Guide to Keeping Organized

If you're gaga over the goodies in the latest storage catalog, but you haven't started sorting your stuff yet, perhaps a splash of cold water is in order. "The single most common mistake that I see is clients buying containers or organizing gadgets at the beginning of the project," says professional organizer Kerry Crocker of Chapel Hill, N.C.

Instead, take a step back and ask yourself some questions first. Professional organizer Nancy Peham of Helping Hands Personal Services in Dallas offers these suggestions for choosing containers:

• "Some key questions to ask: How frequently will the objects be used, how accessible must they be and who will be using them?" she says. "For example, small children require easy access and containers of manageable size and weight."
• Square containers hold more items, are more stable and sturdy and waste little space when stacked.
• Clear containers are best for visibility, but if tidiness is more important to you, go opaque.
• Remember the cardinal rule: Measure your available space before shopping!
• Once you have the right containers, clear labeling will help keep the contents organized.