memphis-garage-closets

How Much Do Garage Cabinets Cost?

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:24:08 GMT

Garage cabinets can make a huge difference in how organized and functional your garage feels. One of the first questions you might have is how much they actually cost. Prices can vary depending on the cabinet type, materials, and how the system is installed. A closer look at these differences can help you plan your project with more confidence.

When I talk with homeowners about garage organization, cost is usually one of the first topics that comes up. Once you start comparing cabinet options, it becomes easier to decide which system makes sense for your space. Some setups are simple and budget-friendly, while others involve custom storage solutions.

Here are some factors that influence how much garage cabinets cost:

Cost by type of garage cabinets
Cost by material
Installation costs
Cost of additional features and accessories
Cost of garage cabinets by garage size
Ways to save money on garage cabinets

I’ll break down each of these factors so you can get a clearer idea of what to expect before starting your garage organization project.

Cost by Type of Garage Cabinets

One of the biggest factors that affects the cost of garage cabinets is the type of cabinet system you choose. Different cabinet styles offer varying levels of durability, flexibility, and customization. Understanding these options can help you decide which type of cabinet system fits your garage best.

Here are the three most common types of garage cabinets you’ll come across when planning your storage system:

Stock Garage Cabinets: These cabinets are pre-manufactured and sold in standard sizes, which helps keep costs lower. They work well if you want a straightforward storage upgrade without a complex installation.
Modular Garage Cabinets: Modular cabinets are separate units that can be combined in different configurations. I often recommend them when you want flexibility in your layout without committing to fully custom cabinetry.
Custom Garage Cabinets: Custom cabinets are designed specifically for the dimensions and layout of your garage. This option allows for specialized storage features and a built-in appearance.

Each cabinet type offers its own balance of cost, flexibility, and storage capacity. Taking a moment to think about how you plan to use your garage can help you decide which option makes the most sense. The right choice often depends on how much customization and storage you want in the space.

Cost by Material

The materials used to build garage cabinets can also influence the overall cost. Different materials vary in appearance, finish, and how they perform in a garage environment. Choosing the right material often depends on how you plan to use your storage.

The following are some of the most common materials used in garage cabinets:

Laminate or Particleboard Cabinets: These cabinets are commonly used in garage storage systems and are widely available in a range of styles and finishes. Performance often depends on construction, shelf support, and overall design, with some particleboard cabinets built to handle loads of up to 100 lbs per shelf.
MDF Cabinets: Medium-density fiberboard cabinets offer a smooth surface that works especially well in painted cabinet systems. They can provide a more polished appearance, with cost depending on factors such as thickness and finish quality.
Metal Cabinets: Metal garage cabinets are available in a variety of styles and build qualities. Their performance and price can vary depending on the thickness of the metal, the coating, and the hardware used.
Solid Wood Cabinets: Solid wood cabinets are often chosen for their appearance and craftsmanship. They can create a more finished look, though they are less common in garages compared with engineered materials.

The material you choose can affect both the cost and the overall look of your cabinet system. It helps to think about the types of items you plan to store and how you plan to use the space before deciding on a cabinet material. A cabinet system that matches your storage needs can create a more practical and well-organized setup.

Installation Costs

Installation is another factor that can influence the total cost of garage cabinets. Some cabinet systems are designed for more straightforward installation, while others require more precise mounting and planning. The complexity of the setup often plays a big role in the overall scope of the project.

Garage cabinets are typically installed in one of the following ways:

DIY Installation: Many stock and modular cabinets can be installed without professional help if you’re comfortable using basic tools. This approach may reduce upfront costs, though it also requires careful measuring, proper mounting, and close attention to wall support.
Professional Installation: Some cabinet systems benefit from professional installation, especially when cabinets need to be mounted securely and aligned across an entire wall. Proper installation helps ensure the cabinets remain stable and perform well over time.

The installation approach often depends on the cabinet system you choose and how confident you feel handling the setup. Simpler systems may work well as a DIY project, while larger cabinet layouts can benefit from professional expertise. Thinking about installation early can help you plan your garage cabinet project more smoothly.

Cost of Additional Features and Accessories

Beyond the cabinets themselves, additional features and accessories can also influence the overall cost of a garage cabinet system. These upgrades are designed to improve functionality and make the space more convenient to use. The more features you include, the more the total project cost may increase.

Several add-ons are commonly included in garage cabinet systems:

Workbenches: A built-in workbench can turn part of your garage into a dedicated workspace. This feature is often paired with cabinets to keep tools and supplies within easy reach.
Slatwall Panels: Slatwall systems allow you to hang tools, sports equipment, and other items directly on the wall. They help maximize vertical storage and keep frequently used items accessible.
Overhead Storage Racks: Overhead racks create extra storage space near the ceiling. These racks are often used for seasonal items or larger bins that are not needed every day.
Drawer Organizers and Dividers: Interior organizers help keep smaller tools and hardware neatly arranged inside cabinet drawers. This feature can make it easier to find items quickly when working in the garage.

Adding the right accessories can make a garage cabinet system much more functional. It can help to think about how you use your garage day to day before choosing extra features. A few well-chosen upgrades can improve organization without adding unnecessary complexity.

Cost of Garage Cabinets by Garage Size

The size of your garage can also influence how much you spend on garage cabinets. Larger garages usually require more cabinets to create a balanced and functional storage system. Smaller garages may only need a few cabinets to make a noticeable difference in organization.

A single-car garage often has limited wall space, which naturally keeps the cabinet setup simpler. In many cases, a few wall-mounted cabinets or a compact storage system can provide enough room for tools and household items. This type of layout focuses on efficiency rather than covering every wall.

Two-car garages typically allow for more flexibility with cabinet placement. With additional wall space, you may choose to add multiple cabinets, a workbench, or even a full storage wall. This setup can create dedicated zones for tools, equipment, and other items stored in the garage.

Larger garages provide the most room for expanded cabinet systems. In these spaces, cabinets can be installed along multiple walls or combined with other storage features. The amount of storage you add often depends on how you plan to use the garage on a daily basis.

Ways to Save Money on Garage Cabinets

Planning carefully can help you manage the cost of garage cabinets without sacrificing functionality. Small decisions during the planning stage often make a noticeable difference in the overall budget. A few practical adjustments can keep the project more affordable while still improving organization:

Start With Essential Cabinets: Begin with the cabinets you need most for everyday storage. This approach allows you to organize the space immediately while leaving room to expand the system later.
Choose Modular Systems: Modular cabinets allow you to build your storage system piece by piece. This flexibility can help you control costs while still creating a layout that works for your garage.
Focus on a Practical Layout: A well-planned cabinet layout helps you avoid purchasing storage you may not actually need. Thoughtful placement can maximize wall space and improve how the garage functions day to day.
Reuse Existing Storage Where Possible: Shelving, bins, or tool organizers that are already in good condition can still be useful. Incorporating some existing storage can help limit how many new cabinets you need.

Taking time to plan your cabinet layout can help you avoid unnecessary purchases. A focused approach often leads to a cleaner, more organized garage without stretching the budget. Small adjustments can go a long way when designing a practical storage system.

Conclusion

Opening your garage and actually being able to find what you need can completely change how the space feels. Once you understand cabinet costs, it becomes easier to choose a system that fits both your storage needs and your budget. A little planning now can turn your garage into a space that works with you instead of against you.

Garage Cabinets and Their Role in Establishing a Clean Start to the Year

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:48:09 GMT

The start of a new year always gives me the urge to reset. Not just in the house, but in the garage, too, because that space quietly affects everything else. Garage cabinets are one of the most reliable ways I’ve found to create a clean start that actually lasts. When the garage has defined storage, it stops being a catch-all and starts supporting your routines.

Most people don’t struggle with motivation. They struggle with a storage system that’s easy to maintain. Open shelves, stacked bins, and floor piles tend to drift over time, especially during busy weeks. Cabinets create boundaries, reduce visual clutter, and protect what you own from garage conditions. In my work organizing garages, I’ve seen how the right cabinet setup turns a January cleanout into a year-round system.

Here are the key roles garage cabinets play in helping you establish and keep a clean start to the year:

Structure that prevents clutter from returning
Storage boundaries that make you more intentional
Better access that improves daily efficiency
Visual calm that makes the garage feel clean instantly
Protection from moisture, dust, pests, and damage
Safety through contained storage
Seasonal rotation without the chaos
Maintenance that’s realistic with quick reset habits
Long-term organization that actually lasts

If you’ve ever done a big garage cleanout only to watch the mess come back, you’re not alone. Let’s take a closer look at each role below to better understand why cabinets work so well and how they support a garage that stays organized all year.

Structure That Prevents Clutter From Returning

Garage cabinets create structure, and structure is what keeps clutter from creeping back in. Without a defined storage home, items float from place to place. They might land on the workbench one day and end up on the floor the next. Cabinets solve this by giving categories a permanent location, which reduces the need to constantly reorganize.

In practical terms, structure usually means zoning. I like to plan cabinet areas around real-life categories that match how people actually use their garage. Some of the most common cabinet zones I recommend are:

Tools and hardware
Auto care and detailing supplies
Sports and outdoor gear
Seasonal décor and holiday items
Household overflow (paper goods, bulk items)

Even in smaller garages, a few clear cabinet zones can dramatically reduce piles and random stacking. The more predictable your storage is, the less likely clutter is to reappear.

Storage Boundaries That Make You More Intentional

One of the most underrated benefits of garage cabinets is that they create boundaries. A cabinet has a finite amount of space, which naturally encourages you to make thoughtful decisions about what you keep. When storage is unlimited, like open shelving or a growing corner pile, it becomes easier to hold on to items that no longer fit your life. Cabinets help prevent that slow buildup.

Before organizing, I always recommend doing a quick reset: keep, donate or sell, recycle, and trash. This step matters because cabinets can become clutter hiding spots if you skip the edit. Here’s a simple way to sort items so the cabinet space goes to what you truly use:

Keep (used regularly or genuinely needed)
Donate or sell (good condition, but no longer used)
Recycle (cardboard, old packaging, scrap metal)
Trash (broken, expired, unsafe, or unusable)

A simple guideline is to ask whether you used the item in the last year or plan to use it in the next season. You don’t have to be extreme. You just want your storage to match the life you’re living now.

Better Access That Improves Daily Efficiency

A garage stays clean when it’s easy to use. Garage cabinets improve efficiency because items are easier to find, grab, and put back. When storage is inconvenient, too high, too deep, or too cluttered, people tend to leave things out temporarily. That temporarily can quickly become permanent.

I like to think of cabinet placement in terms of frequency and safety. When you store items where they naturally belong, the garage becomes easier to maintain without effort. A good starting point looks like this:

Daily-use items at waist height
Heavy items on lower shelves
Small items in drawers or pull-outs
Rarely used items higher up

These small adjustments have a big impact because they reduce clutter at the source. When your system supports real-life habits, it becomes easier for the whole household to stick with it.

Visual Calm That Makes the Garage Feel Clean Instantly

Even when a garage is technically organized, it can still feel chaotic if everything is visible. That’s where cabinets shine because they create visual calm by placing clutter behind closed doors. This matters more than people realize, since a space that looks clean feels easier to maintain. Visual clutter can make the garage feel stressful, even if everything is sorted.

I’ve seen the effect again and again. Once cabinets are installed or properly set up, the garage instantly feels more put together. It’s not necessarily that there’s less stuff, but the space feels calmer and more intentional. This is especially helpful in garages that double as the main entry point for the family.

Protection From Moisture, Dust, Pests, and Damage

Garages are tough environments, and they can be surprisingly hard on your belongings. Moisture, dust, pests, and temperature swings can damage items faster than people expect. Garage cabinets offer protection by keeping things off the floor and out of open air. That protection doesn’t just preserve your belongings. It also reduces the amount of mess you have to manage.

In my experience, cabinets are especially helpful for items that can be ruined by dust, dampness, or pests. If you’re deciding what belongs inside garage cabinets first, these categories are often a great place to start:

Holiday décor and keepsakes
Paint, adhesives, and project supplies
Paper goods and bulk household items
Sports gear and soft goods
Items stored in cardboard

Even if your garage doesn’t have obvious moisture issues, dust and grime are constant. Cabinets act as a barrier that keeps items cleaner and reduces the need for re-cleaning and re-sorting. Over time, that protection saves both money and frustration.

Safety Through Contained Storage

A clean start isn’t just about looks. It’s also about safety. Garages often store sharp tools, chemicals, heavy equipment, and automotive products, which can create hazards when they’re left out or stored inconsistently. Cabinets reduce risk by keeping dangerous items contained and walkways clear. They also help prevent trip hazards by getting things off the floor.

I encourage storing items that could cause harm in secure cabinet spaces. This is especially important for homes with kids or pets, but it benefits everyone. The categories I prioritize for contained cabinet storage include:

Sharp tools and blades
Chemicals and automotive fluids
Pesticides and fertilizers
Power tools and heavy equipment
Items that should be locked or stored high

If you have children or pets, cabinets with locks or upper storage can offer extra peace of mind. Heavy items should stay low so they’re stable and easy to lift safely. When safety improves, the garage becomes a space your family can use confidently.

Seasonal Rotation Without the Chaos

Seasonal items are one of the biggest reasons garages become overwhelmed. Holiday décor, winter gear, camping supplies, and summer toys all compete for space. Without a plan, they tend to spill into every available corner. Cabinets make seasonal rotation easier because they create a dedicated seasonal zone.

A strategy I like is assigning one cabinet, or one section within a cabinet, as the seasonal hub. When one season ends, those items move into the seasonal cabinet, and the next set becomes accessible. Adding a quick inventory list inside the cabinet door helps prevent duplicate purchases and makes planning easier next year. It turns seasonal transitions into a routine instead of a disruption.

Maintenance That’s Realistic With Quick Reset Habits

A clean garage doesn’t happen once. It happens in small resets that take only a few minutes. Garage cabinets make maintenance realistic because they shorten cleanup time and reduce decision fatigue. When everything has a place, cleaning up becomes returning items to their homes. That’s much easier than deciding where things should go every time.

I often suggest a one-minute reset once or twice a week. Return loose items, put away tools, and make sure the floor stays clear. If your household is busy, a small catch-all bin inside a cabinet can temporarily hold stray items until you do a quick reset. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s keeping the garage functional without major cleanouts.

Long-Term Organization That Actually Lasts

The biggest role garage cabinets play is helping organization last beyond the first wave of motivation. Cabinets work best when they’re paired with clear categories and realistic habits. If shelves are overstuffed, zones aren’t defined, or maybe someday items take over, clutter will return. The difference is that it will be hidden behind doors instead of on the floor.

The most common issues I see are skipping labels, storing too many miscellaneous items, and placing categories in inconvenient spots. I also see garages where cabinet space is used without any plan, which makes it hard to maintain. When cabinets are set up with intention, zones, access, and a simple reset routine, they create a system that holds up through busy seasons. That’s what turns a clean start into a clean year.

Conclusion

If you’re aiming for a clean start to the year, garage cabinets are one of the most practical ways to make it stick because they support both organization and daily life. You don’t have to overhaul everything at once. Starting with one cabinet zone can create momentum fast. Over time, those small improvements add up to a garage that feels calmer, safer, and easier to maintain. And that’s a fresh start you can actually keep.

7 Ways Garage Cabinets Help You Stay Organized All Winter

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 14:37:38 GMT

When winter arrives, our garages often turn into storage zones for everything, from holiday décor to coats, tools, and outdoor gear. Without a proper system in place, clutter builds quickly and makes it nearly impossible to find what you need. That’s why garage cabinets are such a game-changer. They bring order to the chaos, protect your belongings, and make seasonal organization effortless.

I’ve always found that winter organization sets the tone for the entire year. A well-structured garage helps me move through the season with less stress and more efficiency. While Memphis winters are generally mild, we still get the occasional snow or icy morning, so a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your space organized and your days running smoothly.

Here are seven ways garage cabinets can help you stay organized all winter:

Keep winter gear easily accessible
Protect tools and equipment from moisture
Store sports and outdoor gear safely
Create space for indoor parking
Designate a “winter prep zone”
Maintain a cleaner, safer environment
Transition easily when spring arrives

These strategies will help you make the most of your garage space while keeping everything in its place. Let’s take a closer look at how each one can make a big difference this winter.

Keep Winter Gear Easily Accessible

Even on colder Memphis mornings or during those rare snowy days, it’s nice to have everything you need within reach. With garage cabinets, it’s easy to keep jackets, gloves, umbrellas, ice melt, and boots neatly stored and organized. Labeling each shelf or bin ensures that everything has a designated spot, making those chilly, rushed mornings far more manageable. A well-labeled system also helps the whole household stay consistent throughout the season.

Adjustable shelving can make a big difference when storing bulky coats, boots, or seasonal items. The ability to customize space keeps storage flexible and prevents overcrowding. Even small adjustments in your garage cabinets can help maintain order and make your winter routine smoother.

Protect Tools and Equipment From Moisture

Cold rain, damp air, and the occasional freeze are part of winter life in Memphis. Those conditions can lead to rust, corrosion, and damage if tools are left exposed. Storing them inside enclosed garage cabinets helps keep everything dry and protected from temperature swings. It’s a simple step that extends the life of your tools and prevents unnecessary wear.

I’ve seen how much better my tools hold up when they’re kept behind closed cabinet doors. Choosing sturdy cabinets with sealed doors or metal construction adds an extra layer of protection. It’s a small investment that prevents costly replacements and keeps everything ready for use when you need it most.

Store Sports and Outdoor Gear Safely

Even in a milder climate, outdoor and recreational gear can pile up quickly. Bikes, camping gear, or winter sports equipment like sleds or skis for those occasional snowy weekends can take over the garage if not stored properly. Keeping these items organized inside garage cabinets makes it easier to access them year-round while preventing damage or clutter.

Consider dedicating a specific section of the garage for outdoor gear. Assigning a cabinet or shelf for each family member keeps things simple and prevents mix-ups. Whether it’s rain gear, tools, or winter accessories, organized storage keeps your garage ready for every kind of weather Memphis brings.

Create Space for Indoor Parking

Few things feel better on a cold morning than stepping into a car that’s been kept dry and ready to go. When garages are cluttered, though, parking inside can feel impossible. Using garage cabinets to move items off the floor opens up valuable space, allowing you to comfortably park indoors again. It’s a simple upgrade that pays off in both comfort and convenience.

I’ve noticed that once items are stored vertically and out of the way, the entire garage feels larger and more functional. The difference isn’t just visual—it’s practical too. A tidy layout keeps your vehicle protected from frost, rain, and the occasional light snowfall, making winter mornings a lot more pleasant.

Designate a “Winter Prep Zone”

Creating a small “winter prep zone” in your garage cabinets can make daily routines smoother. This is the perfect place to store items you reach for often, such as windshield washer fluid, gloves, rain gear, de-icer, and car care supplies. Keeping these in one easy-to-access area means you’ll never have to search when the weather turns cold or damp. A little organization now saves a lot of frustration later.

Labeled bins or baskets inside the cabinets make it easy to keep everything in order. I like grouping items by category (like auto care, household tools, or outdoor essentials) so they’re always within reach. It’s a small step that makes your garage feel more functional throughout the winter months.

Maintain a Cleaner, Safer Environment

Winter brings its share of dirt, slush, and salt into the garage, which can make the space look messy in no time. By storing supplies and tools inside garage cabinets, you can keep the mess contained and protect your floors from damage. It also makes cleaning easier since fewer items are left exposed to moisture or debris. A tidy setup helps your garage feel more like an extension of your home rather than a catch-all space.

Another benefit of enclosed storage is safety. Chemicals, paints, and cleaning products can be kept securely behind cabinet doors and out of reach of children or pets. When everything has a proper place, the garage not only looks better but functions more safely year-round.

Transition Easily When Spring Arrives

When winter ends, transitioning your garage for spring should be quick and easy, not another weekend project. With garage cabinets, seasonal changeovers become effortless because everything already has a designated home. You can simply swap out cold-weather supplies for gardening tools, sports equipment, or patio décor. This system helps maintain order year-round while saving time and energy.

I like to think of my garage setup as a rotating storage system rather than a seasonal overhaul. By keeping organization consistent, I never have to start from scratch each spring. It’s one of the simplest ways to keep your garage functional, tidy, and ready for whatever comes next.

Conclusion

Winter doesn’t have to bring clutter or chaos to your garage. With a smart storage layout and sturdy garage cabinets, staying organized becomes simple and sustainable. From protecting your tools to freeing up space for your car, cabinets help your garage function better all season long. Even though snow in Memphis is rare, having a reliable storage system means you’re prepared for every cold snap, rainy day, or light snowfall that comes your way.

Creative Garage Cabinet Uses That Go Beyond Basic Storage

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 20:26:42 GMT

Most people think that every garage cabinet is for two things: tools and junk. You throw the overflow in there, from the paint cans to the half-broken rake and maybe even the box of Halloween stuff you forgot to bring inside. It becomes a hiding place for clutter you don’t want to deal with right now. But truthfully, a well-designed and professionally installed garage cabinet setup can do way more than just hide the mess.

When used creatively, garage cabinets can become active parts of your everyday life. They can help you build, restore, prepare, preserve, and even relax. Here’s how to get your setup right:

Organize sports and outdoor gear
Create a DIY or crafting station
Set up a car care and detailing hub
Build a gardening supply center
Design a family storage zone
Turn cabinets into a home safety station
Seasonal and holiday organization
Pet care and outdoor living storage

An organized garage is easy to maintain, but half the battle is getting there. Read on to learn about some surprisingly practical and inspiring uses for garage cabinets you may not have considered.

Organize Sports and Outdoor Gear

Too often, the garage floor becomes a dumping ground for outdoor toys and gear. Things roll under the car. Bats and sticks lean against walls until they fall over. Balls seem to multiply. With a few well-placed garage cabinets, you can finally achieve an organized garage:

Store balls, bats, gloves, and cleats in separate labeled bins.
Mount ski boots and helmets inside deep shelves to keep them dry.
Stash fishing rods, tackle, and life vests where they won’t get crushed.
Keep camping gear (tents, sleeping bags, mini-stoves) all in one dedicated cabinet.

A cabinet system in your garage even keeps your gear clean, dry, and ready to grab for the next game or adventure.

Create a DIY or Crafting Station

A garage cabinet isn’t just a “holding place” for things. It can enable all the garage activities you love to do. If you’re the type who can’t get enough of building, fixing, painting, or tinkering, the garage is probably already your go-to creative space. But when everything’s scattered across a bench (or worse, the floor), those projects become more stressful than satisfying.

By outfitting a set of garage cabinets with inserts, drawers, and worktop surfaces, you give yourself a home base for whatever you like to create. Paints stay sorted. Glue doesn’t leak. Saws and soldering irons don’t end up mixed in with bike tools. It also makes cleanup easier, and when your space is calm and organized, you’ll actually use it more.

Set Up a Car Care and Detailing Hub

A car enthusiast doesn’t need a 5,000-square-foot shop to keep things pristine. They do need a smart garage layout. Use your garage cabinet setup to house everything for detailing: microfiber towels, tire shine, wax kits, cleaning sprays, clay bars, leather conditioner. You get the picture.

More importantly, these items often contain chemicals. Keeping them off the floor and away from pets or children matters. Locking cabinets give you the peace of mind that nothing hazardous is exposed. When your supplies are neat, visible, and protected, you’re more likely to keep up with regular car care. And that shows.

Build a Gardening Supply Center

This one’s a game-changer, especially if you’re sick of digging through crusty old bags of soil in the corner. A single garage cabinet, lined and well-organized, can hold:

Soil bags (sealed and stacked)
Seed packets (sorted in bins or folders)
Fertilizer, gloves, trowels, and hoses
Small pots or trays ready to use

It also saves you from running back and forth to the shed or laundry room. Everything’s together, clean, and protected from moisture or pests.

Design a Family Storage Zone

No one likes being the “family stuff manager.” A well-planned garage cabinet zone makes that job easier.

Use this space to create an organized drop zone for scooters, helmets, rain boots, soccer balls, or whatever your crew drags in. Assign each family member their own shelf or cabinet. Give the little ones bins they can reach. You’d be surprised how much smoother your mornings go when people know where their things are.

This setup is especially helpful for seasonal gear. Come winter, that cabinet might hold sleds and scarves. In summer, it becomes the sunscreen and towel station. Flexible, dependable, and sanity-saving.

Turn Cabinets Into a Home Safety Station

This task is less fun, but critical. Garage cabinets can be a discreet, accessible place to keep home safety items that should be easy to find in an emergency but often aren’t. I’m talking:

Flashlights with fresh batteries
First aid kits (with real supplies, not just a few Band-Aids)
Fire extinguishers
Backup chargers or power banks
Bottled water or emergency snacks

Mount safety-related cabinets centrally and label them clearly. You don’t want to be digging through clutter in the dark when the power goes out.

Seasonal and Holiday Organization

Holiday bins don’t belong in a damp crawlspace or a teetering stack in the attic. Garage cabinets are perfect for keeping seasonal decorations clean, sorted, and damage-free. You don’t want your string lights tangled with your Thanksgiving tablecloths or your fragile ornaments packed under the camping cooler. Try this instead:

Halloween items in one labeled bin
Christmas lights in another (wound, not tossed)
Outdoor inflatables folded with stakes and cords in one place
Spring décor, picnic gear, or gardening flags grouped and labeled

Some folks might call this fussy. It’s actually a smart use of your time, saving your future self from a lot of aggravation and digging.

Pet Care and Outdoor Living Storage

You may not think of garage cabinets as the go-to for pet stuff, but trust me, it makes life smoother. Keep a dedicated cabinet near the door to hold:

Extra pet food (in a sealed bin)
Leashes, harnesses, and waste bags
Toys, balls, and grooming tools
Portable water bowls for car rides

Another cabinet can hold backyard or patio gear. Essentials like grill tools, citronella candles, folding chairs, sunscreen, and bug spray are all easy to misplace. When you store those things properly, you can enjoy your yard or porch more, without last-minute scrambles.

Conclusion

Garage cabinets are so much more than blank boxes for random storage. Each garage cabinet can transform how you live. They simplify hobbies and protect your gear, giving you a place to breathe, instead of a mess to trip over. Start by asking yourself what’s been bugging you most about your garage. Is it the piles? What about all that wasted time spent searching? Create a cabinet system that truly works for you, because your garage deserves to be used to the fullest.

Garage Cabinets: The Season-Proof Upgrade Every Homeowner Needs Year-Round

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 19:51:34 GMT

I've always thought of the garage as more than a place to store my holiday decorations or park my car. It's where my hobbies flourish, projects come to life, and I can find everything I need with ease, especially as the seasons change. Installing garage cabinets has been one of my best upgrades over the years. They’ve consistently helped my garage smoothly transition from the summer heat to the winter cold, enhancing the overall experience of using my space.

When I first invested in garage cabinets, I was immediately impressed by how well they improved the flow and feel of the space. The most surprising thing to me was how these cabinets improved comfort and functionality in every season in addition to making storage easier. Summer heat, winter cold, rainy days, and even the humidity of spring are all easier to handle with the right cabinet setup. If you’ve ever wondered how cabinets could transform your own garage, I'm sharing insights from my personal experience along with what I’ve learned from years of research and helping others enjoy a garage that works for them all year.

Let’s start with garage cabinet benefits that make them a true season-proof upgrade you’ll appreciate, from summer through every season.

Durable Materials for Every Season
Customizable Organization for Year-Round Flexibility
Effortless Maintenance in Any Weather
Maximizing Comfort and Space All Year Long
Garage Insulation for Seasonal Comfort
Protecting Your Belongings in All Conditions
Boosting Home Value No Matter the Season
Smart Storage Solutions for Changing Needs

If you want to discover how garage cabinets can help you enjoy your space all year long, keep reading for the features and benefits that make this upgrade truly season-proof.

Durable Materials for Every Season

I soon learned how important it is to select cabinets made of sturdy, premium materials that function well in hot weather in July or cold weather in January. Good construction is more than just aesthetics. Materials like marine-grade plywood, high-pressure laminate, and powder-coated steel each have special benefits for garage storage in dry autumns, humid springs, winter cold, and summer heat waves. They can withstand high temperatures, moisture, and warping, and remain beautiful and functional for many years because they are easy to clean and maintain.

Powder-coated steel resists scratches, dents, and daily wear, even during the most active summer months when projects and outdoor gear are at their peak. It’s easy to keep clean after dusty summer activities or muddy winter days.
High-pressure laminate comes in a wide variety of finishes, is easy to match to your style, and holds up to fading, stains, and spills. This is especially useful after spring gardening or summer paint jobs.
Marine-grade plywood offers a classic wood look made for the real world. This material doesn’t warp or delaminate like ordinary plywood, especially with a protective sealant. It holds up beautifully through humid summers and cold winters.

Choosing cabinets made from sturdy and reliable materials means less worry about the effects of summer sun or winter dampness and more time actually enjoying your garage.

Customizable Organization for Year-Round Flexibility

Homeowners prefer flexibility when it comes to garage storage, particularly when their needs vary with the seasons. Specialty accessories, modular organizers, and adjustable shelving can be used to meet a variety of these needs all year long. Cabinets with movable shelves, bins, and drawer organizers have been invaluable in my own space for maintaining organization and accessibility throughout the summer, winter, and all seasons.

Some customization options I’ve found most useful include:

Adjustable shelving accommodates items of all shapes and sizes, from bulky pool toys and sports equipment in summer to snow shovels and winter tires when the weather turns.
Built-in organizers like drawer dividers, hooks, and bins keep small items accessible and organized all year. Sunscreen, gardening gloves, or holiday lights are always within reach when you need them.
Specialized accessories such as pull-out drawers, lockable compartments, and specialty racks make it easy to safely store power tools, paints, or expensive gear. This is helpful whether you are prepping for summer projects or winter maintenance.
Modular bins are great for sorting summer camping gear or spring gardening supplies. As the seasons change, just swap them out for autumn decorations or winter sports gear.
Wall-mounted solutions lik e slatwall systems, magnetic strips, and tool rails keep your most-used items handy for spontaneous summer projects or winter repairs.

This level of customization means my garage is ready for whatever life throws at me, whether it is a burst of summer activity, fall clean-up, or organizing for the holidays.

Effortless Maintenance in Any Weather

A well-designed garage cabinet system makes it more than just possible to keep your space organized. It also helps you maintain the beauty of your garage throughout the year, even after spring pollen, summer muddy shoes, and wet swimsuits. After years of daily use in a variety of seasonal messes, my cabinets have retained their appearance and functionality with a little routine maintenance.

Here’s my straightforward routine for long-lasting cabinets:

Wipe surfaces regularly using a mild dish soap and water solution to prevent buildup and staining.
Dust shelving and cabinet interiors monthly to keep things looking fresh and to prevent accumulation of dust and pollen.
Use shelf liners to simplify drawer cleaning and protect surfaces from scratches.
Clean up spills right away to prevent staining or residue build-up.
Check hardware and hinges every few months to keep doors and drawers working smoothly.

These simple habits have kept my cabinets looking freshly installed. I never feel overwhelmed by garage maintenance, no matter the season.

Maximizing Comfort and Space All Year Long

The garage is frequently cited as one of the most useful areas for flexibility and organization, particularly when it can be adjusted to meet shifting seasonal demands. Whether you are storing heavy winter equipment as the weather changes or escaping the summer heat for a cool project indoors, garage cabinets help organize your space, make the most of every square inch of available space, and transform your garage into a cozy, multipurpose space. Clearing the floor of clutter in my own garage improved safety and made daily chores easier. All year long, it improved the area's appeal for leisure activities and leisure.

Here are some benefits I’ve noticed firsthand:

Improved accessibility so everything has its place and items are easy to find and put away, whether it is summer pool supplies or winter boots.
Space optimization using vertical storage to open up valuable floor space for cars, activities, or storage.
Enhanced safety because fewer tripping hazards mean a safer environment for everyone
Zoned storage allows me to dedicate specific cabinets for seasonal tools and gear, so nothing gets lost or mixed up.
More room for activities since there is space to work on DIY projects, park the car out of the summer sun, or set up a home gym to use regardless of the weather.

A well-organized garage works better for your everyday life, from the first day of spring through the last days of winter.

Garage Insulation for Seasonal Comfort

Insulating your garage has a significant impact on both energy efficiency and comfort. For starters, your cabinets’ contents get extra protection against summer heat and the winter cold by an insulated garage's more consistent temperature.

Key benefits of pairing insulation with garage cabinets include:

Temperature stability that keeps the garage comfortable during summer heat waves and winter freezes.
Energy efficiency since less heat and cold loss means lower utility bills.
Year-round usability that turns the garage into a true extension of your living space.
Protection for items as stored items are less likely to suffer from temperature swings or moisture, which can be especially damaging in humid summers or icy winters.
Noise reduction helps keep outside noise out, making the garage quieter and more enjoyable all year.

Combining garage insulation with quality cabinets has truly turned my garage into a space I can enjoy no matter the season.

Protecting Your Belongings in All Conditions

Open shelving and floor piles simply cannot compare to the protection that high-quality garage cabinets provide for your possessions. Throughout the year, cabinets protect priceless tools, supplies, and equipment from dust, grime, unintentional spills, and temperature fluctuations. Additionally, enclosed cabinets and drawers make it much more difficult for pests to access stored goods. Lockable cabinets are particularly helpful for keeping chemicals, sharp objects, or pricey equipment out of the reach of kids and pets.

With good storage, I have noticed:

Tools and materials last longer and stay in better condition, despite the effects of hot summers or damp winters.
Less worry about accidental spills or weather changes affecting sensitive items.
A safer space for kids and pets by keeping hazardous or sharp objects out of reach, especially when everyone is home during summer vacation.
Less dust settling on items so everything stays cleaner and more presentable all year.

Extra peace of mind knowing that dangerous or valuable items are stored securely, even when humidity or cold weather threaten your garage’s contents.

Boosting Home Value No Matter the Season

Adding garage cabinets to your house improves its value and appeal throughout the year. Potential buyers are drawn to a garage that is spotless, well-organized, and incredibly functional. Many homeowners regret not investing in a garage sooner, particularly after a long, messy summer or a hectic holiday season.

More significantly, having a clean, functional garage has many daily advantages. Regardless of the season, I love going into my garage every day and knowing that everything is exactly where I left it. Whether I'm returning home with holiday shopping or going on a summer adventure, the room feels better, larger, and brighter. Benefits I have seen include:

Enhanced curb appeal and first impressions
Increased resale value if you ever choose to sell your home
A greater sense of satisfaction and pride in my home
More space for storage and organization compared to shelves or plastic bins
The garage becomes a flexible space for hobbies, family projects, or even entertaining.

Smart Storage Solutions for Changing Needs

My garage cabinet usage has evolved along with my needs and interests. Everything now has a place, whether it's summer sports gear, spring gardening tools, fall seasonal décor, or winter do-it-yourself supplies. This adaptability makes it simple to adjust to evolving routines, expanding families, and changing interests year after year. You can maximize your storage investment with a little preparation and labeling.

Tips that have worked for me:

Store frequently used items within easy reach, rotating them as summer turns to winter.
Use upper shelves or the tops of cabinets for things used less often, like holiday décor or out-of-season gear.
Label bins and drawers for instant access and easy identification.
Group similar items together for faster cleanup and retrieval.
Rotate seasonal gear so it is always handy when needed.

Conclusion

High-quality garage cabinets are among the best upgrades you can make for your home. They offer the perfect balance of long-lasting storage, simple organization, low maintenance, and comfort all year round. This is particularly crucial as the seasons shift and summer arrives and departs. Regardless of the time of year, your garage can be a genuinely useful and pleasurable addition to your house with careful planning and professional installation.

Spring-to-Winter Storage Made Easy With Garage Cabinets

Thu, 22 May 2025 17:44:17 GMT

For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved the rhythm of the seasons. But I didn’t always love what came with it—the clutter. Gardening tools shoved into corners in spring, pool gear piled up in summer, random fall décor stacked on top of sports gear I still hadn’t touched. And what about winter? Don’t even get me started. Getting control of it all was freeing. The answer, for me, came down to one major upgrade: garage cabinets .

I knew I needed more than some shelves or bins stacked along the wall. I knew I needed—and my space deserved—a full, well-thought-out cabinet system with room for everything I use throughout the year. And since making the switch, seasonal transitions have gone from chaotic to calm. Here’s how:

Why seasonal storage matters
Spring—Out with the old, in with the new
Summer—Accessible, active living
Fall—Transition and prep
Winter—Maximize interior space
Year-round organization tips

If you’re tired of constantly rearranging your garage every few months—or just wish your space looked better while doing it—I’m here to help. Keep reading to learn exactly how garage cabinets helped me organize my life, season by season.

Why Seasonal Storage Matters

Before I had a storage system I could rely on, I spent more time than I’d like to admit looking for things I knew I owned. From extension cords to garden gloves, somehow everything always went missing right when I needed it. All that frustration added up.

Clutter, I’ve learned, doesn’t just eat up space—it eats up energy. Every unmarked bin or half-broken shelf made me dread going into the garage. Once I started rotating my seasonal gear and assigning it all a dedicated cabinet or drawer, everything changed. I gained time, peace of mind, and let’s be honest—a garage that finally looked good enough to leave the door open.

Garage cabinets gave me back control. They’ve made every season easier to manage.

Spring—Out With the Old, In With the New

This is my favorite time to refresh and reset. Garage cabinets make it simple to ditch the winter clutter and make room for what’s next.

Winter Boots Get a Break: I use deep pull-out drawers to stash snow gear I won’t need until next year.
Gardening Tools Get Their Own Zone: A vertical cabinet with hooks and bins makes sure my gloves, trowels, and seed packets are easy to grab.
Rain Gear Gets Its Own Storage: Waterproof bins keep umbrellas and boots from turning the floor into a puddle zone.
Kids’ Bikes Go From Buried to Ready-to-Ride: Lower cabinets are perfect for storing helmets, pumps, and spare tubes within reach.

Summer—Accessible, Active Living

When summer hits, I want to be outside—not digging through piles of gear to find the bug spray. I really try to keep it simple during this season. My routine includes:

Quick-Grab Bins Make Weekends Smoother: My beach towels, pool noodles, and folding chairs have a dedicated drawer near the garage door.
Lockable Cabinets Hold Chemicals Safely: I keep things like weed killer and citronella candles in a top cabinet with a key lock.
Use Hooks Inside Tall Cabinets: Hooks keep pool floaties and goggles them off the floor and out of the sun.
Sports Gear Gets Its Own Cabinet: Baseball gloves, tennis rackets, and cleats all live in one place now, so I’m not scrambling before practices or games.

Fall—Transition and Prep

This is when I start winding down the summer fun. Time to prepare for the cold weather ahead.

Summer Tools Get Cleaned, Then Stored: I keep a cleaning station near a cabinet where I dry and store garden hoses, shears, and gloves.
Outdoor Cushions Find a Dry Home: Instead of tossing them in a corner, I now tuck them into oversized drawers until spring.
Storm Prep Gear Gets Its Own Zone: Flashlights, extra batteries, and tarps stay in a clearly labeled emergency cabinet.

Winter—Maximize Interior Space

The cold months used to turn my garage into a cold, wet mess. Now, everything’s elevated, protected, and ready to go.

Snow Shovels and Ice Melt Sit by the Garage Door: A narrow pull-out drawer and upright hooks keep things accessible.
Holiday Wrapping Paper Has Its Own Cubby: I used to lose tape and scissors every year. Now it’s all in one labeled bin.
Car Accessories Stay Clean and Dry: Wiper fluid, tire chains, and scrapers live in a moisture-resistant cabinet.
Heated items stay safe: Cabinets with insulation keep battery-powered tools from freezing or failing.

Winter—Maximize Interior Space

No matter the season, there are a few things I’ve learned that make garage cabinet systems even more effective:

Labeled Bins Save Time and Frustration: Clear or color-coded—either way, labels are everything when you’re in a rush.
Adjustable Shelving Makes a Huge Difference: One cabinet now stores tall fall decorations, next month it might hold spring tools.
Keeping Heavy Items Low Improves Safety: Cabinets are great, but storing mulch bags or car jacks closer to the ground prevents back strain and accidents.
Soft-Close Doors Are Luxurious: This small detail made my garage feel instantly more polished (and less like a warehouse).
Tall Cabinets Hide the Visual Chaos: Bins look neater behind doors than they do stacked open on a shelf.
Frequent Purges Keep Things Light: I check every season to make sure I’m not storing broken gear, expired supplies, or stuff I just don’t use anymore.

Conclusion

I used to think seasonal garage organization was a constant battle. But with custom garage cabinets, it’s become something I actually look forward to. From spring planting to winter prep, this single investment helped me create a flow that supports my life instead of adding stress to it. So, if your garage feels more like a storage warzone than a usable space, trust me—this one upgrade will change everything.

Future-Proof Your Kids' Closet for Every Age and Stage

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 13:26:43 GMT

Picture this: You're rushing to get your children dressed for school, and nothing fits. The pants that were fine last month are suddenly two inches too short. Their favorite shirts? Nowhere to be found in the chaos of your kids’ closet . Sound familiar?

Now, imagine a different scenario. Your child’s closet is neatly organized with clothes that fit, bins for outgrown items, and enough space to see everything at a glance. No more digging through drawers, no more last-minute panic. Instead of wrestling with the mess, you’re out the door on time, stress-free

A custom kids' closet changes your morning routine for the better. In this article, I’ll share my thoughts on these important topics:

The challenge of growing kids
Benefits of custom kids’ closets
Key features of an adaptable kids’ closet
Practical tips for designing a custom kids’ closet

With the right design and accessories, your child’s closet can grow with them, making life easier for both of you. Let’s talk about how to future-proof their closet so you can finally ditch the clutter and the morning outfit struggles. Keep reading!

The Challenge of Growing Kids

Kids grow fast. One day you’re folding tiny onesies, and the next, you’re wondering how your preteen suddenly needs adult-sized sneakers. Clothes that fit last season are now too small, and before you know it, you’re stuffing bags full of outgrown outfits for donation.

Kids develop their own style preferences, too. Maybe your daughter was all about sparkly dresses last year, and now she only wears leggings and hoodies. Or your son, who loved dinosaurs, suddenly decides they’re “for babies” and wants superhero-themed everything. Without a closet that adapts, you’ll find yourself constantly rearranging, replacing, and trying to cram new things into a space that just doesn’t work.

Then there’s the sheer amount of stuff kids accumulate. Between school uniforms, seasonal clothing, sports gear, and special-occasion outfits, it doesn’t take long for a closet to become an overstuffed disaster. If there’s no system in place, getting dressed turns into a daily struggle, and you’re left battling the mess.

If your child’s closet is an overflowing mess of clothes they don’t wear and storage that doesn’t make sense, you’re not alone. The good news? A custom kids’ closet can fix all of that.

Benefits of Custom Kids’ Closets

A custom closet helps keep your home more organized and makes your daily routine easier. Here’s why a custom kids' closet is worth considering:

Adjustable shelving grows with your child. Instead of fixed shelves that become useless as their needs change, adjustable shelves let you shift things around. Whether you’re storing baby blankets, folded jeans, or school supplies, everything has a place.
Modular storage keeps things flexible. Interchangeable bins, cubbies, and baskets allow you to change the setup as your child’s wardrobe and interests evolve. One year it’s toys and board books, and the next it’s soccer gear and art supplies.
Built-in organization reduces mess. With dedicated spots for shoes, folded clothes, and accessories, kids are more likely to put things back where they belong. Less mess means less frustration for everyone.
Even small closets can be more functional. With smart design features like pull-out bins, double hanging rods, and vertical storage, you can make the most of every inch of space, even in a tiny closet.
Easy rotation for seasonal clothes. With a designated space for out-of-season clothing, you won’t have to rummage through the entire closet when the weather changes. A few quick swaps, and you’re ready for a new season without the hassle.

Key Features of an Adaptable Kids’ Closet

The secret to a long-lasting, functional kids’ closet? Flexibility. Here are the must-have features that will make a difference:

Adjustable Shelving: Kids' storage needs change constantly. Shelves that can be repositioned make it easy to store everything from tiny baby shoes to stacks of folded jeans. You can raise them as kids get taller or swap out storage bins when their needs shift.
Modular Storage Solutions: Swappable bins, cubbies, and baskets mean you can change things up as your child grows. What starts as toy storage for a toddler can later become compartments for books, shoes, or sports gear.
Expandable Hanging Rods: Clothes sizes change quickly, and so should your closet. Extendable rods let you maximize hanging space while keeping everything organized, whether it’s toddler-sized outfits or full-length dresses.
Multipurpose Accessories: Hooks, racks, and pull-out baskets make daily organization easy. Use hooks for backpacks and hats, racks for shoes, and baskets for pajamas or seasonal clothes.
Incorporating Fun and Style: A kids’ closet should be both practical and personal. Add a pop of color, fun wallpaper, or cool drawer pulls to make it feel like your child's own space while keeping in mind that their taste may change in the future.

Practical Tips for Designing a Custom Kids’ Closet

A closet that grows with your child creates a system that works for your family not only now but also into the future. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

Think Long-Term: Choose designs that adapt over time so they grow along with your child. Adjustable shelving, modular components, and expandable rods will save you from constant closet overhauls.
Involve Your Child: Let them help pick storage bins or choose colors. When kids have a say, they’re more likely to use the closet properly and stay organized. If there’s something your child doesn’t like or that doesn’t work, you can always remove it.
Prioritize Functionality: Make sure everything is easy to reach. Lower shelves work best for younger kids, while higher sections can store off-season clothes or extra bedding. Hooks often work better than hangers for frequently used sweatshirts and jackets.
Plan for Hidden Storage: Use under-bed bins, over-the-door organizers, or labeled baskets to keep extra clothes, shoes, or seasonal items neatly tucked away. For younger children, this tip can help you keep certain items “out of sight, out of mind,” particularly if they tend to take everything out at once and make a mess.

Don’t:

Overlook Future Needs: While it’s tempting to design a closet around what works right now, think about what your child will need in a few years. Avoid permanent components built for small children that won’t work later.
Forget About Accessibility: A closet should be easy for kids to use. If they can’t reach their clothes, they’re not going to put them away. Keep everyday essentials at a kid-friendly height.
Ignore Lighting: A dimly lit closet makes it harder to find things. Add motion-sensor LED lights or stick-on battery-powered options to brighten up the space without major electrical work. Colorful bulbs can make the closet more fun, too.
Underestimate the Importance of Labels: Labeling bins and shelves makes it easy for kids (and parents) to know where things go. It also makes it more likely that everything gets put back in its place.

Conclusion

A well-designed kids' closet adds organization to your child’s bedroom and makes your life easier. With the right mix of adjustable and expandable features, you can create a space that works from toddlerhood through the teen years. No more constant rearranging, no more cluttered chaos, and no more outgrown clothes taking over your home. Investing in a custom closet now means fewer headaches later, making mornings smoother and keeping your child’s ever-changing wardrobe under control.

Top 5 Benefits of Adding Pullout Shelving to Your Home

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 18:30:06 GMT

Picture this: You're crouching down, rummaging through a cluttered cabinet, trying to find that elusive baking dish buried at the back. Sound familiar? For many of my clients, traditional cabinets and storage spaces can feel more like black holes than practical solutions. Pullout shelving can be a game-changer for organization, accessibility, and home efficiency. These clever upgrades make every inch of your cabinets usable, saving you time and effort while transforming your space.

Here are the top 5 benefits of adding pullout shelving to your home:

Turn dead space into gold – Maximizing storage efficiency
Access with ease - No more stretching, bending, or searching
Organize like a pro - Declutter and simplify
Upgrade your home - Add value and style
Easy maintenance - A cleaner, healthier space

Whether you’re tired of struggling to reach items in deep cabinets, dreaming of a more organized pantry, or looking for a practical way to increase your home’s value, pullout shelving has something to offer. Keep reading to find out why this simple upgrade could be excellent for your home.

Turn Dead Space Into Gold – Maximizing Storage Efficiency

If you’ve ever reached into the back of a cabinet only to wonder why so much space feels wasted, you’re not alone. Traditional shelving often leaves areas underused or completely inaccessible, but pullout shelving solves this problem.

Uses the full depth of cabinets: Unlike standard shelves that require you to reach and stretch, pullout shelves glide out smoothly, giving you access to the farthest corners of your cabinets. No more forgotten cans of soup or missing Tupperware lids at the back!
Works in every room: Pullout shelves aren’t just for the kitchen. They’re perfect for bathroom vanities, laundry rooms, and even bedroom closets. Deep, awkward spaces under sinks or above counters become fully functional, even if you have a lot of belongings stored.
Increases storage capacity without increasing clutter: By using every inch of available space, pullout shelving allows you to store more items in an organized and visible manner. This means you can fit more into your cabinets without the frustration of rummaging through disarray.

How it looks: Imagine transforming your pantry into a model of efficiency. Pullout shelving can create sections for snacks, canned goods, and baking supplies, so every item is easy to access and neatly organized.

Access With Ease – No More Stretching, Bending, or Searching

Think about how often you’ve stretched, bent, or even crawled to retrieve something buried deep inside a cabinet. With pullout shelving, that frustration becomes a thing of the past.

Ergonomic design: Pullout shelves bring items directly to you, eliminating the need to contort yourself or strain your back. The smooth glide function ensures everything is within arm’s reach.
Perfect for mobility challenges: These shelves are excellent for seniors or anyone with limited mobility. You won’t have to rely on painful bending or climbing on stools; just a tug will help you access what you’re looking for.
Versatile options for all needs: From pullout pantry shelves for dry goods to sliding racks for heavy pots and pans, pullout shelving adapts to make storage simple and stress-free.

How it looks: Picture your busy family making dinner. With pullout racks in the cabinets, even the heaviest cookware is easy to grab and put away, saving time and effort during hectic evenings.

Organize Like a Pro – Declutter and Simplify

If your cabinets feel more like chaotic catch-alls than organized spaces, pullout shelving is your solution. It takes the guesswork out of organization and makes it easier to keep your home tidy.

Encourages better organization: Each pullout shelf acts as its own storage space, helping you categorize and sort items efficiently. Whether it’s pantry goods, toiletries, or office supplies, pullout shelving gives each item a designated place.
Reduces clutter: By creating defined storage zones, pullout shelves help you avoid the dreaded pile-up of mismatched items. It’s much easier to maintain order when your shelves guide your organization.
Visually appealing storage: There’s something satisfying about opening a cabinet or pantry and seeing everything neatly arranged. It’s not just functional; it’s aesthetically pleasing, too.

How it looks: Think of how many times you’ve struggled to find a matching lid for a pot. With pullout shelving, you can dedicate a shelf to lids, keeping them organized and easy to locate. You won’t have the frustration of trying to use a lid that’s too big, resulting in water dripping all over your stove.

Upgrade Your Home – Add Value and Style

Pullout shelving is an upgrade that adds style and value to your home. If you’re considering a renovation or looking to sell, this feature is worth the investment.

Modern, high-end feel: Pullout shelves bring a sleek, customized look to your cabinets, elevating the overall appearance of your home.
Appeals to buyers: Storage solutions like pullout shelving are a major selling point for potential buyers. They’re looking for convenience, style, and functionality, all of which pullout shelves deliver.
Customizable designs: Whether you prefer wood, metal, or laminate, pullout shelves can be tailored to match your existing cabinetry and decor. This seamless integration ensures your storage solutions are both attractive and practical.

How it looks: Imagine a prospective buyer touring your home and discovering a well-organized kitchen with pullout pantry shelves. It’s the kind of thoughtful upgrade that sets your home apart and adds to its appeal, and it might even bring you a bid over the asking price in a competitive market.

Easy Maintenance – A Cleaner, Healthier Space

Keeping cabinets clean can be a challenge, especially when spills and crumbs accumulate in hard-to-reach corners. Pullout shelving makes maintenance effortless.

Easy-to-clean surfaces: Many pullout shelves are made with smooth, wipeable materials, making cleanup a breeze.
Reduces hidden messes: By bringing the entire cabinet contents into view, pullout shelves prevent crumbs and spills from accumulating unnoticed.
Promotes a healthier environment: A cleaner cabinet is a healthier cabinet. Pullout shelving helps you keep your storage areas tidy and free of dust, debris, and pests.

How it looks: Think about the area under your kitchen sink. It’s notorious for being messy and hard to clean. With pullout shelving, you can easily access and wipe down every inch, keeping it fresh and hygienic.

Conclusion

Pullout shelving offers so much more than convenience; it’s a transformative upgrade that improves organization, accessibility, and style in every room of your home. By maximizing storage efficiency, reducing clutter, and making cleaning easier, these shelves turn even the most chaotic spaces into models of functionality and elegance.

How Pull-Out Shelving Adds Functionality to Any Room in Your Home

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 14:44:51 GMT

Are you familiar with pull-out shelving ? It’s only one of the smartest, most strategic storage solutions, explaining why it’s becoming so popular in home organization. Pull-out shelves are practical and versatile, offering more room and assisting in space utilization throughout the house.

Since pull-out shelves are useful in so many ways, what else do you need to know about them? Here’s the 411 on pull-out shelving:

What is pull-out shelving?
Key benefits of pull-out shelving
How pull-out shelving enhances specific rooms
Types of pull-out shelving systems
Considerations before installing pull-out shelving
DIY vs. professional installation

Gear up to get all your questions about pull-out shelves answered with our comprehensive guide.

What is Pull-Out Shelving?

Let’s take it from the top. Pull-out shelving is a form of home storage also known as sliding or glide-out shelves. As the name implies, the shelves pull out, revealing the contents of each one. These shelves can be made of various materials, from plastic to wood and metal, and come in different finishes.

Since they’re so versatile, pull-out shelves can be outfitted in various parts of your home, from your kitchen to your bedroom and even the laundry room and home office, says furniture source Blum Inspirations .

Key Benefits of Pull-Out Shelving

Is your interest piqued? Great! There are all sorts of benefits of choosing pull-out shelves for your home. Take a look.

Space Efficiency: Pull-out shelves make the most of limited space by utilizing areas that would otherwise remain unused, such as deep cabinets and narrow spaces. You can make the most of all square footage in your home for storage purposes.
Accessibility: Items stored on pull-out shelves are easily accessible with just a simple pull, eliminating the need to reach or bend awkwardly to grab things. You can even find the items at the back of the shelves quite easily.
Organization and Clutter Reduction: With pull-out shelving, each item has a designated space, making it easier to maintain an organized and clutter-free home.
Time Savings: The expeditiousness of pull-out shelves allow you to find your favorite accessory in a jiffy, so you can save valuable time in the mornings and evenings.
Lowered Stress: Clutter is stressful enough, not to mention the frustration of not being able to find what you’re looking for. Organizing with pull-out shelves can help you control your stress levels.

How Pull-Out Shelving Enhances Specific Rooms

Taking your home to the next level is easy with pull-out shelving. Here are some examples of how this form of shelving augments various rooms throughout the house.

Kitchen: In the kitchen, pull-out shelves are perfect for organizing pantry items, spices, or pots and pans. They allow easy access to items stored in deep cabinets, so everything can be quickly retrieved without the need to dig through unsightly piles.
Bathroom: In bathrooms, pull-out shelves are ideal for storing towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies, making the best use of under-sink storage or small linen closets.
Home Office: For home offices, pull-out shelves can be installed to organize office supplies, files, or tech accessories, keeping everything neatly organized and within reach.
Bedroom: The bedroom can become a cluttered spot fast for many homeowners. Contend with the disorganization by using pull-out shelves. You can store accessories, like hats or scarves, folded clothing, and jewelry. Your items will be easily reachable for daily dressing.
Laundry Room: Pull-out shelves speed up your laundry routine, allowing you quick access to the items you need with only a pull. You can create a washing, drying, and folding station that saves you time and stress.

Types of Pull-Out Shelving Systems

Not all pull-out shelves are created equal. Explore the various types to decide which fits your needs, with plenty of appealing materials and finishes to learn more about. Here’s an overview.

Traditional Drawer-Style Shelves

These are your standard pull-out shelves with an appealing drawer design and finish that you can select. These shelves are traditionally wooden, although they can be made of other materials depending on your needs and preferences.

Wire Baskets

Next, you should look into wire baskets. These convenient storage solutions are made of durable metal that should maintain its look and appeal for years. Better yet, the ability to see through wire baskets means you can quickly and easily find whatever item you’re looking for.

Pull-Out Racks

How about some heavier-duty storage? A pull-out rack is for larger items, such as in the kitchen, or family room, or for situations that require more storage. These racks come in varying sizes and may be single- or double-layered. Many pull-out racks use wires for easy access.

Custom Solutions

If you like some elements of these pull-out shelving options, be advised that you can always customize your storage solution to fit your exact needs. Selecting options, like the storage type, size, and style, will help you achieve your organization goals your way.

Considerations Before Installing Pull-Out Shelving

If you’re ready to add pull-out shelves to your home for better efficiency and organization, be advised of these considerations:

Space Availability: How much space you have available for shelving dictates your options, as some types of pull-out shelves are better for smaller spaces than others.
Weight Capacity: Another point to ponder is the weight capacity of the shelving. You need the infrastructure to support the shelves, so they remain secure and provide a reliable storage option.
Ease of Installation: If you opt to install your pull-out shelves yourself, how easy they are to install will be a big consideration. Beginner-friendly shelving styles will suit you best.
Budget: Since pull-out shelves are available in so many styles, their pricing runs the gamut. Determine what you can afford to spend on shelving, then use that information as your true north.

Ultimately, selecting the right pull-out shelving system for your home will depend on the room’s size and layout. However, you should always shop according to your budget.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Speaking of installation, is DIY setup really the right call for pull-out shelves? It can be if it’s an easy enough job and you have prior handyperson experience. You should be able to put together your shelving without too much trouble. However, for more in-depth projects, you’re better off hiring a professional. They will save you money in that they won’t cause additional damage trying to install the shelving, like a DIY effort can yield.

Conclusion

Pull-out shelving could be just the resource you need if you’re eager to enhance the functionality of almost any room in your home. This shelving style offers so many practical benefits that it’s worth considering as a smart addition to your home storage solutions!

Source

https://www.blum-inspirations.com/en-eu/knowledge/pull-out-shelf

How Swisstrax Flooring Handles Extreme Weather Conditions and Temperatures

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 16:39:16 GMT

When it comes to flooring, especially for garages, workshops, or outdoor spaces, durability is non-negotiable. From sweltering summers to freezing winters, your flooring should be as tough as the weather it endures. For me, Swisstrax flooring is the solution—a high-performance option designed to tackle whatever Mother Nature throws its way. Over the years, I’ve seen flooring solutions fail under extreme weather, but Swisstrax has consistently proven it’s built tough. I’ve seen Swisstrax hold its own against extreme temperatures, moisture, and everything in between.

Whether you’re battling blistering heat or icy winters, Swisstrax delivers reliability, durability, and style all year round. Here’s why this innovative flooring deserves a spot in your garage, patio, or workshop:

Ingenious design
Heat resistance
Cold resistance
Moisture resistance
Chemical and spill resistance
Easy maintenance
Adaptable uses

If you’ve ever wondered whether your flooring can handle the worst weather, keep reading—you’re about to find the answer.

Ingenious Design

Swisstrax flooring is a step above the rest – thanks to its carefully engineered design that tackles common flooring challenges with ease. Here’s why its smart construction stands out:

Temperature-Adaptive Interlocking System: The tiles are designed to expand and contract with changes in temperature, preventing the cracking and warping that can ruin traditional flooring. This flexibility keeps your floor looking flawless, no matter the weather.
High-Quality Polypropylene: Built from tough yet lightweight polypropylene, Swisstrax tiles withstand heavy wear and tear without losing their shape or integrity. They can handle everything from parked cars to bustling workshops with ease.
Perforated for Superior Drainage: The tiles feature a unique perforated design that allows water and air to pass through freely. This means no pooling, no puddles, and less risk of slipping—perfect for areas exposed to rain, snow, or spills.
Moisture and Mold Resistance: By promoting airflow beneath the surface, Swisstrax tiles actively combat moisture buildup, reducing the risk of mold and mildew. Even in damp or humid conditions, your floor stays fresh and dry.
Snap-Together Installation: The interlocking system isn’t just functional—it’s user-friendly. The tiles snap together seamlessly, creating a secure, stable surface without the need for adhesives or extra tools.
Superior Durability: According to Car and Driver , the best garage floor tiles are made of thick plastic—like Swisstrax. Rather than investing in low-cost options, like peel-and-stick vinyl, invest in garage flooring that’s made to last—and made to deliver peace of mind.

Heat Resistance

If you’ve ever walked barefoot across a sun-soaked garage floor, you know how unbearable the heat can get. With Swisstrax, that’s a non-issue. The tiles are UV-stable, which means they resist fading, warping, and becoming brittle even under relentless sunlight. From my experience, this UV stability also keeps the vibrant colors as bold as the day you installed them—no dullness, no yellowing, just pristine flooring.

Another standout feature? Swisstrax stays cool underfoot. Whether you’re working in your garage or hosting a backyard barbecue, the flooring remains comfortable, even on the hottest days. And let’s not overlook its durability in heat—no softening, no sagging, just steadfast performance.

Cold Resistance

Extreme cold is where many flooring options crack—literally. But Swisstrax thrives in freezing conditions. The tiles maintain their flexibility, resisting brittleness even when temperatures plummet. They’re a fantastic choice for garages in winter-prone areas or outdoor spaces exposed to snow and ice.

One of my favorite features is how well the modular design handles snow and water. Ice and snow drain through the perforated tiles, reducing buildup and slip hazards. You don’t have to worry about pooling or icy patches, which makes Swisstrax not just practical but incredibly safe.

Moisture Resistance

Rain, snow, or humidity—Swisstrax has it all under control. Its perforated structure ensures that water flows through to the subfloor, eliminating puddles and reducing slip risks. This feature is a lifesaver in wet or humid environments, where traditional flooring options often fall short.

What’s more, Swisstrax tiles are resistant to mold and mildew – thanks to the moisture-resistant materials and air circulation. From garages in damp climates to poolside setups, this flooring stays dry, durable, and dependable.

Chemical and Spill Resistance

If you’re like me, your garage is so much more than a place to park your car—it’s a workspace, a storage zone, and maybe even a hangout spot. Spills are inevitable. Thankfully, Swisstrax flooring is resistant to oil, gas, and cleaning solvents, making it perfect for messy garages or workshops. The stain resistance is another bonus. I’ve even seen oil spills wiped up without leaving a trace, keeping the tiles looking fresh and clean.

Easy Maintenance

Keeping Swisstrax flooring in top shape is refreshingly simple. Here are some easy tips to maintain its performance:

Sweep Regularly: Dust and debris don’t stand a chance with a quick sweep every week.
Mop Occasionally: A light mop with water or a gentle cleaner keeps the tiles shining.
Hose It Down: For outdoor spaces, a simple rinse with a garden hose removes dirt and grime in minutes.
Inspect Periodically: Lift the tiles occasionally to check the subfloor and ensure everything stays clean and dry.
Spot-Clean Stains: For any stubborn spots, a mild detergent does the trick without damaging the tiles.

Adaptable Uses

What makes Swisstrax truly stand out is its versatility. This flooring isn’t just for garages; it excels in workshops, patios, pool decks, and even outdoor kitchens. Its weather-resistant properties mean you can rely on it in scorching summers, snowy winters, and everything in between.

I’ve seen Swisstrax transform spaces in a variety of climates, proving its adaptability time and again. No matter where you are or what you need, this flooring delivers on every front.

Conclusion

Choosing the right flooring means considering every factor, including your local climate and the challenges your space faces. With its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions and temperatures, Swisstrax flooring offers unparalleled durability and style. Ready to upgrade your garage or outdoor space? Make the investment in Swisstrax, just like I did—you will not regret it.

Source

https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a27076617/garage-floor-epoxy-flooring/

Optimizing Space for Irregularly Shaped Items With Custom Garage Cabinets

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 14:16:52 GMT

I've spent countless weekends wrestling with my own unruly garage, and anyone with a garage knows the struggle of storing those awkwardly shaped items that seem to defy all attempts at organization. From bicycles and gardening tools to sports gear and camping equipment, these items can quickly turn your garage into a cluttered mess but not with the use of garage cabinets .

I've learned that the key to taming the chaos is a well-designed system of custom garage cabinets.

Dealing with the challenge of irregularly shaped items
Unlocking the benefits of custom garage cabinets for storage
Customizing cabinets for irregularly shaped items
Maximizing vertical and horizontal space
Maintaining and preserving your garage cabinets

Garage cabinets aren't just for storing boxes and tools; they offer versatile and customizable storage options that can easily accommodate those tricky, irregularly shaped items that are the bane of garage organization. Here’s how durable garage cabinets have helped me reclaim my garage space and how they can do the same for you.

Dealing with the Challenge of Irregularly Shaped Items

Irregularly shaped items are, well, irregular. They don't fit neatly on shelves, they're awkward to stack, and they often end up leaning precariously against walls or piled in corners. This not only creates a cluttered and unsightly mess, but it also makes it difficult to find what you need when you need it. Just think about all the oddly shaped items you might store in your garage:

Sports equipment: Bikes, skis, snowboards, golf clubs, and more.
Gardening tools: Rakes, shovels, hoses, and oddly shaped pots.
Camping gear: Tents, sleeping bags, coolers, and camping chairs.
Tools and equipment: Ladders, saws, extension cords, and other bulky items.

Unlocking the Benefits of Custom Garage Cabinets for Storage

Garage cabinets offer a full range of unique benefits when it comes to storing irregularly shaped items. Some of the benefits I’ve personally noticed include:

Customizable Storage: Unlike standard shelving or racks, garage cabinets can be customized to fit your specific needs. I’ve found I can easily add and rearrange adjustable shelves, hooks, and compartments to create the perfect storage space for your unique collection of items.
Concealment: Let's be honest – not everything in our garages is aesthetically-pleasing. Cabinets help you hide away those unsightly items for a cleaner and more organized look.
Space Maximization: Garage cabinets can be designed to take advantage of vertical space – reaching all the way to the ceiling. This maximizes storage capacity and frees up valuable floor space.

Customizing Cabinets for Irregularly Shaped Items

The beauty of custom garage cabinets is their flexibility. Here’s how to customize them for your irregularly shaped items:

Adjustable Shelving: Adjustable shelves are a must for any garage cabinet system. They allow you to create different height configurations to accommodate tall garden tools, bulky sports equipment, or even those awkward-shaped storage bins.
Hooks and Racks: Install hooks and racks inside cabinet doors or on the cabinet walls to hang items, like bicycles, hoses, extension cords, or even small tools. You’ll keep awkward items off the floor but still easily accessible.
Pull-Out Drawers and Bins: For smaller, irregularly shaped items that need to be organized but easily accessible, consider adding pull-out drawers or bins. They’re perfect for storing everything from gardening gloves and hand tools to paintbrushes and craft supplies.
Specialized Compartments: If you have specific items that need their own dedicated space, you can create specialized compartments or dividers within your cabinets. This is a great option for fishing rods, golf clubs, tennis racks, or even ladders.

Maximizing Vertical and Horizontal Space

When designing your garage cabinet system, it's important to make the most of both vertical and horizontal space. Install tall cabinets that reach the ceiling to store larger items vertically – freeing up floor space for other activities.

For wider items, consider using wider cabinets or a modular system that allows you to connect multiple cabinets horizontally. When you maximize both vertical and horizontal space, you can create a storage solution that's tailored to your specific needs and the dimensions of your garage.

If you’re looking for other ways to make the most of every square inch of your garage, The Spruce recommends installing overhead storage for bikes. I’ve also found that they are perfect for safely storing bulky bins and holiday decorations. The opportunities are truly endless!

Maintaining and Preserving Your Garage Cabinets

Once you've got your custom garage cabinets installed and organized, it's important to maintain that sense of order. With a little bit of attention and elbow grease, I’ve found it’s pretty easy to keep my garage clutter-free.

Regular Organization: Take a few minutes each month to reorganize your cabinets and make sure everything is in its place. This keeps clutter from building up and ensures that your garage remains functional and efficient.
Weight Distribution: Be mindful of how you distribute weight within your cabinets. Avoid overloading shelves or placing heavy items on top of lighter ones. You’ll prevent tipping or damage to your cabinets.
Pest Prevention: No one wants unwanted critters taking up residence in their garage cabinets. Seal any cracks or gaps in your cabinets, and keep food items in airtight containers. If you notice any signs of pests, act immediately to prevent infestations.
Childproofing: If you have young children, it's important to make sure your garage cabinets are safe and secure. Install childproof locks on cabinets containing potentially hazardous items, like chemicals or sharp tools.
Safety Considerations: If you're storing heavy or bulky items, make sure your cabinets are securely attached to the wall studs. This will prevent accidents and ensure the safety of your family and belongings.

Conclusion

Tired of struggling with those awkward items that never seem to have a proper home? Investing in custom garage cabinets is the best move you can make. With a little time and effort and some expert assistance, you can design a system that's tailored to your unique needs and preferences, so every item in your garage (even the irregularly shaped ones) has a designated spot.

Source

https://www.thespruce.com/the-best-garage-storage-solutions-2648089

What Safety Features Can be Integrated into Custom Kids’ Closet Designs?

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 13:13:53 GMT

Designing a closet for your child involves more than just maximizing storage space. As a parent, you want to keep your little ones safe, too. As a custom closet designer, I understand the challenge – how can you transform your kids’ closets into not only a place for their belongings but also a space you feel comfortable letting them use without you standing inches away? Let’s take a look at safety features you should know about.

Let’s talk about some important considerations you should remember when designing your children’s closets, such as:

The importance of using the right safety features
Some of the best safety features you should be looking at
Additional tips for keeping kids safe
How to keep the closet safe during installation and beyond

At Memphis Garage & Closets, we work with each individual family to build the best closet systems. We’ve been in the industry for many years, and we’re ready to get started on helping you organize your home. If you’re looking for kids’ closet designs that are both appealing and safe, get in touch with us to schedule a free consultation.

In the meantime, let’s get into the topic of how to make sure your kids’ closets are safe and sound. Keep reading to learn more!

Importance of Safety in Kids’ Closet Designs

Safety Concerns

When choosing a closet system for your child, safety should be one of your top priorities. Kids are naturally curious and may climb shelves, pull out drawers, and explore every nook and cranny. This curiosity can lead to falls, choking hazards, and accessibility issues if the closet is not designed with safety in mind. Ensuring that every element is secure and child-friendly is essential.

Closet designs for kids should focus on these common safety issues:

Falls: Secure shelves and furniture to prevent tipping. If your child climbs on their shelves or drawers, you want to know that the whole system won’t tip over onto them.
Choking Hazards: Keep small, loose items out of your child’s bedroom if they’re at the age where they’re putting things in their mouths. Also, make sure all hardware is securely attached, so they can’t pull it off.
Accessibility: Store items at the right height for your child to reach without feeling tempted to climb up on the shelves or drawers.

Long-Term Benefits

Making sure your child’s closet is safe will help you have the peace of mind you need when your little one is alone in his or her bedroom. Keeping the closet safe also means keeping it in good condition, which adds to the closet's durability.

Some of the long-term benefits of a custom kids’ closet are:

Grow with your child: Adjustable rods and shelves can keep up with your child’s changing needs and preferences over time. Switch shelves around, add another hanging rod, or simply move items up to correlate to your child’s height.
More usability: Easy-to-reach storage encourages independence, which will inspire your child to learn how to use their components on their own.
Increased longevity: Durable materials and secure installations will last longer. It’s very possible that the closet you design for your toddler will still be in good condition when he or she reaches the teen years.

Essential Safety Features for Custom Kids’ Closets

Rounded Edges and Corners

Sharp edges can cause injuries, especially for younger children who are still mastering their motor skills. Using rounded edges can reduce the risk of bumps and bruises.

For example, choose furniture with rounded edges or add edge guards to existing furniture. These small adjustments help keep your child from bumping their head on a hard corner.

Secured Shelving and Furniture

It’s vital to secure mounted shelves and furniture to the wall, so they can’t tip. Use wall anchors and brackets to ensure everything stays in place, even if your child decides to climb or pull on them.

Use sturdy materials, like wood or melamine, as these will stand up to heavy use. If you were to choose wire shelving, for example, the weight of your child could buckle it or even send it crashing to the floor.

Childproof Locks and Latches

Drawers and cabinets within the closet should be equipped with childproof locks and latches. This feature keeps hazardous items, such as small objects that could be choking hazards, out of reach.

Since it’s mainly young children who will be putting items in their mouths, these latches and locks are most sensible to install on lower drawers and cabinets. You also don’t want to frustrate yourself, so choose locks that are hard for a preschooler or toddler to open but still easy for you to access quickly.

Non-Toxic Materials

Make sure the materials and finishes used in the closet are non-toxic. Look for certifications, like Greenguard or other eco-friendly labels, that indicate the materials are safe for children.

Some ways you can be sure you’re choosing materials that are safe for your child are to check labels and avoid harsh chemicals. Some things you want to avoid are formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). If you can choose natural finishes, like water-based paints, these are great, as they’re less likely to emit fumes. Cocoon has some additional ideas for remodeling with children’s safety in mind.

Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for preventing mold and mildew, which can cause respiratory issues. The closet is often closed off and can get musty and humid, particularly in upstairs bedrooms during the summer.

Some ideas to improve ventilation are to install vented doors, add a dehumidifier, and keep the closet door open a bit. You can also add a fan or open the window in your child’s bedroom to add more airflow to the room and closet.

Additional Safety Enhancements

Anti-Tip Straps

Anti-tip straps can help secure tall furniture pieces to the wall. They ensure that the shelves will remain stable, even if your child attempts to climb them – preventing dangerous tip-overs.

To use these, you’ll want to secure the straps to the wall studs to make sure they’re stable. Since jostling the furniture around can loosen the straps over time, it’s important to check them periodically and tighten them if needed.

Soft-Close Drawers and Doors

No-slam mechanisms on drawers and doors can prevent squished fingers. These features ensure that even if little hands are in the way, they won’t get hurt.

The benefits of soft-close mechanisms include:

Finger protection: Prevent injuries caused by slamming drawers and doors.
Noise reduction: Minimize noise – creating a quieter, more peaceful environment not only for your child but also for others within earshot.
Durability: Reduce wear and tear on furniture – thanks to less slamming – extending its lifespan.

Adjustable Closet Rods and Shelving

Adjustable closet rods and shelving provide a lot of versatility as your child grows. You can move the components up or down to accommodate changing needs. This means that when you switch out clothes seasonally, you can create more shelf space if needed. Also, as your child gets taller, simply move the closet elements up.

Some of the advantages of adjustable rods and shelving include customizable storage that can change as needed, more independence for your child since they can reach everything no matter what their age, and a future-proof design that won’t need replacements simply because your child grew older.

Lighting and Visibility

Good lighting helps your child see better, which can be a safety benefit. Rummaging around in a dark closet can lead to stubbed toes, pinched fingers, and bumped heads. It also makes it easier for kids to find their belongings – reducing hassle for everyone.

A few ideas for lighting include:

Motion-sensor lights: This will make sure the lights turn on when your child opens the door, so they won’t be looking for items in the dark simply because they forgot to turn on the light.
LED strips: LED strips are safe, don’t get hot, and are convenient to put along the edges of shelves and other potentially dark areas.
Consider timed lighting: If you can set a timer for your child’s closet light to turn on a little before it’s time for them to wake up, you’ll be able to use it as a signal that it’s almost time to start the day.

Tips for Ensuring Safety During Installation

Professional Installation

Hiring my team for the installation can help you make sure that the closet is as safe as possible. We have the expertise to install everything securely, and we’re highly experienced at working with children and their families.

You’ll want to make sure that you work with someone with the expertise and equipment to properly mount the components in your kids’ closet. Also, we work quickly – saving you time and stress.

Regular Safety Checks

Once the closet is installed, it’s important to check for safety regularly. You’ll want to make sure that everything remains tightly secured or to quickly detect when something isn’t as safe as it should be.

Some tips for keeping your kids’ closets safe include:

Inspect regularly: Check all safety features, including anchors, locks, and straps, for signs of wear or damage.
Test functionality: Make sure the soft-close drawers and childproof locks are working correctly.
Update as needed: Replace or repair any worn or damaged components to maintain safety.

Conclusion

Designing a safe and functional closet for your child doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The Memphis Garage & Closets team will be right by your side – creating a professional design, ordering the appropriate components for your little one’s closet, and then installing them tightly and securely, so nothing will tip over or break. Contact us anytime to schedule a free consultation, and we’ll get you and your child started on a journey toward better (and safer!) organization.

Source

https://thecocoon.com/blog/kid-friendly-design/

Closet Design Mistakes to Avoid

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 14:41:18 GMT

Designing a custom closet requires careful consideration to avoid common mistakes that can compromise maximizing the space, overall functionality, and aesthetics. At Memphis Garage and Closets, our expert design consultants ensure that every aspect of your custom closet meets your needs and adheres to industry standards.

Here are the five most frequent errors we encounter when replacing closet shelving in closets not professionally designed:

Hanging rods are crossed in the corners.
There is insufficient space to reach your clothes in the corners.
Shelves aren’t deep enough for shoes or hanging rods.
Using wire shelving to cut costs.
Hanging rods are expandable and/or stretched too far.

Crossed Hanging Rods

If the rods on perpendicular walls are crossed in the shared corner it is wasting approximately 2 feet of usable hanging space in most cases. One of the two rods should be going wall-to-wall with the other stopping at least two feet away. If you are curious why the second rod should be at least 2 feet away read on to the next mistake.

Inadequate Reach Space in Corners

Do you have a spot in the closet where you feel like you’re always struggling to see what is hidden back there or your clothes just plain don’t fit? Clothes need at least 24 inches of room to hang on a rod. When the closet is designed efficiently, there will be 27-30 inches of space so the clothes can hang freely AND you can easily see what is hanging in the corner. This design flaw is more of an issue with built-in systems rather than a shelf and rod system.

Shallow Shelf Depth

In many built-in closet systems, there are only 8 or 10-inch deep shelves. Most men's shoes need 12-14 inches deep to not hang off the edge leaving a greater chance for shoes being knocked onto the floor when passing by. Also, handing rods cannot be hung from a shelf with this depth, therefore wood cleats jut out into the closet from underneath the shelf to hang the rod at the proper distance from the wall as pictured below.

Wire Shelving

With wire shelving the question isn’t if your system will fall, it is when will it fall. Wire shelving is not designed to support the weight of the typical amount of clothing items hung on it and will likely sag over time or detach from the wall, leading to potential damage and frustration.

Overstretched Expandable Rods

Clothing rods should be stretched no more than 42 inches wide in a double hang section and no more than 36 inches for dress hanging without additional support to ensure the rod does not bow with the weight of the hanging clothes. The problem with an expandable rod is the temptation to stretch them to bowing limits and hangers won’t be able to easily slide due to their design of one piece of the rod being inset into the other piece. Our modular style system is designed to accommodate these standards so expandable rods will never be necessary and eliminate the likelihood of bowing.

Conclusion

These errors typically stem from cost-cutting measures or general lack of knowledge for proper closet design, but come at a price to homeowners like you when there is a lack of functionality and durability. When upgrading your closet, it's crucial to partner with a reputable company that has closet design experts, like us, that won’t steer you the wrong way!

Illuminating Your Reach-In Closet: Things to Consider

Mon, 06 May 2024 14:38:48 GMT

When I work with my clients, one of the factors that can make their closet more appealing is the right kind of lighting. Most closets come with an overhead light already built into the ceiling, but this often doesn’t shine brightly enough to illuminate the whole space. Also, relying only on overhead lighting can cause shadows. Today, I’d like to talk about how to best brighten up your reach-in closets with the right type of lighting.

There are a few considerations you should keep in mind before deciding which type of lighting is going to be right for your small closet:

What’s the layout of your reach-in closet
What color temperature do your prefer
Would you like a motion sensor or a manual switch
What type of lighting appeals to you most

Let’s go through these factors to help you illuminate your storage space the best way for your unique space and circumstances.

What’s the Layout of Your Reach-in Closet?

The layout of your closet will matter when it comes time to decide exactly what type of lighting you need. Take a look at where everything is. Keep in mind that shelves, hanging rods, and drawers can create shadows or areas of poor visibility without extra lighting in place. You’ll want to assess where the dark corners are and whether there are any architectural features, like a sloped ceiling, that could affect the installation of lights.

The goal here will be to achieve even coverage and minimize (or eliminate) dark corners. If your closet is very small, you might only need one or two light sources, but if it’s larger, you may need multiple fixtures to maximize the visibility. Make a list of the places in your closet that need lighting; this will help you to buy everything at once, so you can lighten the entire space without having to add more lights later.

What Color Temperature Do You Prefer?

When looking around your house, you probably have chosen a certain color temperature for each room. Warmer temperatures give off a cozier, yellowish glow, while cooler temperatures are more like natural daylight, are brighter, and make colors appear more vibrant.

If you’re mainly using your closet for getting dressed in the morning, choosing a cooler temperature (or a brighter white) will help you wake up and more accurately see the difference between the different shades you have in your closet. On the other hand, some people find bright white lights to be jarring and prefer a softer approach when starting the day. A dimmer switch or LED lights that can be customized via remote control might be a good option if you aren’t sure which type of light temperature you want.

Would You Like a Motion Sensor or a Manual Switch?

If you haven’t had a motion sensor in your custom closet system, you might not have considered it as an option, but it can be a game-changer for busy mornings or when your hands are filled with clothes to put away. You step into your closet and the lights turn on.

Manual switches, on the other hand, give you the control over whether your lights are on or off. The lights won’t turn off when you’re spending a lot of time perusing your clothing options, for example, unless you hit the switch.

You will often have the choice with a motion sensor to use it as a manual switch when you want to. Read the manufacturer’s instructions to find out how to do this if you have a motion sensor, and you may find that it offers the best of both worlds.

What Type of Lighting Appeals to You Most?

A big part of choosing the right lighting for your closet will be your own personal preference. There are so many different types to choose from – from LED strips to recessed lighting, pendant lights, and flush-mount lights. You might even prefer something like a vintage table lamp sitting on a shelf or a floor lamp standing in the corner, possibly with an attached reading light to provide additional brightness to one area.

This is your closet, so don’t be afraid to mix and match different fixtures and lighting types for a customized look. If you want to avoid having to add wiring and don’t want to hire an electrician, The Ponds Farmhouse has some ideas for creative ways to add light to a space without having to worry about wiring.

Conclusion

Going through this list of questions as you decide on your best lighting strategy will help you save money and time you might otherwise spend on solutions that don’t end up working out. If you’re looking to revamp your entire reach-in closet, please contact me or my team. We’d love to help you by creating a customized solution to your storage woes.

Source

https://www.thepondsfarmhouse.com/clever-ways-to-add-light-to-a-room-without-wiring/

Are Walk-In Closets Suited for Small or Oddly-Shaped Rooms?

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 21:41:49 GMT

In the course of my work as a home organization specialist, I have come across homes with many interesting architectural features. Sometimes, a small primary bedroom will come with a large walk-in closet , for example. Other times, ceilings and sharp angles can make a closet challenging to work with. I have some ideas for making the most of a room with a unique size or shape with the help of custom closets.

Here are some options you can use for custom walk-in closets to suit small and oddly-shaped rooms:

Custom shelves to fit odd angles
Creative door options to consider
Angled components for sloping ceilings
Full dressing rooms in a large space

Let’s talk about these, and maybe it will give you some inspiration for your own closet!

Custom Shelves to Fit Odd Angles

Since custom closets are made specifically for the space they’re in, they can make good use of every inch of space. This means even in a room with odd angles or awkward spaces, shelves can be built to fit perfectly. While you could try purchasing shelves off the rack at a home improvement store, you’d have a lot of trimming to do, and if it doesn’t fit perfectly, you’d be dealing with gaps or warping.

For example, if a wall in your bedroom is at an unusual angle and meets the adjacent wall at an angle less than 90 degrees in the closet, there’s no need to worry; my team would be able to simply build shelves to match the angle – giving you good use of the corner and looking as though the system was built for the space (because it was).

Creative Door Options to Consider

Some primary bedrooms are quite small or don’t have a lot of clearance around the closet door. While the closet door isn’t something we include with our custom closet systems, it’s still something to think about.

If you can’t open the closet door all the way without it hitting a night table, the bed, or your dresser, you might consider a bifold door, as it takes up less space than a traditional full-swing door. This allows you to easily get in and out of the closet without banging the door into whatever’s in the way.

Another option to consider might be either a barn door or a pocket door. These slide out of the way; a barn door would slide onto the adjacent wall, and a pocket door would slide into the adjacent wall. Your decision would depend on the style of your bedroom and also whether there’s enough room on the nearby wall to accommodate the door.

Angled Components for Sloping Ceilings

If you have your walk-in closet in an upstairs bedroom, you might have angled or sloped ceilings in the bedroom itself or in the closet. Since the angled ceiling in the main part of the bedroom might impact the amount of storage space you have available, maximizing the potential of the closet is particularly important.

This is another area where either angled shelves or suspended hanging rods might be used to make the most of the space. Storage cubbies are another good option for a sloped ceiling; they’d be deeper along the bottom of the slope and shallower as the wall slopes inward toward the top. You could store shoes or larger bins in the bottom cubbies and items, like small purses or even framed artwork, in the top sections.

Full Dressing Rooms in a Large Space

Finally, you may have a room that’s quite large or that comes with a large closet space. Make the most of it by installing components that create a luxurious dressing room. Consider putting in glass-front cabinets, an island, a dressing table or vanity, or even some seating.

In this case, you might consider your closet to be an extension of your bedroom to the point that you spend time inside of it. Better Homes & Gardens offers more tips on creating a dressing room in a closet or even in a corner of your bedroom.

Conclusion

The size of your room and closet are unique to each home; even if you have the same square footage as someone else in your neighborhood, you probably use the space differently. I work with homeowners with various types of architecture and lots of unique features in their homes. Give me or my team a call to schedule a free consultation to go over your home, and let’s discuss how we can meet your needs with a new custom walk-in closet system.

Source

https://www.bhg.com/dressing-room-ideas-7971072

Beyond Bedrooms: Are Custom Cabinet Systems Only for Bedrooms?

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 19:48:51 GMT

Having worked with many clients and many storage solutions over the years, I can say that a lot of people think custom cabinet systems are only for the bedroom. There are walk-in closets in the master bedroom, kids’ closets in the children’s rooms, and usually reach-in closets in the remaining guest rooms. However, I’ve found lots of ways that custom cabinets can enhance other rooms of the house, too.

Some of the non-bedroom spaces that can benefit from custom cabinet systems include:

The Kitchen
The Home Office
The Living Room
Bathrooms and Utility Rooms

Let’s get started on learning more about how these custom storage solutions can positively affect your entire home!

The Kitchen

The kitchen is often the busiest room of the home, whether you’re the one preparing the meals or eating them. There’s regular restocking that needs to be done, cleaning up after meals, and plenty of time to spend with family and friends. It’s no wonder that it can get disorganized!

I like looking at the kitchen pantry as a place to streamline storage and make all of these tasks easier. A custom cabinet system in this area provides lots of options for homeowners. For example, you can use it as a place to store pots, pans, and small appliances that would otherwise be taking up valuable counter and cabinet space.

It’s also the perfect place to keep ingredients ranging from canned products to spices in good order. Lose the frustration of not being able to find the cumin or lemon pepper when you need it, as it will be at your fingertips. Knowing where your ingredients are prevents overbuying and dinnertime mishaps.

The Home Office

Maximizing the storage space in your home office is an excellent way to boost your productivity. If there’s not already a cabinet in the space, I recommend having a custom credenza or armoire installed.

Your cabinet system will give you the space you need to store your office supplies and files. You can have custom-fit drawers installed for you, or you can simply place a file cabinet in the cabinet itself – keeping it out of the way but convenient to access when needed. Supplies, like paper and pens, printer cartridges, and industry-specific materials, can also go in the cabinet.

Forbes.com has additional advice for making your home office better suited to productivity and happiness.

The Living Room

You might not have a custom storage system built into your living room, but that’s fine; you can use a variety of different options. I am personally a fan of Murphy beds, as they serve a dual purpose. Most of the time, they exist as a storage space with various drawers, cabinets, and shelves. When you have an overnight guest, you can pull down the wall bed and give them a comfortable place to sleep. Forget about your lumpy pull-out sofa; this is going to be a luxurious space for them to lay their heads.

A custom entertainment unit is another type of cabinet system that my clients often appreciate. They can be tailored to fit your television and include plenty of room for game consoles and sound system equipment.

My team can also add shelves and hidden storage spaces within the room. It boils down to finding a place to store the items your family likes to use without letting it contribute to a cluttered or disheveled appearance. You want to be able to feel comfortable in your living room, and a custom cabinet system of some sort will help.

Bathrooms and Utility Rooms

Finally, I recommend considering custom cabinet systems in your bathrooms and utility areas. These often already have small cabinets that a designer can do a lot with.

They give you tons of room to store linens, towels, toiletries, and everything else you’d normally store in a linen closet. Having a customized system will allow you to keep everything neat, tidy, and company-ready.

In the utility room, you can store cleaning supplies, a hamper, and more. My team can even build around your washer and dryer in the laundry room. We can help you make laundry and cleaning tasks easier, which helps you to keep your house tidier with less effort.

Conclusion

Contrary to popular belief, custom cabinet systems aren’t just for the bedroom. I recommend them in any room with clutter, whether it’s the home office, the living room, the kitchen, or the smaller areas, like bathrooms and utility rooms. I’m happy to schedule a free consultation with a member of my design team if you’re in the local area and ready to conquer household clutter

Source

https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2021/04/07/5-ways-to-improve-your-home-office-for-productivity-and-happiness/

Unlock Hidden Space: Tips to Optimize Small Custom Closet

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 21:34:41 GMT

One of the privileges of my job is turning chaotic closets into organized sanctuaries. Small closets can pose a unique challenge, but they also offer a ton of opportunities to unveil hidden space and really wow their owners. In this article, I’ll share my experience and some valuable tips on how to optimize your small custom closet .

Here are some of the ways I like to work with smaller spaces:

Create tailor-made solutions
Embrace vertical storage options
Try dual-purpose furniture

If you’re ready to whip your small custom closet into shape, let’s get started!

Create Tailor-Made Solutions

Custom closets are completely adaptable to what you want them to be. Since they’re designed from the ground up, your new components will perfectly fit in your space. Not every closet is the same size, and some have architectural features, like sloped ceilings, a cubbyhole access, or an unusual nook or cranny. This means you have the option of having custom shelving, drawers, and compartments installed that will make the most of every inch of space.

Further, not every closet owner has the same types of clothing and accessories. One person might wear mostly separates while another wears full suits or long dresses. Maybe you have a dozen pairs of shoes, but your neighbor has a hundred. Your small closet should be customized to fit your needs, not someone else’s. Take a look at what you have and how you want to store it, then make changes based on that. One of my designers can work with you to create the system that will suit you best.

Embrace Vertical Storage Options

What your small closet might lack in floor space, it can make up for in wall and door space. Vertical storage can be a game-changer when it comes to finding hidden space in your small closet. I have a lot of experience with some of these approaches:

Adjustable shelves . Your wardrobe and needs will probably change over time, and having adjustable shelves allows you to adapt the space as desired. In December, for example, maybe you need more space on your shelves for sweaters than you do in June. My clients often love having the option to move shelving around as needed.
Hanging organizers . Hooks, pegs, and even hanging cubbies are useful for accessories, like scarves, purses, hats, and even light jackets. Keep these items at hand without having them take up room on your hanging rods by using hanging organizers.
Double hanging rods . If you have one hanging rod across the top of your closet, you’re not alone; that’s the most common configuration I see in non-optimized closets. Adding a second rod a few feet under the first lets you double your space.
Shoe storage . Shoes are an excellent candidate for vertical storage solutions. Rather than letting them take up room on the floor, we can install shoe racks that prevent you from tripping over your footwear and keep them from being crushed. Need more ideas for shoe storage? House Beautiful has some ideas for you.

Try Dual-Purpose Furniture

Both in and out of the closet, you can use dual-purpose furniture and components to increase your storage space. I’ve seen the way multifunctional pieces can maximize space and add a touch of elegance to even the smallest closets.

Within the closet, you might consider a mirrored cabinet. This serves as a place to store various items, and it also lets you check out your outfit and hair before you even leave your closet space. It also creates the visual illusion of having more space; mirrors reflect light, which makes a space look bigger.

Outside the closet, you can add seating to your bedroom that doubles as storage space. An ottoman or bench with hidden storage lets you stash sweaters, jeans, handbags, or seasonal items. If you currently store extra blankets in your small closet, you could pull them out and put them in your bench or ottoman. The more you can store outside the closet, the more space you’ll have for items that need to stay in there.

Conclusion

I enjoy helping homeowners transform their small, cramped spaces into storage solutions that meet their needs. I can help you with all of the above suggestions.

Sources

https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/organizing-tips/g24566145/shoe-storage-ideas/

Sure-Fire Tips to Elevate Your Custom Closet and Make It More Trendy

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 17:25:36 GMT

Walking into your closet should feel like stepping into a boutique-style dressing room, a cozy retreat, or even a luxurious sanctuary away from the everyday. A well-designed custom closet not only keeps your belongings organized but also uplifts your mood and simplifies your daily routine. With a few intentional changes, you can transform your closet into a trendy and inviting space you’ll love spending time in.

Here are some practical tips to help you elevate your custom closet’s style and functionality:

Add color to the walls
Invest in quality lighting
Make your storage solutions fashionable
Incorporate mirrors
Showcase your favorite belongings
Keep reading to discover how these tips can turn your closet into a stylish, efficient, and personalized sp ace.

Add Color to the Walls

Most closets start off with basic white or off-white walls, but adding color can dramatically transform the vibe of your space. Since closets are typically small, a little paint goes a long way. You can choose a single bold color for all the walls or create an accent wall to add visual interest. For those feeling adventurous, techniques like stenciling or sponge painting introduce texture and personality without overwhelming the space.

If you’re having a custom closet system installed, the ideal time to paint is after removing old components and before the new installation. This avoids accidental paint splatters and ensures clean edges. For existing closets, careful taping is essential to protect your storage system. Alternatively, some professionals can temporarily remove closet sections to give you easier access for painting.

Painting inside your closet not only updates the look but can also brighten the space, especially when paired with strategic lighting.

Invest in Quality Lighting

Lighting is one of the most impactful elements in a closet, influencing both function and atmosphere. Bright overhead lighting provides excellent visibility during the day. However, closets are often accessed early in the morning or late at night when ambient light is low.

Incorporating a mix of lighting options such as LED strip lights, recessed lighting, and portable lamps allows for comfortable use at any time. LED lights are energy-efficient and produce minimal heat, which is ideal for small enclosed spaces. Consider installing motion sensors or dimmers for convenience and to customize the lighting intensity based on your needs.

Well-placed lighting not only helps you find clothes easily but also highlights your wardrobe’s colors and textures, making outfit selection a pleasure.

Make Your Storage Solutions Fashionable

Choosing your custom closet components is an opportunity to blend functionality with personal style. Closet cabinetry now comes in a variety of finishes from classic white to bold colors and wood grains. Selecting a finish that complements your room’s décor helps integrate your closet seamlessly into your home.

In addition to cabinets and shelves, incorporating stylish storage bins and decorative boxes helps keep small items organized and visually appealing. Even hangers contribute to your closet’s overall aesthetic. Consider wooden, velvet, or colored hangers for a polished look. Hardware such as knobs and pulls should not be overlooked; unique or modern designs can elevate simple cabinetry into statement pieces.

Remember that closet design is flexible, and you can always update hardware or add decorative accents as trends evolve or your tastes change.

Incorporate Mirrors

Mirrors are essential for both practicality and enhancing space perception. A full-length mirror lets you do a final outfit check before heading out, but mirrors also reflect light, making your closet feel larger and brighter.

If space is limited, a pull-out mirror can be tucked away when not in use, maximizing available room. Alternatively, consider mirrored cabinet doors or wall panels to add glamour and openness without sacrificing storage. Adding a vanity with a lit mirror combines function and luxury, creating a dedicated space for grooming and accessorizing.

Mirrors also add a decorative layer, so choose frames and styles that match your closet’s vibe—sleek modern, vintage ornate, or minimalist chic.

Showcase Your Favorite Belongings

One of the joys of a custom closet is the ability to display your treasured items stylishly. Whether you have a shoe collection, designer handbags, or special accessories, dedicating display areas elevates your closet’s boutique feel.

Open shelving or glass-front cabinets highlight prized possessions while keeping them accessible. Hooks can show off scarves or jewelry creatively. For an ultra-luxe touch, placing standout dresses or outfits on a mannequin adds personality and flair.

Display areas not only celebrate your style but also encourage you to care for your belongings, making the closet a personal sanctuary rather than just a storage space.

Conclusion

Transforming your closet into a trendy and enjoyable space is within reach with a few thoughtful upgrades. Because closets are smaller areas, even minor changes like fresh paint or new lighting have an outsized impact. By combining practical solutions with stylish touches, your custom closet can become a harmonious blend of beauty and function.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and tailor your closet to fit your lifestyle and personality. After all, your closet is a reflection of you, and making it unique will increase your daily satisfaction and simplify your routine.

Conquer Clutter Once and For All With a Custom Closet

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 17:16:26 GMT

A cluttered and disorganized living space creates unnecessary stress and makes finding what you need more difficult than it should be. Studies show that clutter can negatively affect mental well-being by increasing anxiety and reducing productivity. Fortunately, custom closets offer a versatile and efficient way to combat clutter and maximize your storage space, transforming your home into a calm, organized retreat.

Custom closets come in a wide range of styles and price points, making it easier than ever to find one that fits your budget and needs. Whether you prefer the elegance of custom wood cabinetry or the simplicity of wire shelving, these systems provide tailored solutions to tackle clutter while enhancing the overall aesthetic of your home.

In this article, we’ll explore how custom closets can help you reclaim your space by efficiently organizing clothing, shoes, household items, seasonal gear, and even hobbies or collections.

Say goodbye to wardrobe woes
Tame the tangle of shoes
Efficiently manage household items
Cope with seasonal gear
Provide personalized solutions for hobbies and collections

Keep reading to discover how a custom closet system can help you organize every part of your home and finally conquer clutter for good.

Say Goodbye to Wardrobe Woes

One of the most frequent causes of clutter is an unorganized wardrobe. Overflowing drawers, tangled hangers, and mixed-up clothing categories can make dressing frustrating. Custom closets address this by offering a range of customizable storage options, such as adjustable rods, shelving, and drawers, to fit your exact wardrobe and lifestyle.

You can sort clothes by season, color, or style and create special zones for items like formal wear or casual basics. This intentional categorization not only saves time when choosing outfits but also helps preserve the quality of your clothes by preventing unnecessary wrinkles and wear.

By assigning a dedicated space to every item, custom closets make it much easier to maintain an organized wardrobe daily. The streamlined setup reduces clutter build-up and supports efficient morning routines.

Tame the Tangle of Shoes

Shoes are notorious for creating clutter, often sprawling across floors or shoved randomly onto shelves. This disarray makes it difficult to find pairs and can even lead to accidental damage. Custom closet shoe organizers, such as cubbies, angled shelves, or pull-out racks, give each pair its own place, protecting your footwear and keeping it visible.

By arranging shoes by type, color, or usage frequency, you’ll always know exactly where to find the right pair for work, exercise, or special occasions. This organized approach prevents clutter from spreading and reduces the risk of damaging your shoes due to overcrowding or mishandling.

Additionally, customized shoe storage solutions can be tailored to fit specific needs, such as extra-large boots or delicate heels, preserving your collection’s longevity and aesthetic appeal.

Efficiently Manage Household Items

Beyond clothes and shoes, many households struggle with clutter from everyday items like cleaning supplies, linens, and miscellaneous essentials. These items often get scattered in cabinets, laundry rooms, or closets, creating disorganized messes.

Custom closets can incorporate pull-out cabinets, adjustable shelves, and specialized bins to provide accessible, designated spots for all these essentials. For example, cleaning tools can be stored in vertical pull-out racks or hung on hooks for quick reach. Linens can be neatly folded and stacked on custom shelves that fit your space perfectly, ensuring freshness and minimizing wrinkles.

The key benefit of custom systems is their adaptability, as they can be configured to fit your household’s specific needs and evolve as those needs change. This flexibility empowers you to declutter and organize your home efficiently, turning previously chaotic spaces into orderly zones.

Cope With Seasonal Gear

Storing seasonal items is a challenge for many homes. Bulky coats, sporting equipment, holiday decorations, and other seasonal gear often take up valuable space during off-seasons.

Custom closets offer innovative solutions to manage these items through adjustable hanging rods, built-in compartments, and custom accessories. For instance, winter coats can hang in a designated section that is easy to swap out when the seasons change. Sports equipment or holiday décor can be stored in labeled bins or cubbies within the closet, eliminating the need to clutter the basement or attic.

Having a dedicated, well-planned space for seasonal gear means your everyday living spaces remain clutter-free year-round. This organization frees up valuable living areas and reduces the time spent hunting for items when the season changes.

Provide Personalized Solutions for Hobbies and Collections

Custom closets are not just for clothing and household basics, they can also be tailored to fit your hobbies and collections. Whether you’re a book lover, crafter, or collector of special items, clutter in these areas can be overwhelming.

Adjustable shelves, drawers, and display compartments allow you to design dedicated spaces for art supplies, books, collectibles, or craft materials. Open shelving or glass-front cabinets enable you to showcase prized possessions while protecting them from dust.

A well-designed hobby storage area inside your custom closet encourages you to enjoy your interests without the frustration of scattered or misplaced materials. It also helps preserve delicate or valuable items by keeping them organized and secure. This personalization turns your closet into a multifunctional, inspiring space that supports your lifestyle and passions.

Conclusion

Custom closet systems are a powerful tool to help you conquer clutter and transform your living space. They offer tailored, adaptable solutions to manage everything from clothing and shoes to household essentials, seasonal gear, and hobbies.

By maximizing storage efficiency, minimizing clutter, and enhancing your home’s aesthetic, custom closets can reduce stress and create a peaceful, organized environment. Investing in a custom closet is investing in your quality of life, as a well-ordered home supports calm, productivity, and daily ease.

Say goodbye to clutter frustration and hello to an organized oasis with a custom closet designed just for you.

A Room Without a Custom Closet System: What Should You Do?

Tue, 23 May 2023 21:04:37 GMT

While everyone wishes they had that perfect, spacious closet that could neatly store all our clothes and accessories, not every room can accommodate a custom closet system . Luckily, there are several storage alternatives that are both practical and stylish.

If you don’t have the space to accommodate a custom closet system, here are the top 6 tips to make your space work for you and help you stay organized:

Invest in a closet armoire
Hang a clothing rod from the ceiling
Use hooks strategically
Organize your shoes
Add floating shelves
Use space under your bed wisely
Turn a Corner into a Built-In Closet

Read on to discover six creative tips to maximize your storage opportunities, even if you don’t have a custom closet system.

Invest in a Closet Armoire

Wondering how you’ll store your clothes in a room that doesn’t have a closet at all? A closet armoire is a handy fixture that makes organizing your clothes—and keeping them wrinkle-free—easy and stylish.

A closet armoire is a self-contained garment rack that keeps your clothing out of sight and protected, especially if you choose an option with a zippered cover. Simply unzip and peel back the fabric covering for easy access to your clothes. Some options even include adjustable shelves and feet, so you can adjust the wardrobe to meet your needs.

Hang a Clothing Rod From the Ceiling

According to The Spruce , hanging a clothing rod from the ceiling is a clever way to maximize your clothing storage options while preserving valuable floor space. This option works even if you don’t have tall ceilings, and it’s a modern, minimalist way to hang casual shirts and pants. It’s a great way to keep seasonal items on hand, and you can store your off-season clothing in another space, like in a clothing bin under your bed.

Use Hooks Strategically

Hooks are a simple, effective addition that helps you maximize your storage options in a small space without a closet. Versatile and useful, hooks can hold everything from small items like purses and umbrellas to larger ones like jackets and outerwear.

Organize Your Shoes

Unorganized shoes and boots create major clutter in a small space without a custom closet system. Rather than stumbling over your shoes, keep them organized in an over-the-door shoe hanger. This small investment makes a big difference when it comes to decluttering your space—you can easily store at least 12 pairs of shoes. Depending on how many shoes you have and how many doors are in the space, install one of these handy hangers on every door to maximize your shoe storage.

Add Floating Shelves

While floating shelves are a huge trend when it comes to today’s kitchen designs, they’re also useful in a small space without a closet. Not only are they inexpensive and simple to install, but they also give you easy access to your clothes, shoes, and accessories. Plus, if you need hanging space for garments, add a bar to the bottom of each floating shelf for even more storage.

Use Space Under Your Bed Wisely

The space under your bed is a storage haven that’s all too often forgotten. This area often becomes a catch-all for dirty clothes, garbage, and other items. Use this space wisely and invest in storage bins or boxes—especially if you need a spot to store out-of-season apparel. If you really want to make the most of under-the-bed storage, consider investing in a bed frame that has these storage options built-in. You can lay your mattress on a bed frame with a few handy drawers and make the most of your small space—it couldn’t be easier.

Turn a Corner into a Built-In Closet

One of the best ways to create a closet in a small space is to install built-in custom closet systems. It’s best to go for an open closet style with an organizer, but you can hang curtains from the front if you want to keep your clothes out of sight. You’d be surprised at how much you can store in a few built-ins, and they can even be customized with shelving, drawers, and cabinets for versatile storage.

Conclusion

Staying organized and keeping clutter at bay is essential in any home—but not every space can accommodate custom closet systems. But don't worry, there are still ways to maximize storage and keep your belongings organized without breaking the bank. By following the strategies detailed above, you can conquer clutter and create a functional space that brings you peace of mind—even without a dedicated closet space.

Source

https://www.thespruce.com/storing-your-clothes-without-a-closet-2648456

Stage Your Home This Spring With Custom Closets

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:26:38 GMT

Spring makes everything look a little brighter, so it’s a good time to have a home for sale to show. Staging your home – arranging it in a way that’s appealing to potential buyers – is an important part of home sales, and your closets play an important role. Custom closets can be a part of that renewal.

Here are some tips for getting your closet systems ready for show:

Declutter and Store Winter Clothes
Clear the Floor Space
Color Coordinate Your Clothes
Add a Fresh Scent

Take a look at some springtime staging tips for custom closets.

Declutter and Store Winter Clothes

No one who’s considering buying your house is going to be inspired by a messy closet. The first thing you should do is declutter the space and make sure that you don’t have piles of dirty laundry on the floor or heaps of unnecessary items on the surfaces. Do the laundry, put the accessories in baskets or boxes, and get rid of anything you don’t need – this will make packing for a move easier when the time comes anyway.

Another thing to do is store winter clothes away. It’s springtime and the weather is warming up, so you don’t need cold-weather clothes right now. Bulky winter clothes can easily make your closet look overstuffed, so it’s in your best interest to get them out of the way.

Apartment Therapy explains that it’s best not to put your winter clothes in the attic or garage, because even when they’re stored safely in vacuum-sealed bags or plastic bins, they need to be in a temperature-controlled environment like in the closet.

Clear the Floor Space

Nothing makes a closet look cramped more than a jumble of shoes on the floor. Even if you have the shoes arranged in neat rows on the floor, this has a tendency to make the closet look messy or just too full. You want to find a different way to store them.

You can use shoe organizers or line the shoes up on shelves to get them off the floor. If that’s not an option, a fast and inexpensive solution is to invest in an over-the-door organizer for footwear. The organizer hangs over the door and has a variety of pockets you can insert the shoes into. Not only does it get items off the floor, but it also encourages your buyers to see the back of the door as viable storage space, which makes your closet seem more spacious.

Color Coordinate Your Clothes

Even if you don’t normally sort your clothing by color, this might be the time to do so. It may sound like a hassle, but moving your hanging clothes around until they’re grouped by color can be done pretty quickly, and it could make a big difference.

This is a useful idea because creating a rainbow effect in your closet is a more visually striking image than just sorting the clothes by type. You aren’t really changing anything major – these are still the same clothes, and there is still the same number of them – but the look you’re creating will make a positive impression and stick in the buyer’s mind longer.

Add a Fresh Scent

Of course, nobody is going to be impressed with your closet if you open the door and a less-than-fresh smell wafts out. If the closet smells bad, you’re going to want to deodorize. Remove the source of any bad smells, clean the walls and floors with vinegar or a commercial cleaner that deodorizes, and consider using a bowl of charcoal or baking soda to remove bad odors.

Even if your closet doesn’t have an odor, you should consider going a step further and adding a pleasant fragrance to the closet. Scent can be an important part of staging – your real estate agent might advise you to bake cookies for a viewing or open house to get buyers hungry (for a cookie and a new house!) and this is more of the same.

There are a few ways you can create a scented closet. Buy or make sachets, moisten cotton balls with essential oil and tuck them into out-of-the-way corners of the closet, or just spray some air freshener. You can also place a scented candle (unlit) or unwrapped bar of soap on a shelf and the smell will permeate the closet space. If you use soap, make sure to set it on wax paper so it doesn’t harm the surface.

Conclusion

Your closets are an important aspect of staging your home for sale. Dress them up for springtime by decluttering and getting extra items out of the way, clearing the floor, color-coordinating your clothes, and adding a pleasant scent to the closet space.

Achieve Custom Closet System Organization With These Baby Steps

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 14:34:06 GMT

Organizing your custom closet system often sounds like such an overwhelming job. What if you don’t have time to take everything out of your closet and sort through it right now, but it still needs some work? You don’t necessarily have to do a big deep clean to achieve organization. That's something to do at some point, but if you're looking to improve how your closet looks and functions, you can take some small steps to make a big difference.

For now, you can take some simple measures to achieve closet organization.

Add an Empty Box to Your Closet
Find a Convenient Way to Store Your Shoes
Group Similar Items and Divide by Type

Follow these baby steps to quickly achieve a more organized closet space

Add an Empty Box to Your Closet

Start by adding an empty box to your closet. Just choose a box or bin, and put it in a corner where it’s out of the way but visible. How does this help? Maybe you don’t have time to empty your closet and sort through all your different items to decide what to keep and what to get rid of right now, but you have time to put a box in the closet; that’s easy.

Then, as you use your closet, when you come across something that you haven’t worn in a while, or that has rips or tears that you can’t fix, or that just doesn’t fit anymore, instead of hanging it back up or shoving it back in the drawer, toss it in the box. You don’t have to spend time on it right now; just put it in the box and don’t worry about it. When the box is full, that’s when you’ll make time to go through it and decide which of the items inside should be thrown away and which should be donated or sold. When you’re done, replace the empty box in the closet.

It’s a simple way to deal with the problem of sorting through everything in the closet when you don’t want to do it right now. A simple empty box gives you what you need to start the process.

Find a Convenient Way to Store Your Shoe

If you only fix one disorganized thing in your closet, make it your shoe collection. If your shoes are sitting on the floor, they’re sure to get jumbled up, maybe even lost. They’ll impede your ability to step into a walk-in closet because they’re in the way. They can get damaged when they wind up on the bottom of a pile of shoes or get lost under furniture. You’ll run late in the morning when you just can’t find the left shoe of the pair you need to wear to work. Fixing this problem can be quick, and it’s worth doing.

NBC lists a number of different shoe organizer options, including a tall, thin bookcase, a stackable shoe shelf, see-through shoe boxes, and an over-the-door organizer. The correct option for you depends on the space you have available and the types of shoes you’re storing. You may need more than one option – think about an over-the-door organizer for sandals, a bookcase to display high heels, and see-through boxes for sneakers. Chosen your organizers, arrange your shoes, and marvel at the huge change that makes in closet order and accessibility.

Group Similar Items and Divide by Type

Another task that shouldn’t take that long is just moving hanging items around so that like items are grouped together. Put pants with pants, skirts with skirts, blouses with blouses, and so on. This is easy enough to do, and you’ll be amazed at how much easier it is to find what you need when you can narrow your search to one section of the hanging rod.

If you don't want to do that, or if you want to try a different organization method, consider grouping clothing by color. You could hang it all from red to purple, going in rainbow order, then add white, brown, and black at the end. Or if you have mostly neutral clothes, try hanging them from light to dark. White goes at one end, black at the other, and then fill in all of your grays, blues, tans, and browns based on how dark or light they are.

It doesn't matter which way you organize your clothes; the point is just to make it so you can find what you need when you want it.

Conclusion

Achieving an organized custom closet system doesn’t need to be overwhelming or a huge time-consuming chore. There are quick and simple steps you can take today that will make your closet more organized and make it easier for you to use, including adding a box to collect unwanted items, adding a shoe organizer that works for you, and grouping and dividing your hanging clothes.

Source

https://www.nbcnews.com/select/shopping/best-shoe-racks-ncna1266959

Linen Closet Organization Tips and Tricks

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 14:36:04 GMT

If you constantly struggle with keeping your linen closet in order, you are not alone. It can feel like an effort in futility to keep everything organized, but with the right strategy in place and a little creativity on your part, it shouldn’t be a problem any longer.

From switching up your organizational strategy to properly folding your sheets, optimizing your shelf space, and more, we’ve got the super simple tips you need to have a small closet that’s as beautiful as it is tidy.

Once you’re ready to get your linen closet in order, you should:

Organize by need and type.
Properly fold your sheets to save space.
Optimize all of your shelf space.
Make liberal use of labels.
Remember your door space.

Now that you know the steps involved when it comes to getting your linen closet in order, let’s dive into the specifics.

Organize by Need and Type

The lack of a categorization system is often one of the biggest culprits in any messy area, and that tends to be the case here as well. Try to keep your towels together on their shelves, sheets on another, and any toiletries in their own area as well.

Not only will having set categories in place make it easier to keep things in order going into the future, but it will also make it far simpler for you to find what you’re looking for when you need it.

Properly Fold Your Sheets to Save Space

Once you’ve got your categories in place, you’ll want to optimize what you have to save even more room. Sheets tend to take up quite a bit of space, but it doesn't have to be this way. It might take a bit longer to properly fold your sheets instead of just tossing them in a spare pillowcase and calling it a day, but this could give you shelves’ worth of room to work with.

Optimize All of Your Shelf Space

As Better Homes & Gardens points out , optimizing your shelf space makes up a good portion of the battle when it comes to getting your linen closet in order. You might get some use out of shelf dividers. With these, you can split a single shelf into several and store even more things.

You might also opt for cubbies and bins, especially when it comes to toiletries and other items that might otherwise turn into just more clutter. You’ll be surprised by how much space you can save when you gather up all of those shelf-hoggers and put them together in one space-saving bin.

Make Liberal Use of Labels

One of the most overlooked parts of any organization project is the simple power of a good labeling system. It’s all too easy to forget where everything is, and that’s especially the case when you’re overhauling your linen closet and putting in place an entirely new system.

Labels allow you to spot what you need at a glance. Gone are the days when you’d need to dig through several drawers and bins, only to end up tearing your closet apart to find the thing you’re looking for. With such a simple addition, you could put minutes back in your day.

Remember Your Door Space

The last item on our list is also one of the most overlooked in just about any organization project. With the addition of a simple door organizer, you could add entire shelving units’ worth of space to your linen closet. Considering just how small a linen closet tends to be, this is huge.

All you need to do is hang one of these on the inside of the door, and you’ll have a variety of clear pockets to store anything you might need. This will make finding all the little things that much easier for you.

Conclusion

If you feel like organizing your linen closet is a little like pushing a boulder up a hill, you are not alone. By following these super simple steps and getting creative in your approach, you should soon have a linen closet that’s as neat as it is beautiful.

Sources

https://www.bhg.com/decorating/storage/organization-basics/creative-ways-to-organize-a-linen-cabinet/

5 Ideas for Storing Summer Clothes in Your Custom Closet System

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 13:12:13 GMT

With the changing of the seasons also comes the opportunity to bring a whole new wardrobe out of storage. But before you get too cozy in your cold-weather clothes, you’ll want to get a system in place for safely storing your summer clothes in your custom closet system .

So before you toss all your summer clothes into a box and slide them under your bed, consider these ideas that will keep your garments safe while also keeping them clean, dry, and free from pests.

When it’s time to put away your warm weather clothes in your custom closet system, be sure to:

Clear out your closet and reorganize.
Wash all of your clothes first.
Invest in pest prevention.
Use sturdy plastic containers for your clothes.
Stick to your custom closet system for storage.

Now that we’ve got a handle on some key ideas for safely storing summer clothes in your custom closet system, let’s get into the specifics.

Clear Out Your Closet and Reorganize

The best way to start with any cleaning and reorganizing project is with a clean slate. Not only will this give you the chance to section off your clothes based on season, but it will also give you the opportunity to pare down the clothes you have and get rid of any you haven’t worn in months.

You’re going to want to have as much available storage room as possible, so reducing the total number of clothes you’ll be storing through the winter will help make this entire process much easier for you.

Wash All of Your Clothes First

The last thing you want is to store your garments for months, only to find that they’re now stuck with a persistent bad odor. Or worse, that a stain you overlooked in one of your articles of clothing has now set in over the months and won’t come out in the wash.

If you’ve dealt with pests like moths in any capacity, washing your clothes in hot water (if the fabric can safely tolerate it) can also help ensure that you won’t have to deal with an infestation in the future. It’s important to fully dry all of your clothes before putting them in long-term storage.

Invest in Pest Prevention

Giving your summer clothes a good cleaning should go a long way toward keeping your clothes pest-free through the winter. Even so, it’s best to be on the safe side and still invest in pest-prevention products and methods in your custom closet system.

Mothballs are an old standby for a reason. They keep clothes safe from moth infestations for months at a time. You could also opt for a more natural option if you’d like, such as cedar products. Cedar naturally repels pests while also keeping your clothes smelling fresh.

Use Sturdy Plastic Containers for Your Clothes

Bob Vila says it’s important to store your off-season clothes in airtight containers that pests (especially moths) won’t be able to access. You’ll want bins that are easy to stack and stow without taking up too much room in your custom closet system.

Plastic containers work best here, especially those with lids that click securely in place. Cardboard boxes might work well for moving, but they can easily become overrun by pests in a short period of time.

Stick To Your Custom Closet System for Storage

It can be tempting to use other places for long-term clothes storage instead of your custom closet system, like your basement. You might have plenty of extra room down there, but you’ll also be putting your clothes at risk of getting damp over time.

Your custom closet system will provide the right kind of environment for your summer clothes to stay fresh while also keeping them safe from dampness or pests. As you alternate wardrobes with the seasons, you can keep using the same designated spot in your closet for long-term storage.

Conclusion

With the changing of the seasons comes the opportunity to put away your summer clothes and bring out a whole new wardrobe. With these ideas in play, you should have a safe and secure way to store all of your warm-weather clothes.

Sources

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/moths-in-the-closet/

Are Kids' Custom Closets a Good Investment?

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 15:44:19 GMT

Customizing your bedroom closet or a different storage space like a utility or linen closet in your home may seem like a no-brainer. These spaces are difficult to organize and who couldn’t use some help? Where many people balk is when the discussion of a kids’ custom closet comes up. Will a child appreciate a custom closet system ? Is it a good investment, or just a waste of money? As it turns out, a child’s closet is a good investment.

Invest in Your Child’s Independence
Invest in Your Time and Energy
Invest in Your Home

Take a look at all of the ways a kids’ custom closet can benefit your family.

Invest in Your Child’s Independence

One of the reasons to consider a child’s custom closet is that it can help foster and encourage independence in your child. No matter how young your child is now, they’re learning and growing all the time, and they can and should have some control over their environment. The abilities to choose their clothes, dress, pick up laundry, and put things away in their closet are all wrapped up with this – these abilities allow them to look the way they want and have their room look the way they want.

However, it’s not enough just to say that a child is allowed to pick out their clothes or that they must pick up their laundry. If your child can’t reach the hanging clothes or open heavy drawers, they either won’t complete tasks or they’ll make a new mess trying to complete them.

A custom closet can be fitted with adjustable rods and shelves that can be moved down to a reasonable height for your child so they can remove and replace clothing without making a mess. Lightweight drawers that are easy to open and close can help. A custom closet ensures your child can physically manage their closets, increasing their independence.

Invest in Your Time and Energy

It may be a closet in your child’s room, but it’s not all about your child. When they can’t reach the clothing they want to wear, who has to go get them? If they can’t open the drawers or reach the shelves to put things away, whose job does that become? That’s right, it’s your job.

Don’t you have enough responsibilities already? There are many things that you’ll need to do for your child for many years to come, but when your child has a custom closet that gives them the tools they need to choose their own clothes and keep their own closet clean, those can become their responsibilities, taking some of the weight off of your shoulders.

When you set up your child for successfully doing these tasks themselves by giving them a custom closet that’s designed to meet their needs, you’re not only investing in the development of their independence; you’re also investing in yourself by giving yourself time and energy that can be spent in other ways.

Invest in Your Home

A custom closet is an investment in your child’s development and in your own time and energy levels, but is that enough, or does it also need to be a real investment in your home, something that translates to dollars and cents when it comes time to sell the home? If you’re looking for more, there’s good news on that front as well: custom closets have a great ROI for home sellers.

The site HomeServe explains that custom closets can not only increase a home’s selling price, but they may also speed up the timeline for when the home sells. Many buyers today expect this type of amenity, so for those buyers, seeing a custom closet will help keep them interested. Even a buyer who isn’t expecting customization will be looking at your closets and trying to figure out how well their things will fit inside, so custom closets that offer enhanced storage may tip the scales for your home from a “maybe” to a “definitely”.

Even if your child’s closet is small, customization can maximize the space it offers, and potential buyers will appreciate that. If you’re currently living in a home with multiple rooms, at least some potential buyers will likely have children of their own, so a child’s closet may make the home more appealing, not less. Thanks to the adjustability of some of the major closet features, though, a buyer could convert the closet to be used by a teen or adult easily enough.

Conclusion

A child’s closet is an investment in several ways. It’s an investment in your child’s growth and development, in your own time and energy, and the home. When you’re looking into custom closets for yourself or other parts of your home, be sure to look into your options for customizing your child’s closet as well.

Source

https://www.homeserve.com/en-us/blog/home-improvement/custom-closets-home-value/

Should I Hang or Fold My Clothes in My Custom Closet?

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 20:40:46 GMT

A common mistake that many homeowners make after installing a new custom closet is to not put just as much effort into how they put away their things. The last thing you want is persistent wrinkles in your clothes or stretched-out garments.

Let’s take a look at the best way to categorize your clothing, how to address any storage space issues, the proper ways to fold and hang your garments, and more.

Once you’re ready to put away your clothes in your brand new custom closet, you should:

Properly categorize all of your clothing.
Address and handle any storage space issues.
Use the right folding method for ease of access.
Invest in hangers that suit your specific needs.
Be sure to try out organization tools.

Now that you understand the basics, let’s dive into the specifics of how to properly store your garments in your custom closet.

Properly Categorize All of Your Clothing

As Better Homes & Gardens explains, a good closet organization system starts with proper categorization. As a general rule, garments that are flowy or made of linen should be hung up. You should also hang up any slacks, dress pants, jackets, or dresses that you may have.

Sweaters are generally better to fold, as are shorts and workout clothes. Jeans and T-shirts can either fold or hang, depending on the space you have available as well as your personal preferences.

Address and Handle Any Storage Space Issues

After categorizing all of your clothes, you should start planning out how you’ll store everything, keeping in mind any storage space issues you might have. If you have far more hangable clothes than foldable clothes, try to find garments that can also fold to help free up your hangable space.

You can also make use of adjustable shelving units or sliding racks to free up even more space if storage is an issue for you. Drawer dividers can increase your available space while also helping to keep things properly categorized and easily accessible.

Use the Right Folding Method for Ease of Access

If you’re like many homeowners, you struggle with keeping track of all of your clothes, especially folded garments. You dig through drawers and sift through clothes until you find what you’re looking for, in the process undoing all the work you’ve already done. One quick way to solve this problem is to fold your clothes vertically .

Not only will this make it easier to see specific items you’re looking for at a glance, but it will also free up considerable folding space.

Invest in Hangers That Suit Your Specific Needs

The next step in properly sorting your clothes is to upgrade from basic plastic hangers. To start, wooden hangers work well for heavy garments like coats and jackets, and they can also absorb odors and keep your closet smelling fresh. Satin hangers are excellent for delicate garments, as their non-slip surface holds them in place better than other types.

Metal hangers can stand in for thicker wooden hangers in order to hang heavy items while saving space, and bamboo hangers work great for lighter garments.

Be Sure to Try Out Organization Tools

If you’ve categorized all of your clothes by type, dealt with any storage issues you might have, optimized your folding style, invested in the right hangers, and still have issues with keeping things organized, don’t be afraid to invest in some organization tools.

Hanging and folding dividers can quickly turn a disorganized space into a tidy one, and color-coded bins can also help with keeping your categories clear and easy to spot. A door organizer can also free up some space by giving you a place to keep ties, scarves, and other miscellaneous items that might be taking up space elsewhere.

Conclusion

Once you’ve installed the brand new custom closet of your dreams, the work toward organizing all of your clothes has only just begun. By following these tips and tricks, though, you should be well on your way toward having a custom closet that’s as beautiful as it is tidy!

Sources

What Factors Contribute to the Cost of Custom Closet?

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 18:41:23 GMT

If you’re tired of living in a cluttered and disorganized home, you’ve probably considered installing a new custom closet to remedy the situation. Before you proceed, you’ll have to figure out what it’s going to cost so you can budget your expenses.

Here are 5 important factors that will impact the price of a new custom closet:

Type of Closet
Materials
Door and Drawer Options
Accessories and Custom Organizers
Installation

Read on to determine what your new custom closet might cost. You might even learn how you can save some money!

Type of Custom Closet

“Custom closet” can mean a whole number of things. First, you’ll have to determine its purpose. Are you having a closet installed especially for your kids? Do you want a new reach-in closet, or are you hoping for a luxurious walk-in closet with all the choice accessories?

Small, traditional closets (the kind you probably had growing up) are known as reach-in closets. They can be expertly designed to hold a lot of stuff and yet remain an affordable option. Walk-in closets require the most material and labor and will cost substantially more. If you like the appeal of a reach-in closet that takes up less space, consider a built-in wardrobe. Their cost can vary widely based on style and materials.

Angi.com has a helpful rundown on the various kinds of custom closets you can choose from and their price differences. Keep in mind that this will vary substantially depending on where you live as well as the other factors discussed below.

Materials

The materials used to create your new dream closet will play an essential role in the price of the installation. They will also determine the look and feel that you’ll be living with for the next several years, so choose wisely.

Melamine is an excellent option for all kinds of closets. Attractive, moisture-resistant, and highly durable, it endows closets with an elegant, uniform look at an affordable price. If you’re willing to pay more, and simply must have wood, no one will convince you to choose otherwise. Natural wood is going to cost you more (perhaps much more, depending on the species), but its warm, organic appeal can’t be easily replicated.

Doors and Drawers

When it’s time to decide on the look of your new custom closet, you’ll be able to choose from dozens of different colors and styles. You can expect there to be some price difference between the various hues, finishes, and designs, so your decision will have some impact on the cost of your closet.

Other expenses to consider include the hardware you choose to install on your cabinets and options like custom glass or mirror inserts.

Accessories and Add-Ons

One of the most fun parts of designing a new custom closet is deciding which accessories will go in it. Because you’re having a closet installed according to your specifications, it’s up to you to decide what kinds of extras will make it truly your own.

Some of the options may seem minor, but they can be extremely helpful. Hooks for belts and ties make it easier to organize men’s dress clothes, while jewelry trays prevent you from ever losing valuable earrings and bracelets. Pull-out drawers can expand the size of your closet without impacting its footprint, and various hanging rods are available to suit every style and purpose. With so many possibilities the costs can add up, so it’s all a question of setting priorities and sticking to your budget.

Installation

With so many helpful DIY channels on the internet and all over the television, it can be tempting to save money by handling the installation on your own. If you’re a seasoned craftsman, you probably have the materials (and the confidence) to successfully install a custom closet.

If you’re more like the other 99% of homeowners, you should probably leave the installation to the professionals. Yes, this will add to the price of your closet, but at an additional $500 to $1000 (depending on the size of the project), the expense of paying for installation is well worth the savings in headaches and errors.

Conclusion

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to designing and installing a new custom closet. While being able to choose its look and style is exciting (and makes for a superior end result), every decision you make will have an impact on the final cost.

You don’t want to spend wantonly, of course, but it’s worth remembering that custom closets add to the value of your home . Spending a little bit extra on elements that mean a lot to you like materials and accessories may end up being worth it in the long run.

Sources:

https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-do-custom-closets-cost.htm

4 Organization Tips for a Walk-in Closet

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 18:04:41 GMT

You might find that getting your walk-in closet well-organized is a challenge. It’s a project worth undertaking, though, because a walk-in closet that’s organized and well-appointed can be more than just storage – it can be something of an oasis, where you’re surrounded by the clothes, shoes, accessories, and other items that you chose and like. All you need is a closet organization plan to follow.

Declutter and Purge Before You Organize
Divide Your Closet by Function
Choose and Use The Best Closet Organizers
Add Something Extra by Decorating

Getting started is the hardest part, but once that’s done, you’ll find your organization project gaining momentum with every step!

Declutter and Purge Before You Organize

If your closet is a disorganized mess, the best way to start is almost always by removing unneeded items. First remove everything so you can get all the clutter out of the closet and look it over to decide what to purge from your closet.

Getting rid of clothes is rarely easy, but there are guidelines that can give you an idea of what to purge and what to keep. For example, Minimalism Made Simple suggests that you purge clothes that don’t fit anymore, that are worn out, that you just don’t like, that you’ve outgrown, or that you can’t wear more than once. These are good ways to reduce a lot of the excess in your closet, and maybe even make room for new things.

Divide your clothes and accessories into groups: items to keep, items to donate, and items to throw away. When you’ve finished, remove the donation and trash groups and you can move on with organizing your closet.

Divide Your Closet by Function

Before you return your items to your closet, take a good look at the empty closet and think about how you may be able to section it off into different areas that serve different functions. Do you share the closet? If so, a simple division might be to divide it down the middle – one side for you and one for your closet partner. Do you have it all to yourself? Perhaps you want one wall for hanging clothes and one for shelves and folded clothes, and the back wall used to store display shoes. Maybe you’ll store hanging clothes and folded clothes on both sides, but you’ll divide the clothes instead: professional outfits on one side, casual clothes on the other, and dressy clothes in the back of the closet.

It's up to you how you decide to make the divisions. The point is to find a system for categorizing your clothes that makes sense to you so you always know where to find what you need.

Choose and Use The Best Closet Organizers

Closet organizers can be a number of different things – they’re accessories that help you store and organize your closet. There are plenty of different closet organizers available for your clothes and accessories. You can add additional hanging rods if you need to. You can also add a valet rod for picking out the next day’s outfits. Installing shelves can give you more space for folded clothes, as can a dresser with drawers. Shoe shelves or other shoe organizers keep shoes off the floor, where they’re likely to get jumbled and keep pairs together as well.

You can go beyond just the basics, too. Install racks that hold ties, belts, or scarves. Use jewelry trays or jewelry organizers to store and display jewelry. You may use baskets for hair accessories or socks, or store out-of-season clothing in bins with lids. The nice thing about a walk-in closet is that you have more room to work with than you would in a regular closet, so you have plenty of room to choose the organizers you need most.

Add Something Extra by Decorating

A closet is a storage space, yes. But that doesn’t mean that it needs to be boring or plain, does it? Your closet is more or less where you start your day, choosing the clothes that you need for the upcoming hours. Why not make it a positive, attractive, refreshing place to be?

Sometimes, decorating a closet is as simple as looking at the things you bring into it. Things like bags, shoes, hats, and jewelry can be decorative. Install hooks to artfully hang hats or display jewelry. Stand beautiful handbags on top of shelves or storage boxes. Look into clear shoe boxes to display your favorite, colorful shoes in a fun way.

Consider whether you should improve the lighting in your walk-in closet. There are spot-lighting options that can add extra illumination to an item or area, and you should be sure that your closet is well-lit enough to allow you to easily see and find items. You should also add mirrors. If you’re going to do all the work of creating a place for your clothes and accessories, you should be able to model them there.

If your walk-in closet is large enough, you can even add seating. There are many benches and ottomans that are comfortable and decorative. Many even come with included storage, giving you extra space when you decide that you need it.

Conclusion

Organizing your walk-in closet might be challenging, but the payoff is safe, neat storage for your clothes, and a space that’s optimized for your specific needs and wants. Take your time and do it right, and you will be able to enjoy the result for a long time to come.

Source

https://www.minimalismmadesimple.com/home/purge-your-closet/

What Materials Are Used to Construct Closet Systems?

Tue, 31 May 2022 15:10:35 GMT

When it comes to upgrading your current closet to maximize space and get organized, you might be thinking of installing a custom closet system . You want your closet organization system to be durable, long-lasting, and stylish. That means understanding what materials are used in custom closet systems and the benefits of these materials.

Find out more about custom closet systems:

Common Materials
Benefits of Wood
Benefits of Melamine
Why Not Wire Closets?
Using Your Personal Style
Accessories that Go the Extra Mile

Understanding the materials used and how it all comes together will make the process simple and straightforward.

Common Materials

When it comes to custom closet systems, the two most common materials used are wood and melamine. Wood is a classic, durable material used in closet construction, but you might be wondering what melamine is. Melamine is a type of laminate material that is highly durable and can come in a variety of colors, styles, and finishes.

While both wood and melamine are sturdy materials for closets, they are different types of materials. One may fit your lifestyle better than the other, so knowing the benefits of each will help you choose the right material for your new closet system.

Benefits of Wood

While there are solid wood options for closet systems, many closets are made of plywood or medium-density fiberboards (MDF). According to Hunker , wood can handle heavy items and can be warp resistant.

Plywood is made from layers of wood veneers that are glued together in layers with the wood grains going in various directions. This helps make the plywood strong and able to withstand heavy loads.

MDF is different from plywood; it is made by breaking down softwood or hardwood fibers, mixing it with a resin or wax, and forming it into sections with high pressures and temperatures

The benefits of using wood materials include:

Durability
Versatility
Classic look and style
Warp resistant
Can handle heavy loads

One of the drawbacks to wood materials is that it can be more pricey than other closet materials.

Benefits of Melamine

Even though wood materials are a great option for closets, melamine is another excellent material to consider. Melamine is typically considered more durable than wood because it is made from organic chemical compounds. These compounds are nontoxic, warp resistant, heat tolerant, water repellant, and scratch and stain resistant. Melamine makes a great coating over wood shelves and components, as it combines the durability of wood with the benefits of melamine, which include:

Scratch and stain resistant
Varieties of colors, styles, and finishes
Highly durable and strong
Long lasting
Affordable
Lightweight
Water resistant

Note that melamine finishes may get scratched up over time even though it is scratch resistant. This may happen with heavy use or from objects that can scratch the surface. Additionally, leaving wet or damp clothes on melamine can hurt it over time, so it’s best to store those items elsewhere.

Why Not Wire Closets?

You have probably heard that wire closet systems are a cheap alternative to custom closet systems. While wire systems are available, you run the risk of damaging your clothes and running into organizational issues. With wire closets, you can expect:

Less space for your clothes, shoes, or accessories.
Harder to store your jewelry, sunglasses, or smaller items.
Things will fall through the spaces in the wires and get lost.
Damage to your clothes from the wires.
No cabinets or storage options.
Hard to move or change over time.
Wires are not durable.
Cannot customize to your wants and needs.

Using Your Personal Style

With both wood and melamine custom closet systems, you get to add your personal style to your space. Melamine offers a vast array of color options, and you can even choose a wood look at an affordable price.

Both wood and melamine are durable, so you won’t have to worry about sacrificing durability for style. With different knobs, handles, and drawer and door front styles for cabinets, you will easily make your closet stylish and functional.

Accessories that Go the Extra Mile

Your custom closet system will need the perfect accessories to make it your own. Often, you will get to choose from useful accessories, such as shoe fences, tie racks, jewelry drawers, hidden hampers, valet rods, foldaway ironing boards, storage bins, and more. While the first step is picking the right material for your closet, you always want to be thinking about what you need from your finished closet. That’s where the right accessories come into play. You can also find great ideas for DIY organization tips at The Family Handyman .

Conclusion

Going with a custom closet system will help you stay organized and known exactly where everything is. You won’t be searching for hours for that perfect outfit anymore. Now that you have a good understanding of wood and melamine custom closet systems, you will be able to pick the best material for you and your family and have the closet you have always wanted.

Sources

How to Enhance a Small Home Office Space

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 13:49:37 GMT

With the rise of remote work, small home office spaces have become a critical component for productivity and well-being for many homeowners. If you’re facing the challenge of working in a limited area, don’t worry. A thoughtfully designed small office can maximize your efficiency, comfort, and creativity.

Here are some expert-backed tips to transform your compact home office into an inspiring workspace for success.

Find the right desk
Use your walls
Create the illusion of space
Decorate in ways that inspire
Keep things clean

There's more to a small home office than meets the eye. Keep reading to learn more!

Find the Right Desk

When choosing a desk for a small home office, consider not just size, but functionality and ergonomics. Studies show that an ergonomic workspace reduces strain and improves focus, so invest in a desk height that suits your chair and body posture. If your space is tight, explore options like wall-mounted fold-down desks or compact desks with built-in storage. Modular desks can adapt to your needs and can be expanded or reconfigured over time.

Also, take into account the nature of your work. If your tasks involve lots of paperwork or equipment, a larger desk with drawers and cable management may be essential. If you primarily use a laptop or tablet, a slim, mobile desk might be more practical and versatile.

Take Advantage of Wall Storage

Walls offer untapped potential for organizing your office. According to professional organizers, vertical storage solutions can increase usable space by up to 50%. Use pegboards, floating shelves, or wall grids to hold office supplies, documents, and personal items. Opt for adjustable shelving to customize your storage as your needs evolve.

Pinboards and magnetic boards not only help keep notes and schedules visible but also reduce desktop clutter, which research links to improved concentration. Integrate aesthetically pleasing storage baskets or containers to keep supplies tidy and easy to reach.

Create the Illusion of Space

A small office should feel open and inviting, not cramped or claustrophobic. Light colors and strategic lighting can significantly influence your perception of space. Painting walls in soft whites, creams, or pastels reflects more natural light, creating an airy atmosphere. Monochromatic color schemes with varying textures add visual interest without overwhelming the senses.

Mirrors are another powerful tool—they reflect both natural and artificial light, visually doubling the room’s depth. Consider wall-mounted or recessed lighting to free up desk space and create a clean, modern look.

Natural light, if available, should be maximized. Position your desk near a window to boost mood and productivity. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light can reduce eye strain and fatigue, improving overall work performance.

Motivate Yourself

Your office environment plays a big role in your daily motivation. Psychological studies find that personalizing your workspace with meaningful items can increase job satisfaction and creativity. Include elements that inspire you, such as artwork, vision boards, or photos from memorable trips.

Adding live plants is an evidence-backed way to enhance mood and air quality. Plants reduce stress and increase focus, making them a smart addition to any home office, especially small ones where their presence can soften edges and add vitality.

Use colors known to stimulate creativity and calm, such as blues and greens. You can add these colors through accessories like rugs, cushions, or desk organizers.

Keep Things Clean and Organized

A clutter-free workspace supports mental clarity and productivity. Regular decluttering sessions prevent buildup of unnecessary items and papers. Assess your storage needs carefully: if you work mostly digitally, you might need minimal filing space, whereas some professions require substantial document storage.

Consider investing in custom storage solutions like desks with built-in filing cabinets or wall-mounted bookcases tailored to your inventory. Labeling files and using drawer dividers can keep everything accessible and reduce time wasted searching for materials.

Implement daily habits such as spending the last five minutes of your workday tidying your desk. Research shows that this practice can reduce stress and prepare your mind for the next day.

Conclusion

A small home office is not a limitation but a unique opportunity to create a personalized, efficient, and inspiring workspace. By selecting the right furniture, utilizing vertical storage, employing design tricks to enhance space perception, and maintaining a clean environment, you can boost your productivity and well-being. Embrace your compact office space with creativity and intention—success is within reach no matter the size of your room.

How to Maximize Space in A Small Closet

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 15:54:04 GMT

Learning how to maximize space in a small closet can be a bit of a daunting task, but once you get the hang of it, it’s basically like having a superpower.

Here are the most effective ways to make the most out of small closets:

Start With a Clean Slate
Use the Top and Bottom of The Closet
Storage You Can Hang Up
Don't Forget to Accessorize
Maintain Your Space

Read on to learn more!

Start With A Clean Slate

Once you decide you want to reorganize a space, the first step is to start with a clean slate. Begin by removing everything in the closet. That way, you can really assess the space (or lack thereof).

Whether you’re making piles in a different room or tossing items on your bed, try your best to group like items together. For instance, if it’s a closet filled with clothes, make a pile for all shirts, pants, etc. If it’s a linen closet, make groups for sheets and towels.

After it's empty, take some time to go through each pile and decide if there’s anything you can get rid of or donate. The standard rule is usually if you haven’t used it, worn it, or needed it in one year, you don’t need it. For small closets especially, it’s important to be conscious of hoarding any excess that isn’t necessary.

Use The Top and Bottom of The Closet

Oftentimes, people focus only on the middle section of a closet, as that's where the hanging rod is located. The space above the rod and below seemingly gets labeled as wasted space. However, when you’re trying to make the most of a small closet, you need to make use of every inch of space you have access to – including the top and bottom.

Installing a top shelf is a great storage solution. This section can be used to hold an array of bins and containers with as-needed items. You may need a step stool to fully access it as well. At the bottom of your closet, you can put stackable cubbies, drawers, and shoe racks.

Since it’s probably easier to access the bottom of your closet than the top, you can use this space to organize things you use more frequently. Don’t be afraid to go the extra mile and label bins, drawers, or cubbies with exactly what’s in them. By labeling storage, you not only help yourself when you’re in a hurry, but you keep yourself accountable for putting items back in the correct spot(s).

Use Storage You Can Hang Up

Whether your small closet is for clothing, coats, or linens, there are still ways to personalize it to best fit your needs. Maybe having a hanging rod isn't beneficial, but cubby space would be more valuable to you. Fear not, you don’t have to completely redo your closet; you just need to get the proper hanging solutions.

There are a variety of storage solutions that can be hung up in your closet. Think outside the box (or the cubby) when you’re figuring out what will work best for you– hanging cubbies, hanging drawers, hanging shoe racks, or a combination of all of the above.

Remember, you don’t have to follow instructions and use products the way the manufacturers suggest. For instance, a hanging shoe rack could also be used to store cleaning supplies. The options are endless, and the space you gain is crucial.

Don’t Forget to Accessorize

Regardless of how small your closet may be, there’s always room for accessories. While you can’t exactly accessorize with a chaise or closet island, you can still add little touches that will make a big difference – both in storage space and in looks.

Use Slim Hangers

Big, bulky hangers take up more space than you think. The Spruce recommends Huggable Hangers to not only maximize space but store your clothes effectively. Some are lined with velvet to reduce the likelihood of clothes slipping from the hangers onto the floor.

Add A Secondary Clothing Rod

If your small closet is being utilized for only clothing, you may not need stackable bins or drawers at the bottom. Maybe more hanging space is all you need? In this situation, add a second clothing rod to the bottom half of your closet.

Over-The-Door Storage

Behind the door of your closet is prime real estate, so don’t let it go to waste. Purchase an over-the-door storage piece to make your closet more functional. You can choose from over-the-door shoe organizers or over-the-door hooks for handbags or coats.

Add Light

Prevent your closet from becoming dark and dreary by adding some light. Aside from the light making your closet appear bigger, it can also decrease the likelihood of mold. Closet Solutions & Organizers goes into further detail on this topic in 7 Ways to Fend Off Mold in Your Closets .

Maintain Your Space

Now that your closet is organized and you are using the space more effectively, you need to be conscious of keeping it that way. If you know you’re near max capacity with clothing, try to donate or toss older items whenever newer ones are purchased. Perform frequent checks in your closet and practice the one-year rule.

Conclusion

A small closet is not the end of the world; it just requires strategy, patience, and some creativity. So roll up your sleeves, use these tips, and admire your newly found space in your small closet.

Sources

Decorating Ideas for Your Entertainment Center

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 20:17:01 GMT

Decorating your entertainment center can be a challenge if you aren't sure where to begin. There are a variety of ways to decorate it to add an aesthetically pleasing design to this part of your home.

Since the main part of an entertainment center is a TV, it's best to think of all the spaces around the TV and decorate each entity:

The TV Section
The Spot Behind The TV
The Space Below The TV
The Area Beside The TV

Read on to learn how to decorate each section and tie it all together as you create a magazine-worthy entertainment center.

The TV Section

Before you do any decorating of your entertainment center, first figure out where your TV is going. This will ultimately help you decide which type of configuration you should have.

Wall Mounted

Some people like the look of having their television mounted on the wall. If you have a very large TV but don’t want to have a large entertainment center, this could be a good option. There are TV wall brackets that allow you to move it from side to side or full-motion where you can even extend the TV out, if necessary.

Built-In or Full Wall Centers

If you have the space to select a built-in or full entertainment center, it could be a super design choice. There will be a spot for your TV, and then shelves, drawers, and cubbies are already spaced out accordingly. You can choose to purchase one already made and ready to install or create a custom one by piecing together matching furniture or building it yourself.

TV Stands

Regular TV stands are still popular. They have the surface area to hold a decent size television and come with some form of storage or drawers underneath. While these may sound less flashy, there’s a lot that can be done decoration-wise to spruce it up.

Media Fireplace

A media fireplace resembles a regular TV stand but has a built-in fireplace for extra appeal. Your television can then be placed on top of the stand or mounted on the wall. Of course, before purchasing anything, make sure to measure the dimensions of your television first. If you are unsure of what type of TV to purchase, check out this article by Cinema Sound Unlimited Inc., What Are The Best High-Quality Large Screen TVs by Samsung.

The Spot Behind The TV

If you’re utilizing a full entertainment center, adding some contrast behind the TV is a nice way to break things up. Some people chose to paint that wall a darker color, or dress it up with wallpaper. Others prefer a wood or shiplap accent to make it stand out.

Another way to decorate the area behind your television is by creating a gallery wall. A gallery wall should be thought out strategically. Whether you’re going to choose photos of your favorite moments or photos of places you’ve traveled, decide on a theme so it all looks unified. To stay consistent, it’s a nice touch to use matching frames as well.

Pottery Barn has some great tips and ideas on how to create a gallery wall that looks cohesive for your space. If you're lacking wall space, another option is to place a large single photo or painting above the TV. You can also add accent pieces to it.

The Space Below The TV

The space below your entertainment center usually houses various media, from DVDs, to speakers, to gaming devices. The key to decorating this area is to organize accordingly. Start by purchasing either a cable management sleeve or cable management system (or both) to hide those pesky wires.

The sleeve is a nice touch especially if your TV is mounted to the wall and you have hanging wires. The cable management system goes behind the entertainment center but organizes the wires in a way that your future self will surely appreciate.

Once the wires are organized, you can move on to the media itself. Rather than placing your collection in piles, purchase decorative storage bins and baskets for them. This will not only keep you organized but also add extra texture to your entertainment area that can be matched throughout the rest of the room.

The Area Beside The TV

The space beside the TV can include the walls or any surface space on the actual entertainment center. The decorations you choose to showcase here can be applied throughout the entire room. Adding plants to your entertainment area is another way to balance everything out.

Greenery adds texture, breaks up the electronic look, and is beneficial for your health too. Candles, knickknacks, and lighting are other decorating elements that can be added beside your television. If you decorate for the various yearly holidays, you can also choose to display your decorations in this space and swap them out as needed.

Conclusion

The living room, family room, or den will typically act as “the spot” when hosting guests. Follow the tips above when decorating your entertainment center to bring new life to this area of your home!

Sources

Home Office Essentials

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 16:06:33 GMT

Creating a work from home setup that will help optimize your workflow sounds daunting—but it isn’t impossible. All you need are a few essential pieces & your home office will be ready for business!

Aside from a laptop or desktop computer, you will need the following:

Dedicated Desk
Ergonomic Office Chair
Backup Internet Connection
3-in-1 Printer
Pair of Noise-Canceling Headphones
Dedicated Work Storage

With the basic essentials set up in a quiet spot in your home, you’ll be one step closer to a conducive working environment. To understand why these items are necessary for your home office, read on to learn more.

Dedicated Work at Home Desk

Having the proper desk to work on seems like common sense, but many individuals actually default to working at the dining room table or a lap desk. This is not feasible as a long-term solution for employees working from home on a regular basis.

The purpose of having a dedicated desk is three-fold:

Have a comfortable spot to work on
Easy access to all work-related documents and materials
Separate your “work-life” from your “home-life”

Although most surfaces in your home can double as a work area, you’ll soon start to feel your work mixing in with your personal life. That’s why it’s important to create distinct “work” sections—to compartmentalize and lay off work when you’re actually done.

Bonus Tip: Invest in An Adjustable Desk- Adjustable desks are those that can adjust in height and “transform” into a standing piece as well. Being able to adjust your desk allows you to find the perfect height for your comfort without straining your body.

Aside from that, Healthline states that using a standing desk can yield several benefits for your health, including "reducing back pain, lowering risks of heart disease, and boosting productivity."

Ergonomic Office Chair

Although you may have an abundance of chairs sitting around, you’ll find that sitting on one for a prolonged period of time will cause your body to ache. An ergonomic chair, on the other hand, will prop your body up comfortably, helping you avoid the pains associated with poor sitting positions. In turn, this reduces the strain on your back, neck, and wrists as you work your eight hours.

When looking for ergonomic chairs, The Spruce recommends considering several factors, including height, back and lumbar support, and the size of the seat. As long as you check for these three specifications, you’re sure to find a great chair to support you as you work.

Backup Internet Connection

A stable and speedy internet connection is mandatory to work outside of the office. Although having one internet provider is often enough, it’s always good to have a backup plan. You don’t need to subscribe to a second monthly internet plan just to have a fail-safe connection. Simply purchase a portable hotspot device to activate when your main connection is out.

Portable hotspots are devices that can generate a signal that allows other devices to connect to the internet through it. You can purchase one that’s connected to a monthly plan or one that will work with a prepaid account.

Bonus Tip: Use Your Mobile Data- If you’re not sure whether buying a separate device is worth it, check your mobile phone to see if it has a mobile hotspot. A majority of Android and IOS smartphones have this option. Just remember to check your usage regularly so as not to go over your monthly allocation!

3-in-1 Printer

A 3-in-1 printer handles three major functions: printing, scanning, and copying. Although having just a basic printer is usually the norm, it’s still advised to invest in a model that can handle all three utilities. As most work in this age requires some form of online connection, scanning now is the easiest way to send physical documents to co-workers.

This piece of equipment is usually more important for jobs that require a lot of hard-copy documents—so you’re likely not going to need one if your role mainly operates online. While that may be the case, it’s still a good idea to have one handy in case you need to sign documents or scan and send some physical files to fellow workmates.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Headphones are an essential accessory for those attending online meetings, transcribing videos, and annotating recordings. Noise-canceling headphones, on the other hand, take it to the next level.

They create a seal around your ears to block any ambient and external noise—allowing for an even better quality of sound from your device. In the end, your ears will thank you. Most modern headphones already have built-in microphones, allowing you to hear and be heard properly during meetings without being bothered by the environment around you.

Dedicated Work Storage

Investing in a filing cabinet or mobile pedestal just to store work files seems like an added expense, but this piece of furniture is crucial to keep everything organized. Although a regular cabinet or shelf might do for the job, a proper storage unit cements the separation of your job from your home.

Just as with segregating your “work area” from your “home area,” dedicated work storage will allow you to avoid your work items from bleeding into your personal things. Furthermore, they'll help you avoid misplacing sensitive work documents that other people shouldn’t see!

What Other Accessories Will My Home Office Need?

If you’re taking your home office makeover to the next level, then look for items that will make working simpler & more efficient. There are a lot of things that you can add, most of which are dependent on your usage and style, but there are three that stand out the most:

First, consider adding a wall-mounted power strip. At first, you may just need one power outlet for your laptop. However, as time passes, you will find that walking to and from your bedroom to charge your phone is too much trouble and add a permanent charging station to another socket.

The next thing you know, you’ll find that you have too few sockets for too many objects. A power strip will make things simpler for you—and wall-mounting it will make it easier to reach too!

The next item to add should be additional lighting fixtures. Task lighting, for example, is particularly useful if you’re more productive in the evenings. While you may rely on overhead lights most of the time, these will put a strain on your eyes and may even hinder you from working effectively.

Finally, add a paper shredder to your home office. This piece of equipment is perfect for those that deal with highly sensitive information on a daily basis. When it comes time to dispose of documents with confidential information, merely crumpling them up & tossing them in the trash simply won’t cut it. Using a shredder, on the other hand, ensures that the documents are effortlessly and efficiently taken care of.

Conclusion

A home office doesn’t have to be too flashy or overly-packed—just furnish it with the six essentials listed above, and you’re good to go! Remember that the most important factor to consider is your comfort while working. If you’re uncomfortable or are too distracted, then review your work from home setup and switch some things up.

Sources:

21 Must-Have Kitchen Pantry Essentials Every Home Chef Needs

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 15:50:45 GMT

Having a well-stocked kitchen pantry is essential for anyone who enjoys cooking or simply wants to be prepared for any meal situation. Whether you’re just starting to build your pantry or doing a thorough restock, knowing what to prioritize can make all the difference. A thoughtfully curated pantry not only saves time and money but also empowers you to whip up nutritious and flavorful meals with ease.

Below is a comprehensive list of 21 essential items to always have in your kitchen pantry, from baking basics to versatile spices and pantry staples.

Baking must-haves
Dry goods
Oil, vinegar, and sauce
Canned goods
Spice and herbs

Keep reading to find out how these essential ingredients can elevate your cooking and make meal preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Baking Must-Haves

Flour

Flour is foundational in countless recipes, from bread to sauces and coating proteins. All-purpose flour is the most common choice, but having other types like whole wheat, almond, coconut, or pastry flour can provide versatility and cater to dietary needs. Proper storage in airtight containers kept in a cool, dark place is important to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Baking Powder and Baking Soda

Baking powder and baking soda are essential leavening agents that help your baked goods rise and become light and fluffy. Beyond baking, baking soda serves many household purposes such as deodorizing and cleaning, making it a versatile staple to keep on hand. These ingredients are used in everything from cakes to pancakes and even in some savory recipes.

Sweeteners

Granulated sugar and powdered confectioners’ sugar are baking essentials that add sweetness and texture. Brown sugar, honey, agave syrup, and maple syrup are excellent alternatives that provide richer flavors and natural sweetness. Keeping a variety of sweeteners lets you experiment with recipes and adjust sweetness according to your preference.

Baking Spices

Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice add warmth and depth to baked goods. These spices are essential for seasonal treats and everyday desserts alike. It’s best to store them in airtight containers away from heat and light to preserve their aromatic qualities.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract is a popular ingredient for flavoring baked goods, desserts, and even some savory dishes. It adds a rich, sweet aroma that enhances the taste of many recipes. Additionally, vanilla extract can be used around the home to eliminate odors and deter pests naturally.

Dry Goods

Rice

Rice is a versatile grain that pairs well with many dishes, from stir-fries to soups and salads. Keeping different varieties such as white, brown, and wild rice ensures you can adapt your meals for nutrition and flavor. Rice is also known to be soothing for upset stomachs in both people and pets, making it a practical pantry item.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch is a common thickening agent used in sauces, gravies, and desserts. It is an affordable and shelf-stable ingredient that helps improve the texture of many dishes. Having cornstarch in your pantry means you can easily adjust the consistency of your recipes when needed.

Pasta

Pasta is a quick and satisfying meal base that comes in many shapes and sizes. Its versatility allows you to create a wide range of dishes from simple spaghetti to complex baked casseroles. Keeping a variety of pasta types on hand means you are always ready to make a comforting and hearty meal.

Beans

Dried beans like black beans, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, and white beans are excellent sources of protein, fiber, and antioxidants. They have a long shelf life and are cost-effective for adding nutrition to your meals. Beans can be used in soups, salads, stews, or as a protein-rich side dish.

Oil, Vinegar, and Sauces

Oils

Having a selection of oils like vegetable, olive, avocado, sesame, and canola oil allows you to cook a wide range of dishes. Each oil offers different flavors and smoke points, which is important depending on your cooking method. Non-stick cooking sprays are also useful to prevent food from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Vinegar

Vinegars such as red wine, balsamic, apple cider, and rice wine vinegar are staples for dressings, marinades, and pickling. Apple cider vinegar, in particular, has been linked to health benefits such as aiding digestion and boosting immunity. Keeping a variety of vinegars on hand expands your ability to add acidity and brightness to dishes.

Sauces

Common sauces like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and yellow mustard are great for seasoning and enhancing flavor. Peanut butter is another pantry favorite that adds protein and richness to both savory and sweet recipes. Having these sauces stocked makes it easier to prepare dressings, dips, and marinades quickly.

Canned Goods

Canned Vegetables

Canned vegetables are a convenient way to add nutrients and color to your meals, especially when fresh produce is out of season. They have a long shelf life and can be easily incorporated into soups, stews, and casseroles. Keeping a variety of canned vegetables ensures you always have healthy options ready.

Canned Soup

Having a selection of canned soups is handy for quick, comforting meals on busy days. They are perfect for cold weather or when you need a warm dish without much effort. Choose a variety that includes broths, chunky soups, and hearty stews for meal variety.

Cooking Stock

Chicken, beef, vegetable, and bone broth stocks are essential for adding depth and flavor to soups, sauces, and braised dishes. Stocks can be homemade or store-bought, but high-quality options make a noticeable difference in your cooking. Always keep some on hand to enrich your meals effortlessly.

Diced Tomatoes

Diced tomatoes are a versatile pantry staple that works well in sauces, soups, chilis, and stews. They add acidity, sweetness, and texture, which help balance and enhance the flavor of many dishes. Having canned diced tomatoes available ensures you can create fresh-tasting meals year-round.

Spices and Herbs

Salt and Pepper

Salt is fundamental to seasoning, and having varieties like kosher, sea, and Himalayan salt allows you to tailor flavor and texture. Freshly ground black pepper and whole peppercorns provide the best aroma and taste. Including crushed red pepper and cayenne pepper in your pantry gives you the option to add heat and spice when desired.

Cumin

Cumin adds an earthy, warm flavor that is common in cuisines such as Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Indian. It is a powerful spice that enhances the depth of many dishes, from soups to roasted vegetables. Keeping cumin in your pantry allows you to explore diverse and bold flavors.

Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika imparts a mild smoky flavor and a vibrant red color to dishes. It works well in rubs, stews, and sauces, adding complexity without overwhelming heat. Adding smoked paprika to your spice collection elevates your cooking with subtle but impactful flavor.

Garlic and Onion Powder

These powders are pantry essentials that provide foundational flavors to countless savory dishes. They are convenient alternatives to fresh garlic and onions, especially when you need a quick flavor boost. Both powders blend well into rubs, soups, and sauces, making them indispensable.

Dried Herbs

Dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary add aroma and layers of flavor to meals. They are best stored in airtight containers away from heat and light to preserve their potency. Having these herbs on hand lets you season dishes authentically and effortlessly.

Conclusion

Stocking a well-rounded kitchen pantry may feel overwhelming at first, but building it gradually ensures you always have essential ingredients available. This preparation saves time, reduces grocery trips, and allows you to create delicious meals effortlessly. Start with the basics and expand your pantry to suit your personal cooking style and tastes.

Clever Organizing Ideas to Prepare Your Home for The Holidays

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 17:05:22 GMT

The holidays are an exciting time, but also overwhelming if you’re hosting family and friends for a celebration in your home. The key to keeping calm among the chaos is staying organized.

Clever organizing ideas to prepare your home for the holidays include:

Clean and Get Rid of Clutter
Organize Your Decorations as You Unpack Them
Clean Out Your Pantry and Fridge
Organize Your Gifting Accessories
Find Places for DIY Decorations

Read on for some creative and helpful home organization tips to get into the holiday spirit!

Clean and Get Rid of Clutter

Before you unpack your holiday décor, it’s a good idea to make sure you don’t have any excessive clutter around. Whether it’s the pile of mail you’ve left on your kitchen island for weeks or the sweatshirts you’ve kept hanging on your coat hooks – start with a clean slate. Putting things back in place or getting rid of any junk lying around will automatically make you feel more organized. Additionally, it will allow you to plan exactly where to set up your decorations.

As you’re sorting and organizing everything, it’s also a good time to do some deep cleaning. Even if you clean weekly, use this time to go the extra mile. Prioritize the areas that your guests will be in during celebrations. Better Homes & Gardens suggests a "7-Day Holiday Cleaning Plan" that touches all the major spots to think about.

Organize Your Decorations as You Unpack

After you've freed up some space and spruced up some spots within your home, it’s time to start unpacking your decorations. After unloading boxes from the attic, basement, or garage, you’ll probably notice that some pieces were either poorly packed or randomly spread out due to the madness that occurred last year. Going through all your stuff and deciding what you’ll be displaying may be time-consuming, as you’ll probably have to empty each box. The silver lining in having to go through an unorganized mess is the opportunity to turn it into an organized masterpiece.

As you’re unloading items, designate certain areas of the room into categories and group the appropriate items there. For example, maybe you have an area set aside to group together Christmas tree ornaments, another area for outdoor decorations, or an area for wall signs. This will let you view your inventory so you can decide which room you want it to live in.

Furthermore, this process will dictate how you should store your stuff. Grab a label maker and some storage cases and decide upon where everything will live when the holidays come to a close. This will be a huge help when it comes to packing everything up and save you time the following year when you’re preparing your home once again.

Clean Out Your Pantry and Fridge

Even if you’re not a chef or baker, you should go through your kitchen like you are. It’s likely that you have accumulated ingredients in your pantry over time, be it seasonings and spices or flour and sugar, without realizing they expired. Take the time to go through your pantry (or spice rack) and check the dates. If you’re hosting the holidays, this is especially important so you know for certain if you have everything you need for that perfect dinner.

Likewise, even if you're not hosting any sort of gathering, you will probably reap the benefits in the form of leftovers in some capacity. For this reason, it’s ideal to go through your fridge, throw out anything expired, and reorganize the items so you have enough room for that extra apple pie that grandma made you.

Below is a small guide to keep handy to figure out which spices have expired.

Allspice, Black Pepper, Ground Chili Powder, Ground Cinnamon, Coriander, Cumin, Nutmeg, Paprika - Expires after two to three years.
Basil, Bay Leaves, Cayenne Pepper, Cilantro, Dill, Oregano, Parsley -If these spices are fresh, they will only last around five to seven days. If the spices are dried, they last about two to three years.
Peppercorn -Five to six years.
Cloves -Fresh cloves will be good for up to one week. Dried and ground cloves last two to three years. Whole cloves last four to five years.
Garlic - Fresh garlic is good for four to six months. Dried or minced garlic can last two to three years and refrigeration is recommended after opening it.
Mint - Fresh mint is good up until 10 days after purchase. Dried mint can last up to three years.
Rosemary, Sage, Thyme - Fresh rosemary, sage, and thyme can be good for up to 14 days when refrigerated. Dried or ground forms last between three and four years.
Turmeric -Ground turmeric lasts three to four years.
Salt -Salt does not expire.

A great tip from Wide Open Eats , is to attach either a label or painter’s tape on the bottom of your spices that note when you got them. This way, you’re able to figure out exactly when it’s time for them to go.

Organize Your Gifting Accessories

How many years have you gone to wrap a present and realized you either ran out of wrapping paper, tissue paper or didn’t have enough bows? People usually have a designated area of a closet where they throw rolls of wrapping paper, present gift tags, or any assortment of gifting accessories. Most times that area gets wrecked throughout the year so by the time the holidays roll around, you have to really search that closet for whatever you need.

Be one step ahead and organize all gifting accessories before you even start buying holiday gifts. Stock up on the essentials – tissue paper, wrapping paper, bows, tags, and don’t forget the tape! If you shop early enough for this stuff, you’ll probably save some money as well. You can still keep everything organized in that designated closet with either an over-the-door organizer or gift wrap storage box.

Find Places for DIY Decorations

Now that you’ve cleaned, organized, and unpacked your holiday decorations, you can finally unleash your creativity. Before you go out and purchase expensive decorations to really spruce up your home, consider less expensive and more DIY projects. Here are some quick DIY decorations:

Take any big frames you have hanging up and wrap the front and ends in wrapping paper. Then add some curling ribbon and a bow. When you hang them back on the wall, they’ll look like giant presents.
Get a low vase at a craft store and fill it with candy canes as a cute little centerpiece on your coffee table or dining room table.
Add garland that you may not be using for the tree or thicker ribbons you don’t plan on using for gifts and wrap your staircase banister for some extra spirit.
Purchase small birdhouses and make them holiday-themed. Either paint them in holiday colors, add little twinkling lights or draw in snowmen. You can also add a small hook to hang your stockings on. This is a great project to do with kids too.
For a cute front porch design, get some galvanized buckets sold at craft stores and fill them with either real or fake pine or fir branches. You can use a chalk pen to write a holiday message on the bucket or draw out some snowflakes.

Conclusion

Preparing for the holiday season doesn’t have to be the production it once was. Simple organizing tricks and tips can make it much simpler and add fun back into it. After all, the holidays are exciting – so the preparations should be too!

Sources

Laundry Room Ideas for Small Spaces

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:22:04 GMT

Anyone who has ever lived in a tiny apartment or home without a laundry room knows how harrowing laundry day can be. You end up schlepping your dirty clothes to a friend's house or to the dreaded laundromat and hope for the best.

When you finally get your own laundry room, the inconvenience is over, right? Well, yes... until you realize just how small the space is. Where are you supposed to fold your sweaters? Store your detergent? Scrub out set-in stains?

If you’ve found yourself bouncing around like a ping pong ball on laundry day, then it's a clue that your laundry room isn’t the place where you do laundry—it’s just the place where your washer and dryer live. Here are four ways to make your small laundry room more functional:

Hang a tension bar to dry your clothes.
Use door space for storage.
Convert your drawers into functional pieces.
Use magnets for more hanging space.

Your small laundry room can still be the space that you’ve longed for during all those laundromat hauls. A few easy adjustments are all that's necessary!

Hang a Tension Bar to Dry Clothes

To air-dry or not to air-dry is a question all tiny laundry room owners face. Instead of draping your nice suit jackets and flimsy tops over the backs of chairs and your shower bar, why not just hang a drying bar yourself?

Tension bars are generally used to hang window curtains, but they have some features that make them perfect for hang-drying clothes: They can hold a lot of weight, you can take them down whenever you want, and they cost less than $10.

Of course, there are more chic options if a tension bar isn’t your style. MyMove recommends a folding drying rack you can pin against the wall to add a little bit of country style.

Use Door Space for Storage

Take a hard look around your laundry room. Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, pay attention to what you do. If your laundry room has a door, then you have a ton of built-in storage space.

According to HGTV , any over-the-door storage solution "designed for closets" can work to your advantage. Take a look at shoe organizers and metal caddies and see if you can find one big enough for your detergent and stain cleaners. Or you can DIY your own space-saving unit with a hanging coat rack and a few wicker baskets. Either way, you’ll always know where your detergent and fabric softener is—in the laundry room where it belongs!

Take Advantage of Your Wall Space

A small laundry room might not have a lot of horizontal surface area, but you can still iron and fold clothing in that space. Look into options like fold-down ironing boards and tables. These store up against a wall until you fold them down for use, then they snap back into place once you're done.

If you don't have the space for shelves on one wall of your laundry room, consider a series of hooks. Here, you can hang laundry bags to separate your clothing while keeping it up off of the floor.

Use Magnets for More Hanging Space

Here’s some good news: Your washer and dryer are already metal, which means that you have a ready-made canvas for magnets. A few heavy-duty ones and you’re on your way to hanging bins, baskets, hooks, and whatever else you need for laundry day.

Choose magnets with adhesive backings so you can affix your favorite scrubbing brush or microfiber stain remover right to the side of your unit. This is also an excellent opportunity to think about different magnet designs and decorations if you’d like a little style to go along with your organizational efforts.

Conclusion

Having a laundry room is such a convenience, even if it's a small one. The only thing left to do now is decide how to make it work best for you. Here’s a quick tip: Make a list of things that vex you about laundry day. What is it that annoys you most or that you least look forward to? Whatever you decide will tell you where to start.

Sources

Wall Storage Ideas for Your Garage

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 14:30:44 GMT

There’s no mistaking it, today’s homeowners tend to have a lot of stuff. This is why in many homes, the garage has become a storage space in addition to the place where you park your car. More than anything, you need to maximize the storage potential and that often means using the wall space in your garage.

While there are certainly plenty of wall storage ideas for your custom garage , they tend to fall into four distinct categories:

Hide It Away
Hang It Up
Repurpose With a Purpose
Get Crafty

Keep reading for some simple tips on how to maximize the storage space in your garage that will have you climbing the walls – literally NOT figuratively.

Hide It Away

For homeowners looking for a stylish yet simple storage solution, your best bet is to have cabinets installed. This will allow you to tuck everything away – out of sight – ensuring your garage space stays neat and organized. As an added bonus, many sets are quite attractive and can be found in a wide range of colors.

You could also repurpose kitchen cabinets after a renovation. Either way, cabinets, and drawers give you the flexibility to store tools, cleaning supplies, garden products, sports equipment, and much more behind closed doors. An added feature is that they keep dangerous chemicals and materials out of reach of children and away from pets.

Stackable, plastic storage bins are another great option for storing your stuff and keeping it protected from the elements. You can use these containers to separate supplies and gear by use.

The Family Handyman suggests using different colored bins for each activity to make finding what you need more convenient. Label each container if you want to be uber-organized. Clear bins are another way to go. You can easily see what’s inside at a quick glance.

Hang It Up

Another option for garage wall storage is to hang items, opening up more precious floor space. This also protects your things should you have any water intrusion. Slatwall panels could be the perfect solution for your garage storage woes. They're durable, affordable, and attractive. Because they are narrower than cabinets, Slatwall systems are a great alternative, especially if you park large cars or SUVs in your garage.

Hooks can be a homeowner’s best friend when it comes to garage storage. Just a Girl and Her Blog is a strong supporter of using hooks to hang bulky items such as goalie nets, lawn chairs, or ladders. There are even hooks designed specifically to hang bicycles on the wall.

The home design and remodeling experts at HGTV are also proponents of using hooks to help you with garage wall storage. They suggest using plastic or metal chains to corral coiled extension cords and garden hoses. Just loop the chains through the coils and put the hooks through the chain links.

Another helpful hack is to hang a bucket by its handle on a hook. It can be used to hold golf balls or tennis balls or even stash all of your car wash supplies in one place. Then you just need to grab the bucket and go when it’s time to soap up your car.

Buckets might work well for smaller balls, but what do you do about soccer balls or basketballs? The simplest solution is to store large balls in draw-string mesh bags. These can easily be hung from wall hooks and taken down when it’s time to play.

Repurpose With a Purpose

You don’t need to spend a lot of money to create effective storage solutions. Some are as simple as repurposing products meant for other things. For example, you can use the cardboard tubes commonly used when pouring concrete footers for storing long items such as rakes and brooms, as well as fishing poles or hockey sticks. All you need to do is attach these sturdy tubes to your garage wall studs; plumbing straps are an easy way to secure the tubes.

A magnetic strip, like the kind chefs use to keep their knives easily accessible in the kitchen, can be used in the garage to store paintbrushes and hand tools like screwdrivers and wrenches. To store smaller items like screws and nails, clean out an old soup can, fill it up, and stick it to a magnetic strip.

Get Crafty

PVC pipes are a great way to store shovels, brooms, and other long-handled tools and keep them from toppling over. Home Stories A to Z’s suggestion can be copied by attaching short pieces of PVC pipe to wooden boards nailed into the garage studs. Place one near the floor and the other about three feet up the wall. Then you just need to slip the handle through the pipe and your possessions are safely secured, yet easy to reach.

A quick and easy DIY storage project that doesn’t require any power tools is to glue clothes pins to a small scrap piece of wood that you hang on the wall. This is a great place to hang gardening gloves or baseball hats that you wear when doing yardwork.

Conclusion

Although garages offer an enormous amount of square footage, most of that space is taken up by your car. So when it comes to maximizing your garage storage situation, you want to take advantage of the valuable wall space. Whether you choose to purchase storage solutions, repurpose something you already have, or build something brand new, there are endless options available based on your family's needs.

Sources

7 Ideas for Organizing Your Kids' Closets

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 20:23:02 GMT

When you open up your kids’ closets, do toys and such come falling out onto your head? If so, you are desperately in need of a serious organization session in your children’s custom closets .

Here are 7 ways you can transform them into the epitome of neatness and organization:

Organize Vertically
Make Use of Clear Bins and Wire Baskets
Use The Space on The Back of Doors
Make Space for a Laundry Basket
Conceal Clutter in Drawers
Hang a Daily Organizer
Don’t Underestimate The Details

Check out these easy ways to make your children’s closets much more than manageable and as cute as can be!

1. Organize Vertically

Particularly when it comes to the smallest of kid's closets, you need to focus on utilizing all of the available vertical space that it has to offer. One of the ways that you can do this is by hanging a set of double bars so they have twice the hanging capacity. The lower bar then becomes easily accessible for smaller children, such as toddlers, to reach.

Upper shelving can be used to store items such as out-of-season clothing, and other objects that don’t get used very often.

2. Make Use of Clear Bins and Wire Baskets

The more transparent your storage solutions are, the better chance there is that your child is going to put things where they belong. For example, if your child can see that his or her sweaters are folded in a sliding wire drawer, or that their games are organized neatly within clear, stackable bins, that is likely where more of them will end up.

This becomes even more true when you take the time to label any bins you have in your child’s closet space. When labeled in a clear and eye-catching manner, doing so can really help in maintaining the organization that you have worked so hard to achieve.

3. Use The Space on The Back of Doors

When it comes to effective closet organization, homedit.com adds never to forget the valuable space on the back of doors. This area can be used for many different purposes, including:

Storing shoes
Hanging sectional pouches filled with stuffed animals and other items
Hanging flat baskets to hold books or art supplies
Fastening hooks to hang jackets, bookbags, & jewelry

4. Make Space for a Laundry Basket

If at all possible, having a sliding wire laundry basket in your child’s closet is an ideal scenario to keep things nice and tidy. If this isn’t an option for you, designate a corner to make home to a pop-up laundry basket that can easily be toted around when laundry day arrives.

5. Conceal Clutter in Drawers

Have you run out of space to hold all of your child’s toys, games, and stuffed animals? No worries! There is an abundance of storage dressers available that are perfect for hiding extra items you'd prefer not to display in your child’s closet.

Ideally, you should choose a unit that features deep, opaque sliding drawers so that your child’s collection of stuff will remain under wraps, even if the items are just thrown inside in haste.

6. Hang a Daily Organizer

Looking for a way to make mornings with your children run more smoothly? HGTV.com offers up a great idea for making getting ready for school a more hassle-free experience. All you need to do is hang a daily clothing organizer from your child’s clothing rod. This handy helper has one section to hold your child’s outfit for each day of the week.

Having your kids' outfits ready-to-go each day frees them up from having to make spur-of-the-moment decisions about what to wear. Depending on their age, they can dress with confidence, which helps to foster a sense of independence.

7. Don’t Underestimate The Details

Even though your main goal is to neatly organize all of your child’s clothes, shoes, and toys, you should also seek to create a visually appealing nook for them that will add to the overall beauty of their bedroom. One thing you can do to help achieve this is to organize their items by color.

Within each color, you can further organize the items by size and season if you like. Try painting the back wall of the closet a complementary color. Place special touches such as framed pictures, sporting goods, or adorable stuffed animals in empty spaces to add a bit of character.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to organizing your kids’ closets, why not make it a family event? If your children are old enough to help you with the task, this can be a perfect way to bond with them. While you're at it, you can go through their things together and make decisions about what they would like to keep and what they can agree to donate. It's a great opportunity to teach youngsters the importance of giving, while simultaneously showing them that everything has its own place.

Sources

Zen Home Office Design Ideas

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 15:45:06 GMT

With so many people now working from home, the focus on creating a zen-like home office is more important than ever. If you're going to spend 40 hours a week or more in your home office, you want it to be a place that you enjoy being in. From the right office furniture to the perfect decor, your home office can be a calming, relaxing place to work on your to-do list and send those all-important emails.

To create that zen-like atmosphere, consider adding the following design elements:

Comfortable Chair
Touch of Nature
Calming Colors
Proper Lighting
Block Out Noise
Organize Your Space
Designate a Self-Care Area
Add in Inspirational Images

If you feel like you've hit a wall in your workday and are stressed to the max, read on to learn more about creating a more peaceful & calming work from home space.

An Ergonomic Chair

Your office chair shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s the foundation for a great day at work. It’s where you spend the majority of your workday and can have a huge impact on your overall health. Medium.com further notes that ergonomic chairs can improve posture, reduce back pain and neck pain, relieve pressure on your hips, improve blood flow, and even contribute to more productive workdays.

To pick the best ergonomic chair, keep comfort in the forefront of your mind. More than anything, you should feel comfortable throughout the day, even after long hours of Zoom meetings and phone calls. Make sure you choose a chair that’s adjustable, both in lumbar support and in height. These two key factors will allow you to customize your chair to perfectly fit your body and your office area.

Add Some Greenery

According to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden with more of the world spending time at home, people searched for new hobbies, and many turned to gardening and tending to houseplants. Even more importantly, people started realizing how much they loved having a little foliage in their home office spaces.

Plants add a touch of life to any type of dull space, so it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most common recommendations. When choosing the right houseplants, take into account your experience with plant care and the amount of light your home office gets throughout the day.

For low-light spaces, try a Spider Plant, Peace Lily, or one of the many ferns available at your local garden center. If your office receives medium to high light, you can easily keep a succulent, Monstera Deliciosa, or one of the Philodendron species.

Choose The Right Colors

How you decorate your home office is just as important as its functionality. The colors you choose will have a huge impact on your productivity and mood during the hours you spend at your desk. VeryWellMind explains the impact of some of the common color choices available:

Black : Boldness
White : Peacefulness
Red : Strong
Blue : Productivity, calmness
Green : Safety
Yellow : Brightness, energy, attention
Purple : Imagination
Brown : Security, strength
Orange : Energy, enthusiasm, attention, happiness
Pink : Calm

If you are looking to invoke a calmer, more zen-like energy in your home office, look at colors that match that specific vibe.

Let in The Light

The Harvard Business Review explained in a 2017 study that natural light actually helps to minimize headaches, reduces eyestrain, and increases your workflow as well. It’s no wonder natural light is at the top of the list of things to include in a zen-like home office.

If you can, choose a room in your house that has at least one window looking outside. While you can add window treatments, remember to draw the shades or open the curtains to let the natural light flood in. If you’re short on space, add full-spectrum lighting that mimics natural light. And don’t forget to take a break to go outside! Your mind and body will appreciate the fresh air and sunshine.

Block Out Noise

One of the most difficult things about working from home is all the noise and distractions from kids, pets, neighbors, and possibly your work-from-home partner. The more you block out the noise, the less distracted and frustrated you’ll feel.

To start, you need to pick the right location for your home office. Use either your basement or attic as a makeshift office. If you have backyard space, consider setting up a free-standing office by converting a shed or building a tiny house-style office, complete to your specifications. However, a guest room serves the same purpose. Adding rugs and textiles can help dampen the outside noise.

Additionally, pay attention to your office doors and windows. You can hang sound-suppressing curtains or use an "under-the-door noise blocker" for added privacy, says virtualvocations.com .

Clean It Up

It’s easy to let your desk get a little messy from time to time, but to get the most out of your home office, you should spend some time getting it in order. Clear off the clutter and only keep what you truly need. Rather than a cup of 20 pens on your desk, keep one or two and store the rest in a drawer. Instead of a stack of scratch paper, keep a plain notebook available instead.

Another way to keep your desk area clear is to keep it as wireless as possible. Luckily, everything from computers to printers to phones is wireless now, meaning you can minimize the amount of cord clutter around your desk with just a little planning. Charging your devices at night and using creative storage tools can keep cords out of sight and your desk tidy.

Self-Care Space

Taking some time throughout the day to decompress and take care of your mind and body will not only be good for your health, but it will also turn your work from home space into a more relaxing area to be in. Real Simple recommends using a corner of your home office as a dedicated self-care space.

Gather your favorite candles and some comfy pillows or throws. Have a comfortable seating option that isn’t your work chair, too. Then, when you take your breaks, you can have a cozy place to relax and focus on your health and wellness. You could also keep a meditation mat or yoga mat tucked away for a quick stretch to stay in top physical condition as well.

Add Inspiration

What inspires you? Whether it’s pictures of places you want to travel, the car you’re saving up for, or your family, adding a little inspiration to your home office will take your productivity to the next level.

Try creating an inspiration board with a corkboard and some push pins. Print out your favorite inspirational quote. And don’t forget to hang some personal pictures to remind you why you put in the long hours.

Conclusion

Creating a zen home office space is the first step to a successful work-from-home experience. Spend some time planning out your home office, adding in a few calming colors, some attractive plants, and designating a self-care area. Above all, remember to relax, take a deep breath, and focus on conquering one task at a time.

Sources

Home Organization and Storage Tips

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 18:35:10 GMT

From The Home Edit to HGTV, you have probably heard a lot about home organization on TV and online. While it may seem like a gigantic hassle to prioritize organization, a weight will be lifted off your shoulders and remove the chaos of clutter from your life.

Getting organized does not have to be challenging, especially when you break it down into steps. Your entire house will be in tip-top shape in no time at all with easy-to-manage home organization and storage tips, such as:

The Basics of Organization & Storage
A Clutter-Free Kitchen & Pantry
Sparkling Bathrooms
Beautiful Bedrooms
Functional Closets
An Organized Garage

Find out how to put your plan into action by following the tips below.

The Basics of Organization & Storage

A few basic tips can go a long way, and they can help you prioritize your needs. Is one area of your home in need of more thorough organization than another? Start there and then work your way through your home based on which spaces need the most work and which ones need the least.

Remember, you want to maximize the space you have, so the first step is to declutter. Consider having a keep pile, a donate pile, and a trash pile. Once you have the clutter out of the way, it is time to start organizing. TheSpruce.com recommends a few basics to help you get started:

Use square, plastic, airtight storage containers to maximize space.
Try items that can nest within themselves.
Buy containers based on the sizes you need.
Choose where you want to store items in your home

Clutter-Free Kitchen & Pantry

Of all the spaces in your home, the kitchen is one area that can get cluttered and chaotic quickly. First, go through the cabinets and remove old or outdated food items. Bugs really like dry goods, rice, cereal, and other common kitchen items, so be sure to store these products properly.

Plastic containers are one of the simplest and most readily available ways to store food. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, are airtight, and easy to label. You can also choose clear glass containers if you want to be able to see what you have inside. Plus, pantry pests & moisture won't stand a chance!

Canned food can be organized by type and placed in special can corrals that utilize vertical space. You will be able to see what you have at a glance and won’t have to worry about a can of green beans landing on your foot.

Sparkling Bathrooms

Bathrooms tend to be last on the list of rooms to organize. It is easy to just toss brushes, makeup, or other miscellaneous items into drawers or cabinets. Eventually, you won’t be able to find what you want when you want it, and that usually happens as you are rushing out the door. Give these bathroom storage tips a try:

Add hooks – These make great use of wall space for hanging towels instead of having a large towel rack.
Over the door storage – If you have a little space above your bathroom door, why not create a cool storage area for towels like Good Housekeeping suggests ?
Use baskets or bins – Keep the items under your sink organized with storage bins.
Spinning storage – Keep your most used cleaning supplies on a Lazy Susan in the bathroom cabinet for easy access.
Keep similar items together such as hairdryers, styling tools, makeup, and first-aid kits.
Get an extra curtain rod – Install the rod inside your shower to hang loofas, washcloths, and small caddies of essentials on S-hooks.

Beautiful Bedrooms

Your bedroom is where you go to rest and relax. Having extra clutter on the dresser or clothes spilling out of the closet creates chaos. However, you can easily create a calmer space with minimal effort.

As you start to go through your bedroom, begin with organizing your storage spaces first, such as dressers and drawers. Remove the items you do not want anymore, and then you can start to tackle other areas of the room. This will also help keep organization from becoming too overwhelming.

Under the bed space is often overlooked as viable storage but think again. It is great because nobody can see it, yet you can get to it easily. Some ideas of items to store in sealed bins under the bed include wrapping paper, spare bed sheets, or miscellaneous trinkets.

Keep dirty clothes off the floor and in a hamper. If you don’t have a lot of space to work with, think about keeping your dirty clothes basket in your laundry room instead of the bedroom. This will also help to keep out bad odors.

Functional Closets

Once you have cleared out the clutter from the room, set your sights on the closet. Consider storing your shoes in bins or on an organizer. Hang clothes neatly and color coordinate. For folded items like pants, place them in a bin turned on its side. You will be able to see exactly what you have quickly.

Are you always running late and never know what to wear? Having an organized closet will help. You can add valet hooks inside to hang your outfit for the next day. Talk about a time saver!

Storage bins and baskets will help keep larger items contained. Hanging brooms, mops, and other similar items to the walls of your closet is a great use of vertical space. For kids closets, one easy DIY idea is to add rolling carts for toys and art supplies. It will be much easier for your kiddos to maintain a tidier space.

Organized Garage

Where do you put the items you don’t know where to store? The garage! Typically, your garage ends up being a catchall for things like cleaning supplies, seasonal décor, sporting equipment, and tools. Here are few simple garage organization tips :

Storage bins – Depending on what you are storing, large, airtight storage bins are great for garage organization. They keep out pests and moisture and are easy to label and stack.
Slatwall panels – Use the abundant wall space in your garage to your advantage by installing slatwall panels. These are great for storing and showcasing your tools or sporting equipment.
Ceiling racks or hooks – Hang bicycles from your garage ceiling to keep them off the floor and out of the way.
Don’t store certain items in your garage - These include, but are not limited to: family heirlooms, paint, gasoline, wood, propane tanks, paper products, and food.

Conclusion

Having the organized home you have always wanted starts with learning the basics, creating a game plan, and then beginning the organization process. Remember, start by decluttering your home one room at a time. Take donations out as soon as possible. Once you have your space clutter-free, you can start organizing it how you see fit and with the storage solutions that work best for you.

Sources

Items to Avoid Storing In Your Garage

Wed, 26 May 2021 20:53:00 GMT

Your custom garage has many useful purposes, with storage being one of the top. However, not all items belong in a garage and some should never be stored there for safety reasons.

From pests to fire hazards - be sure to keep the following items out of your garage at all costs:

Canned Food
Pet Food
Firewood
Books
Clothes
Paint
Photos
Items Sensitive to Temperature Changes
Hazardous Materials (Propane Tanks, Gasoline, etc.)

If you are curious why these specific items do not belong in your garage, read on!

Items That Attract Critters

You may think that if you properly store certain items like dried food or vacuum-sealed clothing in your garage that they will be safe from pests. The reality is that even when stored in airtight containers, pests, including rodents, can still be a problem. No amount of storage will stop a rat from making a meal or a nest out of the following items!

Pet Food

Although, you may want to store your pet’s extra food, treats, or bones in the garage - you can bet that the neighborhood possum, raccoon, rat, or mouse will likely snack on Fido’s dinner. Even wild bird seed should be kept elsewhere to prevent visits from unwanted critters. The same rules apply for storing canned food. Keep those items in your house!

Firewood

At first thought, the garage seems like the perfect place to store firewood. It's dry, covered, and easy to access. However, it's actually the opposite. Certain types of bugs love to make homes in firewood including ants, termites, roaches, and beetles. A better solution is to stack it on a pallet outside and off the ground. You can then cover the wood with a waterproof tarp to keep it dry.

Books

In addition to books, most paper products attract certain types of pests. Rats and mice love to make nests out of newspapers. Familyhandyman.com notes that silverfish especially love to make a meal out of the sticky binding that holds books together.

Clothing

Even when stored in airtight containers, clothing is not something you want to store in your garage for many reasons. For instance, if a slight hole appears in one of your containers, your clothes could be ruined by moisture or insects.

Temperature-Dependent Items

Due to the heat and being completely enclosed, garages tend to produce humidity levels that can easily damage certain items. According to BobVila.com , excessive heat and humidity can cause irreversible damage to:

Paint

It seems like your garage would be the perfect place to store paint, but alas it is not. Extreme temperatures, whether cold or hot, can cause paint to separate or gel to the point of being unusable. Save yourself the hassle and money by storing your paint cans somewhere other than your home garage. Try looking for space in a spare closet.

Printed Photographs

Due to the moisture, heat, and humidity levels found in most garages, treasured printed photographs should not be stored in that location. Not only can the temperature affect the quality of your photos, but it can also discolor, crack and warp them.

Electronics

A good rule of thumb for garage storage when it comes to heat is that if you wouldn't leave it in your car on the hottest day of the year, it should not be stored in your garage. High temperatures and even extremely cold temperatures can damage electronics such as computers, video games, and televisions. Once the motor is damaged or melted - there is no saving your old files. So, do yourself a favor and find a better storage option for computers and laptops than your garage.

Wooden Furniture

Due to the build-up of moisture, wooden furniture can warp and become swollen if stored for too long in your garage. Antiques especially are better off stored in a temperature-controlled storage unit or in your home.

Spare Refrigerator

Although a garage fridge may seem like a great idea at the time, especially if you have a custom garage man cave, they are oftentimes increasing your energy bill excessively because temps can get pretty high.

Hazardous Materials

According to the U.S. Fire Administration , over 45 percent of fires that start in a garage will eventually damage some or all of a home. This statistic alone is proof enough to never store flammable or combustible items in your garage. Unplanned fires are devastating, especially when they affect your family home, which is why you should never keep the following items in your garage. Even if you think you have them properly stored, they can still prove to be dangerous.

Gasoline

Even when in a gas can, gasoline is dangerous. It only takes one spark to ignite a flame that results in a fire.

Oily Rags

Oily rags are yet another item that should never be stored in a garage-type environment, especially anywhere near electrical outlets or appliances. In fact, familyhandyman.com explains that “Spontaneous combustion (and a devastating fire) can occur when oily rags are stored where the internal heat that is generated isn't allowed to escape.”

Propane Tanks

Propane tanks are built to be safe as long as they are used properly. If not properly sealed, a small propane leak from your tank can cause a fire, just by starting your car.

Conclusion

Your garage can serve as a great place for storage. Just make sure to be safe and cautious when selecting what belongs there & what doesn’t. Avoid storing anything that’s a safety hazard, attracts rodents, or is sensitive to temperature changes.

Sources

How to Safeguard Your Closets From Pests

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 20:18:22 GMT

Nobody wants to deal with annoying little insects that destroy wardrobes and cause unsightly closet damage. You work hard to look sharp, so don’t let the bugs win this war.

Your custom closets will be blissfully critter-free - just check out these top tricks for safeguarding your fancy threads :

Take everything out and clean thoroughly
Don’t store anything dirty in your closets
Organize and store clothes in breathable bags
Get rid of any moisture
Lavender is a great organic pest deterrent
Cedar never goes out of style

It’s relatively common to discover your closet(s) has unwanted guests, especially in wetter climates. The most likely suspects are moths, carpet beetles, and silverfish. They especially like to chomp on expensive cotton, leather, and wool garments.

As soon as you notice any holes or other disturbing evidence of closet monsters, you must act fast to remove these pests and preserve your belongings. Read on for more info on how to beat these clothes-devouring beasties for good!

It’s Time for a Deep Cleanse

Cleaning is good for your soul as well as your home. Take this opportunity to take everything out of your closet and give it a thorough airing out. Be sure to throw away old items that no longer fit or are sadly out of fashion, and examine anything with sentimental value closely to make sure there are no signs of bugs, like new holes.

Wipe down every surface, shelf, and the inside of drawers with the appropriate cleanser for your hard surfaces. Turn on all the lights you can to do a careful check for evidence of creepy crawlies. Vacuum with a vengeance. Once everything is spotless, you can begin to put things back in order.

No Dirty Laundry

When it’s time to put everything back, do not be tempted to return things that have already been worn recently. Sadly, wearing something just once will leave microscopic skin oils and hair fragments that are irresistible to annoying insects. If your jeans fit better after one wear, then stash them in the laundry room instead.

Clothing with food stains and shoes covered in outdoor germs or actual dirt both attract loads of gross creatures, so do yourself a favor and put those items as far away from your nice clean closets as possible.

Safe Storage

If you get items dry cleaned, you might think that you are safe from bug invasions. Unfortunately, those plastic bags inhibit airflow, seal in moisture, and create a haven for pests. Remove your duds from the bags as soon as you bring them home and let them air out. The starch used by commercial cleaners on some clothing is also attractive to them, so try to avoid utilizing that whenever possible.

Cardboard boxes are also not ideal for clothes because they are themselves a delicious insect snack. Instead, use breathable fabric bags or bins to store your most loved items. Lifestyle guide T he Spruce suggests keeping seasonal or extra bulky clothes in your suitcases when you are not using them - just line them in “acid-free” tissue paper first.

Dehumidify

Cool, dry air is a deterrent for pests as well as a key element of any well-organized closet. Houses located in areas where the weather is moist probably have more of an issue with this specific problem. Keeping your storage areas as dry as possible will also make it harder for mold or mildew to take hold.

There are several clever ways to reduce the humidity in your closet space without spending a lot of cash:

Leaving the light on for a few hours will help warm and dry the air
Place a fan or small dehumidifier to keep the air flowing
Place an open box of baking soda on a top-shelf
Activated charcoal is non-hazardous and draws wetness from the air

This fascinating article on Medium explains that regular sticks of chalk can also rid your home of excess moisture in a pinch - just tie a bundle together and hang in the back of a closet.

Lavender Does Double Duty

This bright purple herb smells divine and is a natural and strong bug repellant. You can grow your own - it’s a perennial that thrives in certain USDA zones, according to Homeguides.sfgate.com . Native to the Mediterranean, it has been used since the olden days for a variety of medicinal purposes. If you don’t have a green thumb, don’t worry - dried stalks or pure essential oil of lavender work just as well and are easily found online.

Soak cotton balls in lavender oil and hide them around your closet area to drive away moths and other pests. Or you can put the dried flowers in cloth bags and hang them with your clothing. If you are going to put away fancy clothes from a special occasion, always include an herbal sachet to ensure that they smell fresh and do not attract fabric-eating critters.

Cedar Delivers

This fragrant wood has been used for clothing storage since the Middle Ages at least. Women for generations were gifted cedar chests for their belongings upon coming of age. It has a pleasant and calming outdoorsy scent, as well as being a natural dehumidifier and pest deterrent. Cedar planks are also used in cooking for adding additional flavor to steaks and seafood.

Cedar is affordable, and a little goes a long way. Placing small chips of this aromatic wood in a sachet in your closet can absorb water from the air as well as keep pesky bugs away from your clothes. Just make sure that the sachet is well protected as cedar oil has a tendency to stain clothing. A tiny percentage of people are allergic to the wood’s oils though, so make sure you’re not one of those unlucky folks before purchasing a large quantity.

Conclusion

Bugs are a useful part of the ecosystem, but that doesn’t mean they should live for free in your home without paying rent. Get rid of those annoying beasties before they cause damage to your precious wardrobe. Using the handy tips above will safeguard your closets from destructive pests and ensure that your belongings remain in pristine condition!

Sources

10 Tips for Protecting Your Closets from Mold

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 16:28:09 GMT

When you think about mold, you probably picture a nasty fungus growing in dank basements or behind leaky pipes in the back of a cabinet. One of its favorite places to hide is inside closets. Their dark spaces and cramped conditions make closets an ideal breeding ground for fungus.

The good news is there are steps you can take to protect your custom closets from mold, including:

Keep Them Clean
Make Sure Your Clothes Are Dry
Control Humidity
Save Your Silica Packs
Leave The Light On
Use Air Purifiers
Look For Leaks
Don’t Ignore Musty Smells
Remove Your Hamper
Pass On Plastic

Keep reading to learn what you can do to protect your closets from mold.

Keep Them Clean

Even the cleanest home can harbor mold. That’s why it’s super important that you keep things clean. This includes your closets.

You should give them a deep clean at least a couple of times each year. Start by taking everything out and inspecting each piece for signs of mold and mildew. Throw away any clothes that are stained or damaged. While you are at it, you might want to consider donating items you no longer want or wear to a local charity.

Before you put everything back inside, take the time to thoroughly clean the space and treat any spots where you may see mold or mildew growing. Clean My Space recommends using white vinegar. It’s readily available (you can find it in the supermarket usually near the salad dressings) and much more affordable than most commercial cleaning agents – plus it’s non-toxic.

For general cleaning, wipe down all of the surfaces with vinegar using a rag; this includes the baseboards. To get rid of any mold or mildew, spray vinegar directly onto the spot and let it sit for half an hour. Then scrub the area with a brush, rinse it with water, and let it dry. To help prevent mold from regrowing, give the area one more spray with vinegar. Be sure to let it dry completely before putting your belongings away.

Make Sure Your Clothes Are Dry

Damp clothes, including sweaty workout wear, provide the perfect breeding ground for mold. This is why you need to make sure that everything you put inside your closet is dry. Just because the dryer buzzed does not mean that your clothes are 100% dry. Be sure to feel them. You may need to add a bit more time or hang up some of the bulkier items to air dry before putting them away.

Control Humidity

Mold thrives in moist environments. So, in order to prevent it from growing in your closets, you need to control the humidity levels. The home professionals at Hunker admit this isn’t always easy because a closet’s enclosed space “restricts airflow,” thereby allowing fungi to grow.

The simplest and most cost-effective way to control humidity is to allow your closets to air out. Proper ventilation can prevent mold and mildew growth. Try to keep your closet doors open every other day in order to keep fresh air circulating.

Another option is to purchase a dehumidifier. These machines are designed to remove dampness from the air and facilitate better circulation. For optimum results, make sure you empty the dehumidifier every day.

Save Your Silica Gel Packs

If you don’t have the budget or space for a dehumidifier, consider using silica gel packs. They reduce humidity by absorbing moisture from the surrounding areas. That’s why companies often include silica gel in their packaging, to protect new products from dampness. You are most likely to find them in shoe boxes or inside handbags. If you don’t have enough salvaged silica gel packs, you can always buy a product such as Damp-Rid. It’s designed to pull moisture from the air and collect it in a small bucket or hanging bag.

A word of caution, if you have small children or pets, you might not want to leave silica gel packs in easy reach as they can be harmful if swallowed.

Leave A Light On

In addition to keeping the closet doors open, you may also want to leave the light on. The warmth put off by a low wattage light bulb can help keep your closets dry – thus preventing mold growth. As a precaution, be sure that the light bulb is not near any clothing. This will keep it from causing any damage or worse, starting a fire.

Use Air Purifiers

An air purifier is another device you might want to consider purchasing in order to prevent mold from growing in your closets. Air purifiers are made up of two things, a filter, and a fan. Basically, the fan sucks in air which passes through the filter. The particles and pollutants, such as mold and mildew, are captured and clean air is released.

Not all air purifiers are equal. Be sure to get one with a true HEPA filter that will trap airborne bacteria and mold/fungi spores.

Look For Leaks

If your closet is on an exterior wall or shares a wall with the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room, you should be on the lookout for leaks. Structural or plumbing leaks behind drywall or custom closet build-outs can result in mold and mildew. Left unnoticed, even a tiny damp patch can quickly turn into a full-blown mold infestation.

If you spot any mold, you should use vinegar, or diluted bleach, to clean and disinfect the area. Be sure to remove all clothes and personal items before tackling this project and do not put anything back until you are sure the mold has been removed and the area is completely dry. If the problem persists, it may be time to reach out to a professional for help.

Don’t Ignore Musty Smells

If you sense a musty odor , you may have mold or mildew growing inside. Don’t ignore it or try to cover up the scent with an air freshener. You need to search for the source.

The musty smell may be coming from your clothes or shoes. If that’s the case, then you should launder the suspected items or throw them out if they are beyond salvaging. On the other hand, if you spot mold growing on your walls, cabinets or shelves, be sure to thoroughly clean them using the vinegar or bleach methods previously discussed.

Remove Your Hamper

If there is one thing that mold loves more than darkness, it is feasting on fibers from various types of fabrics, so you may want to consider relocating your hamper to the bathroom or laundry room.

If you need to keep your hamper in your closet, make sure you are only putting dry clothes in it. Anything wet or damp – this includes sweaty gym clothes – should be allowed to air dry completely before being tossed in the basket.

Shoes can also attract mold spores, so make sure that your shoes are clean and dry before putting them back in your closets as well.

Pass On Plastic

One last tip is to eliminate plastics that can trap heat and humidity. This means removing your clothes from dry-cleaning bags before you hang them up. You may also want to avoid storing clothes in plastic bins as they prevent proper ventilation. Wicker or woven fabric and linen bins are much better choices and allow for ample airflow.

Conclusion

Simply stated, mold loves moisture. That’s why it’s so easy for mold and mildew to take up residency in the dark, cramped confines of your closets. Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to keep the humidity under control and ensure that your closets don’t become breeding grounds for mold. The 10 tips outlined in this article will help you protect your closets from mold by keeping them clean, fresh, and dry.

Sources

Eight Tricks to Preventing Pests in Your Kitchen Pantry

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 20:46:41 GMT

It is never good news when you discover that you have pests in your kitchen pantry . However, there are many relatively simple methods and precautions that will help you keep pests away from that area of your home without using pesticides and other dangerous chemicals.

Here is a little guide on preventing pantry pests. You’ll also learn about pests native to your Tennessee neighborhood, as well as how organizing your pantry will be key to preventing unwanted visitors.

Types of Pests Native to Tennessee

It is good to know which critters are most prevalent in your area when discussing pantry pests. Luckily, the University of Tennessee has compiled a list of the most common pests, including:

Indian Meal Moths – Small in size, hazel/copper/brown in color. Given that it is a type of moth, it is easily distinguishable from other pests listed in this article. An adept flyer, it is one of the most common food-infesting problems, targeting flour, wheat, and nuts. Therefore, be very quick to check the contents of your kitchen pantry often, as even a few signs can mean grievous implications for your products.
Confused Flour Beetles – Small in size and reddish-brown in color. Discernible six legs and antennae. The USDA further explains that these beetles mostly target grain products, so stay alert and don’t let the same bags of grain sit around for too long. Be quick to clean up any spilled grain you see.
Cigarette Beetles are amongst the smallest of the group, ranging from 2 to 3 mm in size, reddish-brown in color. They mainly target tobacco and stored food products.
Rice Weevils – Tiny in size, ant-like in appearance with a recognizable snout and antennae at the front. These pests tend to target various dried grains such as rice, seeds, and beans. Also recognizable via their defense mechanism, if threatened, they play dead.
Saw-Toothed Grain Beetles – Tiny in size, brown in color. Discernible six legs and antennae. These pests are mainly found in various dried and dusty goods. They do have wings just like all the other pests on this list, but cannot fly.

How to Prevent Pests in Your Pantry

Keep Your Pantry Clean- Also, keep the kitchen itself as sanitary as possible. Goodness.com warns to stay especially vigilant from any exposed food and other edible substances left uncovered.
Clean Up Spills- If you spilled some food on the floor or elsewhere while inside your pantry, it is best to immediately clean it up.
Don’t Let Food Go Bad in Your Pantry - Check expiration dates on the food that you buy and the food itself as thoroughly as you can. Some of the most typical pests have a habit of sneaking inside the packages and staying there.
Repair Damage- Make it a habit to look for any cracks or holes in the walls that might serve as entrances into your pantry for pests.
Control the Temperature- Make sure your pantry is dry, cool, and dark. It is best to ensure the air temperature is set to a food-storage-safe setting. Also, get rid of any signs of humidity and moisture. Goodness.com notes too that cool temperature settings are essential for “high-risk” products such as nuts and grains.
Check Products Before You Bring Them Home - Avoid putting damaged goods into your pantry. It is likely pests might already be hiding inside of them if you are not careful.
Keep Your Pantry Organized - Organizing your pantry safely and reliably can be challenging, but it is paramount for securing it from pests. Sizeable glass, plastic, and other airtight containers are easy and affordable solutions. The plastic ones are perfect for storing pasta, sugar, or flour and keeping them safe from unwelcome moisture and humidity.
Use Spices - Keep a couple of bay leaves inside the containers with various dry goods you have stored in your pantry. They have been shown to repel pests successfully.

What is The Best Way to Organize Your Kitchen Pantry?

Plastic and glass containers are a safe and easily attainable option when it comes to organizing your kitchen pantry. However, each person has a different lifestyle, eating habits, and financial limitations. Your kitchen pantry will reflect those differences, so it’s important to find reliable solutions that you can implement.

First, aside from just cleaning it from time to time, Martha Stuart recommends making a habit of editing or rearranging your pantry, structuring the products in a way that makes them easy for you to find, and removing everything you do not want or use anymore.

Don’t forget about expiration dates and adopt the same logic grocery stores use: slightly older items go in the front and are to be used/sold first. It may be useful to sacrifice the aesthetic pleasure of naming the contents of the products stored in jars and containers for the sake of just writing the product’s expiration date, so it is clearly visible.

Many people think that baking ingredients can remain fresh and high in quality for years. However, the healthy and sanitary option is to replace them after one year, preferably earlier, according to Martha Stewart. Apart from a possible infestation, the main reason is that the oils in some of them can become spoiled over time.

Conclusion

With a little work, you can stay ahead of a potentially big pest problem. By utilizing the tips outlined above, and implementing steps such as tossing out expired food, rotating inventory, and maintaining proper food storage temperatures, will decrease your chances of pantry pests finding their way into your snacks, baking supplies, and other foods.

Sources

Can Custom Closets Raise the Total Property Value of a Home?

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 20:45:43 GMT

Of all the upgrades you can make to add value to your home, custom closets may not be at the top of your list. In fact, between kitchens, bathrooms and appliances, closets may not make your home improvement checklist at all.

Although they may not be readily apparent, there are some big reasons why custom closets can raise the total property value of your home:

Make your home appear larger
Help your home stand out
Improve the coveted master bedroom
Add function to older homes
Save you time and money

The best part about a custom closet? It can deliver big benefits that extend to your entire home, at a fraction of the cost of other upgrades. Keep reading to find out exactly how a custom closet system can raise the total property value of your home.

Make Your Home Appear Larger

HGTV explains that an “overstuffed” closet is a major turn off to potential buyers. When homebuyers see your items spilling out into hallways and other rooms, it sends the signal to them that your house doesn’t offer adequate storage space or square footage. A disorganized closet prevents visitors from being able to see their items fitting comfortably in the space. With how much Americans love their consumer goods, clothing and accessories today, a home without the space to store these precious items is often a deal breaker.

However, a well-designed custom closet, with space-saving solutions, makes the rest of your home appear larger and more functional. Even if a home does not offer the square footage of a neighboring house, its tidiness conveys a sense of space that an overstuffed home does not. Particularly with so many individuals spending more time than ever at home working remotely today, an organized, functional space is more important than ever.

Help Your Home Stand Out From Others on the Block

Lots of houses feature numerous bedrooms, spacious patios, luxurious kitchens and decked-out master bathrooms, but fewer feature the appeal of a stunning custom closet. In fact, Homes.com notes that a large custom closet can sometimes increase the value of a home more than an additional bedroom. Sure, when adding an extra bedroom to a two- or three-bedroom home, you can expect a big bump in your home value. However, going from a four-bedroom to a five-bedroom house may not yield as large a home value increase. On a home listing, a five-bedroom home likely will not jump off the page as much as a home with a breathtaking walk-in master closet.

Particularly with the smaller family sizes seen today, homes with more than four bedrooms are just not in the high demand they once were. If you have the space to spare, an impressive walk-in closet may be a smart investment that translates to more interest. If you find yourself in a buyer’s market, extra interest due to listing photos of an eye-grabbing closet may be the difference between a home that gets multiple offers and one that sits unsold for months and months.

Make Your Master Bedroom More Desirable to Potential Buyers

While the master bedroom is a key space that adds property value and buyer interest, the master closet is the unsung workhorse of the space. HGTV explains that the responsibility to keep the master suit clean, organized and functional lies with the master closet, making it an integral, if sometimes overlooked, space.

With more space comes more design options. Master bedroom closets typically offer the most square footage of any home closet for buyers, so they have the potential to shift a home on the market from a “maybe” to a “must-have.” Popular features being incorporated in luxurious master closets today include custom drawers, colors and finishes that tie the space into the rest of the home and a variety of clever storage solutions, such as slide-out drawers, hampers and ironing boards.

Add Function to the Charm of Older Homes

In general, older homes are more likely to feature small reach-in closets that don’t suit the modern homeowner. Realtor.com explains that because homeowners generally didn’t have as many possessions a few generations ago, there was simply no need for big closet spaces. In fact, earlier homes didn’t even have closets. Homeowners instead opted to use trunks, armoires and dressers to hold their clothes and accessories. Unfortunately, a home with smaller closets immediately sends the signal that your home does not have the layout and features that will satisfy the needs of families today. However, you can address this home dilemma.

Although newer homes generally feature more generous closets, you’re not necessarily stuck with costly home renovations when you convert a bedroom into a closet. A custom closet system, whether it’s located in your master bedroom or the foyer, will help you maximize limited space without major structural changes that could involve updating the floor plan. The key is to implement space-maximizing options that take advantage of every usable inch. For example, small closet spaces should make use of all the available vertical and wall space when square footage is limited.

Save Time and Money

According to a recent blog post from the National Association of Productivity & Organizing (NAPO), Americans spend an average of a year of their lives searching for lost items in the home. While time lost searching for missing items may not directly translate to your home’s value, it certainly impacts your wallet. In addition to the maxim “time is money,” you will undoubtedly spend unnecessary money on lost items that you just couldn’t locate. Furthermore, not having items stored in a neat, organized closet impacts your ability to quickly locate them, which could pose a serious risk in the event of an emergency.

Although disorganized closets may not be readily apparent to homebuyers or noted on your appraisal, they can certainly hurt your home’s value. Individuals who are house shopping want to see a home that offers efficiency for their everyday routines. They also want to know that their prized possessions will be kept safe and stored correctly. Highly organized custom closets show homebuyers that they’ll be able to seamlessly step into an efficient routine if they purchase your house. Particularly for those with a fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyle, your home’s functionality offers a major selling point.

Conclusion

In addition to the concrete benefits of well-organized custom closets, such as all the stunning hardware, cabinetry and design options, they also offer some big intangible benefits that should be taken into account. If you’re considering putting your home on the market, you can’t overestimate the importance of highlighting the efficiency and comforting calm potential buyers will see when they’re browsing photos of a well-organized home.

Remember, you want to make it as effortless as possible for potential buyers to see themselves living in your home. A custom closet’s benefits aren’t limited to these largely hidden spaces. As the hidden hero of home organization, your closets help the rest of your house shine by letting each room function as intended, without any unnecessary clutter.

Sources

Eight Simple Tricks to Keeping Your Closets Smelling Fresh

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 21:53:49 GMT

When you open up your custom closet doors, do you get a whiff of something unpleasant? If your closet smells stale, more than likely your clothes will as well.

Thankfully, there are several steps you can take to get your closets smelling great in no time, including:

Clean Out Your Closets
Launder Your Wardrobe
Utilize Cedar Hangers
Allow Air to Circulate
Try Essential Oils
Activated Charcoal
Perfumed Tissue Paper
Absorbent Coffee Grounds

Keep reading to learn how each of these tips and tricks will help to keep your closets smelling fresh!

Clean Out Your Closets

In order for your closets to be really fresh, you need to start from scratch. Remove all of your clothes, shoes, and random items until there is nothing left but walls, shelves, and carpeting. Now it’s time for a quick inspection. Check your carpeting to make sure Fido hasn’t left any smelly surprises there.

Freshwaveworks.com recommends spraying down your walls and surfaces with a mixture of diluted vinegar and water and then wiping them down. After you are done, vacuum out your closets and shampoo any stains you may find there. Keep in mind that cleaning out your closets is only one of many steps necessary to maintain your organizational system.

Launder Your Wardrobe

The solution to making your clothes smell better is not to cover up the odor, but to wash it out. Fill up your washing machine, and while you are at it, get rid of clothes you haven’t worn in a year or more as they are just making your closets even more crowded.

Note : Don't forget to wash your sneakers while you're at it! The last thing you need is smelly sneakers stinking up your custom closets. When you are done, place a dryer sheet in each shoe to keep odors at bay.

The Beauty of Cedar Hangers

After you have washed all of your clothes in a detergent that features the scent of your choice, it is time to rehang your items. Onlyhangers.com mentions using cedar hangers for your wardrobe as cedar naturally absorbs moisture. As a bonus, they will also give your clothes a lovely smell.

Allow Air to Circulate

Now it’s time to make sure that no musty smells will return and one way to prevent that is by spacing out your wardrobe. Freshwave.com notes to leave space between your hanging clothes so that they are not bunched up against each other. This will allow air to circulate throughout your closet.

Try Essential Oils

Essential oils are the concentrated essence of plants. In aromatherapy, they are inhaled and are believed to have various health benefits. Because they are so potent, it only takes a few drops to make a big difference. To keep your clothes smelling lovely, Bustle.com recommends choosing your favorite essential oil and then dabbing it onto several cotton balls. Then, hide them away in various places in your closet. Not sure which essential oil to use? Lavender, lemon, and orange scents are all refreshing options.

Activated Charcoal

To purify the air in your custom closets naturally, try using activated charcoal. It effectively absorbs musty smells. Place a small open container that has a block of activated charcoal inside somewhere in your closet.

All you need to do is take the charcoal out into the sunlight every now and then so it can release the odors it has absorbed. Onlyhangers.com notes that each block of activated charcoal can be reused for about 1-2 years, after which time it does need to be replaced.

Perfumed Tissue Paper

Perhaps you have a signature scent that you enjoy wearing. Why not have a hint of it on your clothing before you spray it on yourself? Bustle.com suggests gathering some tissue paper and lightly misting your chosen perfume or cologne onto the paper. Next, simply place it between the folded garments of your choice, or drape it over the top of your hanging clothing.

Absorbent Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds have a delicious aroma all on their own, but they are also perfect for absorbing odors in the environment. The nitrogen content in coffee works to neutralize odors in the air quickly and effectively. To use coffee to freshen up your closets, Angielist.com suggests scooping some fresh coffee grounds into a mesh bag or a plastic container with a couple of holes in the top. Place the container in your closet, but make sure to replace the grounds every so often.

Final Thoughts

Now that your closet is smelling clean and fresh, how can you ensure that it stays that way? To begin, make sure that your clothes are 100% clean before placing them in your closet. Space them out adequately on cedar hangers and don’t forget to add in a couple of drops of some fragrant essential oils.

Sources

Five of the Best Kept Secrets for Organizing Your Kitchen Pantry

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 16:32:47 GMT

There are few spaces in the home that are more chaotic than the kitchen pantry. Your family goes to get something, and they can't seem to find it because of the clutter and disorganization. But there are ways to organize your kitchen pantry so that finding things is much easier.

To organize your kitchen pantry, you may need to get a little creative. Plastic and glass containers, baskets or bins, using available space, and swivel storage allow for you to keep items contained . You can also use things that you already have around the house to maintain order in your cabinets.

In this article, you will learn different ways to create order out of chaos in your kitchen pantry.

Plastic Containers and Jars

Plastic containers are a great way to organize some of your staple pantry items. Cereal, pasta, flour, and sugar can be stored in containers. This keeps moisture and pests out while keeping the contents fresh. Clear containers allow you to see what you have and how much at a quick glance. Labels help you stay organized as to which plastic boxes are for what items when you run out.

While you might think plastic containers are only for cereals and baking ingredients, they are not. Use larger rectangular boxes to store chips, crackers, and even cookies. You can use smaller containers for rice and oats. To save space, smaller containers can easily stack on top of each other.

HGTV explains that canning jars are not just for homemade jams and jellies. In fact, they work for storing other pantry essentials.Like small plastic containers, these jars can store different dried goods such as sugar, flour, and rice. Some canning jars have a twist top. Others have a hinged design that allows them to seal tighter and keep air out. Either works well; it is a matter of availability and personal preference.

With plastic containers, you can see the contents. However, you'll still want to label them with the content and the date stored, and the expiration date. Some like to make fancy labels, but an alternative is to use chalkboard stickers that will allow you to erase the writing instead of having to remove the tag when you change contents. You can also use washi tape to write on as a label.

You may think that moving food like cereal, flour, and rice into a canister is all about the aesthetics. However, there is a more compelling reason behind doing so, as further detailed by the experts at The Organized Home . By not transferring dry goods into containers, you could be opening yourself up to an infestation of bugs and pests.

Baskets and Bins

Baskets and bins are great for organizing snacks and pantry items. You can label the bins with different categories, based on what items are in your pantry. If you have kids, make each a basket with their favorite snacks. You can also group snacks into categories like fruits, salty snacks, chips, or granola bars.

You can also get storage designed for canned food items. Using one of these corrals will help keep your cans organized and in place. Cans can get pushed around and misplaced behind other items. Instead of storing them upright, the corral holds them vertically. Each time you remove a can from its slot, the next one rolls forward. The unique design keeps the cans from rolling onto the floor.

Larger baskets and bins can be placed on the floor. They hold larger items that you usually store on the floor due to their size. These larger bins help keep your area neat and tidy, even though there is still floor storage.

Utilize All Available Space

The back of the pantry door is a great place to find additional storage space. There are several options when it comes to utilizing the door space. Wire racks can give you a place to store canned food and smaller containers.

An over-the-door shoe rack makes an excellent spice rack. Spices often get lost in the back of a cluttered pantry. With this option, you can keep your spices in one place. The see-through pouches allow you to easily see what herbs you have.

If you have all of your food organized on your shelves, you can still use the back of your pantry doors for storage. The use of command hooks gives you room to hang your oven mitts, potholders, and aprons.

The back of the door may not be the only extra space in your pantry. HouseBeautiful.com notes that wall space can give you extra room to store food items. Wire Racks and shelving can hold cans or containers, freeing up space. The wall is also an excellent place to store items such as foil, plastic wrap, and storage baggies.

Swivel Storage and Drawers

To use all available space, you must stack your kitchen pantry shelves. However, that is what makes it challenging to find items and ingredients when you need them. It's time to learn to love swivel storage that allows you to still stack your shelves but still easily access the items towards the back of your cabinets. Lazy Susans are an excellent swivel storage option. You can place spices and other seasonings on the turntable and then spin to access the items you want.

Swivel storage is not the only organizational unit to help you reach items towards the back. Pop in drawers are also handy. They attach to the current shelving and turn it into a drawer for pull out storage. You can also find plastic drawers for smaller items such as granola bars or individual snack packs.

Upcycle

Even if you don't have hundreds of dollars to spend on new containers and baskets, you can still organize your kitchen pantry by upcycling things you already own. Upcycling not only saves you a little money, but it is also good for the environment.

Boxes work well as a replacement for baskets. Cover them with some contact paper to add some style. Small boxes work great to organize snacks and smaller items that get lost. Bigger boxes are ideal for larger items usually stored on the floor.
Magazine Holders store produce such as garlic, onions, or potatoes.
Shower Caddies: Use a command hook on your pantry wall or door to hang it and make a produce shelf out of it.
Disinfectant Wipe Containers: Use to store plastic shopping bags. Thoroughly wash the containers before use. Roll the shopping bags, overlapping the end of each bag. Place inside the container and replace the lid. Pull the end of the center bag through the opening to dispense the shopping bags.

Conclusion

Organizing your kitchen pantry is like arranging the rest of your home; it's an ongoing process that you will never be fully finished with. As your food storage changes, you'll have to reorganize items to better suit your needs. While it's a daily or weekly routine, using containers, baskets, and back of the door storage will make the process less time consuming than before.

Sources

https://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/kitchens/ways-to-maximize-your-pantry-space-pictures

Seven Tips for Cleaning Out Your Custom Closets This Fall

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 17:18:40 GMT

If the cooler fall temperatures have you scouring your home for your missing sweaters, jackets, and outerwear, it’s time to clean out your closets. It’s not just the season for everything pumpkin spice—it’s also the perfect opportunity to organize your custom closets and create a space that works for you this fall (and all year long).

With a few strategic actions, you can simplify your mornings, protect seasonal clothing, and feel more in control of your space. Here are seven practical tips to guide your seasonal custom closet cleanout:

Start fresh by removing everything from your closet
Sort through your clothing pile a second time
Decide whether to fold or hang based on garment type
Streamline and eliminate neglected summer wardrobe items
Sell or donate extra clothes for more space and motivation
Make room for bulky winter clothing by storing summer items
Form a closet organization plan you can maintain year-round

Stop letting your overstuffed closets add frustration and wasted time to your daily routine this fall. Use these tips to get a handle on your messy closets before you start packing them full of your fall wardrobe.

1. Start Fresh by Removing Everything From Your Closet

When considering a full-on closet clean out, remember to start fresh by removing everything from your closets and sorting items into several piles: keep, donate, and sell.

Merritt Beck explains that this methodical approach will allow you to really focus on evaluating every item in your closet. You won’t overlook anything, and you’ll give every piece the consideration it needs. Plus, seeing your closets completely empty will show you the possibilities. Additionally, it’ll give you a chance to do a deep cleaning of your closets before filling them back up.

This method isn't just about tidiness—it allows you to evaluate your storage layout. Are your shelving heights adjustable? Do you have unused vertical space? Now’s the time to envision ways to make your custom closet more efficient. You might even sketch out where seasonal bins, a shoe rack, or a hanging valet rod could go. Deep cleaning also prevents dust and pests from damaging delicate fabrics over time.

2. Sort Through Your Clothing Pile a Second Time

If you’re like most homeowners, you’re going to need to take at least two passes through your “keep” pile of clothes before you make a big dent in the number of items. You may find yourself becoming sentimental about certain items, which can ultimately hinder your ability to decide which pieces are actually useful.

Is there any room for a particularly special piece that you don’t actually wear? Sure, there is, but try to keep those items to a minimum. If it helps, you can hold yourself to a max number of these special items. To maintain an organized closet all year, you need to differentiate between those items you like to wear and those items you just like. Make this into an exercise to sharpen your ability to be honest and determine which pieces are adding to your daily happiness and which are just taking up room.

Some professional organizers suggest using the “20/80 rule”—we wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time. Keep that in mind when narrowing your selection. Consider photographing your closet after you’ve decluttered. It offers a visual reminder of how calm and clean your space can feel.

3. Decide Whether to Fold or Hang Based on Garment Type

One of the biggest issues with crowded closets are overstuffed hanging racks. You want your clothes to have a little space to breathe on the hangers, not be smooshed up against neighboring items. Plus, finding and sorting your hanging items will be much easier to accomplish when you don’t have to part a sea of clothes every time you look for something.

Simply Spaced recommends this rule of thumb for knowing which items to hang and which to fold:

Fold these garments: athletic items, sleepwear and under garments
Hang these garments : suits, dresses, jackets, coats, blazers, blouses, dress shirts and pants
Fold or hang these items , based on your preference and space restrictions: casual shirts, shorts, jeans, sweaters (heavy sweaters can lose their shape if hung), belts, ties and other accessories.

Using consistent folding methods and uniform hanger styles can greatly improve space efficiency and give your closet a clean, visually calming look. For added clarity, try organizing by clothing category or color—grouping items like workwear, casual outfits, and lounge pieces together makes daily dressing much easier.

4. Streamline and Eliminate Neglected Summer Wardrobe Items

Now is the perfect time to go through summer wardrobe items that you didn’t wear and purge them first. The last season should still be fresh in your mind, and you’ll remember exactly what your go-to items were. You’ll also be able to recognize out-of-style items and anything that doesn't fit.

Note: This is a great habit for the start of every new season. Go through the clothing and accessories from the past three or four months and decide which items you no longer need.

Donate gently used pieces early in the season when others may still be shopping for warm-weather items in warmer climates or on vacation. It’s a generous and timely way to clear space.

5. Sell or Donate Extra Clothes for More Space and Motivation

Need extra motivation to downsize your wardrobe? How about the chance to make a little extra cash while you clean? Consider selling your gently used items online. There are numerous options out there, and the marketplace has never been more receptive to buying second-hand clothing, particularly if it’s a name-brand item.

Good Housekeeping notes several popular places to sell your clothing, shoes and accessories:

ThreadUP
Poshmark
Etsy
eBay
The Real Real

To boost your chances of a sale, use good lighting for photos, write clear item descriptions, and organize your listings by theme, like “Fall Layers” or “Workwear Essentials.”

6. Make Room for Bulky Winter Clothing by Storing Summer Items

As the year wears on and the temperatures drop, you’re going to need more and more items and accessories to fight the cold winter ahead. If you’re struggling to find space after purging your warm-season items, why not store them away?

CubeSmart recommends placing summer clothes in plastic containers with tight-shutting lids, as opposed to cardboard boxes. For dresses and things that need to be hung, put them in garment bags. They also recommend thoroughly cleaning your summer items now, before the stains have had time to set over the course of several months.

Vacuum-seal bags are also excellent for storing out-of-season clothing in a compact, airtight format. Don’t forget to label containers clearly so you can easily access them next year.

7. Form a Closet Organization Plan You Can Maintain Year-Round

Once you decide to overhaul your closet and create a neater, more functional space, brainstorm how you want it to be organized going forward. If it became overwhelmingly messy, this is your chance to address that symptom by pinpointing the deeper problem:

Too many nostalgic items
Poor lighting
No defined closet area storage spaces
Duplicate items that you keep buying
A serious shopping addiction

The goal is to avoid having to perform this long, drawn-out purging ritual every fall.

Think about investing in a custom closet system that suits your lifestyle. Add compartments for seasonal shoes, adjustable shelving for flexibility, and drawer organizers for small items. The more intentional your layout, the easier it will be to maintain.

Conclusion

If you get your custom closets to a point of organization and make an effort to keep them clean all year long, you can ensure that those spaces will continue to work for you and not against you. Once you’re done with this fall closet cleanout, you can go out in that favorite sweater you just rediscovered and reward yourself with a pumpkin spice-flavored treat.

An organized closet doesn’t just save time. It supports your daily routines, reduces stress, and creates space for what really matters. Fall is the perfect time to reset.

Sources

10 Ideas & Accessories to Reorganize Any Size Custom Garage

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 20:08:48 GMT

Is your garage so cluttered your car no longer fits? Although a garage’s main purpose is to house your car, it often becomes a catchall for lawn equipment, sports gear, automotive tools, cleaning supplies and garbage and recycling bins, and other items that don’t fit in your house.

Reorganizing may seem daunting but custom garage solutions help you utilize the space efficiently so you’ll have room for everything - especially your car.

Here are some ideas and accessories to transform any size garage into an organized and functional space.

1. Clear Out the Clutter

Before you reorganize, you need to start with an empty garage. Remove everything currently in your garage so you can see what you have. You’ll want to ensure you have a spot to move all of your garage items. Using your driveway or yard is ideal but renting a temporary unit is an alternative.

Take inventory of everything in your garage and divide objects into four categories:

Keep - Items in good shape and you use on a regular basis.
Donate/Sell - For items you no longer use or want but are still in working order, donate to a charity or sell.
Relocate - Some items don’t necessarily belong in the garage but landed there by default. Move those items to more appropriate spots in your house.
Trash/Recycle - Throw away broken items and properly dispose of expired chemicals. Recycle any empty boxes, old newspapers, and plastic containers.

When deciding whether to keep an item or not, a good rule is to get rid of anything you haven’t used in at least one year.

2. Group Similar Items Together

Once you know what items you want to keep, the next step is to sort like items together. Grouping your items helps you determine how much space you will need. For example, you might have the following categories: automotive, sports equipment, gardening, seasonal decorations, etc.

Keep in mind, some items should never be stored in a garage: paint, propane tanks, paper goods, and pet food. Move these items to more appropriate spots in your house.

3. Create Garage Zones

How you organize your garage will depend on the size and your specific needs. After grouping items, you’re ready to make a reorganization plan for your garage.

To ensure that your car fits in your garage, you need to determine how much space it requires. Pull your car into the garage and open the car doors. Mark the area with chalk or tape.

To maximize the storage potential, create zones for groups of items such as automotive, sports equipment, gardening, recycling, workspace, etc. Zones help you determine the best way to organize items in a way that makes sense.

Once you have the zones, you can start mapping out a plan for the garage by assigning zones to different areas in the garage. Arrange items based on use. If you use an item frequently, you don’t want it to be in a hard-to-reach area.

If possible, try to avoid using the floor. If you need floor space for heavy items, move them to the back corner, away from your car.

4. Maximize the Vertical Space

Utilizing your walls for storage clears the floor for your car. A wall system not only creates more usable space, but it also gives you easy access to the items that you frequently use.

Slatwall panels are a great choice for a wall system because they are simple to use, durable, easy-to-clean, and waterproof. Slatwall gives you flexibility depending on how much stuff you have to store. The slatwall can cover all of your walls, one wall or even a section of a wall. They can also be removed or added if your storage needs change.

By using a variety of moveable, hanging accessories such as baskets, bins, and hooks you can create a custom garage solution to store almost anything.

5. Install Storage Cabinets

Storage cabinets help you make better use of your garage walls and offer more storage options to keep things organized and protected from dust and dirt.

Consider getting cabinet doors with locks to store cleaning supplies, chemicals and other hazardous and materials.

You can install garage cabinets anywhere on the walls including all the way up to the ceiling. Store items you don’t use as often such as seasonal decorations in the higher cabinets and frequently-used items lower down so you have instant access. Make sure to mount cabinets off the floor to avoid water damage.

Cabinets not only help maximize space but they also give your garage a less cluttered, clean look. Your garage will also appear bigger.

6. Move Storage to the Ceiling

Maximize your garage space by using overhead storage. Installing ceiling mounted storage racks enables you to use every square inch of your garage to meet your needs. The storage racks can also be adjusted for height.

Ceiling racks are perfect for storing items you don’t use frequently, want to keep away from children, or take up a lot of space. Items commonly stored on the ceiling include seasonal decorations, snow tires, canoes, bikes, storage bins, and boxes.

Decide which items you plan to store on the ceiling before purchasing ceiling racks so you can make sure to get racks with the right weight capacity. The last thing you want is to have an item fall from the ceiling onto your car.

7. Add a Workbench

If you are someone who enjoys working on do-it-yourself projects, a workbench is a great garage storage solution. Workbenches come in many sizes and in a range of materials including wood and stainless steel. A smooth, flat surface gives you room to build. For more storage, add drawers or cabinets to your workbench. The ideal spot to place a workbench is in a corner of your garage.

8. Consider a Tool Chest

If you collect tools, you may want to buy a tool chest to keep them organized and accessible. Rolling tool chests are ideal for storing different types of tools.

9. Hang Wall Hooks

Wall hooks come in a variety of sizes and are great for maximizing your wall space. Smaller hooks are great for keeping frequently-used items such as coats, gloves, extension cords, keys, and dog leashes close to the door. Use larger hooks for sports equipment and awkwardly shaped items such as lawn equipment.

10. Use Storage Bins

Plastic storage bins with lids are essential to keeping your garage organized. Storage bins are great for tools or other supplies. To use your space more efficiently, use clear stackable bins. Using bins made of transparent plastic allows you to see what’s inside without opening the lid.

Conclusion

Your garage can provide valuable storage as long as you take full advantage of the available space. There are many ways to keep your garage organized - from slatwall panels to cabinets to ceiling-mounted racks. With the ideas in this article, you can soon have a custom garage designed specifically for your needs.

Five Tips to Makeover Your Home Office

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 21:00:28 GMT

Since you’ve started working from home, you’ve decided to move operations into a more official space in the house, which has now become your home office . That said, it bothers you how cluttered and disorganized this room has become. You’ve tried tidying up, but you’re beginning to think that it’s time for more drastic measures, such as a makeover. What improvements can you make to your home office so it’s neater?

The following home office makeover ideas should prioritize peace, productivity, and organization:

Have More Than What You Need
Have a Place for Everything
Contain Cord Clutter With Organizers
Make Use of Wall Space as well as Floor Space
Give Yourself Something Nice to Look at

Keep reading for more on these five great tips for giving your home office the makeover that it needs. Now the office will be a place you don’t only have to work in, but that you love to work in. You’re not going to want to miss this!

Five Tips for an Effective Home Office Makeover

Double Up on Supplies

Working at home has the perk of no commute nor any dress code, but you’re also more susceptible to distractions. Perhaps it’s your spouse or partner leaving for work in the morning, your dog wanting to play, or the kids making noise when they get home from school.

When the house is finally quiet and you can get some quality work done, you want to do all you can to minimize your own distractions. Having to get up in the middle of an assignment because you just wore out the eraser on your last pencil or your only pen ran out of ink, would indeed be a major distraction.

Your sense of focus will all but diminish as you have to stop what you're doing, go searching in another room for what you need, and then come into your office again, sit down, and try to get back into the game.

To prevent these time-wasting trips, have more than what you reasonably need in your office at any one time. Don’t just keep one pen or pencil handy, but a dozen. The same goes for paper pads, erasers, staplers, hole-punchers, and anything else your day-to-day job requires of you. The next time you need a supply and you don’t have to leave the room to get it, you’ll appreciate having taken this step.

Have a Home for All That’s in Your Office

Of course, more stuff in your office means that everything needs a home. For storing all of your regular home office odds and ends, a credenza may be a good option. This large storage solution has the space to contain all of the supplies that are otherwise creating clutter on your desk. Having a cleaner desk will help your focus, which should bolster your creativity and productivity.

If your job involves printing and scanning a lot of files, then you may have stacks upon stacks of papers in your home office. Rifling through these papers just to find the right one is a major waste of time. Before you know it, chunks of your day are gone that you can’t get back. You then end up working later because of it.

File drawers in your home office could be an ideal solution for scaling back those mountains of paperwork. You can sort through all of your files and organize them however you want in the drawers, whether that’s chronologically, alphabetically, numerically, or any other organization system that suits you best.

Keep Cords Under Control With Organizers

Your office is already looking so much better due to the addition of the credenza and the file drawers. You have no more loose staples, broken pencils, and paper clips lying around nor folders taking up valuable space, but what still remains is a bevy of cords.

From your desktop computer or laptop cord to a cord to charge your smartphone, one for your office phone, another for your desk light, and maybe even a cord for a table fan for good measure, your office floor is practically a tripping hazard with all of those cords.

A cord organizer or several will become your new best friend. These come in all sorts of styles nowadays, from Velcro loops you attach around a few cords so that they stay grouped together to rubber or plastic contraptions with grooves or holes for your cords. Cord sleeves are another option, which keep rows of cords neatly contained.

No matter your home office redesign budget or your personal style, surely there’s a cord organizer that matches it. Less time spent confusing one cord for another is always time well spent, plus, your office floor will look so much better being cord-free!

Don’t Forget Your Wall Space

If your at-home business grows to a point where you need even more storage options than those already discussed, you may want to consider some wall cabinets. These prevent your office from feeling too small since the cabinetry is off the floor. Plus, you have the option to double or even triple your home office storage capacity.

Besides the great functionality of wall office cabinets, this home addition is also stately, elegant, and appealing. Your office will have a professional air to it that will put you in a more productive mood almost instantly.

Give Yourself Something Nice to Look at

You’re a human, not a machine, and you need to take breaks throughout your day. On particularly long and hard days, sometimes you need a little pick-me-up. That’s why choosing the kind of décor you’ll add to your home office is such a monumental decision.

Yes, functional items are great, but having some things in your home office that are nice to look at is also good. For instance, maybe you opt for some stunning wall art from your favorite artist. Perhaps you want a motivational poster on the wall, a lovely flower vase for your windowsill, or even some funky carpeting in your favorite color.

Potted plants are always a wonderful addition to the home, including your office. You’ll enjoy the perks of purer, higher-quality air as well as less stress depending on the plant species you buy. Plus, you could always talk to or gripe at the plant, letting off some steam.

Conclusion

Your home office is one of the rooms in your home that you spend the most time in. You want it to be a functional, professional space, but also one that’s simply appealing in its décor choices.

Between pretty wall décor, a credenza for storing office equipment, a neatening file cabinet, cable organizers, and wall cabinetry, you’ll be ready to tackle your toughest projects yet in your home office.

The Top 5 Best Accessories for Organizing Your Custom Closet

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 17:37:57 GMT

Has the following situation ever happened to you? You wake up as usual, but you spend so much time digging around your closet looking for your matching shoe or that nice tie for your business meeting that you end up being late to work. It sounds like your closet could use some organization. Which accessories do you need in your custom closet ASAP?

The following 5 custom closet accessories will keep your space neat and organized:

Valet rods
Upgraded Clothing Rods
Jewelry Trays
Hampers
Tie Racks

Keep reading to learn tips and tricks on how these must-have accessories can neaten and organize your closet once and for all. You’re not going to want to miss it!

These 5 Custom Closet Accessories Will Save You Time Every Day

Valet Rods

Here’s another scenario that’s likely all too familiar to you. You decide to save time in the mornings by pre-selecting and hanging the clothing you want to wear to work for the week, doing this on a Sunday evening. By Tuesday or Wednesday, the outfits you had painstakingly selected are now covered in wrinkles. You have no choice but to plug in your iron, pull out your ironing board, and clean up the garment.

So much for saving time, right?

Valet rods are useful in such situations. These protruding metal hangers can keep your clothing, especially dry-cleaned clothing, separated so you don’t have to worry about wrinkles wrecking your wardrobe. Even if you have more than one garment on the valet rod at a time, you won’t have to stress about the condition of your clothing. You can also separate your garments on the valet rods with garment bags, for that extra level of protection.

You can also get back to pre-planning your outfits with a valet rod. The night before work, pick out your outfit, put it on a hanger, and attach the hanger to your valet rod. The next morning, you can just pull the outfit off the rod and get dressed. You’ll have so much more time in the mornings that you might even be able to hit the snooze alarm once or twice!

Upgraded Clothing Rods

Your custom closet could also use some fresh clothing rods. More than likely, you were probably using inexpensive, simple clothing rods before. Hey, if it gets the job done, it suffices, right?

Sure, for very short-term use maybe. If you want a closet that’s as appealing as it is organized though, you’ll want to upgrade your clothing rods sooner than later. Sleek metal rods allow you to slide your clothes easily from one end of your closet to another.

By upgrading your clothing rods, you can also ascertain that you’re choosing a sturdy, stable solution that won’t buckle under the weight of your wardrobe. You’re free to hang what you want in your closet without fear, from heavy pants and dresses to handbags and even a coat or two.

Jewelry Trays

Ah, the curse of the missing second earring. You thought you had both earrings ready to go on your dresser, then you put one in and the second one is…well, you’re not sure where it is. You can go on an hour-long hunt for the jewelry, but then you’ll miss the big conference with your boss. You regrettably take the first earring out and hope that doesn’t go missing too.

Jewelry can dress up any outfit, but a lot of it is admittedly fragile. Due to the value of most jewelry, you don’t want to misplace it or lose it outright. With jewelry trays in your custom closet, you’ll always know where both earrings in a pair are located. If you want to wear a nice necklace, a tennis bracelet, or even a brooch on your blazer, you can pick out these accessories instantly since you’ll know just where to find them.

Not only can you liven up your wardrobe with jewelry, but you’ll have greater peace of mind, as your precious keepsakes will be quickly located anytime, every time.

Hampers

Laundry day is already time-consuming enough. When you have to go to your room and then the kids’ bedrooms to pick up their clothes, you don’t want to have to look under beds and in other tiny corners to track down all the week’s laundry. This can get time-consuming very quickly.

Make your life and laundry day infinitely easier by getting hampers set up in all of the custom closets in your home. When you, your spouse, and the kids are looking for something new to wear, they can put yesterday’s clothes in the hamper. As laundry day inevitably rolls around, you can just go hamper to hamper and wash the clothes from there.

Another perk of having hampers in your closets is that the hampers stay out of sight. Yes, everyone needs hampers, but they’re not exactly the most appealing home accessory. Now they can stay hidden away in your closet.

Tie Racks

During a job interview, a big presentation, or on special occasions, ties are more often than not a requirement, not a choice. Yet if you or your spouse have a large tie collection, keeping track of all those ties can be a nightmare.

Ties are slim, streamlined, and–let’s be honest–easy to lose. Tie racks fix those problems instantly. With one of these spiffy racks in your custom closet, finding just the right tie is now stress-free. You can see your entire collection in one convenient place. If you have a lucky tie you wear for those big occasions, you can pull it out effortlessly.

Tie racks also give ties a home after being dry cleaned, so they never end up tossed in the back of the closet or balled up in pant pockets.

2 More Handy Closet Organization Tips

If the above accessories have your closets clean and organized but you’d like to take things one step further, check out these extra tips for your most organized home yet.

Store Clothes by Seasonality

Your winter sweaters shouldn’t mingle with your summer shirts and shorts. With your new custom closet system, you might opt to use drawers or cabinets towards the back of your closet for storing off-season clothing. Then, you’d keep all of your seasonal items hung up on clothing rods or folded in custom closet drawers near the front, so you can get what you need in the mornings without so much hassle.

Keep Your Everyday Essentials Close

You probably have a few accessories that you rely on everyday (or close to it), such as a nice hat or even a killer pair of heels. Perhaps you take a few staple clothing items and then get dressed around these each day.

Either way, to maximize the neatness of your closet and save the most time in the mornings, organize your custom closet so all of your everyday clothing items are front and center. You’ll be glad you did!

Conclusion

Is your home begging for reorganization? Tidying up your cluttered spaces starts with tidying up your cluttered closets, as these spaces are where a lot of clothing and accessories get tossed so they’re out of sight and out of mind.

The five accessories described above will make it easier to keep track of smaller items like ties and jewelry, manage laundry day more efficiently, and hang clothes so they’re wrinkle-free and grabbable on those especially hectic and busy weekday mornings.

Sources

https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-organize-your-closet-2648411

Modular Vs. Epoxy Flooring: Which is Better?

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 17:02:54 GMT

Whether you're designing a brand new garage or renovating the one you already have, at some point, you're going to have to make a choice over what floor to install. This can be a daunting task, and it seems like there are a million and one things to consider before you can make the right choice. In this article, we will look specifically at modular and epoxy flooring , drawing comparisons between the two.

So which one is the best for your garage flooring? In general, modular flooring gets the nod over epoxy due to its ease of installation, low level of maintenance required, and it's slip-resistant properties. Modular flooring is also the more affordable option.

Which one you eventually end up choosing should largely depend on how much use your garage, your specified budget, and your personal preference.

Let's not forget the aesthetics either. We all want our garages to look as nice as possible while remaining practical. Modular and epoxy flooring both have very different styles, and each comes with its own limitations. First, let's break each one down to its basics.

Modular Flooring

Modular flooring consists of small floor tiles that you piece together based on how much space you want them to cover. They are affordable, low maintenance and are very easy to install. In fact, they can be installed in just a few short hours.

The great thing about modular flooring is how versatile it is when it comes to design and maneuverability; It's a fantastic product for both looks and its practicality. If you want to add a special design to your garage flooring, then you're in luck, there are a ton of different styles and materials you can use, so don't be afraid to get creative.

The main advantage of modular flooring is its flexibility and how easy it is to repair. If you damage one of the tiles or if for some reason you want to replace it, it's as simple as pulling it out and adding a new one in its place.

Epoxy Flooring

Epoxy flooring is a type of resin that is applied over the concrete floor. It requires a professional to install due to the many steps it takes to get the finished product, such as mixing, pouring, and rolling.

If these steps are done properly, then epoxy flooring is one of the best in the business for aesthetics and resistance to chemical spillages. If you spill anything onto it, all it usually takes to clean it up is a mop or a broom. However, dust and dirt do show up on epoxy floorings more often than modular, so you may find that you have to clean it more regularly.

While an epoxy floor is a fantastic option, one of the main issues is affordability. It can get very expensive, very quickly. This is due to the costs of the raw materials and the added costs of labor. We will break this down in full later on in the article.

On top of that, if epoxy flooring isn't applied correctly, then it will start to peel and show signs of wear in a very short space of time. Considering how expensive it is, this is something you will undoubtedly want to avoid, so make sure you keep this in mind.

The Comparisons

Durability

First things first, we need to know how long our new floor is going to last us. There is no use forking out a small fortune on beautiful new flooring if it's going to need replacing within a few short years.

The durability of modular flooring mainly depends on what material it's made from. As you would expect, the better quality the material, the longer it's going to last. If you take proper care of it and provide the maintenance when it's required, you will find that your modular flooring will last for many years to come.

Secondly, the concrete underneath the flooring will be protected much more with modular tiles as compared to epoxy, due to the fact that it is raised up from the ground. This offers strong, rugged protection that will prolong the life of the base layer of concrete, potentially saving you on a repair job later on down the line.

On top of that, the added benefit is that when a particular tile becomes too damaged, it's extremely easy to replace without breaking the bank. There are no big expensive repair bills, and you should be able to do it without the help of a professional.

Epoxy is one of the most durable and long-lasting flooring options around as long as it's installed correctly, but this is easier said than done. It's a complicated flooring to install and requires the help of a professional, to get the job done properly.

With that being said, a good quality epoxy installation can last upwards of 10 years, as long as there are no major scratches or dents, and the owner takes great care of it. The problem with epoxy arises when there is serious damage, and there is a need for repair. You will once again need to call the professional back, which will likely cost you a pretty penny.

The Aesthetics

Modular flooring is extremely flexible in its design, and you can get as creative as you like with it. The small tile pieces give a mosaic-like design, allowing you to do what you want with your garage floors. You can go for a solid color to keep it simple, or you can install elaborate and intricate designs if you wish.

Epoxy flooring looks awesome. There's no denying that. If you're looking for a sleek and smooth finish, then epoxy is the way to go. It will look great in just about any garage, just as long as you can keep it clean. Most companies will offer you a wide range of options when it comes to design. The only drawback is that the more detailed of a design you want, the more it's going to cost—something to bear in mind.

Ease of Cleaning

The great thing about modular flooring is that dust and dirt do not show up very easily, especially if you have a darker design. When you want to clean it, all you need to do is use a standard vacuum for regular maintenance and a pressure washer or hose if you really want to do a deep cleaning. Just make sure you vacuum the seams, and you're pretty much done.

As for epoxy, it's all about keeping on top of the cleaning with regular brushing and mopping. It seems that no matter what you spill on the floor, you can clean it off in seconds. In fact, this is one of the main draws for epoxy for garage flooring, as you really do not have to spend much time cleaning up spillages and leaks from vehicles.

Slip-Resistance

Once again, it depends on what type of modular flooring you are going to install and what the material is. With that being said, almost all of the options you can choose from offer fantastic slip resistance and grip for your garage floors. Even if the surfaces get wet or snowy in the winter, you shouldn't have any problems with the grit.

Modular flooring is extremely safe and slip-resistant year-round, which is a great bonus if you live somewhere with harsh winter weather.

On the other hand, epoxy flooring has a good level of grip for such a shiny and smooth surface, but it can also be dangerous when it's wet. Any surface that has such a high gloss finish is bound to become slippery when wet, so if you are somewhere that has adverse weather in the winter, modular will probably be the better option for you.

However, there are ways around this. If you want to make your epoxy floor more slip-resistant, then you can include anti-skid additives during the installation. This is usually in the form of silica sand, quartz, and polymer grit. Just bear in mind that you will have to sacrifice some of the high gloss finish for the added grip.

The Price

Finally, let's take a look at the cost of each flooring type. As mentioned, they can both tend to get a little expensive, but which one is the winner in affordability?

Well, modular flooring prices vary considerably depending on the material and quality that you want. A typical price range is between $1.80 to $6 per square foot —the more expensive the square footage, the better the material.

Epoxy flooring is costly, as there are typically a bunch of preparations that need to be done before it can be installed. For instance, if your concrete is in bad shape, then it needs to be restored before the epoxy resin is applied.

Typically this means that a professional will come out and patch up the concrete, grind it down, and prep the surface so that it's ready to bind with the resin. If you skip this step, then it's almost certain that the epoxy will start to peel and look awful in a very short space of time.

A typical price range for epoxy flooring is around $2 to $5 per square foot for the raw materials and an additional $1 to $6 for the added labor costs for installation.

If you are planning on buying a DIY kit to save on costs, then proceed with caution. A lot of the home kits have low-quality ingredients and will not give you the best results. If you do go ahead with a DIY kit, then you must remember one thing, preparation is everything.

Make sure you prepare your concrete flooring as best you can before you apply the epoxy flooring resin. If the concrete is damaged, uneven, or in poor condition all round, it's almost certain that you will be unhappy with the finished result.

The Bottom Line

While both of these garage flooring options are great for specific reasons, modular tile flooring is by far the best as an all-round solution. It's much more affordable than epoxy, is easier to clean and maintain, has superb grip, and has a very cheap repair cost should it ever get damaged.

However, let's not forget just how great epoxy flooring can look in some garage settings. If you can afford to shell out the extra cash on labor costs and raw materials, then it is certainly worth considering epoxy flooring.

At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference and what qualities you are looking for from your new garage flooring.

Good luck with your decision, and thanks for reading!

3 Reasons Custom Closets Are Worth It

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 14:59:58 GMT

Disorganized, overcrowded closets are a problem for anyone. It’s just no fun to find yourself fruitlessly digging through a pile of clothes and shoes, looking for that blouse that you’re certain is in there… somewhere. Maybe you’ve even become so frustrated with your closets that you’ve vowed to straighten them out and organize them – but then you find yourself faced with a big project that you aren’t sure that you have the time or motivation to finish. Perhaps you’ve even thought about how much easier your life would be if you just had a customized closet, with designated places for all of the items that end up jumbled or lost.

But is a custom closet really worth it? Do you need it? Is it just an indulgence? Or should you just find a way to live with your current closet setup?

As it turns out, custom closets really are worth it. They can save you from frustration, save you time, and even save you money. Take a look at some of the reasons why custom closets are definitely worth it for you.

Custom Closets Maximize Your Space

Some people do naturally struggle with organization, but even if you’re typically a neat and tidy person, there’s only so much that you can do to stay organized in a small space. And if you struggle to keep your closet neat and organized, it’s probably because the space is too small for everything that you need to store in it. It isn’t your fault – it’s the closet.

But “too small” doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to knock out a wall and make your closet bigger. It’s entirely possible that if the closet was designed in a way that maximized your space and took your specific needs into account, it wouldn’t be too small at all. It isn’t the size of the space, necessarily, it’s the way that the space is being used. A generic closet design doesn’t take your large assortment of hats into account, for example, or make space for that collection of antique quilts passed down from your great-grandmother that you need to be able to store. But a custom closet can give you those accommodations.

Custom Closets Give You Time Back in Your Day

Have you ever been late to work because you couldn’t find something important in your closets, like a particular pair of shoes or pants? Have you ever spent a whole Saturday cleaning out your closet, only for it to be messy again by the time the next weekend rolled around? Messy closets waste time. Any business person will tell you that time is money – if you’re wasting time digging through a messy closet, you’re potentially losing money, especially if it makes you late for work. But even if your closet isn’t costing you in lost work time, it’s certainly costing you free time. That Saturday that you spent rearranging your things is a day that you could have spent taking your kids to the park or visiting your friends.

Custom closets give you back time that you may not have even realized you were losing. How nice would it be to wake up in the morning and be able to easily grab exactly what you need from your closet without having to think about it or hunt for it? With the time you’ll save, you could eat a more leisurely breakfast, get an earlier start, or just sleep in for a little bit longer.

And there are other time benefits too. A closet that’s customized to meet your needs is easy to keep clean, so you don’t have to spend your off days sorting it out. It also makes other housecleaning faster and easier. When you have closets that are optimized and offer designated places for everything you need to store in them, it’s easy to pick things up around the house and put them back where they belong. You’ll reduce the amount of clutter in your house, and when clutter does accumulate, you’ll be able to deal with it quickly. And that means that you’ll have more time to focus on the things that are most important to you.

Custom Closets Save You Money

It’s easy to focus on the price of your closet customization project and not on the ways that your current closet setup is costing you money. Overcrowded and disorganized closets do waste money, but often in ways that are not obvious until you stop to think about it.

How often have you found the shirt that you’re looking for, only to realize that it’s missing a button or has a rip in the sleeve? How many times have you had to have a suit dry cleaned because it got knocked off a hangar and ended up on the floor, getting dirty and wrinkled? These things happen in closets that aren’t designed to handle everything that’s stuffed into them. Clothes that are crammed too closely together rub up against each other. Zippers or buttons get caught on pockets or seams, leading to rips and tears. When you dig through a crowded closet, it’s easy to knock clothing off of the hangers – and if there are already things on the floor, you may not notice it right away. In the meantime, the fallen clothing gets dirty, wrinkled, or damaged – and you end up paying to clean, repair, or replace it.

Even worse, you may find yourself buying duplicate items that you don’t need, simply because you can’t find the original item that you purchased. This is common in kitchen closets and pantries – you check for grocery staples and don’t see them, so you add them to your shopping list. Then, as you’re putting your groceries away, you discover that you already had the items that you just finished shopping for. You just couldn’t see them in a crowded closet. With custom closets , you’ll be able to easily see and take inventory of what you have and avoid duplicate purchases.

On top of that, if you’re planning to sell your home within the next few years, you may be leaving money on the table if your closets are not customized. Everyone needs good, functional storage spaces, and custom closets can be a big selling point for potential buyers.

Custom closets are more valuable than you may have realized. Don’t waste time, energy, and money on closets that don’t meet your needs; look into your options for closet customization. Instead, contact Memphis Garage & Closets to schedule a free in-home consultation and to learn more about the services we offer.

Top 5 Tips for Organizing a Guest Room Closet

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 19:09:08 GMT

Does your guest room ever get overrun with clutter? If so, you are not alone. Any room that is not used regularly can become a dumping ground for items that don’t have any other home. Worst of all is often the guest room closet , which is seldom used and located behind a closed door. That’s a recipe for clutter and chaos! The good news is that we have some tips that will help you gain control of your guest room closet just in time for the holiday hosting season. Spend a few hours in this room getting organized and you won’t hesitate to have your friends and relatives come to spend the night.

Section Off an Area That You Won’t Use

When friends and family come to stay at your house, they understand that you probably use the guest room and the guest room closet for things other than simply hosting visitors. This means that they won’t be offended if they see that you’re storing items in the guest room closet . Unless you have a lot of storage space, it would not make sense for you to leave this closet completely empty unless you host a lot of company.

What you should do is ensure that there is room in the closet for your visitors to put their items away so they don’t have to live out of a suitcase. For most stays of a week or less, their belongings will consist of 10 or fewer outfits (they are probably going to do laundry at your house at some point) as well as a few pairs of shoes. They won’t need an entire closet to store this amount of clothing. Set them up with some hangers and enough room on the hanging rod to hang up several dressy outfits. In addition, if you have the space, clear out a drawer or two for them to use. That will be adequate for all but the longest stays.

Purge a Lot of What You’re Not Using

Now that you’ve decided how much of the closet area you will use for your own storage, it’s time to think about what you have in there currently and how likely it is that you will continue to want and use those items. Many times, the items that end up stashed away in the guest room closet are things that you are not using regularly. If they are holiday decorations (and you take them out each year), then that’s one thing. If you don’t even remember what you have in that space, then that means it might be time to purge.

Go in with a ruthless eye (or a ruthless friend) and find items to donate to your local thrift shop. Look at each item and ask yourself whether you love it. If you don’t love it, ask whether it’s important to keep for sentimental reasons. Can you take a photo of it instead? Or pass it along to a family member? If the item is something you don’t love or use and it holds no strong sentimental value, let it go. Pack up these items in a box and put the box in your car immediately so it doesn’t sit around. Then, drop it off the next time you pass by your favorite charity or consignment shop. Doing this might open up a lot of room in your guest room closet .

Use Containers With Lids for Storage

Since you will be hosting company in this room, it makes sense that you want your guest room closet to look neat and tidy even if you are storing items that don’t really stack together well. This is where containers come in. Look for boxes and bins with lids that will hold most of your things. You can label them so you know exactly what is inside. Hat boxes can be a pretty way to hold small items, and large plastic totes are good to keep on the floor for seasonal clothing, decorations, and many other types of larger items.

There are other ways to add storage that won’t keep your belongings in full view. Baskets placed on the top shelf of the closet look cute and will keep your things organized. You could also get a small chest of drawers to slide into the closet. If you don’t want your visitors seeing those items, you could turn the drawers toward the wall and place a few decorations on top as though it’s a simple table. A file cabinet (with or without a lock) is another good piece of furniture to have in the space. Keep your important documents inside without having them strewn around on the shelf or, worse, on the floor.

Stock the Closet With Guest-Friendly Essentials

Once you get the space organized, you’ll want to make sure you have what your guests will need. Nice hangers are a good investment; choose those made out of wood or perhaps covered in velvet. If you are on a budget, pick plastic tubular hangers over wire hangers; the latter can stretch clothing and even make holes in delicate fabrics.

Also, consider keeping a basket of toiletries to help your guests feel more at home if they have forgotten anything. Single-wrapped toothbrushes, sample-sized toothpaste, small bottles of shampoo and shower gel, a couple of sample-sized deodorant sticks, and a nice body lotion would be appreciated if forgotten. You should also keep essentials like a hairdryer, a curling iron, and/or a hair straightener in the space if you have them. Finally, make sure you have a towel or two as well as washcloths and a hand towel for each person staying overnight.

Hire a Professional Closet Organizer to Help

The professional closet organizers at Memphis Garage & Closets are experts at creating closet storage systems in all types of rooms. If you are having trouble getting your guest room under control, they might suggest double hanging rods, drawers, closet shelves, accessory racks, and more. Your closet designer will create a custom closet for you based on your specific needs. Call us today to schedule a free in-home consultation appointment

DIY Vs. Professional Custom Closets

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 14:15:18 GMT

You’ve seen photos of gorgeous custom closet storage systems in magazines or maybe on HGTV home-makeover shows. You might have been captivated by neat rows of clothing, shoes, and ties. Even children’s custom closets are impressive. If you normally handle home improvements on your own, you might think, “I can build that.” At the same time, you know that there are custom closet companies in your area who work all day long building customized storage systems for people just like you. Is there really a difference between a DIY and a professionally built custom closet ? Let’s find out!

Custom Closet Materials

If you are planning to build a DIY custom closet, you have a few different options. First, you could go to any large home improvement store and purchase a wire storage system. These come in various sizes and usually include a place to hang hangers, some shelves, and maybe a wire shoe rack or some other type of accessories.

Another option would be to purchase wood, measure the closet, and build your own system from scratch. You might build shelves or cubbies and put it all under a hanging rack.

Finally, you could fit your closet with a set of drawers that you’ve purchased at any furniture or discount store. You can combine that with either of the other options described above.

If you have a custom closet designed and installed by a professional, the closet components would be made out of wood. Usually they are stained or coated to make them moisture-resistant. This way, you can wipe them down easily. Wood components that fit properly (more on that below!) don’t damage a wall the way that wire systems often do. Also, wood closets tend to add value to a home (wire closet systems do not). These are some considerations to keep in mind as you decide between the various types of custom closets.

Getting the Fit Just Right

When you purchase a wire closet system from a big-box store, they come in a few different sizes. The problem is that if your closet is not a standard size, the closet system is not going to fit. Even if it is a standard size, chances are good that it isn’t perfect. This means that there will be some gapping or, worse, buckling of the system. Wedging a wire system that is too tight into the closet can damage the walls and the wires themselves. Placing it in an area that is too large is less of a problem in terms of damage, but it will move around and items will fall off and through the wires.

If you build your own closet system out of wood, you can eliminate these issues, assuming you are a great carpenter. Not all walls are going to be straight, so you might need to work with that challenge. Cutting the boards yourself, however, will help you come up with a solution that fits.

Professionally installed custom closets will, of course, fit every time. Your professional closet designer will measure your closet and create a system that fits not only your closet but also the items you need to store inside. There is no gapping or buckling, and you won’t need to be the one to worry about whether a shelf is level or whether a shoe rack will fit under the bottom hanging rod.

The Time Involved

When you do something yourself, you already know that it will take you longer than it would have had you hired someone else to do it for you. Having custom closets installed is no exception.

When you hire a custom closet company like Memphis Garage & Closets, you’ll first have an in-home consultation. Several weeks later, you’ll have your installation appointment, which lasts about a day for most closet systems (a larger system or a project encompassing several closets will take longer). Our crew will tear down your old components (if applicable) and will leave everything clean and tidy when they leave. You’ll put your items away and begin enjoying your new system.

You’ll need to compare this to the length of time it would take you to plan your closet, purchase the materials, acquire the tools, build the actual closet, remove your old components, and install the new closet system in your space.

How Much a Custom Closet Costs

Most people who want to build a DIY closet do so because they believe it will save them money. This might be true at first glance. Be sure to consider all of the factors, though:

A professional system will raise the value of your home. A DIY system might, if it looks professional and if it fits the closet very well.
You will probably need to take time off from work to build your own system. At the very least, you’ll be using up a lot of your weekend time. When you have a pro do the job, you will need to be there for the initial consultation and someone should be home for the installation. That’s it!
A professional closet company gets wholesale prices on materials. Some of that savings is passed along to the customer.
You won’t pay for any mistakes if you hire a company to do the job. If you cut a piece of wood too short or you damage an accessory while installing your closet, you will need to cover that expense yourself. If a closet company makes an error, it’s not your responsibility and you will not have to pay for the mistake.
Someone needs to be responsible for removing and disposing of the old components. If you do your own closet, that person will be you. If a closet company does it, they’ll remove the components and you won’t need to pay for disposal.

Making Your Final Decision

If you are in the Memphis area and you are on the fence between a DIY closet and a professionally installed system, we urge you to give us a call. Memphis Garage & Closets offers a completely free in-home consultation. One of our closet designers can look at what you have, make some suggestions, and even create a 3D design. There’s no risk, cost, or obligation! This way, you’ll have all the information you need to make the right choice for your own circumstances. Please get in touch with us today to schedule this free appointment.

Thank you for visiting Memphis Garage & Closets!

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 18:54:36 GMT

Thank you for visiting Memphis Garage & Closets! Our blog will be dedicated to providing you helpful tips and ideas for getting your home organized. Stay tuned for future posts!