home Organization

If you're like many new homeowners, you probably automatically assumed that once you owned a home, it would be super easy to keep your household organized. The reality can't be farther from the truth. Simply having a bigger living space doesn't guarantee organization, and in some cases, it can actually complicate things considerably.

Ask any homeowner, the bigger space an individual has, the more easily it becomes filled just as quickly. I discovered this phenomenon recently. I automatically assumed that the new furniture I purchased from Bombay Kids for my daughter would solve my organization dilemma of keeping all of her clothing organized: undershirts, underwear, nightgowns, leotards, dance tights, gymnastics body suits, socks, play clothes, dresses, and everyday clothes. After the new furniture arrived, I quickly realized that I still had the same problem. All the drawers were filled because the drawers from the previous furniture (an eclectic mix of hand-me down pieces and plastic rolling carts) were clearly overstuffed with clothing. Many homeowners have this dilemma; so buying a bigger house won't always solve your space and organization issues. The condition of the attic or basement is usually a telltale sign that a house simply has too much stuff. Many homeowners relegate castoff pieces of furniture and outgrown clothing and toys to the basement or attic.

It's important to keep in mind that being organized in your new home is not an automatic process especially if you've been accumulating clothing, books, DVDs, CDs, and other items for a number of years. It will take time to get organized, and the time required will depend on exactly how many items you own. If you have time constraints and a hectic lifestyle, you should focus on the two most important areas first: the kitchen and bathroom. The kitchen and bathroom are two rooms that you use daily, and if they aren't in pristine condition, your frustration level can easily exceed a healthy level. It's extremely important that you toss anything you no longer use including expired medications and shampoo bottles in the bathroom and pots, pans, and utensils in your kitchen.

After you've had time to organize your kitchen and bathroom, the next most important room is the bedroom. The bedroom is another room that you use regularly, and an inviting and organized bedroom can make a significant impact on the quality of your life and the enjoyment you get while at home. Consider not having a television in your room. If you can't live without a t.v. in your bedroom, purchase an armoire so your t.v. can remain hidden and out of sight when not in use. Televisions and other electronic items that are kept in the bedroom create visual clutter that is not conducive to rest or relaxation.