7 Tips to Get a Jump Start on Spring Organizing…

1. If your child is enrolled in spring sports or activities like baseball, soccer, lacrosse, dance or gymnastics, carve out a spot for his/her sports/activity gear.  Take inventory of the items, make sure everything fits & make a shopping list of things to buy or borrow.  Then, place the gear in a centralized location for quick access, such as by the back door, mudroom, basement, or garage.   Your gear might also include water bottles & quick snacks.

2.  When you get out your spring clothing, put the hangers in facing the back of the closet on the rod.   When you wear a piece of clothing, turn the hanger to face the front of your closet. At the end of the season you’ll  be able to see the items you never wore and can consider parting with  them.

3.Before putting away your winter outerwear and accessories (coats, hats, mittens, gloves, boots, etc.) really assess what you are about to store.   Did you wear it?  Did it fit?  Is it still in good condition?    If you didn’t use something, consider donating it.

4. Spring is a great time to clean out the pantry and refrigerator.   Take everything off of shelves, toss any expired or spoiled items, clean out the space and replenish in an orderly manner that makes sense to you and the way you use your space.

5. For easier spring cleaning, fill a bucket with all of your basic cleaning supplies.  You will have everything in one place and can carry the bucket with you throughout the house.

6. Schedule a spring clean up day in your yard.   Have everyone in the family pitch in, raking stray leaves, picking up sticks, and getting the yard ready for plantings.

7. The linen closet is an easily overlooked location.  Take a few minutes to inventory towels and sheets, wash any items that need refreshing and refold or roll things back into place.   If you have an excess of items, animal shelters are great places to donate unwanted towels and sheets.