DE-CLUTTER DE HOUSE (Linens, Cleaning Supplies)

The challenge for the next week is to clean out our linen closets. As you can see from my "before" picture, it really IS a challenge! The "after" picture, however, proves that it's not impossible!

Here's a tip I just heard about recently for storing sheet sets: neatly fold the top and bottom sheets together with one pillow case and use the second pillow case as an "envelope" (or the only pillow case for twin sets.) Why didn't I think of that??? It works, too--as seen on the lower shelf (plaid pillow cases.)

For bulky items (like quilts and blankets) try using those plastic bags that you compress by removing the air with your vacuum. They sure do save space! (Stacked on the floor under the lowest shelf, so not seen here.)

Old towels can be moved to the garage or basement for car washing or pet drying. Otherwise, out they go! The rest can be folded and stacked on a shelf, or rolled and stored in a basket. I used the wall space over the toilet in our master bath for a chrome towel rack (like the ones they have in hotels) where they're handy and also add some extra color. You could even match towels to the colors of bedrooms and store them there. This is an especially nice touch for a guestroom. Or buy only white towels for all so you don't have to bother matching them up or separating them in the laundry. Be creative!

An additional challenge for the coming week is to pare down cleaning supplies under the sinks in the kitchen and bathrooms. I discovered so many duplicate or unnecessary products under mine. Consolidating really makes sense.

Remember, getting organized is not an end in itself. It's a way to take some of the stress and chaos from our lives so that we're free to use our time in serving others. Go for it!