We don't think we can ever address the clutter issue enough, especially when there are kids involved. It always feels like as soon as you put something away, someone in the family unloads a new batch of their things on the sofa, dining table, or rug.
This month's Parent's Magazine had some great shortcuts to clearing clutter. And hey, we'll take all the shortcuts we can get. This little basket was our favorite.
The problem: stuff accumulates at the top or the bottom of stairs. And, as is the case with all clutter, the more there is, the more liberally people add to the pile. But here's a simple solution from Parents. Pick up a basket with handles like this one from the Container Store for $40. But don't just leave it sitting there at the top or the bottom of the stairs. To really clear clutter, get out your stencil and stencil on "Take Up" on one side and "Take Down" on the other. Noone will have an excuse this time.
Check out all nine clutter solutions at Parents. And while you're there, be sure to take the Clutter Quiz to find out your personal "Clutter Tolerance".
© 2009 Apartment Therapy
I have a 2 1/2 yr old boy- and I can tell you, I miss the baby days because there is so much less stuff. But, that said, I dislike the term clutter for my childs belongings. These are his playthings, his friends, learning tools etc... I don't ever want to be more concerned with keeping the floor clean than having him express his creativity with crayons, play doh, or interactive play.
I do have a large tub and a dedicated wall unit for my sons things, so I am not forced to step over everything all the time, and they are great tools for him to learn how to clean up. One day he will be old enough to play outside my constant view. That day is not now, so I live with toys etc... and know that it is not forever.