Keeping things organized when raising little ones is usually not a top priority. But in the long run, keeping your home organized and introducing organization into routines can transform the way you and your family experience life. By simplifying tasks and organizing a system that works best for you, you can save time and enjoy more of the moments that matter, like togetherness, family game night, or time together as parents.
In an effort to simplify your approach to organization, we’ve compiled some of our very favorite hacks for busy moms, dads, and guardians. Most of these tips don’t take very long to initiate or create, but in the long run, they can truly make an impact. As always, don’t hesitate to send us your own favorite organization hacks so we can share them with our Lessy Messy family on Instagram and the blog!
- Simplify recycling and get little ones involved. Instead of stashing recycling away under the sink or in the garage, designate bins in the laundry room or another accessible area and get the kids involved by teaching them about why you recycle, what’s recyclable, and how to recycle their own containers. This can also make it less of a hassle when it’s time to take the recycling out, because it’s not tucked away in a hard-to-reach place.
- Designated toy and storage bins. Stickers and labels are an inexpensive but effective way to up your organization game. By designating specific containers, baskets, buckets, and bins for certain types of toys and games, you can help your kiddos during clean-up time and make it easier for everybody to find things in a pinch. Go the extra mile and invest in a set of colorful, stylish bins to keep large items like stuffed animals and big toys organized.
- Create cubbies by the door. Imagine an area where every single one of your family members could find a seasonal pair of shoes, jacket, school bag, lunch box, and other daily essentials. Transform your entryway into your very own stylish cubby system to make it easier for you and your kids to grab and go when heading out the door. You’ll benefit from less search-and-rescue of lost shoes and coats when you were all finally ready to leave.
- Anytime snacks made easy. Are your kids constantly asking for snacks, interrupting you in the middle of work, chores, or relaxation? Of course they are, they’re kids! Create a designated area of your fridge or pantry for snacks that can be consumed without permission. Many families stock this area with fruit, protein bars, squeeze pouches, yogurt, pretzels, and more. This can cut down on the number of times you’re interrupted to ask for a snack, and can make their lives easier (and healthier) by opening up access to healthy, nutritious snacks.
- Put together an “I’m bored” box. Similarly to accessible snacks, this can be a special box or area where kiddos can go to find supplies, toys, games, and activities that can keep them occupied and engaged. Stock this area full of colored pencils, age-appropriate games, books, fidget toys, and make sure to rotate these items out once in a while to keep up the appeal. This can help redirect their energy and save you from endless pestering when they can’t find anything to do.
- Keep a go-bag on hand. As we all know, sometimes inspiration and energy strikes when we least expect it. Put together a small bag of items that make it easy to pack up the kids and get out the door when you feel like doing something spontaneous and fun – like a trip to the zoo or your local park. Include a durable, washable outdoor blanket (like these), hand sanitizer, a few snacks and bottles of water, and maybe an umbrella. When you’re confronted with an extra burst of energy, you won’t have to say no to fun just because you aren’t prepared.
Getting organized and streamlining your day-to-day routines doesn’t have to be difficult, or expensive for that matter. Most of these hacks can be done in just a few minutes but have the potential to shave hours off of your busy schedule throughout an entire week. If you found any of these hacks useful in your own life, be sure to let us know. If you don’t see your favorite hack listed, don’t hesitate to send us a message on Instagram!