Home Organization Rules

Establish the Centers

Consider establishing these activity centers for your home. Tailor them and their contents to your family’s needs.

Telephone (phone directory, family address book, family calendar, message pad, pens, folder containing pizza coupons and take-out menus)

Grooming (image 1) (skin-care products, shaving tools, cosmetics and hair care implements near a bathroom sink and mirror)

Outdoor clothing (coats, hats, gloves, scarves, umbrellas, and galoshes in a closet near the door)

Cleaning and caretaking (mops, broom, and vacuum, cleaning tote with tools, cleaning products for refills, replacement light bulbs, cleaning cloths and sponges, specialty cleaners)

Paper handling (desk, telephone, computer, file box or file drawer, pens, paper, and checkbook)

Correspondence basket (stationery, selection of greeting cards, pens, envelopes and stamps)

Recycling center (bins for recycled materials, bags and twine for packaging, scissors)

Reading (comfortable chair, reading light, small table for beverage, reading glasses, pillow, highlighters and page markers)

Homework (table, good lighting, pens and markers, paper, reference books)

Entertainment (television, remote controls, TV schedule, seating, snack trays, placemats)

Fix-it desk (workbench, lighting, toolboxes, organizers for hardware such as nails)

Laundry (washing machine, tumble dryer, folding space, stain pre-treatment, bleach, detergent, fabric softener, laundry sorter)

Arts and crafts (workspace, lighting, storage for paints, paper, glue and embellishments)

Mending (sewing machine, iron and ironing board, sewing tools, fabrics and supplies)

Planning and scheduling (image 2) (desk area, computer, planner or electronic organizer, office supplies, coupon organizer)

Wrap and mail center (mailing boxes, postal scale, gift wrap, ribbon and gift cards, scissors, tape, pens and marking pen)