Minimalism: Storage

“the life-changing magic of tidying up” Chapter 4 summary:

Designate a place for EVERY thing and put everything in it’s place. An item without a home increases the chances of clutter.

Many complain they don’t have enough storage space when the reality is we have more than we need or want. Do not think about storing the items you chose to keep until after you have completed the process of discarding entirely.

Be simplistic in storage as that is the secret to an uncluttered room. Because then you can see exactly what you have with a single glance.

Store items of the same type in the same place. Don’t have multiple storage places around the house.

Categorize by item and by person and keep categories simple (clothes, books, papers, miscellaneous and mementos).

Define separate storage areas for each family member. For example, your child’s toys should not be in the living room, they should be kept in their closet with their clothes.

It’s a common mistake to store things where it’s easiest to grab them.

Clutter is caused by a failure to return things to where they belong or if items don’t have a designated place where they belong.

Storage should be designated where it’s easiest to put items back.

Don’t pile things up on top of each other, store things vertically.

Stacking things leads to the impression of endless storage space, but vertical storing results in realizing when you are running out of space. Stacking is also hard on things at the bottom and you tend to forget what is there.

Don’t bother with fancy storage solutions, clear bins and shoe boxes including their lids will accommodate most needs and are cheap. You may also use other small packaging boxes from items you purchased if the size meets your needs.

Best way to store bags/purses is within each other by type and leaving the handles out and visible. Do not keep more than 2 bags within a bag.

Empty your purse/bag daily. Many don’t see the point when they are going to use it the next morning, but the purpose of a bag is to carry things when you are away from home and when you are home it should be their time for rest. If you don’t give your bags a rest, they will look worn and tired sooner. You may also forget what items you have inside your bag. Make sure you have a place to put everything from your purse.

Closet storage: Off-season clothing should be stored on top shelf along with albums stored vertically. Bedding should also be stored on top. Regular clothes should be stored in the closet. The floor of the closet can be for fans/heaters, luggage, instruments, sports gear, etc. Many are incredulous that all those can fit in a closet but by sorting and discarding, it is very simple to do.

Transform your closet into your own private space that gives you a thrill of pleasure. Decorate the back wall behind your clothes or the inside of your door so it is personalized to the fullest.

Bathroom: Keep everything out of the tub (shampoo and soap), they should be kept in a cabinet.

Kitchen sink: Don’t keep the sponge in the sink, and get rid of the sponge holder with suction cups as it doesn’t allow the sponge to dry thoroughly resulting in odors. Squeeze the sponge thoroughly and hang it to dry. Ideally have it dry outside in the sun as the sun is a great disinfectant.

Seasonings should not be kept on the counter, they belong in a cupboard. Bottles will be splattered with food and oil and get greasy if left on the counter. Keep them in a drawer or cupboard next to the stove.

Unpack and de-tag new purchases immediately and designate a space for them.

Remove labels and packaging since words bombarding you when you open a closet is overwhelming.

Last but not least, appreciate your belongings. Verbally thank your items after you use them, daily or as often as you can bring yourself to do it.

Belongings treated well will respond in kind.