Many of us are feeling overwhelmed and stressed. We are stuck at home trying to keep from going stir crazy. You may have noticed you are now running the dishwasher almost every day since first the first time perhaps ever everyone is home for dinner. You may also notice you are washing nothing but pajamas.
Some of us are attempting to work from home while simultaneously teaching and supervising our children. In addition, we are trying to keep the house somewhat neat and orderly.
Here are some tips from House to Home Organizing to help us all stay sane for the next few weeks!
Declutter and Purge
Now may be the perfect time to clean out and remove the things you no longer find useful, or things you have been holding onto for years which you realize are just creating clutter. The less clutter you have in your home the less stressed you will feel, and right now we can all use less stress in our lives. Where to start? Now that everyone is home you may want to start with the high traffic areas, such as the kitchen or playroom. It may be the time to let go of kitchen appliances never used or pots and pans which are old and crusty. Take a look at the playroom, you may have toys that your children have outgrown and can be donated or gifted to others to enjoy. If the traditional donate spots are currently closed, store the items in an exit area like the garage or your car so items are close to their next step.
Ask the whole family to pitch in
If you have school aged children everyone can help organize and clean. The book UnF*ck your Habitat You’re Better Than Your Mess, Rachel Hoffman suggests the 20/10 rule. Set a timer for 20 minutes and give everyone a chore. After 20 minutes everyone takes a 10 min break.
The break is not optional. This is a great way to get families working together. You will be surprised how even children want to pitch in and help. Make it a daily activity and tackle the house room by room.
Create cozy comforting spaces
In Denmark they call it Hygge. (prounounced Hoo-ga) Hygee is an atmosphere and experience with the people you love. Being together at home in a safe comforting environment. Now more than ever Hygge is what we need. Candles, flowers and plants can all help create a calm home. Enjoy baking? Sometimes the smell of baked goods can lift our spirts. Also, if it is warm enough outside maybe open a window and smell some fresh air.
Find your own space
With everybody home finding private space can be challenging. Adults sharing an office usually does not work. Try to find an area which is solely yours to work out of. Also, see what works best for your kids. Maybe they do not enjoy working at their usual desk. That is ok. We all need to be flexible in a stressful time. Maybe a makeshift table or a cozy corner is what they need to be successful right now.
Organize your pantry or food cabinets
With everyone stocking up on food, now may be the perfect time to reevaluate what you have. Take everything out of the pantry. Toss the expired food. Now that we are cooking more, stock the pantry with what you are using daily. Maybe store the backup items on shelves in a more remove location like the basement or garage. Use the remote location like a store to replenish the pantry as food gets eaten. If there are children in the house maybe stock their snacks and drinks in a more accessible location in the pantry.
Need help and guidance? We are here if you have any questions. Feel free to contact us at 203-571-9412 or here with any questions regarding organizing!
