22 Two-Minute Decluttering Habits That Will Save You Time

We all know that clutter is the silent thief of time. It’s the reason we waste precious minutes searching for our keys, rifling through paperwork, or stepping over piles of laundry on the way to the door. But what if I told you that in just 2 minutes, you could create simple habits that keep your home organized without feeling like a full-time job?

Here are 22 quick decluttering habits that, when done daily, will keep your home looking tidy with minimal effort. Plus, I’ve included a printable checklist with graphics to keep you on track!

1. Make Your Bed First Thing in the Morning

A made bed instantly makes your bedroom look put together. Bonus: It might even stop you from crawling back in!

2. Clean Off Your Nightstand

Water bottles, phone chargers, and books tend to pile up. Take a moment to clear the clutter each morning.

3. Hang Up Your Purse and Coat

Instead of tossing them on a chair, hang them up right away to avoid unnecessary mess.

4. Put Shoes Away

A pile of shoes at the door is a tripping hazard and an eyesore. Store them where they belong.

5. Recycle Junk Mail

Don’t let junk mail pile up! Sort and recycle it the moment it enters your home.

6. Get Rid of Paper Piles

Sort mail, receipts, and flyers immediately. A designated folder or tray can help.

7. File Paperwork Right Away

Bills, important documents, and statements should go straight into their designated files—no more paper mountains!

8. Don’t Put Anything in the Sink—Put it in the Dishwasher

Avoid dishes stacking up by placing them directly into the dishwasher after use.

9. Empty the Dishwasher Right Away

A full dishwasher is the gateway to a messy kitchen. Empty it as soon as possible to keep the cycle moving.

10. Wipe Down Kitchen Counters Each Night

A quick wipe prevents grime buildup and keeps your kitchen looking spotless.

11. Put Appliances Away After Using

Toasters, blenders, and coffee makers should have a designated storage space to maintain clean counters.

12. Don’t Leave Clothing on Furniture or the Floor

If you’re too tired to fold laundry, at least toss it in a hamper instead of draping it over a chair.

13. Start a Load of Laundry Each Day

A daily load keeps laundry from becoming an overwhelming weekend chore.

14. Fold and Put Laundry Away Right Away

The faster you fold, the less likely it will become a wrinkled heap in the corner.

15. Tear Down Cardboard Boxes and Put Them in the Recycle Bin

Online shopping can lead to a cardboard invasion. Break down boxes immediately to keep your space tidy.

16. Don’t Leave Bathroom Toiletries on the Counter

Put away makeup, razors, and toothbrushes to keep your bathroom looking clean.

17. Wipe Down Bathroom Counters Each Night

Toothpaste splatters and water spots disappear in seconds with a quick nightly wipe.

18. Have a Place for All Bathroom Toiletries

Keep your products in bins or drawers so they’re not cluttering the sink.

19. Keep Remote Controls in a Designated Spot

No more searching between couch cushions! Designate a place for remotes so they’re always easy to find.

20. Empty Full Trash and Recycle Bins

Overflowing bins make a space look messy. Take the trash out before it becomes a problem.

21. Toss Trash from Your Car

Old coffee cups, receipts, and wrappers pile up fast. Get in the habit of tossing trash every time you get home.

22. Make a To-Go Bin with Items That Need to be Taken Out of the House

Returns, borrowed books, and packages should go in one spot so you can grab them on your way out the door.

Printable Checklist

To help make these habits stick, I’ve created a printable checklist. Download it, print it, and stick it on your fridge or inside your planner!

By adopting these small daily habits, you’ll save time, reduce stress, and maintain a clutter-free home without spending hours cleaning. Which habit will you start with today?

Looking for even more decluttering motivation? Join my Declutter Challenge and grab the Declutter Calendar to stay on track! Click [here] to get started!

Printable Declutter Challenge Calendar

The Declutter Challenge transforms your home in one month by tackling one area a day with daily tasks and free printables.

Which declutter tip do YOU want to try first?

xoxo

The post 22 Two-Minute Decluttering Habits That Will Save You Time appeared first on Tatertots and Jello.

How to Organize Your Drawers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Welcome to the 9th Annual Declutter Challenge! This year, we’re tackling all areas of the home, and kitchen drawers are the focus for Day 3. If you’re following along with the challenge, check out the full schedule and tips at Declutter and Cleaning Challenge. Let’s dive into how to bring order to your kitchen drawers and create a more functional space.

Steps to Organize Your Drawers

1. Focus on One Drawer at a Time

(image via New York Times)

Start small by focusing on one drawer at a time. Remove everything to see what you’re working with.

2. Evaluate Each Item

Ask yourself the following questions for every item:

• When was the last time I used this?
• How often do I use this?
• Is it damaged or broken?
• Do I have another tool that serves the same purpose?

Donate or toss items that don’t make the cut.

3. Reassess Drawer Placement

Does the current drawer setup make sense?

• Move frequently-used items to prime locations.
• Relocate rarely-used items to less accessible drawers.

4. Add Organizational Containers

Decide if you need dividers or containers to make items more accessible. Clear containers or bamboo organizers are excellent for visibility and tidiness.

5. Organize with Purpose

• Roll dishcloths to maximize space.
• Create a spice drawer with a liner that holds the jars in place and uniform labels and containers look neat and tidy. Check spices and throw out expired ones.
• Store long tools like rolling pins in diagonal organizers.
• Consider a pegboard system for dishware.

6. Address the Junk Drawer

photo credit: Adam Albright

Organize your junk drawer by:

• Start by emptying and cleaning the drawer.
• Categorizing items.
• Use containers to keep it organized.
• Storing small objects like paper clips and nails in lidded containers.
• Placing frequently-used items at the front.

7. Create a Family-Friendly Drawer

If you have young children, dedicate one drawer for children’s items like sippy cups and plastic plates to keep things accessible for them and out of other drawers.

8. Label Everything

Wireless Label Maker

Sometimes people in our family put items n the wrong place. Help your family maintain order by labeling each drawer with a label maker.

9. Install Specialty Organizers

Expandable Pot Organizer

Nesting pots and pans can damage their surfaces. Consider installing pull-out drawers, pot racks, or knife racks to protect your tools and save counter space.

10. Enjoy Your Organized Space!

Take a moment to admire your work and enjoy the convenience of a well-organized kitchen.

Suggested Amazon Items for Your Drawer Organization

Here are some of the items I love to help you organize your drawers and cabinets:

• Drawer Knife Rack:

• Pull Out Drawers

• Drawer Pot Rack:

• Clear Containers:

• Spice Drawer Liners:

• Bamboo Ziplock Bag Organizer:

• Diagonal Drawer Organizer for Long Tools:

• Pegboard System for Dishware:

• Lidded Containers for Small Items:

• Kitchen Drawer Dividers:

These tools can make a big difference in maintaining a tidy and functional space. Happy organizing!

Join the Declutter Challenge! Download the calendar and join us in getting our homes ready for the new year!

Have a Beautiful Day!

xoxo

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Tatertots and Jello Annual Declutter and Cleaning Challenge

The new year is here, and it’s the perfect time to reset your home and create a space that feels calm, organized, and welcoming. For the past nine years, I’ve been hosting the Tatertots and Jello Annual Declutter and Cleaning Challenge, and it’s become one of my favorite traditions. Whether you’ve joined me before or are diving in for the first time, I’m so excited to share this journey with you. By the end of January, we’ll have sparkly clean homes with everything in its place—and maybe even a renewed sense of peace and accomplishment.

How the Challenge Works

This challenge is all about making progress, no matter how much time you have each day. Life can be busy, so whether you’ve got 15 minutes or a full hour to dedicate daily, the challenge is flexible enough to fit your schedule. Each day, we’ll tackle a different section of the home, working our way through seasonal decor, the kitchen, pantry, bedrooms, garage, and more. By breaking it down into manageable tasks, you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more empowered.

To make it even easier, I’ve created a free downloadable calendar that outlines each day’s focus. You can print it out and stick it on your fridge, keep it on your desk, or save it to your phone for easy access. Be sure to follow along with me on Instagram at @tatertotsandjello for daily tips, free printable guides, and plenty of motivation to keep you going!

Why Declutter?

A clutter-free home isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that nurtures your well-being. When your surroundings are organized, you’ll feel less stressed and more productive. Plus, decluttering is a fantastic way to rediscover forgotten treasures, donate items to those in need, and make room for the things you truly love. With this challenge, you’re not just cleaning your home—you’re transforming it into a place that sparks joy.

How to Download and Print the Calendar

Downloading the calendar is easy! Simply click the ABOVE to access the JPG or PDF file. Once the file opens, you can save it to your computer or phone by selecting the download option. To print it, open the file and select your printer settings. For best results, use a color printer and print on letter-sized paper. You can even laminate the calendar or place it in a plastic sleeve to reuse it year after year. Display it in a prominent place like your kitchen or workspace to keep you on track throughout the challenge.

Print the Calendar Off Here!

Print off the PDF Version HERE

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Tatertots and Jello Annual Declutter and Cleaning Challenge

The new year is here, and it’s the perfect time to reset your home and create a space that feels calm, organized, and welcoming. For the past nine years, I’ve been hosting the Tatertots and Jello Annual Declutter and Cleaning Challenge, and it’s become one of my favorite traditions. Whether you’ve joined me before or are diving in for the first time, I’m so excited to share this journey with you. By the end of January, we’ll have sparkly clean homes with everything in its place—and maybe even a renewed sense of peace and accomplishment.

How the Challenge Works

This challenge is all about making progress, no matter how much time you have each day. Life can be busy, so whether you’ve got 15 minutes or a full hour to dedicate daily, the challenge is flexible enough to fit your schedule. Each day, we’ll tackle a different section of the home, working our way through seasonal decor, the kitchen, pantry, bedrooms, bathrooms, garage, attic, and more. By breaking it down into manageable tasks, you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more empowered.

To make it even easier, I’ve created a free downloadable calendar that outlines each day’s focus. You can print it out and stick it on your fridge, keep it on your desk, or save it to your phone for easy access. Be sure to follow along with me on Instagram at @tatertotsandjello for daily tips, free printable guides, and plenty of motivation to keep you going!

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week 1: Seasonal Decor and Kitchen

We’ll kick off the challenge by tackling seasonal decor and the kitchen. Start by packing away holiday decorations—toss anything broken and donate items you didn’t use this year. Label bins clearly and store them neatly for next year.

Next, move on to the kitchen. Focus on cleaning and organizing drawers, cabinets, under the sink, shelves, counters, and the pantry. Check expiration dates, group similar items together, and create a functional space for cooking and meal prep.

Week 2: Bedrooms and Closets

This week is all about creating restful and organized sleeping spaces. Start with your primary bedroom and closets. Donate clothes that no longer fit or bring joy, and organize your closet by category or color. Declutter nightstands, dressers, and under-bed storage. Repeat this process for kids’ and guest bedrooms to refresh these spaces too.

Week 3: Bathrooms

We’ll focus on bathrooms this week, starting with the primary bathroom. Clear out expired products and makeup, organize cabinets and drawers, and wipe down counters, tubs, and showers. Then tackle additional bathrooms, including kids’ and guest spaces, to ensure all bathrooms feel fresh and clean.

Week 4: Main Rooms

Main living spaces often need the most attention. This week we’ll tackle the garage, attic, entryway, basement, and office or craft spaces. These areas can accumulate clutter, so focus on grouping similar items, using vertical storage, and disposing of unnecessary items. By the end of the week, these spaces will feel lighter and more functional.

Week 5: Miscellaneous Areas

In the final week, we’ll focus on miscellaneous areas like floors and cars. Deep clean floors in every room, vacuum carpets, and mop hardwood or tile surfaces. Don’t forget your car—clean out trash, vacuum, and wipe down surfaces for a fresh start.

If there’s a day where the challenge focuses on an area you don’t have, like an attic or basement, use that day to catch up on other tasks or take a well-deserved break. This challenge is all about going at your own pace and creating a home that works for you.

Tips for Staying Motivated

1. Celebrate Small Wins: Each task you complete is a step closer to an organized home. Acknowledge your progress and give yourself a pat on the back.
2. Get the Friends and Family Involved: Send this challenge to your friends. Assign tasks to kids or partners to make it a team effort. Decluttering together can be a great bonding experience.
3. Reward Yourself: Treat yourself to something special when you finish a particularly challenging area, like a favorite snack or a relaxing bath.
4. Share Your Progress: Post your before-and-after photos on Instagram and tag me at @tatertotsandjello. I love seeing your transformations and cheering you on!

Join the Fun

The Tatertots and Jello Annual Declutter and Cleaning Challenge is more than just a way to organize your home. It’s a community of like-minded people who are ready to embrace a fresh start and inspire one another. Download the calendar, gather your supplies, and let’s make this the best year yet.

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @tatertotsandjello for daily updates, free printable guides, and all the organization tips you could ever need. Together, we’ll create homes we love and cherish. Here’s to a clean, clutter-free January and beyond!

I can’t wait to see YOUR clean and organized spaces!

xoxo

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5 Ways to Declutter Your Home!

It was SO nice to go through my home and clean it up for the new year! I’ve compiled 5 easy ways you can de-clutter YOUR home!

Declutter and Cleaning Challenge

Be sure to join us in our Declutter and Cleaning challenge where we tackle ONE area of our home each day and by the end of January we have a clean and organized home!

1. Craft Room Storage

If you have a craft room consider organizing the closet of your room to keep all of your supplies. I took an inexpensive shelving unit from Target and added bins. Each bin is labeled with different craft supplies – paints, tools, party supplies, yarn, ribbon, etc. If you don’t have a closet in your craft space, consider getting a little shelf unit with doors to keep your supplies inside. You can grab the supplies you need and shut the doors for a clean look. Or you might live in a home that is smaller and you don’t have a dedicated craft space. I have a solution for you – a craft cart! Rolling carts are a wonderful way to organize. You can put your supplies on the cart to store them. When you want to craft, simply roll the cart into whatever room you want to work from!

5 Ways to Declutter Your Home for Spring and Printable Storage Templates

5 Ways to Declutter Your Home for Spring and Printable Storage Templates

2. A labeler is a great tool to get your whole house organized

The labeler I use is cordless which is so nice because you can get up into hard-to-reach places with it like your attic or garage and you don’t have to worry about plugging it in. Labeling everything makes finding items so much easier.

Wireless Label Maker

3. I keep all of my seasonal supplies and decorations in plastic bins

Plastic bins will keep all of your storage dry and the bins are easily stacked which makes your storage areas much neater and easier to navigate. I label each of my plastic bins with a printable label that I print off on my computer.  It’s so nice to easily see what is in your containers.

5 Ways to Declutter Your Home for Spring and Printable Storage Templates

I’m sharing my bin printable with YOU! Just right click on this link and download it to your computer. You can write on the bin labels with a marker OR type inside he boxes. Just bring this document into Word and click on text box and then type whatever you want and print it off!

Click on the link below to print off these storage container templates. Select “LANDSCAPE” to print it off in the largest size.

Free Printable Storage Label Templates 

4. Organize Seasonal Items

As a DIY/Crafter I LOVE pillows. I ended up having TONS of pillows. You can see the before picture of my pillow closet below. If you have a lot of pillows and not enough room to store them all I have an idea for you. Take all of your pillow covers off of the inserts. You may find that you have many of the same size insert. You can donate your extra insert pillow forms and use one pillow form. Then when you want a different look, just take the cover off your pillow insert and put the new one on. I took all of my pillow covers and folded them up and organized them in a bin by color. Now I can easily see what pillow covers I have and my pillows don’t take up as much space! I store my pillow inserts in a bins and it’s easy to access them.

5. Store all seasonal items in the same place

Metal racks are an easy way to keep seasonal containers. I keep all of my seasonal bins in a storage room with these racks. I use the printable bin template to print off what is in each bin so I can easily access them. All of my seasonal items are kept together – Christmas, Halloween, etc. Then when I am decorating for a specific holiday or event all I have to do is grab the bins with those labels, instead of rummaging around in my storage room for the bins that go together.

Be sure to join us in the Declutter and Cleaning Challenge! We tackle ONE space each day and by the end of January we have a clean and organized home!

Have a great day!

xoxo

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How to Organize Your Fridge for a Fresh and Efficient Experience

Organizing your fridge is more than just arranging items neatly; it’s about creating a system that helps you easily access and view everything, ultimately reducing food waste. In this blog post, we’ll explore some ingenious organizers that will transform your fridge into a well-organized and efficient space.

All sources are linked at the end of the post!

1. Rectangular Swivel Lazy Susan: Maximize Visibility with Ease

One of the game-changers in fridge organization is a rectangular swivel lazy susan equipped with suction cups for a secure hold on your fridge shelf. This versatile organizer moves forward, backward, and side to side, eliminating the need to shuffle items around to reach the back. By simply turning the lazy susan, you can effortlessly see and access all items, ensuring nothing gets lost or forgotten.

2. Under-the-Shelf Drawers: Unleash Hidden Storage Potential

Take advantage of unused space in your fridge by incorporating under-the-shelf drawers. These drawers come with a frame that grips the front and back of the shelf, providing stability, while the grooves on the drawers make pulling them out a breeze. This simple addition not only maximizes space but also creates additional storage for items that might otherwise be overlooked.

3. Clear Containers for Freshness and Accessibility

Investing in clear containers for your fruits and vegetables is a game-changer in maintaining freshness and accessibility. These containers allow you to see the contents at a glance, making it easy to locate specific items. The airtight lids help keep air out, ensuring your produce lasts longer and stays crisp. This not only reduces food waste but also encourages healthier snack choices for you and your family.

4. Strategic Bin Organization on Doors: Streamlining Condiment Chaos

The doors of your fridge often turn into a condiment chaos zone. To bring order, divide your condiments into bins based on usage. Allocate specific bins for salad dressings, sandwich condiments, marinades, and sauces/salsas. This not only streamlines your fridge’s door storage but also makes it easy to grab what you need without fumbling through an array of bottles. Apply the same principle inside the fridge by corralling like items in bins for quick and efficient access.

5. Corralling Jams and Jellies: Simplifying Breakfast Choices

Simplify your mornings by coralling jams and jellies in a designated bin. This white bin can be easily pulled out for quick access, preventing small jars from getting lost in the shuffle. By grouping similar items together, you create designated spaces for specific food categories, making your fridge more organized and user-friendly.

6. Free Printable Labels Make Finding Food Easy

I created some FREE printable fridge labels. Just click on the link below which will take you to the free labels. Use label printer paper which prints on one side and then you peel that off and have a sticky side on the back. Then attach those labels to your bins!

Free Printable Labels

Join Our Declutter Challenge

2024 January Declutter Challenge

We are just starting our January Declutter Challenge. I have a FREE calendar. The link to the calendar is below this paragraph. Print off the calendar and join us! We are tackling one area of our homes each week. Last week we tackled our kitchen. This week it is bathrooms and closets!

Fridge Organizing Sources:

1. Rectangular Swivel Lazy Susan
2. Under-the-Shelf Drawers
3. Clear Containers for Fruits and Vegetables
4. Bins for Condiment Organization
5. White Bin for Jams and Jellies

Have a Great day!

xoxo

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January Home Organizing Ideas to Start Your Year Fresh

As we kick off the new year, many of us are eager to declutter and organize our living spaces for a fresh start. January is the perfect time to tackle those home organizing projects you’ve been putting off. From bathroom drawers to closets, here are some creative and practical ideas to help you kick off the year with a well-organized home.

Organize an Entryway without a Closet with Sleek Shoe Cabinets

For homes without a designated entryway closet, organizing shoes can be a challenge. Discover sleek shoe cabinets that not only provide ample storage for dozens of pairs but also add a modern touch to your entryway. These cabinets come in various styles and colors, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your decor. Say goodbye to cluttered entryways and hello to a sleek and organized space for your footwear.

Turn a Closet into a Pantry with Wallpapered Shelving

Transform an unused closet into a functional and stylish pantry by adding a shelving unit. Enhance the aesthetics by wallpapering the interior, creating a charming and visually appealing space. Install sturdy shelves to accommodate your pantry items, from canned goods to spices. This pantry makeover not only maximizes your storage but also turns a forgotten space into a focal point of your kitchen.

Linen Closet Makeover with Bins

Bring order to your linens with a linen closet makeover using bins. Categorize your sheets, towels, and blankets into labeled bins to create a tidy and accessible storage system. Consider folding your linens neatly or using fabric organizers to keep everything in its place. A well-organized linen closet not only streamlines your morning routine but also adds a touch of elegance to your home.

A Small Bathroom that is BIG on Organization

We have a small bathroom in our 1891 home. So when we remodeled the room, I knew I needed to make the most of the space. Some of my favorite ways I did this was in creating storage between the studs for bins, a shelf above the tub for plants and candles, hiding storage in a medicine cabinet and a vanity packed with storage.

Dreambox Craft and Office Supplies

For those who love crafting or have a dedicated home office, the Dreambox is a game-changer. This innovative storage solution allows you to neatly organize all your craft and office supplies in one stylish cabinet. With customizable shelves, drawers, and compartments, the Dreambox provides a designated space for everything, from scissors and pens to fabric and paper. No more hunting for the perfect shade of paint or losing track of important documents – the Dreambox keeps it all within reach.

Craftroom Closet Makeover with Shelving Unit

If you’re lucky enough to have a craft room, consider a closet makeover to maximize your storage space. Add a sturdy shelving unit to transform your closet into a craft haven. Arrange bins, baskets, and containers on the shelves to store yarn, fabric, and other crafting essentials. This not only keeps your supplies organized but also makes it easy to see what you have and access it when inspiration strikes.

Colorful DIY Jewelry Holder from Bamboo Silverware Trays

Upgrade your jewelry organization with a touch of creativity. Transform bamboo silverware trays into a vibrant and functional DIY jewelry holder. Paint each compartment in your favorite colors to add a pop of personality to your storage solution. Hang necklaces, bracelets, and earrings on the divided sections for a stylish display that keeps your jewelry tangle-free. This project not only declutters your accessories but also adds a colorful and artistic touch to your space.

Closet Makeover Using Fabric

Give your closet a facelift by incorporating fabric into your organization strategy. Upholster a stool in your closet to create a cozy seating area while adding a touch of style. Use coordinating fabric to cover jewelry boxes for a cohesive and visually pleasing look. This simple makeover not only enhances the aesthetics of your closet but also provides a comfortable spot for putting on shoes or planning outfits.

All Natural Citrus Cleaner Recipe

As you embark on your home organizing journey, don’t forget about cleaning supplies. Create an all-natural citrus cleaner using simple ingredients for a safe and chemical-free solution. Mix citrus peels with white vinegar in a jar and let it sit for a few weeks. Strain the mixture, dilute with water, and transfer it to a spray bottle. This DIY cleaner not only smells amazing but also effectively cleans various surfaces. Download our free printable labels to add a charming touch to your homemade cleaning solution.

Post It Note Chore Chart

Get the kids involved in the organization process with a fun and interactive chore chart. Create a printable chore chart with pictures for those who can’t read yet. Use colorful Post-It notes to represent different chores, making it easy for children to understand their responsibilities. This visual and tactile approach turns chores into a game, making it more likely that your little ones will eagerly participate in keeping the home tidy.

2024 January Declutter Challenge

If you’re ready to tackle a complete home overhaul, join our January Declutter Challenge. Download our free calendar and follow the daily tasks to clean and organize your entire home throughout the month. This structured approach ensures that no corner of your living space is left untouched. Share your progress on social media using #JanuaryDeclutterChallenge and connect with others on the same journey. Let’s start the year fresh and clutter-free together!

January is the ideal time to declutter and revamp your living spaces. Whether you focus on small areas like bathroom drawers or embark on a full home organization challenge, these creative ideas will help you start the year with a clean and organized home. Cheers to a clutter-free and refreshing 2024!

Weekend Ideas

The Tattered Pew / 2023 Top 10 Best Sellers

She Gave it a Go / Our Top 10 Most Popular Blog Posts 2023

White Arrows Home / Love Your Home: Easy Valentine Decorating

tatertots & jello / January Declutter Challenge

What are YOU loving this week?

Let us know in the comments!

xoxo

The post January Home Organizing Ideas to Start Your Year Fresh appeared first on Tatertots and Jello.

January Declutter Challenge!

It’s January! Time for the annual declutter challenge. It’s the fourth year of the declutter challenge. In ONE month your home can be cleaned out and clutter free.

New January Declutter Challenge Calendar

How to Print Off the Declutter Challenge Calendar

To print off the calendar, simply right-click on the calendar image above and open the image in a new tab. Right-click on the image and select “print”, make sure your printer setting are set to “landscape”. Print it off and hang it up somewhere in your home where you will see it every day

I had so much fun collaborating with you last year! I can’t wait to see all of YOUR homes getting decluttered this year! Let’s get started!

Print Out the January Declutter Challenge Calendar

Clean up ONE Area in Your Home Week!

This year we are switching things up a little bit. Instead of taking one space a day all over the house, we are concentrating on one area each week and cleaning those areas instead of jumping around. The first week is the kitchen, then we are moving on to bathrooms, then main rooms in the home, then bedrooms and closets and general cleaning the last few days. I will be sharing cool cleaning and organizing gadgets as as I share each days challenge on my Instagram channel – @TATERTOTSANDJELLO. So make sure to follow along to keep up on the challenge. And tag me so I can share YOUR organized spaces!!

Organized Spaces

If there is a day on the calendar that doesn’t fit to YOUR home, just substitute another space for that day. For example, we don’t have a garage at our new home. So on the garage clean out day I will substitute our laundry room for that day.

Follow @tatertotsandjello on Instagram

Let’s share our organization wins and cheer each other along! On Instagram and Facebook, post YOUR spaces this month and use the hashtag — #TatertotsDeclutterChallenge so we can see YOUR home!

Happy Organizing!

xoxo

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The Best Summer Ideas

It’s summer, friends!! Time for summer parties, candlelight dinners outside, summer crafts and getting your home organized for the summer! Here are some easy ways to make the most of your summer – from entertaining your kids, your friends, organizing your home and more! Let me know which idea you love the most!!

Summer Kids Ideas!

1 Month of Daily Kids Crafts

1 Month of Daily Kids Crafts and Activities to do at Home. Spend time at home creating fun and educational crafts, activities and memories with your kids – with easy Amazon shopping lists.

Free Printable Bookmarks

Summer is the perfect time for reading. Print off these free bookmarks, laminate them and you have bookmarks for your kids!

Free Summer Printable Flag Decor

Celebrate Summer with this cute summer flag printable! Simply print out the summer sign and add it to some colorful paper. I also have the link to the flag base which you can order and change out the flags!

Summertime Pocket Placemats

Summer is the perfect time to teach your kids to sew! Start off with these adorable, easy pocket placemats with a little pocket for your silverware. Your kids will love making them and using them this summer!

How to Sew a Paper Garland

Make some paper garlands with your kids! They’re so fun to string outside for parties or hang them in your kids room for festive, colorful summertime decor!

How to Make a Playhouse Out of a Box

Make an Adorable DIY Dog Playhouse Out of a Box! Use your imagination and create a sweet playhouse for your dog with a cardboard box! 

The Best Summer Entertaining Ideas

Summer entertaining is my favorite! It doesn’t have to be hard. Here are some easy ways to create beautiful summer memories with your family and friends.

18 Ways to Make Your Patio Awesome This Summer

18 Ideas that will make your patio awesome this summer! Easy DIY ideas to make your outdoor space even more enjoyable this summer!

Summer Ice Cream Party

Throw a summer ice cream party! I have a printable sign and the 411 on how to make this easy ice cream cone banner!

DIY Painted Summertime Kiwi Pitcher

DIY Summertime Painted SunGold Kiwi Pitcher. Celebrate Summer by making a painted pitcher featuring the bright and delicious Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit.

Welcome Home Saturday Posts

One Hour Modern Cafe Light Pole Project

Light up your patio for summer entertaining by installing these pretty light poles and cafe lights. You will love enjoying them all year long!

White Arrows Home | 15 Summer Craft Ideas

The Tattered Pew | 15 Easy Projects For Your Outdoor Spaces This Summer

tatertots & jello | How to Organize a No Closet Entryway

She Gave it a Go | 3 Must-Have Items for Effortless Summer Outdoor Entertaining

Which Idea Do YOU Want to try first?

Have a creative day!

xoxo

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How to Organize a No-Closet Entryway

Our home was built in 1891 which gives it so much character and quirkiness, but it also presents some issues, one of which is a back entryway which is very small and has no closet for coats and shoes. It’s been a cluttered problem since we moved in four years ago. Now that most of our big home renovating projects are done, I decided it was finally time to tackle this messy space in our home.

Tight Entryway Challenges

The way our back entryway is designed, the door we use to enter is in the middle of a narrow hallway that leads to our back pantry and laundry room. There’s only 36 inches of space and the door opens inwards so there isn’t much room to work with. Previously I had placed a narrow bench and some hooks in the hallway, but the bench was always cluttered with items the kids dumped on their way in. I had baskets for shoes under the bench but even when the shoes were in the baskets, the piles of shoes sticking up always seemed very messy.

A Place For Shoes in the Entryway

Since we started our airbnb on the floor below, taking our shoes off has become a necessity to keep the noise to a minimum. Therefore, having shoe and coat storage became my priorities in redesigning the entryway.

Shoe Storage Cabinets

Ikea has some pretty attractive show storage cabinets, and I was considering them. Then I found the perfect cabinets online! These shoe cabinets come in a few different color options and sizes.

Boho Modern Shoe Cabinets

The shoe cabinets I found are so stylish! I chose the black finish with natural rattan inserts. And I love the shape of the rattan inserts. They are so sleek and go perfectly with the boho cottage feel of our home.

What are the Shoe Cabinet Dimensions?

I chose these cabinets because they are so slim! Each cabinet measures 6.7″ deep x 23.6″ wide and 29.1″ high. Three of the cabinets put together are the same width as our wall.

How to Attach Multiple Shoe Cabinets Together

Our home is over 130 years old. so attaching the shoe cabinets together to look seamless was a little harder than normal. The cabinets come with long screws and wall anchors which makes attaching them to the wall so easy. Our floor slopes so we had to adjust the cabinets to accommodate the sloping while making sure they were level. We attached the first cabinet using the screws and anchors provided. Then we lined up the next cabinet and made sure it was level. As our floor slopes, we had to get creative. We ended up attaching all three shoe cabinets and two of the cabinets needed spacers under the feet because the floor sloped. I found clear feet adjusters that I put under the feet on two of the cabinets. We attached all three cabinets with wall anchors and screws that came with the cabinets, but added a few more screws so that the two cabinets that need spacers are attached at the wall securely. You honestly can’t tell that they are basically floating; and more importantly, the cabinets all line up together seamlessly and are level.

Add Coat Hooks

When we had the bench in the space before, we had hooks on the left side of the bench and a mirror on the right. We took the hooks off the wall and attached them on the opposite wall for less clutter. Then we centered the mirror above the three cabinets.

My Favorite Cordless Rechargeable Lamp

The cabinets are perfect for displaying flowers. I also wanted to have a small light that can be kept on at night. Since the wall doesn’t have any outlets, I had to get creative. I found the MOST adorable mushroom lamp that is CORDLESS and rechargeable! It also has three different shades of white light. You just touch the button at the base of the lamp to turn it on. Then tap the button again to choose which shade of white you want the lamp to display. How cool is that?? It’s perfect for a wall that doesn’t have an outlet. Our front entry room doesn’t have any outlets, so I am going to order a lamp for that entry too!

More Organizing Ideas

Here are a few more easy ways to organize your life!

My Organized Office

Bright Organized Craft Room Office. Bright peel-and-stick wallpaper, an organized desk and Dream Box with storage galore make working so much more fun and efficient!

Organize Your Fridge and Free Printable Fridge Labels

Easy Kids’ Grab-and-Go Snacks and Lunches plus Printable Fridge Labels! Creating Easy Kids’ Grab-and-Go Snacks and Lunches! With kids home more, here are some easy ways for them to grab healthy snacks and lunches with no fuss!

14 Back to School Organizing Tips

Here are some easy ways to get organized for Back to School:  Focus on key areas in your home: these basics can make everything else easier. 

Do you have a space in YOUR home that needs to be organized?

I hope these ideas inspired you to tackle it!

xoxo

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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Hobby Lobby. All opinions are 100% mine.

Organizing a Closet Using Bins With DIY Fabric Liners. Organize your closets and make them pretty with fabric faux bin liners.

Organizing a Closet Using Bins With Fabric Faux Liners

I love January because it’s my declutter challenge!! It’s so nice to get every single space clean and tidy for the new year. One of my areas that really needed some organization was our main linen closet. It’s a place that’s so easy for everyone to stash everything that they don’t know what to do with. I teamed up with one of my favorite companies – Hobby Lobby to give this space a chic and organized refresh!

Shopping for Affordable Containers

Hobby Lobby is a great resource for Home Decor and organizing! I had such a great time seeing all of the different containers that in my local Hobby Lobby store. Here are a few of my favorites. Since I needed quite a few containers in different sizes, I decided to go with these nice woven containers. They come in a few different colors. I chose black since I have been wanting to paint my upstairs doors black for awhile.

Use Matching Containers Streamlines Your Closet

As I said, the Hobby Lobby woven containers come in a few different sizes which I love! I chose the largest size to hold sheets and duvets. Then I chose a smaller size to hold tissues and lightbulbs and a long, thin size to hold extra shampoos and bath bombs.

First Clean Out Your Closet

I pulled everything out of the closet so I could see what I wanted to keep. I went through all of the items and made three piles. One pile to keep. One pile to donate. And one pile was trash. Once I determined which items to keep, I separated out items into which bins each item would go into.

Decide Placement of Bins

With the closet completely bare, I placed the bins in the closet to see where each one should be placed. I put extra quilts and pillows on the upper shelves. Those are things that we rarely need to access. Then I put the smallest baskets on the next shelf. Under that shelf were the larger baskets for sheet sets and duvets on the next wo shelves. Under those I used two large black round woven baskets for blankets and pillows. And on the bottom I put a beautiful round rattan basket that contrasts with the black woven baskets.

Make Fabric Faux Bin Liners

I love the look of bin liners! They add a nice fabric texture plus they can bring color and pattern to your closet too. Of course fabric liner require a lot of fabric to create. Sometimes having a fabric liner is essential, such as using bins with fabric liners in a kitchen with produce and the liners might get stained and need to be washed. In this case, my fabric bin liners are purely decorative. So I decided to make some faux fabric liners to save on using fabric and cost. They give the LOOK of bin liners but they’re only on top!

How to Make Fabric Faux Liners

Here’s how you can create the look of fabric liners for a fraction of the fabric and price!

Pick Out Fabric for Faux Bin Liners

I love Hobby Lobby’s fabric selection – there are literally HUNDREDS of different prints and colors to choose from! The fabrics I used are Striped Dobby Fabric and Graph Check Duck Cloth.

Measure Your Bin

Measure the circumference of your bin. Add 2 inches for seam allowance. Then measure how wide you want your bin liner to be. Half of the width of the bin liner will be inside the bin and the other half will be on the inside. Add an inch for seam allowance.

Cut Your Fabric

Cut your fabric to the length and width that you want your bin liner to be, taking into account seam allowances.

Glue or Sew the Fabric

I used hot glue to create my faux bin liners since I don’t plan on washing them. But you can sew them if you want. Lay the fabric out, fold it over with the wrong side out. Then run a line of hot glue down the edge of the fabric and lay the folded piece of fabric over the top with the edges lining up. Press down to adhere glue to both sides of fabric. If you’re sewing, sew the two edges together.

Turn Fabric Right-Side Out

Now pull the end of the fabric tube through the center to turn the fabric right-side-out.

Lay the Fabric Liner on the edge of the Basket

Now take the end of the bin liner and lay it on top of the basket with the edge of the liner in the corner, run the fabric liner around the whole basket until you meet the other end. Flip the liner inside out and sew or glue the two inside edges of the ends together. Then flip it over and lay the liner on top of the basket again.

Hot Glue the Liner to the Basket

Once the liner is lined up evenly around the basket, I used a dab of hot glue at the corners to hold the liner down and also a dab on each of the inside sides. If you plan to wash the liner, you can use glue dots to hold the liner to the basket.

Fill Your Baskets

Now you can add whatever items you want to store in your baskets.

Label Your Baskets

I like to label the baskets so it’s easy to find everything. I used a label maker but you can also use blank labels like these Hobby Lobby tags below and write the contents of the bins on the labels with a pen.

Add Clear Containers

Then I added these adorable Montana clear glass lidded containers to the top shelf. They come in different sizes. The larger one – Montana 96 ounce and a smaller size – Montana 64 ounce. I filled these with q-tips, cotton balls and bath salts. But they are great for organizing all sorts of small items.

Paint Your Door

The last thing I did was paint my door black. Of course you don’t need to do this but I thought a black door would be so pretty with the fabrics I used! I hung a smaller sized ironing board on the door and I was done! I love my new ORGANIZED and pretty linen closet!!

Head Over to Hobby Lobby and Organize Your Home

A big thank you to Hobby Lobby for partnering with me to organize my linen closet. Hobby Lobby is an excellent resource for all kind of organizing items, from bins and baskets, shelves, hooks and more! Here are a few of my favorite Hobby Lobby organizing containers!

black woven containers (come in many different colors and sizes) | Rush Basket | White Wash Baskets | Brown Willow Baskets | Brown Woven Baskets | Round Rattan Basket

Organizing My Office

Organizing My Office with Hobby Lobby

In case you missed it, here’s how I organized my office with Hobby Lobby last year!

Be sure to follow Hobby Lobby on their social media channels to see more organizing, craft ideas and more ways to be creative!

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tik Tok, Pinterest

Have a Creative Day!

xoxo

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