Hopefully the weather will be improving over the next few
weeks. I am still waiting for the first
blooms of my azaleas but the daffodils are out!
We are continuing with our yearly plan of organizing that we listed at
the beginning of the year. On the cool
or rainy days, take some time to organize your linens and bathroom(s).
If space is limited in linen
closets, consider placing extra sheet sets in the bedroom where they are used. They can be stored in closets, inside under
the bed containers or even under the mattress of that bed.
Replace heavier bedding
with lighter weight items. Some
quilts or comforters need only to be put through the “air” cycle on the dryer
to remove dust. Store them in pillow
cases or the large plastic bags now available to keep them clean. Vacuum bags can also be used but be aware
they will gradually allow air to return.
Remove sheets, blankets, etc. that are torn or in
disrepair. If they can be fixed, find
someone to do it, otherwise, recycle them to local pet shelters or other
appropriate places.
We often collect pillows and other bedding to have on hand
in case guests stay overnight. Evaluate
what you have that has rarely or never been used. Perhaps some of them can replace those you
have removed, or they can be donated or sold to allow room for better
organization of the space.
Make similar decisions about your bathroom linens. Towels and
wash cloths that are in disrepair should be removed and replaced with those you
have been saving for a special occasion or purchase additional items on
sale. Most department stores have linen
sales throughout the year and discount or outlet stores also offer good
savings. I suggest rolling towels to make it easier for children (or some adults) to select their favorite from the stack with the least amount of disturbance to those remaining.
Many cotton items will dry rot if not used over a period of
time. This often occurs on the folded
edges so check those that have been sitting on the shelf for a longer period of
time.
Clear the bathroom
counters and contain any times that must remain there. Use trays, baskets, bins, etc. to make clean
up easier there. I love the portable
totes that can be easily moved to other storage areas. Give one to each person using the bathroom is
space is limited. Be diligent in
removing old or expired products and store duplicates of items in another area.
Be sure all products in the bathroom have a label. This is especially important with
medicines. You may check out taking
expired medicines to your local pharmacy or ask them the best way to dispose of
them. Flushing
in the toilet or garbage disposal is no longer recommended because of
contamination of local waters.
If the bathroom needs updating, consider using hooks rather
than bars for towels. Children find them
much easier to use so be sure to put those lower on the wall or door. Consider using dark or disposable towels for
removing make-up
Placing a magnifying mirror on the wall saves space and is
more convenient that a portable model.
Using pull out shelves or wire baskets under the sink will make access
much easier to items stored in the back of those cabinets.
Keeping these areas organized requires daily maintenance
because of daily use. Setting up a
schedule and requiring participation of all the family members can help keep
them clean and neat.
